Motorcycle Insurance And Beyond: How To Protect Your Recreational Vehicles

Motorcycle insurance is likely on your mind as soon as the sunshine hits – which means bringing your favourite recreational vehicles out of storage. Your RVs, scooters, mopeds, ATVs, and motorcycles are ready to rev it up while our snowmobiles take their turn in hibernation.

While gearing up for the season, remember that, as with everything, there are necessary steps for maximizing your enjoyment.

Whether you ride, drive, or camp, you’ll want to consider insurance. What kind of motorcycle insurance, RV insurance, and ATV insurance do you need? Where can you find it and how much does it cost?

Let’s take a look at this critical issue so you can find the best insurance for you and your toys.

Table Of Contents

• Motorcycle insurance and beyond: An overview
• What to know about motorcycle insurance
• Learning about ATV insurance
• RV insurance – what do you need to know?
• How to save on insurance
• FAQ

Motorcycle insurance and beyond: An overview

Before you find fun and freedom on the open road or in the great outdoors, it’s important to know what kind of motorcycle insurance, ATV insurance, or whatever applicable type of coverage you need.

What other recreational vehicle insurance is available?

While motorcycles, ATVs, and RVs are some of the most common recreational vehicles, we can’t forget the others:

• mopeds,
• scooters,
• e-bikes,
• motorboats, and
• snowmobiles.

Mopeds, like motorcycles, are considered motor vehicles and because of this designation, they do require insurance.

Scooters must be insured but e-bikes don’t need to be, although insurance for e-bikes can be valuable for theft, damage, or liability.

Generally speaking, you are not required to insure your motorboat in Canada – but, given the cost of your boat and any potential liabilities, insurance is an important tool for protecting your financial investment.

Let’s leave the summer fun for a minute and talk about snowmobiles. Do you need insurance for these? Yes, you do. Snowmobiles are motor vehicles and, like a car, riders require a licence, registration, and proof of insurance.

Where and how to get insurance for these vehicles

You’re probably thinking that all of this is a bit overwhelming – it all sounds so expensive, right?

Remember, though, that insurance can help protect you from losses arising from:

• damage,
• accident,
• theft,
• vandalism,
• liability,
• and more.

The key is to find a policy that best suits your needs.

You can get insurance from individual insurance companies, brokers, and many big banks. Some provinces, like Saskatchewan, have government-issued insurance.

Whichever route you take, speaking with an agent can help you determine the details of what you need. And, once you know that, you can shop around for the best policy.

Of course, it’s always best to read the policy and ask questions to make sure you understand exactly what you’re covered for.

With more than 736,200 motorcycles and mopeds registered in Canada in 2019, it’s fair to say these are pretty popular vehicles. While costs and requirements may vary across Canada, every motorcycle being driven needs insurance.

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Motorcycle insurance: What you need to know

As we mentioned, motorcycle insurance is mandatory in Canada so, if you want to ride, you need insurance.

You may have government insurance where you live, or you may have to look at private companies for your coverage. Prices range among these private insurers based on your personal situation, so it’s important to shop around.

Do you need motorcycle insurance?

As we know, Canada is a huge country, so it’s no surprise that when it comes to motorcycle insurance, there are various individual laws and regulations in each of the different provinces and territories.

Plus, there are licence details to consider.

The following table shows the individual rules and processes for licences and insurance in each province and territory.

Can you get a bike licence without motorcycle insurance?

Having a licence for any sort of vehicle doesn’t mean you can legally drive.

In Canada, you can have the required licence but you must also have motorcycle insurance in order to drive. So, while you may be able to obtain or possess a licence, you can’t do much with it until you have the proper coverage.

What does motorcycle insurance cover?

For motorcycle insurance, the mandatory bare minimum coverages include:

• 3rd-party liability,
• accident benefits,
• uninsured automobile coverage, and
• direct compensation for property damage.

But, let’s face it, motorcycles, scooters, and all other similar motorized pleasure vehicles are expensive. Repairing or replacing your bike altogether can take a huge gouge out of your bank account.

So while some riders only want bare-bones insurance, others prefer to have all perils, collision, and comprehensive coverage, maybe even more.

Here’s a brief overview of each type of coverage.

3rd-party liability

As the name implies, this insurance provides protection for others in the event that they or their property is damaged or injured due to an accident involving your vehicle.

