To an ATV enthusiast or rider, there’s nothing quite like driving in sand dunes in the desert or through the forest. We can’t deny that riding an ATV is among the most fun things you can do. But, it can be risky, too.
All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) pose a danger to the riders and anyone around them. As such, any ATV owner ought to consider getting ATV insurance. In fact, it’s a legal requirement to have basic All-terrain vehicle insurance in some places. Besides, ATVs can cost a significant amount of money. It’s, thus, only sensible to have a reliable form of protection.
Some insurers cover ATVs under motorcycle insurance, and the policies are not very different. Other companies provide ATV insurance through their Off-Road Vehicle division. Often, ATVs may be insured along with; motorcycles, golf carts, go-carts, snowmobiles and dune buggies.
ATVs are neither intended nor licensed for use on roads or highways. And, although each state has its own definition of an ATV, they’re all nearly identical. Most states class any motorized vehicle that has two or more wheels and is designed for off-road driving as an ATV.
Most people associate ATVs with single-passenger, 4-wheeled, off-road vehicles. These are popularly referred to as quads, quad bikes, quadricycles, or four-wheelers. But, there are quite many ATVs which have been designed for two passengers and others with fewer or more than four wheels.
Bodily Injury Liability: ATV insurance covers any damage associated with anyone who gets injured or killed in an accident caused by the insured ATV. This coverage will also pay any legal fees that result from litigation against the policyholder – however, it’ll only cover up to the policy’s claim limits. These limits are often specified as a certain amount per person and a particular amount per accident, irrespective of the number of people involved.
You ought to ensure that your ATV is driven only by permitted or authorized persons. In case an unauthorized person rides your ATV, you may be found liable for the injuries he/she suffers while driving it. It’s also imperative that you follow the ATV’s guidelines. For instance, ensure you’re aware of the vehicle’s weight restrictions and avoid overloading it.
Property Damage Liability: It’s quite similar to the bodily injury liability coverage. The only difference is that property damage liability will meet the cost of damages your ATV causes to someone else’s property. That includes personal belongings. This coverage also has a certain claim limit for one incident. It’s typically lower than the limit applied in the bodily injury liability coverage.
Medical Payments: This ATV insurance coverage is intended to meet any medical expenses that are incurred by those riding in your ATV.
Collision: An optional ATV insurance coverage where the insurer promises to pay for the necessary repairs in case your ATV overturns or collides with another vehicle. You’ll be required to choose a deductible (the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance kicks in). Most insurers tend to cover up to the ATV’s cash value.
If you own a low-value ATV, you can consider forgoing this coverage. It’ll also keep the premiums low. But, ensure your policy includes the collision coverage if you are leasing your ATV or financed its purchase.
Comprehensive: Another optional ATV insurance coverage where the insurer promises to pay for damages which are not a result of a collision from damages from vandalism, theft, fires, flooding, and earthquakes.
For instance, if your ATV is stolen, you’ll get compensation (up to the vehicle’s cash value) to replace it by filing a comprehensive claim. You’ll be required to choose a deductible for this coverage, too.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist: This coverage will be quite handy if you or someone else gets injured in an accident where an uninsured or under-insured person was driving your ATV. It’ll cover the resulting expenses. It’s generally expected that, if someone else causes damage or injury, their insurer will cover the associated costs. But, some individuals may not have any ATV insurance, or enough insurance to cover your bills, even when the law requires it. This coverage has claim limits, too. These limits are usually specified as a certain amount per accident and individual.
Riding ATVs on highways is excluded from coverage because it’s illegal. There are several exceptions to that rule, though. Local government agencies may allow ATVs on specific highways. These highways are often within state-owned properties, like large parks or reserves.
ATVs may cross a road but under specific conditions. For example, they must cross the road at a point that’s designed for vehicle crossing. Besides that, if an ATV is crossing the road, it ought to come to a stop, and the driver must ensure it’s visible to other traffic.
Also intentional damages caused or injuries caused during a criminal act are excluded.
If you are looking for state specific ATV Insurance quotes, costs and information:
