Motorcycle Insurance Is Required in Texas
Texas law requires motorcycle operators to carry minimum liability insurance just like automobile drivers. The minimum requirements are the same as for cars: $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for bodily injury liability, plus $25,000 for property damage liability.
As with car insurance, the state minimums provide a legal floor but often do not provide adequate financial protection in a serious accident. Motorcyclists face significantly higher injury risks per mile traveled than automobile drivers, which makes adequate liability coverage even more important.
Coverage Types Available for Texas Motorcyclists
Motorcycle insurance in Texas offers similar coverage types to auto insurance with some specific additions relevant to motorcycles.
Liability coverage is required by law and covers damages and injuries you cause to others. Collision coverage pays to repair or replace your motorcycle after an accident with another vehicle or object. Comprehensive coverage covers non-collision events including theft, vandalism, hail damage, fire, and animal strikes. Medical payments coverage pays your medical bills after an accident regardless of fault. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage protects you when the other driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage.
Coverage Specific to Motorcycles
Carried contents coverage protects gear and personal items on or attached to your motorcycle. Custom equipment coverage is important if you have aftermarket parts, custom paint, or accessories that add value beyond the standard factory configuration. Roadside assistance coverage provides towing and emergency services specific to motorcycle breakdowns. Trip interruption coverage helps cover lodging and transportation if your motorcycle breaks down far from home.
The Theft Risk in Texas
Motorcycle theft is a significant issue in Texas urban areas including Fort Worth, Dallas, and Houston. Comprehensive coverage is particularly important for Texas motorcyclists because it covers theft. If you do not have comprehensive coverage and your motorcycle is stolen, you have no insurance recovery. Always store your motorcycle in a secured location and consider additional anti-theft devices as both a practical measure and a potential discount qualifier.
Seasonal Riders and Policy Options
Some Texas motorcyclists only ride certain months of the year, particularly those who primarily ride for recreation rather than commuting. Some carriers offer policies that allow you to adjust coverage during months when the bike is stored. Talk to us about your riding patterns and we can find coverage that makes sense for how you actually use your motorcycle.
Gear and Safety Equipment
While Texas does not require adult riders over 21 to wear a helmet if they meet certain insurance and safety course requirements, wearing a helmet and appropriate riding gear significantly reduces your injury risk. Some carriers offer discounts for completion of a Motorcycle Safety Foundation course. It is worth asking about when you are shopping for coverage.
Getting Motorcycle Insurance in Texas
We help Texas riders across Fort Worth and the surrounding area find the right motorcycle coverage for their bike, their riding habits, and their budget. Whether you ride a cruiser, a sport bike, a touring bike, or a dual sport, give us a call and we will find coverage that fits.
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