New Hampshire is one of the few states that does not require motorcycle insurance. Nonetheless, this does not mean motorcyclists get free passes on the Granite State’s public roads. Riders must be able to show evidence of financial responsibility, and this is practical. As New Hampshire is an “at-fault” state, motorcyclists who cause an accident could face thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses.
It only takes one minor accident to wipe out the short-term financial benefits of not buying insurance. A serious accident could be financially devastating. Therefore, we strongly encourage all New Hampshire motorcycle owners to buy insurance to protect all parties involved in an accident.
This article will provide advice for New Hampshire bikers on how to choose the right motorcycle insurance policy. We will also explore why insurance alone may not be enough to protect you if you get into an accident.
Types of New Hampshire Motorcycle Insurance
Just because motorcycle insurance is not mandatory in New Hampshire does not mean it is unavailable. If you choose to buy it, you must purchase at least the minimum insurance coverage levels. It is wise to purchase the following motorcycle insurance coverage to give yourself and others maximum protection on the road.
Bodily liability insurance
If you cause an accident and injure another person while riding your motorcycle, bodily liability insurance coverage will pay toward the costs incurred. The minimum coverage is $25,000 for one person and $50,000 for all injuries in a single accident.
Realistically, medical bills from a single accident can quickly exceed these limits. Comparing quotes for higher coverage levels and purchasing the highest level you can afford is a good move. You will be grateful for the coverage when you get into a serious accident, especially one that causes severe injuries or death. The right policy could cover all damages incurred.
Property damage
This form of liability coverage pays for damage you cause to other people’s property, including:
- Other vehicles
- Stationary objects such as fences, walls, or light posts
- Any other property you collide with
New Hampshire requires a minimum of $25,000 in property damage coverage. However, if you cause an accident that totals a new car, SUV, or truck, this will likely be inadequate.
As of January 2024, Kelley Blue Book states that the average cost of a new car in the US was $47,401. The thought of paying $22,410 out of pocket is enough for most motorcycle owners to consider buying higher motorcycle coverage.
Medical payments
New Hampshire requires a minimum of $1,000 in medical payment coverage. This can cover your injuries and those of your passenger. However, this is likely to be inadequate, no matter how minor your accident is.
According to NH HealthCost, at one Concord, NH, hospital, emergency department visits cost as follows:
- Minor outpatient visit: $453
- Low complexity outpatient emergency department visit: $743
- Moderate complexity outpatient emergency department visit: $1,271
The takeaway is that minimum limits are very unlikely to be enough for real-world scenarios. We strongly encourage you to purchase a higher level of medical payment coverage that ensures you will not be forced to pay large amounts out of pocket, regardless of who is responsible for your accident.
Uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage
If you get hit by an uninsured driver, you could be left paying for your own medical expenses out of pocket. Taking out an uninsured motorist bodily injury policy provides a measure of financial protection if a driver does not have insurance and cannot cover the damages incurred in the accident.
The current minimum insurance requirements are $25,000 for bodily injury per person or $50,000 per accident. However, medical payments can quickly pile up, so it is a good idea to purchase a higher level of coverage.
Collision and Comprehensive Coverage
In addition to liability and medical payments insurance, it makes sense to purchase motorcycle coverage to protect your prized possession – your motorcycle. There are two options available: collision and comprehensive motorcycle insurance.
If you are financing or leasing a motorcycle, the company may require you to have collision or comprehensive coverage. If you own your motorcycle, these coverages are optional in New Hampshire but still a good idea.
Collision motorcycle insurance
If you get into an accident, collision coverage will help you pay for repairs to your motorcycle. If your bike gets totaled, it will usually cover its book value before the accident.
However, you must still pay your deductible and any expenses beyond your policy limit. It will not cover your medical expenses or any other losses resulting from the accident.
Comprehensive motorcycle coverage
As the name suggests, comprehensive is the most complete coverage you can purchase. It will pay out if your motorcycle sustained damage that was not caused by a collision. This could include a fire, theft, or vandalism. Depending on the policy, it may also cover certain natural disasters, such as floods, hailstorms, and hurricanes.
The policy will generally cover the motorcycle’s book value at the time of the accident, minus your deductible.
Other Considerations When Choosing New Hampshire Motorcycle Insurance
Along with these basic policy types, motorcycle owners should consider other optional extras, such as:
- Roadside assistance: Some insurance companies offer additional coverage, such as roadside assistance. This can provide reassurance whether you are in the city or exploring the state’s beauty spots.
- Motorcycle equipment/accessories coverage: Many motorcycle enthusiasts modify their bikes. However, regular motorcycle insurance in New Hampshire only covers factory-standard parts. Custom parts coverage could be a good way to protect your investment if you have customized your bike.
