Figuring Out Potential Motorcycle Insurance Claim Payouts
Your motorcycle is a unique asset. However, operating a motorcycle comes with multiple risks. Perhaps you accidentally damage your motorcycle in a collision. Maybe your motorcycle is stolen or vandalized. These are common situations when you’ll need to contact your insurance company to start the claims process. You may have concerns about the potential motorcycle insurance payout. Let’s take a closer look.
Does Your Policy Cover Theft or Vandalism?
Generally, motorcycle insurance policies cover theft and vandalism as long as you have comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive motorcycle insurance also covers you if your motorcycle is damaged due to an accidental fire. You also have the option to increase your policy limits on a standard policy. Be aware, though, that increasing your liability limits may raise your premiums. It’s recommended that you look over your policy carefully.
The Claims Process
You should notify the authorities and file a police report before contacting your insurer. Contacting the police immediately after stealing your motorcycle could help them recover it. If your motorcycle was vandalized, taking pictures to attach to your claim is essential as a reference point. Your insurance agent should guide you through the claims process.
The insurance company will move forward with your motorcycle insurance payout once they have validated your claim. Most insurers will reimburse you according to your motorcycle’s blue book value. Be advised that your motorcycle’s blue book value does look at depreciation. Your policy deductible is another variable to consider. Your policy deductible is the amount you must pay towards a claim before your insurer handles the rest. If you’re financing your motorcycle when it was stolen, that’s another potential complication. Your insurer may deduct liens from your motorcycle insurance payout, and you may have to give up the physical title.
What If I Don’t Have Insurance?
If you are uninsured when something happens to your motorcycle, you likely will not receive any assistance from an insurance company. Your insurer could deny your claim if your motorcycle’s blue book value exceeds your deductible. It’s recommended that you look over your policy carefully.
Aftermath
There’s a chance your motorcycle premiums will go up once the claims process is over and you have received your motorcycle insurance payout. Your insurer may view you as a high-risk client. You can prevent a premium hike by showing evidence that the theft or vandalism incident was a one-time thing and that you generally keep your motorcycle stored in a safe area. If your motorcycle was stolen or vandalized due to negligence, you couldn’t prevent your premiums from going up. Your insurance company may send you an adjustor report if your premiums increase. Notify your insurer immediately if you notice an error in the report.
If your insurance company offers you a complete motorcycle insurance payout and the motorcycle is eventually recovered, they now own it. The insurance company may hold an auction to sell off your motorcycle. You are allowed to participate and potentially even repurchase it.
Get the Best Coverage for Your Motorcycle with Jack Stone Insurance!
There are multiple steps involved with motorcycle insurance payouts. However, the easiest way to prevent potential complications is by storing your motorcycle in a safe place and practicing safe riding habits. This will reduce the likelihood of something happening. If you have any questions about motorcycle insurance, contact the team here at Jack Stone Insurance, and we will help you find the right policy.
