Connecticut, known as the “Constitution State,” offers a diverse range of landscapes for motorcycle enthusiasts to explore, from the picturesque shoreline of Long Island Sound to the rolling hills of the Northwest Highlands and the urban streets of Hartford and New Haven.
If you own a motorcycle in Connecticut, it’s recommended to familiarize yourself with the state’s insurance requirements prior to taking your bike out on the scenic roadways.
The purpose of motorcycle insurance is to verify financial responsibility for damages and/or injuries – should they ever occur while out riding.
Connecticut Motorcycle Insurance Requirements
To comply with Connecticut’s motorcycle insurance requirements, your policy must include the following coverage limits:
- $25,000 bodily injury liability per person
- $50,000 bodily injury liability per accident
- $25,000 property damage liability per accident
This coverage is commonly referred to as a 25/50/25 plan – and is the minimum amount of insurance you need to ride in Connecticut.
Uninsured Motorist (UM) & Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage is required in the state of Connecticut – and provides financial protection in the event of an accident with a driver who is uninsured or underinsured.
Motorcycle insurance requirements in Connecticut are overseen by the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the Connecticut Insurance Department.
If insurance requirement minimums change in the future, you can consult the linked sources and/or an insurance company for more information.
Motorcycles & Two-Wheeled Vehicles Defined in Connecticut
In Connecticut, motorcycles and other two-wheeled vehicles are legally defined as follows:
- Motorcycle: A motor vehicle with a seat or saddle for the rider, designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground, and excludes tractors and motorized bicycles.
- Motor-driven cycle: A motorcycle with a motor that displaces less than 50 cubic centimeters.
- Motorized bicycle (moped): A two-wheeled vehicle equipped with a motor that has a maximum piston displacement of 50 cubic centimeters or less, is incapable of speeds greater than 30 miles per hour on level ground, and meets specific equipment requirements.
These definitions are provided by the Connecticut General Statutes, Title 14 – Motor Vehicles, Section 14-1.
Small Vehicles in Connecticut & Insurance
Below are some smaller, non-car vehicles that require insurance in Connecticut.
Do not assume this list is comprehensive or complete.
- Motorcycles: All motorcycles, including those with three wheels or more, must have liability insurance coverage in Connecticut.
- All-terrain vehicles (ATVs): Insurance is required for any ATV operated on public lands in Connecticut, and additional coverage may be necessary depending on the specific use or location.
- Utility vehicles (UTVs): Insurance coverage is necessary for UTVs operated on public roads or lands in Connecticut.
- Golf carts: Golf carts require insurance coverage if they are driven on public roads or lands in Connecticut.
According to the Connecticut General Statutes, Title 14 – Motor Vehicles, Chapter 246 – Financial Responsibility, Section 14-112, all motorcycles and certain off-road vehicles operated on public roads or lands in Connecticut must have liability insurance coverage.
Common Motorcycle Laws in CT
Included below are some common laws to review before operating a motorcycle in Connecticut.
- Lane splitting: In Connecticut, lane splitting, or riding between lanes of traffic, is illegal.
- Helmets: Connecticut law requires all motorcycle riders and passengers under the age of 18 to wear a helmet while riding. Riders and passengers aged 18 or older are not required to wear a helmet but are encouraged to do so for added safety.
- Exhaust: Connecticut law prohibits the use of modified or altered exhaust systems that increase noise levels beyond certain decibel limits.
- Eyewear: Riders are required to wear protective eyewear in Connecticut unless their motorcycle has a windshield.
- Handlebars: Handlebars cannot be higher than 15 inches above the rider’s seat when seated on the motorcycle.
- Passenger: A passenger can only ride on a motorcycle if the bike is equipped with a designated passenger seat and footrest.
- Mirrors & lighting: Motorcycles must be equipped with at least one rear-view mirror and have proper lighting, including brake lights, tail lights, and turn signals.
- Turn signals: Connecticut law requires motorcycles to have functioning turn signals.
- Headlights: Motorcycles must have at least one working headlight, which must be used during daytime and nighttime hours.
- Seat & footrest: All motorcycles must have a seat for the rider, as well as a footrest.
- Endorsement: To legally operate a motorcycle in Connecticut, you must have a Class M motorcycle endorsement on your driver’s license.
