With more than its share of scenic roadways, mountain passes, and historic highways, there are many reasons to get the most out of a motorcycle in Colorado. But before you hit Trail Ridge Road this spring, or buy a motorcycle to save gas costs on daily commutes to work or school, it’s important to understand Colorado’s motorcycle insurance laws.
Colorado is an at-fault state for accident claims, including motorcycle accidents. For that reason, it not only matters who causes an accident, but it also means liability coverage is a must, otherwise, you could not only face penalties but could also be subject to a lawsuit holding you personally responsible to cover damages.
Before you hit the open road, double-check that all is in order on your motorcycle insurance coverage.
Motorcycle Insurance Requirements in Colorado
Colorado has specific requirements for minimum insurance coverage for motorcycles including the following coverages:
- Minimum property damage coverage at $15,000 per accident
- A $25,000 minimum in bodily injury coverage per person
- A $50,000 minimum in bodily injury coverage per accident
Liability insurance is required for motorcycle insurance in Colorado. If you are caught driving your motorcycle without proof of at least the above liability insurance, you could face significant penalties. Fines for failing to provide proof of coverage include:
- A $500 fine, 4 points off your license, and a possible suspended license for a first-time offender
- A $1,000 fine and license suspension for a second offense
- A minimum fine of $1,000 plus an 8-month license suspension with community service for a third offense
Fines and penalties are bad enough, but even worse is finding yourself injured or injuring someone else in a motorcycle accident and not having the coverage to provide compensation for medical expenses. If you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle accident, a Westminster motorcycle accident lawyer can help.
What Additional Coverage Should I Have for a Motorcycle in Colorado?
While the state only demands liability coverage for a motorcycle, there are several optional additions to your coverage that provide more protection for a variety of scenarios. Motorcycle coverage is typically more affordable than coverage for 4-wheeled vehicles; therefore, most insurance experts recommend motorcyclists carry the following coverage in their policies:
- Full comprehensive coverage to offer for damages caused by vandalism as well as theft, fire, flood, a broken windshield, or weather damage
- Collision coverage for collisions with other vehicles to cover property damage to your motorcycle whether you or the other driver is found at fault
While the above coverage types are not required by law in Colorado, if you’ve financed your motorcycle through a bank the financial institution is likely to require comprehensive and collision coverage as well as your state-required liability coverage.
Optional Insurance Coverage to Protect Yourself and Your Bike in Colorado
Most insurance companies offer a range of affordable coverage options for motorcycle insurance. Most insurance representatives recommend coverage and premiums based on your driving record, accident history, age, and credit score. Some examples of optional extra policies that could benefit motorcycle riders include:
- Enhanced personal injury coverage for medical treatment in the event of injuries
- Uninsured motorist coverage to cover property damage and physical injuries in the event of an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist
- Roadside assistance coverage
- Accessories coverage— especially helpful for vintage or restored bikes
- Carried contents coverage
- Total loss coverage to cover the total value of the motorcycle in the event it’s totaled in an accident
There are several options for adding motorcycle insurance coverage in Colorado including talking to an insurance representative, calling an insurance company, or shopping online.