Statutory accident benefit

This component is for you or your family in the event that either you or a family member are injured or killed in a motorcycle accident.

Uninsured automobile

If an uninsured rider is at fault for an accident involving your motorcycle and doesn’t have their own motorcycle insurance or you can’t contact them (as in a hit-and-run situation), this coverage provides compensation for your damages and/or medical costs.

Collision

Collision insurance coverage protects your bike from damages that result from a collision with another object or other vehicle.

Comprehensive

If you want coverage for any other insured damage that may not be covered by other components of your insurance, comprehensive coverage is your best bet.

It includes specified perils (discussed below) plus any damage caused by falling or flying objects, vandalism, or even missiles.

All perils

All perils is exactly what it sounds like: coverage for all types of emergencies.

This type of insurance is like a wide umbrella, combining comprehensive and collision coverage as well as protection against things like:

• fire,
• theft,
• hail,
• earthquake,
• damage during transportation,
• and much more.

Specified perils

This coverage is similar to all perils, but only covers specific instances that are outlined in the agreement.

Under this category, you can expect protection from damage or losses caused by things like theft and floods, but it doesn’t include comprehensive or collision coverage.

How much does motorcycle insurance cost?

The cost of motorcycle insurance depends on several factors, such as:

• the type of motorcycle,
• the coverage you want,
• whether you live in a province that has government insurance,
• if you need private insurance, or
• if you use a broker.

For example, the approximate cost for insuring a 2020 Harley Davidson FLHR Road King bike with a 1750 cc engine looks like this:

Other factors that influence motorcycle insurance prices are:

• the age of the driver,
• how often you drive,
• the value of the bike, and
• whether you’ve completed a motorcycle training course.

Tips for saving on motorcycle insurance

As with just about anything you spend money on, there are a few things you can do to save a few dollars on your motorcycle insurance.

Here are a few examples:

• do your homework and carefully consider the type of bike you purchase/drive,
• research various insurers and get multiple quotes,
• work to maintain a clean driving record,
• choose a higher amount for your deductible, and
• bundle all types of insurance (home, auto, etc.) you pay for whenever possible.

You might only save a few dollars with each of these tips, but every little bit counts, right?

Does your driving affect your motorcycle insurance rates?

Yes, your driving record will absolutely affect your motorcycle insurance rates. Even if this is your first bike and you’ve only driven cars in the past, your record matters.

The best way to keep insurance costs down is to maintain a safe driving record. Some ways to stay safe and keep a clean record include the following:

• Know the rules of the road and follow them.
• Be a defensive driver.
• Practice and take a refresher course from time to time.
• Follow the speed limits.
• Leave sufficient room between you and other vehicles.
• Make yourself visible by wearing high-visibility gear and using reflective strips.
• Use both turn signals and hand signals.
• Reduce or eliminate distractions like intercoms and radio in order to maintain focus.

By being meticulous and eagle-eyed, you’ll be able to drive like a pro and keep up an exemplary driving record. This, in turn, will help keep your insurance rates at a more comfortable rate.

ATV insurance details

You’re probably wondering about ATV insurance. After all, motorcycles are only one of many ways to get around and enjoy the great outdoors.

Since ATVs are intended for off-highway use, do you still need insurance?

Good question. The answer depends on where you’re driving it.

Do you need ATV insurance?

Generally speaking, you need insurance for your ATV if you’re driving it on public property or if you’re using your ATV to access public roadways. But if you’re only driving it on your own property, you might not need it.

Since the different provinces and territories have their own regulations for ATVs, you’ll need to check with your area to see which requirements apply to you.

Why you probably want 3rd-party liability

ATV owners often allow their friends and family members to take their motorized toy for a spin. You want to share your love of riding the trails with the people you love, right?

If this is the case, 3rd-party liability is important. Because whoever the driver is, you want them to be covered if there’s any kind of accident involving another party – and only 3rd-party liability insurance can help here.

Sadly, Canada averages about 100 ATV-related deaths each year. With statistics like this, it’s even more important to make sure any of your loved ones using your ATV are protected with 3rd-party liability coverage.

Estimated costs of ATV insurance

ATV insurance prices are determined by a number of factors, just like motorcycle insurance. And, not surprisingly, many of these factors are the same for both types of vehicles.

