When bike-riding weather hits, there’s no better feeling than an open road to cruise. And with so many different places waiting to be explored, it’s hard to know you’re headed down the right road. But with Cayuga Mutual, we’ve got all you need to know to help guide you in the right direction. Whether you’re a motorcyclist who rides all season long or just a weekend warrior, we’re confident that you’ll be covered with the right kind of motorcycle insurance in Ontario.
What does Motorcycle Insurance Cover?
Let’s break down the basic elements of a mandatory motorcycle insurance policy in Ontario. Bike insurance can differ from province to province, just like auto insurance does, but in Ontario, mandatory bike insurance contains the following:
- Third-Party Liability: Provides extra coverage in cases of injury and damage to others and their property resulting from a vehicle accident.
- Direct Compensation: Damages to your motorcycle are covered to the extent that you’re not at fault.
- Uninsured Automobile: Medical costs and damage are covered if an uninsured rider is at fault.
- Accident Benefits: Provides coverage for you and your family if you are injured or killed in an automobile accident.
All of the above are the minimum, compulsory requirements to keep your motorcycle or moped legal on the road. Optional insurance can be purchased and is generally offered as follows:
- Higher Third-Party Liability: Provides additional coverage in case of injury and damage to others and their property. Limits can be upped to $300,000, $500,000, $1 million, or even $2 million.
- Increased Accidental Benefits Coverage: Provides additional coverage for you and your family if you are injured or killed in an automobile accident, including supplementary medical, rehabilitation and attendant care, caregiver, non-earner, and income replacement benefits.
- Coverage to insure the motorcycle for physical damage or loss by Specified Perils, Comprehensive, Collision or Upset, and All Perils.
You can buy combinations of these coverages to protect you against the damage/loss of your motorcycle caused by theft, fire, and other unpredictable events.
Is there a Difference between New Rider Motorcycle Insurance (M1), M2 Insurance, or M Insurance?
If you are 16 years old then you can apply for a motorcycle license in Ontario. When you are a new motorcycle rider and are embarking on the world of safe motorcycle riding, then it can be beneficiary to take a driver training program to reduce your insurance premium.
You may, however, still be a high-risk driver if you have had lots of previous claims. If your driving history indicates that you’ve been involved in a number of accidents or collisions then you may be seen as a high-risk driver and will pay more for motorcycle insurance. Other variables like traffic tickets, license level, and age can also play a large role in determining your risk level. Drivers who are under the age of 24, for instance, are typically seen as more of a risk because they don’t have a significant amount of road experience.
An unrestricted M License is when you pass both the M1 and M2 road tests for full-speed motorcycles. Government-approved motorcycle safety courses can help you become a safe and responsible rider and let you take your road test sooner.
Where to Buy Motorcycle Insurance?
Talk to one of our trained Agents at Cayuga Mutual and we can provide you with a free quote for motorcycle insurance.
When looking for motorcycle insurance be aware of certain terms. Some bikes are considered high-performance “Sport” bikes and can be expensive or difficult to insure. Others that have been “Rebuilt” can also be difficult to insure at a reasonable cost. Other red-flag terms for insurers are aftermarket frames and engines. Although tricky, it is best to do thorough research on your desired bike before speaking with an insurance agent about motorcycle insurance quotes.
While shopping for motorcycle insurance, also keep in mind there isn’t just one policy that suits everyone. Your policy needs to be tailored to your needs, expertise, budget, and comfort level. The right insurance agent will listen to your needs and find the policy personalized for you.
There are lots of ways to enjoy motorcycle riding in Ontario – and Haldimand County is a beautiful region to explore by motorbike. If you’re thinking of hitting our winding roads that follow the Grand River and seeing some of our scenic countryside, then give Cayuga Mutual a call for a free quote on motorcycle insurance – (800)-567-3381. We’ll help provide the protection you need to enjoy the summertime out on your motorbike.
