I was shocked at the cost of insurance when I purchased a 50cc scooter off Amazon for the kids to use around my property.
When I contacted my insurance agent about it, he laughed. “Most people wouldn’t even bother to ask for a quote,” I was told.
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Since it is a street-legal vehicle, I had to get it titled and licensed. That meant I had to be the primary driver, and putting the kids on it to tool around our long driveway became a significant risk.
That’s when I figured out that comparing motorcycle vs. scooter insurance was better to do before getting the vehicle than after.
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Is Scooter Insurance Cheaper Than Motorcycle Coverage?
The cost of scooter insurance versus motorcycle insurance depends on numerous factors, like the type of vehicle, engine size, the rider’s age, driving record, and the required coverage level.
Scooters are usually less powerful than motorcycles. That makes them more affordable to insure, but there can be exceptions.
Some high-end scooters may cost more to insure than low-end motorcycles.
Additionally, insurers may offer different rates and discounts for motorcycle and scooter policies, depending on their risk assessment and market competition.
The best way to determine the cheaper options for your needs is to compare quotes from different insurers.
Average Cost of Scooter Insurance in the United States
When looking at the cost of scooter insurance in the United States, a liability-only plan averages $148.88. If you prefer or are required to have full coverage, expect to pay $382.34.
Full coverage for scooter insurance includes liability, collision, and comprehensive policies. It is often a requirement for riders that finance their purchase.
Rates for scooter insurance can be as low as $50 per year, while it can be more than $600 annually in Washington, DC.
Some insurers may classify scooters as motorcycles, so you’ll lose the advantage of a different classification.
What Is the Average Cost of Motorcycle Insurance?
The median monthly premium motorcyclists pay for their insurance needs is $60, which translates to $750 annually.
Although that cost might seem high, it is an average for all riders, including those aged 17 and younger. In California, a teen rider pays a median policy cost of $2,774.80 for a 2022 Harley-Davidson Iron 883, while someone aged 35 might receive a quote of around $1,400.
Age and geographic location are significant factors in motorcycle insurance prices when that isn’t necessarily true for 50cc scooters or other low-power designs.
How Much Insurance Do Scooters Need?
Most states have minimum insurance requirements for scooters and other motorized vehicles. This fact places them in a similar category to motorcycles.
The minimum liability coverage amounts vary by state but typically range from $10,000 to $50,000 for bodily injury per person, $20,000 to $100,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $5,000 to $25,000 for property damage.
You might want to consider other coverage types, including collision and comprehensive insurance.
If you don’t plan to ride your scooter on public roads, insurance requirements may not apply in your situation. Talk with a licensed agent or your preferred insurer to understand the options available for your circumstances.
Finding the policy that protects your activities becomes much easier when you see the differences between motorcycle vs. scooter insurance. I highly recommend carrying some coverage to ensure against unexpected circumstances.
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