The Basics of UK Motorcycle Insurance

Filed under: Insurance, motorcycle insurance

To define motorbike insurance let’s first break it down into its separate parts. Motorbikes are defined as any two wheeled vehicle that is powered by a mechanical engine (it can also include those 3 wheeled vehicles that have two of their wheels on the same axle). Insurance is cover provided by a financial body for which a premium is paid, in case of the event of loss or damage incurred by or due to the actions of the insured person.

Motorcycle insurance became compulsory for all motorcycles in the UK through the Road Traffic Act in 1988, with 3 basic levels of cover to choose from. The highest level of cover is provided by Comprehensive motorbike insurance and covers any loss or damage to the motorcycle and anyone directly affected by an accident, whether accidental or intentional.

The next level of cover is Third Party Fire and Theft – commonly referred to as TPFT – and covers all the basic requirements of the 1988 Act (plus a little more). If there is an accident and the policyholder is at fault, the insurer will pay for all repair costs and loss of income to involved third party, including medical bills. The policyholder won’t be paid for repairs or injury incurred to themselves, however they are covered in the event of theft or fire damage to their motorbike.

Finally the lowest level of cover available is simply called Third Party Only, and as the name suggests, covers the same as TPFT without the fire and theft coverage. It basically means that the rider is covered for any damage or loss of income to others in the event of an accident that is their fault, but offers no compensation for loss or damage to the rider themself or their property.

Obviously as a biker it is most beneficial to have the required coverage for peace of mind at the lowest possible price, and there are a number of steps you can take to try to reduce your insurance premium. The most effective method is through the no claims bonus, where your insurer will provide a discount based on the number of years you have gone without needing to make a claim. The more years no claim bonus, the bigger the discount – in some cases as high as 50%.

There are other steps riders can make in order to lower their bike insurance premiums. For example, limiting their amount of use of the motorcycle and perhaps using public transport on occasion could help the biker to qualify for a limited mileage discount (in the insurers eyes, the less time spent on the road the less likely the chances of an accident). In terms of the motorcycle itself, it is usually more favourable to avoid the more high-powered machines and go for a more standard motorbike. Insurers can often be put off by large sports bikes due to the higher risks they carry. One final premium-cutting measure would be to increase the security of your motorcycle so as to reduce the risk of theft. Locking it away in a garage, or if that’s not possible – purchasing a heavy duty chain and padlock, will certainly help to keep your motorbike insurance costs to a minimum.

Raphael Waterstone writes more about UK bike insurance at Motorbike Insurance Online, where you can find articles and resources on various subjects such as Ducati insurance

Techniques To Lower The Cost Of Your Motorcycle Insurance

Filed under: Insurance, motorcycle insurance

New motorcycle riders, or first time motorcycle owners are the most susceptible to receiving a quote for motorcycle insurance that costs as much or more than their motorcycle. Many new motorcycle riders have bought a motorcycle only to turn around and sell it once they get their insurance quote. Let’s look at a few ways to get that insurance premium lowered a little bit.

Understanding how the insurance company comes up with the quote for your motorcycle insurance will enable you to make changes to the areas that will lower the cost. Insurance premiums are based on a calculated risk factor. This is where essentially, no matter how good a rider you may be, you get penalized for the “foolishness” of all the other motorcycle riders.

Where you live, and where you will be mostly riding your motorcycle will affect your risk level. This is because the increased traffic in a city poses a more substantial risk to the motorcycle rider than the streets and highways in a town or the country. Where your motorcycle will be stored when it is not in use also may be a contributing factor with some insurance companies.

One of the major areas that will affect your insurance premium is the age, style and size of your motorcycle. Others are the riders age, experience and occupation. While you can’t do anything about your age, or experience level, other than the previously mentioned training course, you can control the factors of the age and size of your motorcycle. Many new riders benefit from buying an older motorcycle with a smaller engine for the first couple years, and then when you have a little more verifiable experience upgrading to the bike you want.

The actual amount of miles you will put on your motorcycle in a season will affect your insurance premium as well. If you’re going to be riding on a regular basis through out the season, you will no doubt accumulate more miles. Also, the more you are riding your motorcycle, the more the risk will increase.

One factor that you have to negotiate with is the amount of deductible required to make an insurance claim. Many people find it beneficial to increase their deductible and therefore lower their insurance premium. This is also beneficial in the fact that you only pay the deductible when you make a claim on your insurance. Typically,if a repair will cost you less than $300 to $500 you’re better to pay for it yourself than put it through your insurance anyway.

