Indiana Motorcycle Insurance Requirements

Indiana is home to a diverse range of landscapes, from the flat plains in the north to the rolling hills and forested areas in the south.

The southern part of the state, specifically the Hoosier National Forest and the Ohio River Valley, offers some beautiful and challenging terrain for motorcyclists, with winding roads and steep inclines.

Riders can also explore Indiana’s rich history, including the famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway and other motorsports-related attractions, as well as the state’s many museums and cultural sites.

Nonetheless, it’s crucial for riders to prioritize safety and secure adequate insurance coverage before setting out on any motorcycle adventure in Indiana.

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To comply with Indiana’s motorcycle insurance requirements, your policy must include the following:

Liability insurance

$25,000 bodily injury liability (per person)
$50,000 bodily injury liability (per accident)
$25,000 property damage liability (per accident)

The Indiana Department of Insurance regulates the state’s motorcycle insurance requirements, so consult with them for the most recent requirement information.

Motorcycles & Two-Wheeled Vehicles Defined in Indiana

In Indiana, motorcycles and other two-wheeled vehicles are legally defined as follows:

Motorcycle: A motor vehicle with a seat or saddle for the rider and is designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground, powered by an internal combustion engine or an electric motor.

Moped: A motor-driven cycle equipped with an engine that has a displacement not exceeding 50 cubic centimeters (3.05 cubic inches), which produces no more than 2 brake horsepower and is incapable of speeds greater than 30 miles per hour on level ground.

Scooter: A two-wheeled vehicle with a motor displacement of 50 cubic centimeters or greater that is unable to reach speeds in excess of 60 miles per hour.

Note: Definitions are based on the Indiana Code, Title 9 – Motor Vehicles Indiana Code Title 9.

Insurance Requirements for Smaller Vehicles in Indiana

Insurance coverage is mandatory for smaller vehicles like motorcycles, mopeds, and scooters.

Motorcycles: All motorcycles, regardless of the number of wheels, must have liability insurance coverage in the state of Indiana.

Mopeds & Scooters: Mopeds and scooters with a motor that displaces 50 cubic centimeters or more are subject to the same insurance requirements as motorcycles in Indiana. Mopeds with an engine displacement less than 50 cubic centimeters do not require insurance but must be registered with the state.

For any queries related to insuring a motorcycle or a similar vehicle, such as a moped or scooter, it’s advisable to seek the advice of a reputable insurance company.

Motorcycle Rules in Indiana (Basics)

While riding in Indiana, motorcyclists should keep in mind some fundamental rules and regulations.

Lane splitting: Lane splitting (riding between lanes of traffic) is illegal in Indiana.
Helmets: Indiana law requires motorcycle riders under 18 years of age to wear a helmet. Although helmets are not mandatory for riders above 18, they are still highly recommended for safety. If used, helmets should meet the safety standards set by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).
Eye protection: All riders in Indiana are required to wear protective eye-wear unless their motorcycle has a windshield.
Passengers: 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: Indiana 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.
License: To legally operate a motorcycle in Indiana, you must have a motorcycle (Class M) endorsement on your driver’s license.

Added motorcycle insurance coverage in IN

Indiana’s motorcyclists have several additional coverage options beyond the state’s minimum requirements to consider.

Below are some coverage types to think about:

Collision coverage: This coverage can assist you financially if your motorcycle is damaged or totaled in an accident. It can help pay for the repairs or replacement of your motorcycle so that you can get back on the road.
Comprehensive coverage: This type of coverage goes beyond collisions and can help pay for repairs or replacement if your motorcycle is stolen, vandalized, or damaged by non-collision events such as severe weather.
Roadside assistance: No one likes being stranded on the side of the road with a broken-down motorcycle. Roadside assistance coverage can help you in such a situation by providing helpful services like towing, fuel delivery, and battery jump-starts to get you back on the road as quickly as possible.
Custom parts & equipment coverage: If you’ve made special modifications to your motorcycle, this coverage can help pay for repairs or replacement of these custom parts or accessories if they are damaged or stolen.
Uninsured & underinsured motorist coverage: Unfortunately, not all drivers on the road have proper insurance coverage. This type of coverage can protect you financially if you’re involved in an accident with someone who lacks insurance or has insufficient coverage to pay for damages.
Medical payments coverage: This coverage can provide financial assistance for medical expenses for you and your passengers in the event of an accident. It can help cover costs such as hospital bills, medical treatment, and even lost wages due to time off work.

