Can I cancel motorcycle insurance in winter?

For motorcycle enthusiasts, there's no better feeling than hitting the open road on a sunny day on their bike during the spring and summer months. But, as the colder months start to arrive, riders are able to enjoy their bike less and less. If you're someone who only uses your bike a couple of months a year, you may be wondering whether cancelling your motorcycle insurance during the off-season is possible. To learn more about the ins and outs of motorcycle insurance, stick around.

What does a motorcycle insurance policy cover?

First things first, what is motorcycle insurance, and what exactly does it cover? In Canada, you're legally mandated to carry some form of insurance coverage if you wish to travel on public roads, regardless of if you operate a motor vehicle or motorcycle. Similar to traditional car insurance, motorcycle insurance can be divided into the following types of auto insurance policies:

Third-party liability car insurance

Third-party liability insurance is a mandatory insurance policy that all riders must purchase. With liability coverage, you'll be protected in the event you're involved in a car accident that causes injuries or property damage to a third party. Should a lawsuit be filed against you, this portion of your insurance policy will cover the cost of legal fees, repairs, medical bills, and other associated expenses that incur from the lawsuit up to your coverage limits.

Accident benefits coverage

Another auto insurance policy that is mandatory for all riders is accident benefits coverage. This portion of your motorcycle insurance will cover the medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and other fees if you, your passengers, or pedestrians involved in a collision are injured, regardless of which party is found at fault.

Uninsured motorist insurance

Uninsured automobile insurance is the last type of motorcycle insurance that is mandatory for all Canadians, with the exception of those living in Newfoundland. With uninsured motorist coverage, your vehicle repair or replacement costs will be covered if you are in a car accident with another at-fault motorist who is either uninsured or underinsured. This insurance policy also protects policyholders if they are in a hit-and-run collision where the other driver flees the scene.

Collision coverage

Collision car coverage is a type of optional insurance that many riders tend to purchase regardless. With collision coverage, your insurance company will compensate you for repair or replacement costs that arise following an accident for which you are found at fault. Before this insurance policy covers your motorcycle repairs, policyholders will need to pay a deductible, which is an out-of-pocket expense.

Comprehensive coverage

Comprehensive coverage, again, is optional for motorcycle riders. Comprehensive coverage will cover the cost of repairs or replacements if your motorcycle is damaged as a result of a non-collision event. For example, common perils that are typically covered by comprehensive coverage include theft, vandalism, fire damage, falling objects, and certain natural disasters. Again, this motorcycle policy requires riders to pay a deductible before their policy will kick in and cover the rest.

Accident forgiveness

One final type of optional car insurance coverage popular among Canadian bikers is accident forgiveness. Accident forgiveness is additional coverage that can be added to your car insurance policy as an endorsement to protect your driving record and to help prevent your insurance premium from increasing if you have an at-fault accident claim.

Note: Coverage varies by province.

Can I cancel motorcycle insurance with my insurance company in the winter?

If you've purchased year-round motorcycle insurance but only use your bike during the spring and summer months, we understand that paying monthly installments for the entire year doesn't make sense. While cancelling your motorcycle insurance policy before the end of your one-year period is possible, several risks could occur as a result of doing so. Here's a closer look at why you should avoid cancelling your motorcycle insurance before the end of your policy:

Early cancellation fees

Many motorcycle insurance companies charge customers cancellation fees for ending their motorcycle insurance policy before the end of their term.

Accidental damage

Should you store your motorcycle in storage units during the winter season, it's possible that your bike could suffer accidental damage and other potential risks that you will no longer be covered for, causing you to pay for these costs out of your own pocket.

Violate your loan agreement

If you pay monthly installments to a dealership or bank for your motorcycle, you may violate your loan agreement, leading to fees and other consequences.

Refusal to insure

Many insurance companies may refuse to insure you or your bike in the future if you have a history of cancelling your motorcycle insurance before your term is up.

Do you have to insure a motorcycle year-round?

No, you don't need to insure your motorcycle all year round if you want to save money during the off-season. While insurance companies vary in terms of the insurance coverage they offer, you may want to consider the following motorcycle insurance policies:

Seasonal motorcycle insurance

Seasonal motorcycle insurance is a type of insurance coverage that customers can purchase if they only want to insure their bike for part of the year. Rather than having to cancel your coverage, seasonal motorcycle insurance policies will protect your bike for up to six months a year.

Keep in mind that when it comes to seasonal motorcycle insurance, not all providers offer this as an option. Therefore, rather than working with an insurance agent, consider working with a broker who can help you shop around for this type of motorcycle insurance policy.