- Total loss coverage: If you own a bike less than 1 model year old, you may be able to purchase total loss coverage. This could pay the full value of your bike if it gets totaled. This provides financial protection against depreciation.
- Carried content and personal belongings: This policy could pay for replacements if your belongings get damaged or stolen.
- Enhanced injury protection: If you sustain serious injuries in a motorcycle accident and cannot work, this coverage may pay a fixed amount each week for up to 2 years.
Exception to New Hampshire’s Motorcycle Insurance Requirements
Although motorcycle coverage is not mandatory for most Granite State residents, certain individuals are required to purchase it. These include people who have previously been found guilty of serious vehicle-related crimes.
These crimes may include:
- Driving while intoxicated
- Reckless driving
- Leaving an accident scene without following the required steps
You can check your Driver Record report to see whether you are obliged to carry motorcycle insurance.
Why Motorcycle Insurance Matters in New Hampshire
For many people, nothing beats seeing the Granite State on two wheels. The problem is that motorcycles can be a dangerous way to get around. In the country as a whole, motorcycle riders are 28 times more likely to die in an accident and 4 times more likely to get injured. While the number of motorcycle accident fatalities is reducing overall, the number of injuries is on the rise.
According to Forbes, New Hampshire has the unenviable title of the most dangerous state for motorcycle riders. A quarter of all fatal accidents in the Granite State involve motorcycles. This illustrates why it is vital to choose financial protection by purchasing a robust motorcycle insurance policy.
How Much Does New Hampshire Motorcycle Insurance Cost?
The cost of motorcycle insurance in New Hampshire depends on various factors, such as:
- Motorcycle rider’s age
- Driving history
- Type of motorcycle
- Home address
- Type of coverage purchased
An insurance agent can help you source like-for-like quotes from multiple insurance providers. You may also be able to save money on motorcycle coverage by bundling it with other insurance policies. As we have seen, it is a false economy to go on without motorcycle insurance and hope for the best.
What to Do After a New Hampshire Motorcycle Accident
After a motorcycle accident, always prioritize your health and that of others. Seek immediate medical attention and, if you can, help others get the medical care they need. When you are medically stable, you can start to think about contacting your insurance provider.
Why your insurance provider may not be on your side
You may expect to be able to turn to your insurance company for support. While they should be on your side in theory, the reality may be quite different.
Depending on the circumstances, your insurer may not be incentivized to investigate thoroughly your case and find out who was liable. They may look for a quick resolution that costs them as little as possible.
Why you need a New Hampshire motorcycle accident attorney
Unlike your insurance provider, a New Hampshire motorcycle accident attorney is solely focused on your best interests. It pays to talk to an experienced lawyer as soon as possible after your accident. You may even want to do this before contacting your insurance company.
A motorcycle accident lawyer can explain your legal rights, determine whether you are entitled to compensation, and even handle your insurance company and those of any other parties involved. This can help you avoid saying anything to adjusters that could make the situation worse.
Even better, if an attorney agrees to take on your case, he or she can handle all communication with the insurance companies on your behalf.
This can have several benefits, including:
- An objective approach to your claim
- Protection from bad-faith insurance tactics
- Advocating for you and fighting for a fair settlement
Fight for your legal rights
If a motorcycle accident was not your fault, a motorcycle accident attorney can fight for fair compensation for your losses. He or she can investigate your case, build a strong case, and then negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement. If it proves to be impossible to agree on reasonable compensation during negotiations, your attorney can represent you in court.
In New Hampshire, you can also claim compensation even if you were partially responsible for the accident.
Under the legal doctrine of comparative fault, New Hampshire motorcycle riders involved in an accident can seek damages if they are 50 percent or less liable for the accident. So don’t hesitate to schedule a case evaluation with a motorcycle accident attorney, even if you feel you were partially responsible for what happened.
Kiley Law Group Understands Motorcyclists
At Kiley Law Group, we understand that motorcycle accidents can be complex. Even if you have motorcycle insurance, it can be hard to defend your rights. Insurance companies can be quick to pin the blame on motorcycle riders. In this situation, you need to work with a law firm that truly understands bikers and how to fight for their rights.
Kiley Law Group is headed up by Tom Kiley, who has been a rider for well over 40 years. Our motorcycle accident attorneys understand the needs of riders. We know the intricacies of motorcycle accident cases as well as the tactics insurance companies use to undermine riders’ rights. We have helped over 1,000 motorcyclists and their families to seek justice and are eager to hear your story.
Schedule a free case evaluation with a compassionate and experienced New Hampshire attorney today. Call (978) 965-3228 for immediate assistance or complete our contact form, and we will call you soon.
