Navigating the labyrinth of Indiana’s motorcycle laws can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to comprehending how these laws influence your motorcycle insurance policies.
Whether you’re a motorcycle aficionado or considering the purchase of a two-wheeler in Indiana, this blog is your go-to guide.
We’ll delve into the intricacies of Indiana’s motorcycle laws, explore how they impact your insurance, and provide practical tips to ensure compliance for a smooth ride.
So, fasten your helmets and let’s hit the road!
Familiarize Yourself with Indiana's Motorcycle Laws
Indiana is home to a distinct set of motorcycle laws that govern how riders operate their bikes. These cover aspects such as helmet usage, lane usage, and mandatory equipment on the bike.
Here’s a brief run-down of some of the important motorcycle laws in Indiana to be aware of:
Required Credentials
A standard driver’s license with a Motorcycle endorsement is required for driving a motorcycle. For those who already have a valid driver’s license, there are a couple of ways to obtain a motorcycle endorsement on your license.
Motorcycle Insurance
By law, every motorcyclist in Indiana must possess motorcycle insurance. We’ll dive more into this law in the next section of the blog.
Motorcycle Safety Course
Anyone can take a motorcycle safety course if they choose to, but the only time it is required is if you are under 16 and 90 days. Otherwise, you are only required to pass a skills exam. However, taking a motorcycle safety course might lower your insurance rates so keep this in mind as you are weighing the options.
Equipment
All motorcycles driven in Indiana must be equipped with hand or foot operated brakes, rear-view mirrors, turn signals and a speedometer. The handlebars must be no more than 15 inches above the seat and rear reflectors must be attached between 20 and 60 inches from the ground. Reflectors must be visible between 100-350 feet at night.
Headlamps/ Lighting
In addition to the equipment above, all motorcycles must have at least one headlamp and no more than two and must follow the Indiana visibility requirements.
Headlamps should be illuminated at all times when a motorcycle is in operation (this includes during daylight hours). This helps make motorcycles more visible to other drivers on the road.
Helmet Rule
One of the most notable laws in Indiana is the helmet rule. This law requires all riders under 18 and those with a learner’s permit, regardless of age, to wear a helmet.
It’s worth noting that while adult riders are not mandated by law to wear helmets, doing so can significantly reduce the risk of serious injuries.
Protective Eyewear
Anyone who is under the age of 18 operating or riding on a motorcycle must wear protective glasses, goggles, or a face shield in addition to the required protective headgear.
Passenger Restrictions
One passenger may be carried on a motorcycle that has two wheels that contact the pavement.
The passenger must be on a seat that is designated for passenger use and have a footrest. The passenger must be astride the seat or saddle and cannot ever be in a position that would interfere with the driver’s ability to operate or control the motorcycle.
Package Restrictions
Drivers cannot carry a package in hand which would prevent the driver from having both hands on the handlebars while operating the motorcycle.
Highway Restrictions
Any motorcycle that has a design speed of no more than 30 miles per hour, and has a seat (not a saddle) is not permitted to drive on an interstate highway or a highway outside of the city or town limits.
Traffic Lanes
Motorcycles have the right to use an entire traffic lane, and no vehicle should impede their access to it.
It is allowed for a maximum of two motorcycles to ride side-by-side in a single traffic lane if both riders agree. However, a motorcycle may not share a lane with another vehicle.
These laws are not just rules to follow; they are measures designed to protect riders and reduce the number of motorcycle accidents in Indiana. Understanding and adhering to these laws is crucial for all riders, regardless of how experienced they may be.
Minimum Motorcycle Insurance Requirements in Indiana
Now that we’ve discussed some important motorcycle laws, let’s dive into insurance requirements.
By law, every motorcyclist in Indiana must possess motorcycle insurance. As mentioned above, anyone in Indiana riding a motorcycle is required, by law, to carry motorcycle insurance. In fact, proof of insurance is mandatory for motorcycle registration.
Motorcycle insurance in Indiana requires the same level of financial responsibility and follows the same rules as other vehicle insurance. To comply with the financial responsibility law, you must obtain a policy that meets the minimum limits for coverage known as Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability (BI/PD).
If you are at fault for an accident, you must have a policy that covers damage or injuries caused to others. Your policy must meet or exceed the following minimum coverage amounts:
– $25,000 for bodily injury liability per person
– $50,000 for total bodily injury liability per accident
– $25,000 for property damage liability per accident
While these are the minimum requirements, you can choose to have higher coverage limits. Keep in mind that higher limits may result in a higher premium.
Having higher coverage can provide better protection in the event of an accident that leads to significant damages or injuries, such as someone requiring hospitalization.
The Impact of Indiana's Motorcycle Laws on Your Insurance Premium
In Indiana, the way you adhere to motorcycle laws directly influences your insurance premiums.
Your insurance company takes note of your compliance with the state’s regulations – the better your record, the lower your premiums. This is because insurance companies associate adherence to laws with a lower risk of accidents and violations.
However, if motorcycle laws are violated, this can adversely impact your insurance claims.
For example, if you’re involved in a motorcycle accident in Evansville, Indiana, and found to be not wearing a helmet, which is contrary to Indiana’s helmet law, your insurance company may dispute or deny your claim. This is due to the belief that your non-compliance may have contributed to the severity of the accident.
How to Ensure Compliance with Indiana's Motorcycle Laws
Maintaining compliance with Indiana’s motorcycle laws is a critical aspect of any rider. It begins with a thorough understanding of the laws and regulations. Regularly keeping oneself updated about any changes in the laws is also key.
One effective way to ensure compliance is by conducting regular checks and maintenance on your motorcycle. This includes ensuring that all necessary equipment such as lights, mirrors, and horns are working properly and always driving with a valid registration and license plate.
Safety gear plays an equally important role in compliance. Be sure you are following the helmet and protective eyewear rules when riding with new passengers as well.
Even for those who are not legally required to wear a helmet, it is still highly recommended for safety reasons. Additionally, safety gear such as gloves, boots, and a motorcycle jacket can also provide an added layer of protection.
Motorcycle Insurance Solutions from Torian Insurance
Navigating Indiana’s motorcycle laws and understanding their impact on your insurance can be complex. However, with the right guidance through a trusted provider, you can ride confidently, knowing you comply with the law and are well protected.
Torian Insurance, a trusted independent insurance agency since 1923, can provide you with the tailored coverage you need, whether you’re in Indiana or anywhere in the tri-state area. They stand by their clients, offering support in times of crisis.
If you ever find yourself involved in a motorcycle accident, you can count on them for swift assistance and comprehensive support.
Let Torian Insurance take the guesswork out of motorcycle insurance, and help you focus on what you love most – the open road.
