New York, the time has finally arrived when we get nice weather. The winter winds are on their way out and it is time to get out and enjoy all that this great state has to offer. For many, this will mean switching their preferred mode of transportation to motorcycling. Before you get out there on the road with your bike, make sure you have the motorcycle insurance that is required by law in New York.
What Are the Insurance Requirements for Motorcycles in New York?
In order to register your motorcycle in New York, you will need proof of insurance. The state’s law mandates that motorcycles carry minimum insurance in the following limits:
- $25,000 in bodily injury coverage per person
- $50,000 in total bodily injury coverage per accident
- $10,000 in property damage coverage per accident
If you have purchased auto insurance in New York, you may be wondering where the requirement for personal injury protection coverage is on this list. After all, New York is a no-fault state and automobiles are required to carry no-fault insurance that they can file against after an accident, regardless of who was at fault in causing the accident. Motorcycles, however, are not required by New York law to carry no-fault insurance coverage. It is one of the exceptions to the law.
Because there are so many months in New York where riding a motorcycle would not be very pleasant, i.e., the entirety of winter, it is important to know that you can pause or cancel your requisite motorcycle insurance coverage. You can pause or cancel coverage without needing to give up your registered license plate. Before you hit the road again, however, be sure that you have an active and adequate insurance policy to avoid legal liability.
Above and beyond the requisite minimum insurance coverage, motorcyclists may want to consider expanding their coverage to help ensure that they have access to coverage for their own injuries and other damages in the event of an accident. For instance, collision coverage is not required, but can pay out damages should your bike suffer damages in a collision, regardless of who is at fault for the crash. You may also want to consider adding motorcycle comprehensive coverage. This coverage will help protect you should your bike suffer damage due to things beyond your control. This may include severe weather or vandalism, among other things.
Central New York Personal Injury Attorneys
Motorcycles are fun and a great way to enjoy the finer seasons here in New York. Like all modes of transportation, however, they are not without their risks. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may have sustained serious and lasting injuries. You can count on the team at CDH Law to pursue full and fair compensation on your behalf. We fight for you so that you can focus on your health and recovery. Contact us today.