Snowmobile Insurance Plans and Requirements

There are two questions you must answer when it comes to snowmobile insurance: 1) Is it required; and 2) Is it prudent? The laws vary depending on which state you live in, but a minimum of liability insurance is advisable regardless of whether you are required to buy it.

In some states, such as New York, you must purchase snowmobile insurance if you will operate the vehicle on public property. You don't need it if you are using it on your own private property or on the private property owned by someone who gives you permission to use it.

Other states, however, might not require snowmobile insurance at all, or might require liability insurance whether you use the vehicle on public or private property. It is important to research the laws in your state to determine the minimum insurance required before you decide what level is prudent.

Let's say that you don't need any insurance at all on your snowmobile. Should you purchase it anyway?

A snowmobile, like any other vehicle, is capable of causing destruction. If you hit someone's property, an animal, or a person while in the driver's seat, insurance would help reduce the damages you have to pay for out of pocket. Or what if your snowmobile is damaged in an act of nature such as an avalanche or flood? Insurance would be beneficial in that situation as well.

Snowmobile insurance is not expensive compared to that required for a car or other roadworthy vehicle. Consequently, there are numerous affordable options if you want to protect your investment.

Many insurance agencies offer pre-prepared packages specifically for snowmobiles and other similar vehicles. These policies often contain varying levels of liability and collision insurance, as well as personal injury protection, in case you are in an accident or your vehicle is damaged in an act of nature.

Consider theft as well. Make sure you policy will cover the loss of your snowmobile in an acceptable way. Find out how the insurance company processes claims of theft; are you given the market value of the vehicle, the agreed value, or the replacement value?

Keep in mind that snowmobile insurance often requires you to name both vehicles and operators. In other words, if your spouse or children or friend will drive the snowmobile, it's a good idea to add their names to the list of insureds. And if you have multiple vehicles, they should all be included in your insurance policy.

Snowmobile insurance might seem like waste of money, but only until your vehicle is stolen or destroyed in an accident. If you want to protect your investment as well as your personal liability for any damage you cause, insurance is a good idea.