The style of your motorcycle will have an effect on cost of insurance as well. Also, modifications, especially performance enhancing ones, will affect the rate of insurance. This is because sports bikes are considered to be more susceptible to accidents than their cruiser style counterparts.

About the author: Ken Henry can help you find the solutions to your insurance questions. Get motorcycle insurance advice and quotes from 5 top companies, plus get an exciting tip sheet on auto and homeowners insurance

Why Motor Insurance Is Important

Filed under: Insurance, motorcycle insurance

If you are one of those excited motor cycle riders who enjoys taking your motorbike out on nice days, then you are sure to need valid bike coverage.

This has similarities to having vehicle insurance in the sense that the policy is designed to guard yourself and other motorists on the roads. This insurance is available through a few insurance firms today and may not be tricky to find. Purchasing motorbike insurance is easy and simple, you’ll need to supply the broker with the imperative information.

You’ll need to supply the broker with a driving abstract or driving record if any and possibly a previous policy number from another broker if requested. This can permit the broker to have a look at your driving history. This could work out how your policy will be laid out and if there are any conditions. Clearly the more experience you have on the roads, the less expensive the policy will be in total. This is the reason why motorbikes can be a really cost-effective way to go.

One of the most appreciated aspects to having this sort of insurance is undeniably the fact that you can get quarterly coverage. This signifies that you do not need to have a plan that is’s for the whole year, as you could be in an area that doesn’t permit full time riding. Anybody that lives inside an area that gets snow won’t need to have yearly coverage. This makes having motorbike insurance an inexpensive trail to go if you’re searching for an inexpensive strategy of transport in the winter months.

You can save on gas and insurance all at the same time. Quite frequently you will find people are loads more likely to attach their bike cover to the auto and house insurance. This may make one huge package that’ll be straightforward to keep an eye fixed on and you will be far less certain to skip payments. Keeping an eye fixed on everything all in one massive mixed policy, will give you more time to ride and less time fussing about the details. This is a practical measure when talking of coverage for your bike.

There are masses of great insurance firms today which will work out a plan for you to have complete coverage.

This can make things simple and arranged. You will get one statement each month or biannually that will enable you to maintain a record of what’s occurring . Most insurance firms today can offer you great bike insurance for your wants. This sort of coverage isn’t something you’ll have difficulty finding today, as it is not like bikes are a rare find on the roads now. This could make for some great saving chances for the bike owner.

Looking to find the best deal on motorcycle insurance brokers, then visit http://www.motorcycleinsurancebrokers.net

Are Motorcyclists Above the Law?

Filed under: Insurance, motorcycle insurance

The plan is currently being deliberated by other agencies that are worn out by bikers who are breaking the law. On a regular basis, teenagers and young adults living within housing estates who ride scooters inside of the estate are under the impression that they do not have to follow the law or that because they remain inside of the estate they are safe and have no need for the hassle or extra cost of insurance.

Sergeant Nigel Nevard of Kent Police noted: “We have spoken to a number of riders coming into North Kent. We are sending them a clear message that we will not tolerate their behavior and will seize their bikes when we catch them.”

Statistics from the Department of Transport have indicated that 6.5% of motorcycle owners failed to pay tax and insurance for 2007.

This lack of coverage was even higher than 9.8% – for so-called “active stock.” These are bikes which are not used on roads but which are liable for tax under the rules. Active stock includes those bikes used mainly for display or shows, but which are brought out on the road when they are ridden to their destination. No other group of road users has a higher rate of non-coverage, a major failing that endangers other road users.

Legally, each and every person who own or operates a motor vehicle must have no less than third-party coverage; therefore anyone who shuns insurance is committing a criminal act. Quite a few parents are now purchasing miniature motorbikes, quad bikes and scooters for their kids. These items are available sometimes for the very low price of ?150. For the most part, these bikes posses a lot of power and can very easily to go up to 40 mph and in some cases as much as 60 mph.

ROSPA has noted that the estimated ten-fold increase in sales of such bikes since 2002 “which are invitingly low-cost and can be bought online” has only exacerbated the problem.

The arrival of these inexpensive machines with inferior value and not enough attention being paid to adequate safety measures on the part of the merchants has only made the issue that much worse. “The message is clear; if it can be used on the road then it is at risk from other road users and should be insured.” If you don’t get the proper insurance then you are placing yourself endanger of not only losing your bike, but you are also increasing the chances that you acquire a record of criminal activity in the process.

Susan Reynolds is a content coordinator for a leading South African Insurance Provider that specialises in Motorcycle Insurance Policies.

