Motorcycles can help you see lots of different parts of the country. At the same time, you can enjoy the open road and the wind in your face. However, sometimes, your wanderlust may take you further afield. You may want to take your bike out of the United States.
If you bike in Canada, Mexico or even further afield, you may think your motorcycle policy covers you. However, hold that thought. You may find that your motorcycle insurance is not adequate outside of U.S. borders.
Motorcycle Insurance During Foreign Trips
Many motorcycle insurance policies only cover you and your bike as long as you stay on U.S. soil. If you venture across an international border, your policy may lapse. If you were to experience a hazard or accident while on foreign soil, you may be on your own. You therefore might face financial losses without the assistance of an insurance policy.
Every motorcycle policy is different. Some policies fully cover you when you travel in Canada and Mexico, but lapse in other countries. Other policies may not cover foreign travel at all.
Still other policies may offer a degree of coverage if you travel abroad. However, such coverage is often very limited compared to your standard coverage limits. One tactic insurance companies may follow is to impose distance restrictions. If you travel a certain number of miles into a country, your policy will cover you. Once you pass the mileage limit, your policy coverage will lapse.
How to Manage Motorcycle Insurance for Foreign Travel
If you plan to use your motorcycle out of the country, the first step is to talk to your insurer. See how your policy covers foreign travel. If you find that your policy doesn’t cover your foreign travel plans, you might have options.
- Sometimes, travel insurance can provide a degree of coverage for your bike. Trip insurance may include medical coverage, trip cancellation coverage and other risks. However, travel insurance may not adequately cover all third party liabilities associated with biking.
- Some motorcyclists may have the option to carry international motorcycle insurance. This coverage provides protection similar to your standard policy. You might have to carry this coverage to ride in certain places.
Your agent will be able to check your existing coverage for how it covers foreign travel. He or she can then tell you what options you have to insure yourself when using your motorcycle abroad. You might be able to choose the coverage that best suits the nature of your trip.
We’ve got you covered. Call Ten Eyck Group at (518) 464-0059 for a fast, free Albany motorcycle insurance quote.