Proof of Insurance & Penalties in Indiana

In Indiana, it’s necessary for motorists, including motorcyclists, to carry proof of insurance whenever they operate a vehicle.

Law enforcement officers may request proof of insurance during traffic stops or after accidents, and failure to provide it may lead to penalties as established by the state of Indiana.

First Offense: Minimum fine of $300, and potential suspension of driver’s license and registration.
Second Offense: Minimum fine of $500, suspension of driver’s license and registration, and potential impoundment of your vehicle.
Third & Subsequent Offenses: Additional fines and penalties may apply, including suspension of driver’s license and registration, and potential impoundment of your vehicle.

Note: Penalties for driving without motorcycle insurance in Indiana may change in the future, such as an increase in fines or the introduction of harsher penalties.

FAQs: Motorcycle Insurance in Indiana

For motorcyclists in Indiana, understanding insurance requirements and regulations is essential. Here are some commonly asked questions about motorcycle insurance and regulations specific to Indiana:

Is “lane splitting” legal in Indiana?

Lane splitting is illegal in Indiana according to Indiana Code 9-21-10-9.

Are helmets required for motorcyclists in Indiana?

In Indiana, helmets are required for motorcyclists under 18 years of age.

For riders above 18, helmets are not mandatory but are highly recommended for safety purposes.

Do I need an endorsement or license to ride a motorcycle?

Yes, you need a Class M driver’s license or a motorcycle endorsement on your existing driver’s license to legally operate a motorcycle in the state of Indiana.

You can obtain a motorcycle endorsement by passing a written test and either completing a motorcycle training course approved by the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) or passing a skills test.

How can you save money on motorcycle insurance in Indiana?

Motorcycle insurance can be a significant expense for riders, but there are ways to reduce the cost of coverage without compromising on protection.

One of the most effective ways to save on motorcycle insurance is by comparing plans and prices from different providers.

Another way to save on motorcycle insurance is to take advantage of discounts or promotional offers that are often available from insurance companies.

Common discounts include those for safe riders, multiple policies, and low mileage. You can also save by bundling your motorcycle insurance with other policies such as auto or homeowner’s insurance.

Choosing a higher deductible is another strategy that can help lower motorcycle insurance costs… increased deductibles help cut down on premiums.

Do scooters & mopeds require similar insurance as motorcycles in Indiana?

In Indiana, insurance requirements for scooters and mopeds are based on the engine displacement.

Those with an engine displacement of 50 cubic centimeters or more are subject to the same insurance requirements as motorcycles.

However, mopeds with an engine displacement less than 50 cubic centimeters are exempt from insurance requirements but must be registered with the state.

If you’re unsure about coverage for non-motorcycle vehicles, consult an insurance provider who can guide you on what you need.

What if you drive a motorcycle without insurance in Indiana?

In Indiana, it’s mandatory to have insurance coverage when operating a motorcycle.

Driving a motorcycle without insurance is illegal and can lead to penalties such as fines, suspension of license, impounding of the motorcycle, and other legal repercussions based on Indiana insurance law.

Which variables influence motorcycle insurance cost in Indiana?

Common variables that influence the cost of motorcycle insurance include:

Age & sex of motorcyclist
Driving record & history
Motorcycle value (estimated)
Location (storage & driving)
Specific insurance coverages
How often you drive

Finding quality motorcycle insurance in Indiana

To ensure safe and stress-free motorcycle riding in Indiana, it’s crucial for riders to obtain reliable insurance coverage.

While the process of finding suitable coverage may appear daunting, there are several easy steps to follow.

Online resources like the Zip Code search box on this website make it possible to compare motorcycle insurance providers in your specific area, gather quotes, and choose the best value for your money.

Once you have secured an insurance policy that meets both the state’s regulations and your personal preferences, you can ride with confidence and peace of mind.