Motorcycle Insurance For Riders With A History Of Accidents

​Motorcycle insurance is essential for protecting riders in case of accidents, theft, or damage to their motorcycles. However, for riders with a history of accidents, obtaining affordable and comprehensive motorcycle insurance can be more challenging. Insurance companies consider past accidents when determining premiums, often leading to higher rates for those with a history of claims or violations. While this might seem like an obstacle, there are steps you can take to find the right coverage and potentially lower your rates. In this blog, we’ll explore how having a history of accidents impacts your motorcycle insurance, what factors influence your premiums, and strategies to secure affordable coverage.

How a History of Accidents Affects Motorcycle Insurance

1. Higher Premiums
   Insurance companies view riders with a history of accidents as higher-risk clients. As a result, they typically charge higher premiums to cover the potential for future claims. Even a single accident, especially one where you are at fault, can cause a spike in your insurance rates.
   
   
2. Impact of Claims on Your Record
   When you file a claim, it stays on your insurance record for a period of time—usually 3-5 years, depending on the insurer and the severity of the accident. Multiple accidents or claims during this period can result in significantly higher rates.
   
   
3. Risk Assessment
   Insurers use data from past accidents, including the severity, fault, and frequency, to assess your overall risk as a rider. If you have a history of at-fault accidents or reckless driving, you may be categorized as a "high-risk" rider, which makes it harder to find affordable coverage.

How Motorcycle Insurance Companies Determine Premiums for High-Risk Riders
While a history of accidents can increase your premiums, insurance companies use several factors to determine your exact premium amount, including:

• Rider’s Experience and Age
  Insurance companies tend to offer lower premiums to experienced riders with clean records. However, younger riders (typically under 25) or those with less riding experience may still face higher premiums, regardless of their accident history.
  
  
• Type of Motorcycle
  The make, model, and value of your motorcycle also influence premiums. High-performance bikes or those with higher theft rates tend to come with higher insurance costs. If you have an accident history, choosing a less expensive, lower-risk motorcycle can help reduce premiums.
  
  
• State and Local Laws
  Different states have varying laws regarding motorcycle insurance. Some states require minimum coverage, while others may have higher coverage requirements. Additionally, certain states may impose higher premiums based on accident statistics or risk factors in specific areas.
  
  
• Coverage Levels
  The more coverage you add to your policy, the higher the premium. Riders with a history of accidents may choose to reduce coverage to lower their premiums, but this can expose you to greater financial risk in case of an accident. Balancing coverage levels to match your needs and risk tolerance is key.

Strategies for Finding Affordable Motorcycle Insurance
Even with a history of accidents, there are several strategies you can use to find affordable motorcycle insurance:

1. Consider Raising Your Deductibl
   Increasing your deductible (the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance kicks in) can reduce your monthly premium. However, make sure the deductible is still affordable if you need to file a claim.
   
   
2. Take a Motorcycle Safety Course
   Completing a certified motorcycle safety course can help reduce your premiums. Insurance companies often offer discounts to riders who demonstrate their commitment to safety and risk reduction.
   
   
3. Improve Your Riding Record
   If your accidents are in the past, focus on maintaining a clean riding record moving forward. Avoiding further accidents, violations, and claims will eventually lower your perceived risk and may help reduce your rates over time.
   
   
4. Look for Specialized Insurers
   Some insurance companies specialize in providing coverage for high-risk riders. These insurers may offer policies tailored to those with a history of accidents, though the premiums may still be higher than average. Specialized insurers understand the unique needs of high-risk riders and may provide more flexible options.

Types of Motorcycle Coverage to Consider
Even if you have a history of accidents, it's important to ensure you have adequate coverage to protect yourself and your bike. Here are the types of motorcycle insurance coverage you should consider:

• Liability Insurance
  Liability insurance is typically required by law and covers damage to others' property or injuries to other people in an accident where you’re at fault. It doesn’t cover your own injuries or damages to your motorcycle.
  
  
• Collision Insurance
  Collision insurance helps cover the cost of repairs to your bike if you collide with another vehicle or object, regardless of fault. This can be particularly important for riders with a history of accidents, as it provides added protection.
  
  
• Comprehensive Insurance
  Comprehensive coverage protects against theft, vandalism, fire, and other non-collision-related damage. This can be useful for riders who may have a higher risk of non-accident-related issues.
  
  
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
  This type of coverage helps protect you if you’re in an accident with a rider who doesn’t have enough insurance to cover the damages or has no insurance at all. It’s an important safety net, especially if you ride in areas where uninsured motorcyclists are common.

Conclusion
Riders with a history of accidents face higher premiums, but that doesn't mean you can't find affordable motorcycle insurance. By shopping around, considering higher deductibles, and improving your riding habits, you can still get the coverage you need. Understanding the factors that affect your rates, such as your riding experience, motorcycle type, and accident history, is essential for finding the best policy. Additionally, taking steps to maintain a clean record, completing safety courses, and exploring specialized insurers can help reduce costs over time. Whether you have a clean driving record or a history of accidents, adequate motorcycle insurance ensures you're protected on the road, providing peace of mind and financial security in case of unforeseen events.

At Affordable Choice Insurance Brokers, LLC, we do our best in making sure that our clients are well-protected with affordable and comprehensive policies. We make sure to go the extra mile to help you with your needs. To learn more about how we can help you, please contact our agency at (703) 347-6151​ or CLICK HERE to request a free quote.

Disclaimer: The information presented in this blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. It is crucial to consult with a qualified insurance agent or professional for personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances. They can provide expert guidance and help you make informed decisions regarding your insurance needs.