Snowmobile insurance is not mandated in every state, but it is necessary in many states.
The bottom line is that having snowmobile insurance is the smartest thing you can do to protect yourself, your snowmobile, and the people around you.
Before investing in snowmobile insurance, we’ve gathered some of the most important things you should know about snowmobile insurance policies. As wise as it is to invest in coverage, you don’t want to purchase the wrong policy and leave yourself exposed to financial risk (or waste your money on insurance you don’t need).
Understanding Snowmobile Insurance
Some states like New York and Pennsylvania demand it, while others like Alaska and Nebraska designate snowmobile insurance as optional. But this doesn’t mean you should skimp on insurance. Liability insurance is a cornerstone of a standard snowmobile insurance policy. It enables you to comply with the insurance stipulations of states that require it.
State Requirements and Liability Insurance
Liability coverage helps you cover medical costs and property damage to others if you’re at fault in an accident. (It may also cover the injured party’s lost wages and legal expenses).
This coverage can be a lifesaver, especially when navigating the slippery slopes of personal liability risks.
Regardless of the snowmobile brand you have chosen, liability insurance is necessary.
Personal Liability Risks Without Insurance
When you’re at the helm of a snowmobile, the responsibility for any injuries or property damage caused by an accident rests on your shoulders. If you engage in reckless driving behaviors, such as…
- Speeding
- Drinking and driving
- Not wearing a helmet
- Not following the rules of the trail
- Not maintaining a safe distance from other riders
- Not properly maintaining your snowmobile
…you could be held fully liable for any harm caused.
Evaluating Your Snowmobile Coverage Needs
Select coverage according to your snowmobile’s value and how frequently you use your snowmobile. Your snowmobile’s value and usage patterns can influence your risk exposure and, therefore, your coverage needs.
Usage Patterns and Associated Risks
If you frequently use your snowmobile or ride on high-risk terrain, you’re more likely to be involved in accidents. This increased risk necessitates more comprehensive insurance coverage.
Insurance providers consider your snowmobile’s frequency and location of use to gauge the level of risk and modify coverage and premiums accordingly.
Assessing the Value of Your Snowmobile
The value of a snowmobile is a critical factor in deciding on insurance coverage, as it determines the potential payout in the event of a total loss.
Several factors can influence the current market value of your snowmobile, including:
- Its condition
- Mileage
- Make
- Model
- Age
- Any custom parts or upgrades that have been added
Regular reassessment of the value of your snowmobile is essential to ensure your insurance coverage remains adequate, especially after making significant modifications or improvements.
The Spectrum of Snowmobile Insurance Coverage
When it comes to snowmobile insurance, you’ll find that policies are as varied as the trails you can explore. Most policies typically include three main types of coverage: collision, liability, and comprehensive coverage.
This table will break down for you what you can expect when purchasing snowmobile insurance coverage.
| Part of Snowmobile Insurance | Description |
| Liability Coverage | Covers costs associated with bodily injury and property damage you may cause to others while operating your snowmobile. |
| Collision Coverage | Pays for repairs or replacement of your snowmobile in case of a collision with another vehicle or object. |
| Comprehensive Coverage | Provides protection against non-collision related incidents such as theft, vandalism, weather events, animal damage and fire. |
| Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage | Offers protection in case you are involved in an accident with a driver who is not insured or does not have sufficient insurance. |
| Medical Payments Coverage | Covers medical or funeral expenses for you or others injured or killed while operating the snowmobile, regardless of fault. |
| OEM Parts Endorsement | Ensures that in the event of a covered repair, only original equipment manufacturer parts will be used. |
Financial Implications of Snowmobile Ownership
Snowmobile ownership is a major financial obligation. Expenses can accumulate rapidly from the snowmobile’s initial purchase price to the recurring costs, like maintenance, fuel, and gear. And that’s not even factoring in the potential costs associated with uninsured accidents.
Out-of-Pocket Costs for Uninsured Accidents
If you get into a sticky situation with your snowmobile without insurance, you’ll be responsible for any damages to your vehicle. You could even be sued for damages and injuries caused to others.
The financial burdens of uninsured accidents can be significant. For instance, you may deal with a complete loss of income (if you’re unable to work due to the extent of your injuries). Liability claims for snowmobile accidents can be costly, potentially amounting to tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars.
How Insurance Can Offset Accident Expenses
Comprehensive snowmobile insurance can alleviate the financial strains of an accident. This coverage can cover medical treatment costs for the victim of the accident–the accident which was t caused by the policyholder–preventing the need for out-of-pocket payments.
Beyond just the cost of repairing or replacing your snowmobile, insurance can cover potential medical and liability expenses that could arise from an accident.
Maximizing Value: Discounts and Policy Options
Insurance companies often offer a variety of discounts that can make coverage more affordable.
Some discounts require you to take a safety course, insure multiple snowmobiles, have a clean driving record, or install theft-recovery devices.
Another great option is to look for multi-policy discounts and combine your homeowner’s insurance with your snowmobile insurance.
Choosing the Right Provider for Your Snowmobile Insurance
The right insurance provider can offer you the best blend of coverage and cost, ensuring that you’re adequately protected without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re a novice rider or an experienced snowmobiler, always compare policies and work with independent agents. Also, don’t forget to get multiple quotes.
Summary
Purchasing snowmobile insurance is crucial if you want to retain value in your snowmobile. However, good insurance isn’t always enough if you are not properly storing and maintaining your snowmobile. An enclosed storage space, insulated from moisture, rain, and snow, will help keep rust away and prolong the usability of the snowmobile.
If you don’t have enough space in your garage to store your snowmobile during the off-season. Neighbor—a peer-to-peer storage marketplace—provides the perfect storage solution for snowmobile owners. With Neighbor, you can easily find safe, nearby, and budget-friendly storage options for your new snowmobile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Snowmobile Insurance Expensive?
Snowmobile insurance costs vary depending on the snowmobile make and model, location, coverage options, and discounts. Liability coverage can range from $10 to $20 monthly, which translates to $120 to $240 annually.
What Does Snowmobile Liability Insurance Cover?
Snowmobile liability insurance covers bodily injury and property damage caused by the use of your snowmobile. It can assist with medical payments, replacement or repair costs, and legal expenses if a lawsuit is brought against you.
Should I Cover My Snowmobile?
Yes, it’s a good idea to cover your snowmobile, especially if it will be spending the off-season outdoors. Even if stored indoors, covering the snowmobile will help protect it from dirt and dust.
Is Snowmobile Insurance Required in Minnesota?
Snowmobile insurance is required in Minnesota. Get quotes from multiple insurance companies so that you feel comfortable with the final pricing.
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