Advice On Finding Cheap Motorcycle Insurance

Filed under: Insurance, motorcycle insurance

Similar to your car or home, your motorcycle also needs insurance as it will guard your bike against damages and fund your medical expenses. Your insurance will guard you against the claims raised by others, if you are in a accident.

Just like any other item you buy, it’s smart to research before buying motorcycle insurance, and luckily, the internet makes research and comparisons of companies and policies very easy to do. If you have a motorcycle and need coverage then start by searching and reviewing a variety of policies and prices online. You’ll be able to choose the one that best fits your needs. Remember that the cheapest isn’t always the best; be sure you’re getting all the features you’ll need in the unfortunate event of an accident or theft.

You have plenty of choices when it comes to choosing the right insurance agent for you. Who are your friends using to insure their motorcycles? Does the dealer who sold you the bike have any recommendations? Once you decide on the right agent, make sure you are prepared to bargain. Your driving record and experience riding motorcycles will affect your quote and your ability to obtain bike insurance. Get all the details on the policy, but don’t be afraid to ask if there is a cheaper quote. Not every rider will need all of the coverage many companies offer.

The amount you have to pay to get insurance will depend on two factors. One is the density of population and number two is the crime rate of the area of your residence. To get a good quote from insurance companies it is always better to install gadgets like alarm or satellite tracking systems and arrange for locking of your garage in which your bike is kept. All these will reduce the chances of theft. Location of your residence also is an important factor for insurance quotes as risk of damage due to accident and other general factors increases if you drive long and drive throughout the year.

Insurance for motorcycles vary from place to place and motorcycle to motorcycle. While not all places require a license to drive a motorcycle, insurance companies will probably have lower rates for those who do have a license. The type of motorcycle you own can also changes the rate. If you own a fast bike, you will probably pay more, because insurance companies are inclined to believe you will drive faster; therefore you are more likely to be involved in an accident. Insurers also tend to believe you are more likely to file a claim if you own an expensive or unique motorcycle and therefore, they may charge higher rates. Another aspect to consider is using a motorcycle for business. If you must use your bike for business purposes, your risk for accidents increases and your insurance rates will be higher. It might be advantageous to consider other forms of transportation for business purposes.

You should understand your insurance policy fully so that you will know whether you are covered for first or third party insurance. Under the terms of first party coverage, the insurance company will pay you directly to compensate for damage to your bike or injury to yourself. When you have third party coverage, the insurance company will pay for damage or injury caused by you to the other party involved in the accident. There are limits to the amount of payments made each instance. In addition, there will be deductions where applicable. These will be the payments you will have to make in the event of an accident.

Influencing all of the above-stated variables to the extent that they suit you is not possible. However, even one small improvement might be able to help somewhat. Trying to maintain a clean driving record by being more mature in how you drive can already help you get a cheaper insurance quote.

If you’d like to read more on your motorcycle insurance then visit Insurance Quotes South Africa.

How You Can Save On Bike Insurance

Filed under: Insurance, motorcycle insurance

It is just as important to insure your motorcycle as it is to insure anything else. Besides for just protecting your motorcycle, it will help to pay medical bills should you ever need it and it will keep you protected from other people who may be involved in an accident as well.

What You Should Know About Motorcycle Insurance

Filed under: Insurance, motorcycle insurance

You?ve known since you were a little kid that you needed a license to drive. You also knew what kind of insurance was required before you could reach the pedals. We?re taught at an early age that we need these things to legally and properly operate a car. But when it comes to motorcycles, most people have no idea what they need.

How To Get Inexpensive Bike Insurance

Filed under: Insurance, motorcycle insurance

Insuring your motorcycle is as important as insuring one's car or any other vehicles. Damages and accidents can happen to your motorcycle and an insured vehicle is always a guarantee of your economical safety

Now You Can Save On Bike Insurance

Filed under: Insurance, motorcycle insurance

It is just as important to insure your motorcycle as it is to insure anything else. Besides for just protecting your motorcycle, it will help to pay medical bills should you ever need it and it will keep you protected from other people who may be involved in an accident as well.

Purchasing motorcycle insurance of any kind can be a confusing and frustrating experience. As with all goods and services, it pays to look for the best deal available. Use of the internet provides you the opportunity to compare insurance companies and what they have to offer. Keep in mind, however, that the lowest priced coverage is not always the best choice. You need to look at what you are getting for your money to make sure your coverage is what you want and what you need. You don’t want to be surprised at the lack of coverage you have if and when you need to file a claim!

