Thinking about letting a friend take your prized motorcycle for a spin? It might seem harmless, but what if your friend crashes? Does your motorcycle insurance policy cover the damage, or could you be left footing the bill yourself? Understanding your protection is essential before handing over the keys. Here’s what every motorcycle owner needs to know.
In most cases across the United States, insurance follows the vehicle, not the driver. That means if you give your friend permission to ride your motorcycle and they have an accident, your own insurance policy is usually the first line of defense for covering damage or injuries.
The three main coverage types relevant in these scenarios are:
Liability Coverage: Pays for injuries or damage to other people’s property if your friend causes the accident.
Collision Coverage: Covers repairs or replacement of your motorcycle if it’s damaged in a collision, no matter who was at fault.
Comprehensive Coverage: Helps pay for damage caused by events like theft, vandalism, or weather.
However, liability coverage does not pay for your friend’s injuries, and most policies limit coverage for non-listed or non-household drivers. If your friend borrows your motorcycle regularly, your insurance company may require you to list them as a driver.
Typically, your friend’s own motorcycle or auto insurance will not cover damage to your bike—especially if their policy excludes vehicles they don’t own. The only time your friend’s insurance might come into play is if they have special “non-owner” coverage, which is rare, or if there’s a lawsuit for additional bodily injury or property damage exceeding your policy’s limits.
Bottom line: In most accidents, your own motorcycle insurance is responsible, not your friend’s personal insurance.
If you only carry the state minimum liability insurance, your policy will help pay for damage or injuries your friend causes to other people, but it will not cover repairs to your own motorcycle. For that, you’d need collision coverage. Data from the Insurance Information Institute (III) shows that only about 32% of motorcyclists in the US carry collision coverage—leaving many exposed to repair costs if an accident occurs.
There are several situations where your insurance may deny a claim if your friend crashes your motorcycle:
Unlisted Regular Riders: If your friend rides your bike often but isn’t listed, insurers may refuse coverage.
Impaired or Illegal Activity: If your friend was under the influence or using the motorcycle illegally at the time, coverage is usually void.
Excluded Drivers: Policies commonly have “excluded” drivers—if your friend is one, coverage is denied.
No Permission: If your friend took the motorcycle without your explicit consent, your insurance likely won’t pay.
Document the Accident: Get photos, a police report, and collect witness information.
Contact Your Insurance Agent: Notify your insurer right away and provide full details.
Get Repair Estimates: Your insurer often requires at least one estimate for repairs.
Review Your Policy: Know your deductible, limits, and any exclusions.
Many motorcycle insurance policies have a “permissive use” clause. This means occasional, one-time use by a friend with your permission is covered. However, this can vary by insurer and state. Always check with your agent before letting anyone ride your motorcycle.
Tip: If your friend is a frequent rider of your bike, ask your agent at Jack Stone Insurance Agency if you should add them as a named rider. This ensures there are no surprises or uncovered claims in the event of an accident.
Motorcycle insurance isn't just about protecting yourself, it's about covering your ride, no matter who’s on it. Before you hand over your keys, talk to a trusted expert at Jack Stone Insurance Agency to ensure your motorcycle insurance policy protects you and your bank account. You can contact us today or call us directly at (925) 392-8365.
Remember: “Ride safe, insure smart.”
No, your policy covers the accident. Your friend's license status matters, but their lack of insurance typically doesn't affect your claim.
If your friend wrecks your motorcycle, your insurance record may show a claim, potentially increasing your premiums at renewal.
Yes, California law may impose stricter liability rules for non-listed drivers. Always check with your insurer for state-specific details.
Confirm the borrower has a valid license, your policy allows permissive use, and you haven't excluded that person as a driver.
