There’s a sense of freedom and exhilaration that comes with spending time in nature, especially when driving an all terrain vehicle or ATV. When you’re on the trails you want to enjoy yourself and relax, not worry about whether you will be covered if something unexpected occurs.
Having quality insurance that best meets your needs, whether you are hauling tree limbs, or racing on the trails, is the best way to make sure that you can fully enjoy yourself without the worry of whether you’re covered.
What is covered under an ATV insurance policy?
There are as many types of ATV drivers as there are different types of ATV insurance coverage. Understanding the different types of coverage will help you decide which will best fit your needs. The various types of ATV insurance can help you cover the costs of injury to you or another person, damage to property, collision, transportation, vandalism, and more.
- Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist Coverage – If you are injured or your property is damaged by someone who isn’t able to financially cover the damage, this type of coverage can help you afford the costs.
- Property Damage / Bodily Injury Coverage – If you cause damage to property or cause bodily harm to another individual, this may cover the costs of damages as well as your legal expenses, should you need it.
- Collision Coverage – If you hit another ATV, a tree, a rock, or something else that results in structural damage to your vehicle, collision insurance will pay to fix it.
- Comprehensive Coverage – Comprehensive coverage is designed to cover you in the case of theft or vandalism, damage caused by animals, weather incidents such as lightning, etc.
- Trailer Coverage – If you transport your ATV in a trailer, having trailer coverage is designed to protect you and your ATV if you get into an accident while towing your ATV in a trailer.
- Equipment – ATVs are fun but having the right gear is important. In the event of an accident, equipment coverage helps to cover the costs of any part upgrades you’ve made to your ATV or riding gear that was damaged such as helmets, goggles and other items.
Cost of ATV Coverage
Generally ATV coverage should be affordable but determining the exact rate you’ll pay will be based on several factors, including the following:
- Driving History – Accidents and traffic violations on your driving record can have an effect on the price you pay for ATV insurance.
- Age – There can be higher costs and potential restrictions on younger ATV drivers.
- Safety Features – Having specialty safety features that are installed on your ATV, such as theft recovery systems, could lower premiums.
- Safety Courses – Successfully passing ATV safety courses are a chance to lower insurance premiums.
- Type of Vehicle – The age, make, and model of your ATV can all have effects on your insurance premiums.
- Engine Size – Smaller engine machines are generally less expensive to insure than larger engine ones.
- Use – How you are using your ATV can affect your rates. The more you’re using your ATV, the greater the chance for accidents. If you are using it occasionally as a recreation vehicle, frequently as a work vehicle or to commute, all are factors that can change your premiums.
- Bundles – Having your home, auto, snowmobile, etc. as part of a bundled package can lower your insurance premiums.
Does the state of Michigan require ATV insurance?
Just like with a car, motorcycle, or RV in the state of Michigan, you are responsible for registering your ATV and securing a license plate. That said, ATV insurance is not mandatory in Michigan. However the use of ATVs, either for off-road activities on trails, or for work purposes, suggests that carrying insurance would be highly beneficial.
ATV insurance is a requirement in many states. Although it is not mandatory to carry ATV insurance in the state of Michigan, it is a good idea. In the case of a legally modified ATV, any vehicle that you use on any public roads must have a license plate, registration and insurance.
Investing in an insurance plan means that in the event of a collision or some other form of damage to you, another person, your vehicle, or your property, you would be covered. For instance, if another person is injured while driving your ATV you could be held responsible for the medical costs associated for any injuries that happen to the driver. These costs can add up significantly without the proper insurance coverage.
When is ATV insurance a good idea?
Riding an ATV is a time for outdoor fun and excitement but with any motorized vehicle, there are risks associated with use. The fun of high speed competitions, combined with the adventures presented by tackling new trails means that there are a number of aspects to consider, not just to provide physical safety but also the financial security with knowing that if something unforeseen occurs you’ll be ready for it.
Insurance should be purchased if you plan on using your ATV for any of the following activities:
- Sports competitions
- Riding at high speeds
- Riding on public property
- Frequently transporting your ATV to other trails in a trailer
Prepare for the trails ahead, and trust Frost & Remer
Having the full coverage that you need for your ATV means that when you’re on the trails, you don’t have anything holding you back from enjoying yourself. The unexpected can happen at any time. This is why Frost and Remer is here to help with knowledgeable and experienced agents. We’re ready to walk you through the policies that best fit your lifestyle and can help you through those unexpected moments when preparation counts the most.
Schedule a virtual appointment for your full policy review and risk assessment from Frost and Remer. Contact us to ask about personal insurance coverage and adding an umbrella policy.
We will make recommendations to ensure that you have the best coverage possible, with a premium you can afford so that you can feel confident and ready to ride the trails.