You have plenty of choices when it comes to choosing the right insurance agent for you. Who are your friends using to insure their motorcycles? Does the dealer who sold you the bike have any recommendations? Once you decide on the right agent, make sure you are prepared to bargain. Your driving record and experience riding motorcycles will affect your quote and your ability to obtain bike insurance. Get all the details on the policy, but don’t be afraid to ask if there is a cheaper quote. Not every rider will need all of the coverage many companies offer.

Residents of more densely populated urban centres, where traffic volumes are elevated, are more likely to be involved in motor vehicle accidents. Your insurance company will also factor in the local residential crime rate when determining the terms of the policy they will offer you. You can reduce the risks of theft of your property by installing crime prevention measures such as adequate locks on all doors including your garage, alarms or satellite tracking devices. These steps will help lower the quotes that agents will offer you. Where you live has a direct relationship to how much you will drive throughout the calendar year. Driving frequency will also impact your policy price quote, since increased driving potential means increased opportunity for accidents and other damage.

Insurance for motorcycles vary from place to place and motorcycle to motorcycle. While not all places require a license to drive a motorcycle, insurance companies will probably have lower rates for those who do have a license. The type of motorcycle you own can also changes the rate. If you own a fast bike, you will probably pay more, because insurance companies are inclined to believe you will drive faster; therefore you are more likely to be involved in an accident. Insurers also tend to believe you are more likely to file a claim if you own an expensive or unique motorcycle and therefore, they may charge higher rates. Another aspect to consider is using a motorcycle for business. If you must use your bike for business purposes, your risk for accidents increases and your insurance rates will be higher. It might be advantageous to consider other forms of transportation for business purposes.

Furthermore, it is preferable to completely understand your insurance policy to determine if you’re covered for first or third party insurance. First party insurance makes a direct payment to cover the loss of damage to your property or injury to your physical self. Third party coverage makes a payment on your behalf if an accident has resulted in damage or injury to the other party. There are financial limits that apply to each type of insurance. Also, deductibles are applicable to each policy holder. A deductible is the dollar amount for which an individual is responsible before the insurance policy pays the policy amount in the event of an accident.

While one may not meet the criteria of all the above standards, a driver may try to meet some by maintaining a clean driving record. You may possibly obtain a cheaper insurance quote by driving like an older and more experienced driver.

Read more on bike insurance by visiting the author’s insurance quote website at Insurancequotesa.co.za

Why Can’t I Get Motorcycle Insurance

Filed under: Insurance, motorcycle insurance

With the gas prices currently on the rise and the economy slowing down there are more motorcycles on the road than ever before. Bikers have certainly changed. You might even catch your grandpa riding one.

Locating insurance is the main complaint of many new motorcyclists. The search for coverage is actually quite tough. If you just recently bought your first motorcycle you possibly have been told already by your current insurance company that they will not be able to supply coverage for your bike. If you have not bought a motorcycle and are thinking about it, check with your insurance company to find out what their policies are.

You could be frustrated that your insurance company has denied coverage. You feel jilted by them since you have never had an accident and always paid your premiums on time. You might be thinking it is a great way to save a few bucks by combining your insurance policies. The reality is you may have to use two different insurance companies due to the bike. If you are locked in to your present policy and they will not provide coverage you have no other choice.

Insurance companies are only trying to protect their assets, the reason for not providing you with coverage is not really about you. The largest reason for not providing motorcycle insurance is because of other drivers, not you. Most people tend to ignore bikers creating a risk for more motorcycle accidents that are not the riders fault. Not being noticed on the road by other motorist’s puts bikers in a higher risk category for accidents.

Bikers are at a higher risk for injury even with smaller accidents. A car or a truck a can have a fender bender and a few dollars for paint and possibly a new fender is usually the end result. With a motorcycle accident, even a smaller mishap can result in total destruction to the bike and a serious injury to the biker.

If a biker is knocked off their bike and onto the road there is very little protecting them. This makes the claims for serious injury or bike replacement more likely. Insurance companies have to take into consideration that helmet laws vary from state to state. There are certain states that will make newer bikers wear a helmet while other states have no helmet laws at all. The fact that the rider could be on the bike and in an accident while not wearing a helmet can scare off some insurance companies causing them to refuse coverage.

During the time you spend shopping for motorcycle insurance remember why it is so hard to find. You may have to call several places before finding an insurance company willing to provide motorcycle coverage at an affordable rate. With all the new bikes on the road there may be a change of heart for many insurance companies. If more people continue to ride to save money they will have to come up with a solution as they are in the business of making money and you have to go where the business is to make it

Susan Reynolds is a content coordinator for a leading South African Insurance Provider that specialises in Motorcycle Insurance Policies.