It's important to have the appropriate insurance when trying any type of motor vehicle, which is especially true when it comes to motorcycles. Unfortunately, driving a motorcycle requires a different type of automobile insurance than your standard policy for a car. Here is what you need to know about getting motorcycle insurance.

Motorcycle Insurance May Not Be Required In Your State

Not all states require you to get motorcycle insurance, even though it is highly recommended to provide protection in case of an accident. Florida has exemptions if you have a good driving record, but mandates that you use a helmet if you don't have $10,000 in coverage. Montana has exemptions for motorcycles, as well as other vehicles with two wheels. Washington does not mandate insurance for any vehicle that has two wheels and is legal to drive on the street, which includes mopeds.

Motorcycle Insurance Covers Other Vehicles

You may not own a motorcycle, but could still be required to have motorcycle insurance. That is because motorcycle insurance is actually a term insurance companies use to describe vehicles that aren't trucks or cars. Snowmobiles, ATVs, scooters, and mopeds could all potentially qualify for motorcycle insurance in your state.

Motorcycle Insurance Has Difference Coverage Levels

Much like car insurance, motorcycle insurance has options for what you want to have covered. At the basic level, you can purchase liability insurance that just covers damage caused to other vehicles, drivers, and passengers. When insurance is mandated by state law, this is typically the minimum requirement necessary. You can also get comprehensive, collision, bodily injury, medical, property damage, and uninsured motorist coverage.

Since the risk of getting injured on a motorcycle is much higher than if you were driving a car, you can expect the medical insurance for a motorcycle to cost more money than its car insurance counterpart.

Motorcycle Insurance Offers Unique Add-Ons

In addition to the motorcycle itself, there are accessories that may not be covered under a comprehensive insurance policy. Check with your insurance agent to see if things are covered such as a trailer that you are pulling, a side car, or even accessories like side bags. Since a motorcycle can easily be stolen, total loss replacement coverage could be more expensive because of how the vehicle is more at risk.

Now that you know the basics of motorcycle insurance, you'll be more prepared to have a conversation with an insurance agent from a company like Griffin-Rahn Insurance Agency Inc about the coverage you need.