Getting snowmobile insurance for your sled is a wise investment. Like any other motor vehicle, you’ll need liability, collision and comprehensive coverage to protect your snowmobile against damage or loss. You may also want to consider medical payments, accessory coverage and roadside assistance. An independent insurance agent can help you find the right snowmobile policy for your sled and budget.
Many people are unaware that their homeowner’s or auto policies do not extend coverage to their snowmobiles if they are damaged or stolen while in storage or being transported to local trails. A separate snowmobile policy provides this important protection, and is often quite affordable. Typically, a snowmobile-insurance policy will cover a broad range of incidents such as theft, vandalism and collision that would not be covered under other types of policies. Year-round coverage is usually available to prevent lapses in coverage that may leave you unprotected when you are using your snowmobile or transporting it between seasons.
The cost of a snowmobile policy can vary widely based on a number of factors. The make and model of your sled, its value and any after-market additions or upgrades can impact the cost. Other variables include your age, riding history and any prior claims or accidents. A good rule of thumb is to get the most coverage possible within your budget. However, be wary of a plan that only offers the minimum required liability coverage. Choosing this option may leave you with less than the full replacement value of your sled in the event of an accident.
Liability coverage typically includes up to $250,000 per person and $500,000 per accident in bodily injury liability and up to $100,000 in property damage liability. Medical payments coverage typically pays for hospital bills up to a set amount, regardless of fault, if you or any passengers are injured in a snowmobile-related accident. Uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury and property damage (UMBI/PD) is not always required by law, but it’s a smart addition to any snowmobile insurance policy. It helps pay for injuries and damages you sustain when other drivers on the trail have little or no insurance.
Some policies also include coverage for specifically designed trailers to transport your snowmobile and a range of other equipment that is typically added on to a sled. Roadside assistance coverage is available to provide towing and other emergency services as needed. Discounts are often available for bundling your snowmobile policy with other recreational vehicles or home and auto policies. Be sure to ask about these and any other discounts that might be available to you.