Winter motorcycle insurance

Winter motorcycle insurance is another type of motorcycle insurance policy that allows you to maintain minimal coverage during the winter. Winter coverage is a great way to protect your personal property when you are not using your bike during the riding season. However, if you're considering insurance in the winter, it may make sense to purchase motorcycle insurance for the entire year, as it will carry through the winter months.

Get affordable motorcycle insurance with BrokerLink

Whether you need year-round motorcycle insurance or are looking for seasonal coverage, the experienced brokers from BrokerLink help Canadians acquire affordable policies tailored to their unique driving habits and budgets.

With access to some of the top policies and insurance providers in the country and multiple auto insurance policies, our brokers are able to help you compare quotes, shop around for discounts, and customise a plan that you'll feel confident in.

If you're interested in working with the team, don't hesitate to come into one of our many locations. If there's no BrokerLink in your neighbourhood, you can contact us over the phone anytime!

Alternatively, if you're browsing for coverage options, take advantage of our free online quote tool to get a competitive insurance quote from the comfort of your own home!

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FAQs about motorcycle insurance

How much does motorcycle insurance cost?

Similar to typical car insurance, your motorcycle insurance cost will vary based on several factors unique to your situation. Common factors an insurance company will consider include your insurance history, the type of motorcycle you have, whether you opt for comprehensive and collision coverage on top of your standard coverage, whether you qualify for any loyalty discounts and more. Therefore, before purchasing a motorcycle insurance policy, we recommend that you compare motorcycle insurance rates from different providers.

What is roadside assistance?

Roadside assistance is an optional motorcycle insurance coverage you can add to your plan that provides emergency services to riders 24/7. This assistance includes towing services, a battery boost, tire services, fuel delivery services, trip interruption, and breakdown coverage. If you use your motorcycle for long distances, it may be worth adding this coverage to your standard coverage to ensure that you have emergency protection while on your trip.

What is civil liability?

Civil liability coverage is required in the province of Quebec but not in all provinces. In short, no matter the type of motorcycle you ride, it will reimburse you for damage caused by others.

What are the benefits of riding a motorcycle?

Many benefits of motorcycle riding make this form of transportation popular among many Canadians. From the ability to customize your motorcycle to fit your unique style to requiring less maintenance than a traditional vehicle, buying a motorcycle is a great way to get outdoors and explore motorcycle routes in Alberta or other provinces across Canada.

What are some myths about motorcycle insurance?

One of the major myths around motorcycle insurance is that you do not need to have a motorcycle insurance policy during the winter time. Due to unexpected weather and potential risks surrounding where you store your bike, without insurance coverage, you can put yourself at risk of having to pay for damaged upholstery or other issues out of your own pocket. If you're a biker, you know that maintenance costs can add up over time. Therefore, if you want to keep your motorcycle protected throughout the year, whether you're riding it or not, purchasing year-round motorcycle insurance coverage is recommended.

How can I properly share the road with motorcycles?

As motorcycle riders are inherently less protected than motorists in cars, sharing the road with motorcycles respectfully and safely is crucial to preventing car accidents. As a driver, it's essential that you pay attention to your blind spots at all times. Motorcycles are smaller and can be less visible than a normal car. Another way to remain safe is to give motorcycles enough room to travel. Similar to how you would leave space between you and another car, give riders room to manoeuvre as well. Lastly, remember to remain focused at all times. Distractions can reduce your response time and inhibit your ability to remain in full control of your vehicle. Ultimately, keeping everyone safe on the road is possible when you stay vigilant and focused.

How can I safely travel in a group with other riders?

As a motorcycle enthusiast, there may come a time when you have the opportunity to head out on the open road with other bikers. Given that there will be multiple riders around you, group motorcycle safety is absolutely essential. Before you go on the drive, ensure you know where you're going and exchange contact details for the group members. You should also make it a habit to inspect your bike beforehand and fill up your gas tank. Further, while on your route, we recommend putting the more experienced riders at the front of your group. This can help establish a good pace and make less experienced riders more comfortable. Lastly, we recommend taking scheduled breaks during your trip for food and gas.

How can I stay safe as a motorcycle rider?

Beyond taking a motorcycle safety course, brushing up on your motorcycle riding safety periodically throughout the riding season can help make you more confident as a rider in general. One of the most important safety tips to remember is to wear a helmet and other types of protective gear. If you are new to riding, begin by sticking to residential roadways until you feel more confident around traffic. We also recommend travelling in a group with more experienced riders, as riding with others will increase other drivers’ awareness of you on the road. Lastly, we suggest giving yourself ample space on the road as it will reduce your chances of getting into a collision.

Do I need a special licence to ride a motorcycle?

Yes, you will need a special licence to operate a motorcycle in Canada. The licensing requirements will vary between provinces and territories. However, you will need to pass a road test before receiving your rider's licence.

If you have any questions, contact one of our local branches.