Additional Insurance for Motorcyclists in CT
Although the minimum requirements are all that you need to legally operate a motorcycle in Connecticut, additional insurance may be smart for additional peace of mind.
- Collision Coverage: This type of coverage can help cover the cost of repairs or replacement if your motorcycle is damaged or totaled in an accident.
- Comprehensive Coverage: This type of coverage can help cover the cost of repairs or replacement if your motorcycle is stolen or damaged by factors such as weather, fire, or vandalism.
- Medical Payments Coverage: This coverage can help cover medical expenses for you or your passengers in the event of an accident.
- Roadside Assistance Coverage: This coverage can provide assistance if your motorcycle breaks down while you’re on the road, including services such as towing, fuel delivery, and battery jump-starts.
- Custom Parts & Equipment Coverage: If you have customized your motorcycle with aftermarket parts or accessories, this coverage can help cover the cost of repairs or replacement if they are damaged or stolen.
Proof of Insurance & Penalties in CT
In Connecticut, all motorists, including motorcyclists, are required to carry proof of insurance while operating their vehicle.
This proof of insurance should be available when requested by a law enforcement officer during a traffic stop or after an accident.
Penalties for failing to provide proof of insurance can include:
- First Offense: Fine of $100 to $150, plus additional penalty assessments.
- Second Offense: Fine of $150 to $200, plus additional penalty assessments.
Penalties for failing to provide insurance may be harsher than what’s mentioned – as penalties are given on a case-specific basis.
FAQs: Motorcycle Insurance in Connecticut
Included below are questions that are commonly asked about motorcycle insurance and motorcycle operation laws in the state of CT.
Is lane splitting legal in Connecticut?
No, lane splitting is not legal in Connecticut.
Motorcyclists should always maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and follow traffic laws.
Are helmets required for everyone?
In Connecticut, helmets are required for riders under 18 years old and for those who are riding with a motorcycle learner’s permit.
Nevertheless, it is highly recommended that all riders wear helmets that meet the Department of Transportation safety standards for their own protection.
Do I need a specific license or endorsement to ride a motorcycle?
Yes, you need a Class M motorcycle endorsement on your Connecticut driver’s license to legally operate a motorcycle in the state.
You can obtain a Class M endorsement by passing a written test and either completing a motorcycle training course or passing a skills test.
Can I get discounts on my motorcycle insurance policy in Connecticut?
Most insurers will have discounts available for you to save on your motorcycle insurance policy in CT.
Discounts may come from: safe driving history, purchasing other insurance policies with the same company, insuring multiple motorcycles or vehicles simultaneously, completing a safety course, etc.
If I store my motorcycle during certain months, do I still need insurance?
Although you may not be riding your motorcycle during certain months, you may still want to consider coverage that protects your motorcycle against: theft, fire, or other types of damage that can occur while in storage.
How can I decrease my motorcycle insurance premiums?
Various ways to lower your motorcycle insurance premium include: maintaining a clean driving record, taking a motorcycle safety course, choosing a higher deductible, and shopping around for the best insurance rates.
Are scooters & mopeds subject to the same insurance requirements as motorcycles?
In Connecticut, mopeds and scooters with a motor that displaces less than 50 cubic centimeters are subject to different insurance requirements.
Still, it’s strongly recommended have insurance coverage to protect yourself and others on the road.
Talk to your insurance provider for specific details and requirements based on your vehicle.
What if you operate a motorcycle without insurance?
It is illegal to operate a motorcycle without sufficient insurance in Connecticut.
In the event that you operate a motorcycle without insurance, you might end up with heavy fines, license suspension, impoundment of your bike, and lawsuits.
What things determine insurance cost?
Common variables that influence the cost of motorcycle insurance in Connecticut include:
- Age & sex
- Driving history
- Type of motorcycle
- Value of motorcycle
- Where you live (location)
- Specific policy you want
- Frequency of riding
Having a very expensive motorcycle in a big city – coupled with being a young male driver will generally result in the highest insurance cost.
If you have a clean driving record, are middle-aged, and have a lower-cost motorcycle – the cost of your plan will be lower.
Finding cheap motorcycle insurance in Connecticut
If your goal is to get the cheapest motorcycle insurance in Connecticut with a quality provider, it is recommended to compare quotes.
Our website has a free quote comparison tool that is easy to use – just enter your Zip Code and check which providers offer coverage in your area.