Some of these common factors are:

• your driving record,
• the coverage you choose,
• the cost of your vehicle,
• your ATV’s model, top speed, horsepower and features,
• your intended usage, and
• the age of the driver(s).

Here are a few examples of ATV insurance rates from different Canadian locations.

As always, comparing prices and coverage details can help you get the right policy for your needs.

RV insurance: A traveller’s best friend

Recreational vehicle (RV) insurance is a no-brainer for these vehicles that are a staple of summer.

There are 2 types of RVs: the ones you pull and the ones you actually get in and drive. The ones you drive need insurance since they’re official motor vehicles.

But, what about the ones you pull?

As it turns out, insurance is required for these too because they’re used on public roads. However, your homeowner’s insurance policy or auto policy may already cover this for you.

RV insurance coverage details

The type of coverage and costs associated with RV insurance depends on the type of RV you have. Most RVs fit into one of 4 classes:

• Class A motorhomes: Less like a vehicle and more like a home
• Class B motorhomes: More like vehicles, sometimes referred to as “camper vans”
• Class C motorhomes: Reasonably sized, with similar amenities to a Class A motorhome
• Towables: Includes teardrop trailers, 5th wheels, and travel trailers

The type of insurance you need also depends on how you use your RV. In some provinces, driving a motorhome requires separate insurance with liability coverage, accident benefits, and Direct Compensation Property Damage (CDPD).

But with a towable, your home insurance generally covers the contents, and your regular car insurance covers the trailer.

The amount of your policy will depend on the type of RV you have, how you use it, and if you want additional coverage.

Upgrading your insurance package could be worth considering given the costs of these vehicles. Some add-ons for you to consider include:

• Emergency Roadside Service,
• Emergency Vacation Expense,
• Campsite Liability,
• Personal Effects in a Motorhome,
• Water Protection, and
• Frozen Food Protection.

It’s important to get the policy that suits your needs so you can enjoy your RV worry-free.

Save on motorcycle insurance, ATV insurance, and RV insurance

It’s true that you can’t avoid motorcycle insurance, ATV insurance, RV insurance, or insurance for most other motorized vehicles, but you certainly don’t need to pay top dollar.

There are plenty of clever and convenient ways you can save some money on these insurances.

1. Shop around

Most areas in Canada will have multiple insurance providers for you to choose from, so make sure to contact more than just one company so you can compare rates.

Or, you can contact a broker who’ll present you with a variety of policies.

2. Choose your vehicle wisely

It’s tempting to choose the newest and best motorcycle, ATV, or motorhome on the market – sometimes it’s nothing less than a heart wrenching decision. Remember, though, that the cost of your vehicle can impact the amount you pay for insurance.

To keep your insurance costs down, consider buying a less expensive or even a pre-owned vehicle. You might find a model that meets all your wants and needs without having to buy a top-of-the-line machine.

3. Increase your deductible

With most policies, the lower the deductible, the higher the premium. Therefore, increasing your deductible will reduce the overall cost of your policy.

If you can financially manage a higher deductible, you should think about doing so. More often than not, it’ll save you some cash in the long run.

4. Bundling possibilities

Some insurance companies offer significant discounts if you insure multiple products with them. You probably already have auto, home, or even tenant insurance, so consider adding your motorcycle insurance or RV insurance to your current policy or policies. Talk to your current provider to see what bundle discounts they offer.

Again, don’t assume that your current insurer will offer you the best deal. Comparison shopping is always your best bet.

5. Safe driving

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: Your driving record matters.

If you’re considered a high-risk driver, your insurance premiums will be extremely high, so do your best to build and maintain a great driving record to ensure you’re paying reasonable amounts for insurance.

6. Pay with the right credit card

Many insurers accept credit cards as payment, which can be a sweet benefit for you.

If you have a cash back credit card, specifically one with earn rates for recurring bill payments, you should absolutely consider using this card for your motorcycle insurance. Other types of credit cards work well too, like rewards cards or even travel cards, in some circumstances.

Here are some prime examples of cash back cards that include recurring payments as specific earning categories.

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Do you need motorcycle insurance?

To be blunt, yes you do need motorcycle insurance. And ATV insurance. And RV insurance. And insurance for several other types of pleasure vehicles. It might take some work to find the best coverage to suit your needs, but it’s important for more reasons than one.

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