Much like driving a vehicle, it is essential to possess insurance when operating a motorbike within the United Kingdom. In fact, this is generally even more pertinent, for injuries that may occur as a result of an accident can be grievous and even deadly. So, motorbike insurance is a popular form of protection that should be properly understood. As with other insurance plans, there are various levels of coverage to choose from. Let us take a look at the most common variants.
Types of Motorbike Insurance
Liability insurance is the most basic type that is legally mandatory to operate a motorbike on the open road. This will protect the driver in various ways. The basic stipulations that are in most packages include bodily injury, property damage, uninsured motorist collision and medical expenses. There are also minimum and maximum premium payments that can be made. Higher premiums will equate to more robust levels of coverage. Still, basic liability is often not enough to protect the driver should a major accident occur.
A more comprehensive plan is generally recommended for motorbikes. Collision protection will provide money towards the repair or replacement of a bike (irrespective of who is at fault). Custom accessories may also be covered under this scheme and roadside assistance is frequently included at no extra charge. This type of “full coverage” is advantageous for those who have newer motorbikes or models that are highly valuable (such as an antique).
Things to Take Into Consideration
A common mistake is assuming that the premiums will remain the same if after-market modifications were made to the bike. In such a case, the insurer MUST be notified; certain customised parts can cause payments to rise. Also, it can be a wise idea to raise one’s deductibles to reduce the overall rates. This is a subjective decision that will depend upon how much the premiums will drop. With motorbikes, there can be times when they will be stored away during the winter months. In such a case, it is a good idea to contact the insurer to make certain that the policy is still in effect once the weather improves.
How to Get the Best Deal
The same principles involved with general insurance policy will apply to motorbike insurance. Some of the key factors are:
- Comparing different premiums and coverage levels.
- Making certain that roadside assistance is included.
- Finding providers that will offer seasonal insurance policies for times when a bike may not be in use.
- Understanding independent reviews from current or previous customers.
A comprehensive motorbike insurance policy will give any rider a peace of mind in knowing that he or she is protected at all times.