What Massachusetts residents should have an ATV policy?
Although ATV insurance isn’t required by Massachusetts law, a policy is generally recommended for most ATV owners. Not having coverage in place could be financially devastating if something happened.
In some cases, ATV owners may be required by the terms of a loan or lease to carry certain insurance coverages.
What protections are available through ATV policies?
ATV policies may offer a range of coverages that are largely modeled after the protections found in most auto policies. Common coverage options include:
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which might cover injuries to riders on the insured ATV
- Bodily Injury Liability Coverage, which might cover injuries to people not on the insured ATV
- Comprehensive Coverage, which might cover damage to an ATV occurring in non-accidents
- Collision Coverage, which might cover damage to an ATV occurring in accidents
- Accessories Coverage, which might cover damage to/loss of helmets, trailers and aftermarket parts
- Property Damage Liability Coverage, which might cover damage to other ATVs and/or other property
- Underinsured and Uninsured Motorist Coverage, which might cover accidents with uninsured riders
Again, these coverages have terms that are adapted to ATV riding. Even though they’re similar to those found in auto policies, an auto policy normally won’t insure an ATV properly. An ATV-specific policy is generally needed for these vehicles.
Can ATV owners rely on their homeowners' insurance for coverage when riding?
Some homeowners insurance policies may provide coverage for an ATV. If provided, the coverage could include damage to the ATV, injuries arising from ATV accidents, and other risks.
Whether a homeowners insurance policy provides sufficient coverage for an ATV depends on the terms of the homeowners' policy. Additionally, some policies base any coverage they offer on the size and/or power of an ATV. Policies might cover smaller ATVs but not larger ones.
An insurance agent who specializes in ATV policies can help riders check whether their homeowners' policy provides any coverage for their ATV. The agent can help find an ATV policy if the homeowners' policy doesn’t provide coverage.
Can ATV owners cancel their policy when storing their ATVs for the offseason?
Some ATV owners want to cancel their policy when they’re not riding, such as during winter. Canceling a policy altogether often isn’t recommended, but coverages might be adjusted to save on premiums when not riding.
Canceling a policy altogether can leave an ATV unprotected against damage from falling icicles, falling tree branches, vandalism, theft, fire or similar perils. With how much some ATVs cost, the potential cost of these incidents is substantial.
A policy’s coverages might instead be adjusted, so they offer protection against damage but don’t include protections that are unnecessary during the offseason. Premiums should thus still be lower for the non-riding months.
An insurance agent who knows ATV policies well can help adjust coverages appropriately. The agent can also help readjust coverages so that riders are fully protected next season.
How can Massachusetts residents who own ATVs get ATV Insurance?
For help insuring an ATV that’s located in Massachusetts, contact the independent insurance agents of Paul T. Murphy Insurance. Our agents will work closely with you to compare ATV insurance policies from different insurers, and we have the expertise necessary to help you choose the best policy for your four-wheeler.
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