Getting into a motorcycle accident or discovering your bike has been stolen is stressful enough. Unfortunately, many riders make costly mistakes immediately afterward—not because they did anything wrong on the road, but because they don’t know how to properly file a motorcycle insurance claim.
Filing a claim the right way can mean the difference between a smooth payout and weeks (or months) of frustration, denied coverage, or reduced compensation.
This guide walks you through exactly how to file a motorcycle insurance claim step by step, what to do immediately after an accident or theft, what information insurers require, common mistakes to avoid, and how to protect your upgrades and accessories.
This article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or insurance advice.
When Should You File a Motorcycle Insurance Claim?
You should file a motorcycle insurance claim whenever a covered event occurs and the cost to repair or replace the bike exceeds what you’re comfortable paying out of pocket.
Common reasons to file a claim include:
- Motorcycle accident (single-vehicle or multi-vehicle)
- Theft or attempted theft
- Vandalism
- Fire damage
- Weather damage (hail, flooding, falling objects)
- Hit-and-run incidents
For very minor damage, some riders choose not to file a claim to avoid potential premium increases.
Step 1: Make Sure Everyone Is Safe
After an accident, your first priority is safety—not insurance paperwork.
Immediately after an accident:
- Move yourself out of traffic if possible
- Check yourself and others for injuries
- Call emergency services if anyone is hurt
- Do not remove protective gear until medically cleared if injured
Insurance can wait. Health cannot.
Step 2: Call the Police (When Required)
In many situations, a police report is critical for your insurance claim.
You should call the police if:
- There are injuries
- Another vehicle is involved
- Your motorcycle is stolen
- There is significant property damage
- It is a hit-and-run
A police report provides independent documentation that insurers rely on heavily.
Step 3: Document Everything at the Scene
Photos and notes taken immediately after an incident are some of the strongest evidence you can provide.
What to document:
- Photos of all vehicle damage
- Photos of the accident scene
- Road conditions and weather
- License plates of all vehicles involved
- Insurance information of other drivers
- Witness contact information
If your motorcycle is stolen, take photos of where it was parked and any broken locks or damage.
Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company Promptly
Most insurance policies require you to notify the insurer within a reasonable timeframe.
How to start a claim:
- Call your insurance company
- Use the insurer’s mobile app or website
- Speak directly with an agent
Provide only factual information. Avoid speculation or admitting fault.
Step 5: Understand What Coverage Applies
The type of claim you file depends on the coverage you have.
Coverage types:
- Liability: Covers damage you cause to others
- Collision: Covers damage to your bike from an accident
- Comprehensive: Covers theft, vandalism, fire, weather
- Uninsured/Underinsured: Covers damage caused by drivers without insurance
Knowing your coverage prevents surprises later.
Step 6: Cooperate With the Claims Adjuster
After filing your claim, an insurance adjuster will be assigned.
The adjuster may:
- Request additional photos
- Ask for a recorded statement
- Inspect the motorcycle in person
- Review police reports
- Estimate repair costs
Answer questions honestly and clearly, but keep responses factual.
Step 7: Get a Damage Estimate
Your insurer may:
- Send you to an approved repair shop
- Allow you to choose your own shop
- Request multiple estimates
If you disagree with the estimate, you can request a review or provide a competing quote.
What If Your Motorcycle Is Declared a Total Loss?
A motorcycle is considered “totaled” when repair costs exceed a certain percentage of its value.
If your bike is totaled:
- You are paid the actual cash value (ACV)
- Depreciation is applied
- Your deductible is subtracted
Aftermarket parts may not be included unless you have accessory coverage.
How Aftermarket Parts Affect a Claim
Many riders are surprised to learn that modifications are often excluded.
Commonly excluded items:
- LED headlights and lighting upgrades
- Exhaust systems
- Saddlebags and luggage
- Custom seats and bars
Accessory or custom parts coverage is usually required for reimbursement.
Step 8: Theft Claims – What’s Different?
Theft claims follow a slightly different process.
Additional steps for theft:
- Police report is mandatory
- Waiting period (often 30 days)
- Recovery attempt before payout
If the bike is recovered, insurance may cover damage depending on policy terms.
Step 9: Review the Settlement Offer Carefully
Before accepting a payout:
- Review the valuation of your motorcycle
- Confirm accessories are included if covered
- Check deductible calculations
You can ask for clarification or dispute errors.
Common Motorcycle Insurance Claim Mistakes to Avoid
- Admitting fault prematurely
- Failing to document damage
- Waiting too long to file a claim
- Not understanding coverage limits
- Assuming modifications are covered
Avoiding these mistakes protects your payout.
Will Filing a Motorcycle Insurance Claim Increase Your Rates?
Sometimes—but not always.
Factors that influence rate changes:
- Fault determination
- Type of claim
- Claim frequency
- Your overall driving record
Not-at-fault claims and comprehensive claims (theft, weather) often have less impact.
How Long Does a Motorcycle Insurance Claim Take?
Typical timelines:
- Minor claims: 1–2 weeks
- Accident repairs: 2–4 weeks
- Theft claims: 30–45+ days
Delays often occur due to parts availability or disputes.
How to Prepare Before You Ever Need to File a Claim
Smart riders prepare in advance.
Best practices:
- Photograph your motorcycle regularly
- Keep receipts for modifications
- Add accessory coverage if needed
- Store the bike securely
- Know your deductible and coverage
Preparation makes claims far smoother.
Quick Motorcycle Insurance Claim Checklist
- ✔ Ensure safety
- ✔ Call police if required
- ✔ Document everything
- ✔ Notify insurer promptly
- ✔ Understand coverage
- ✔ Review settlement carefully
Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)
How do I file a motorcycle insurance claim?
Contact your insurer, provide details, and follow the claims process.
Do I need a police report to file a claim?
Often yes, especially for theft or multi-vehicle accidents.
Will insurance cover aftermarket parts?
Only if you have accessory coverage.
How long do motorcycle claims take?
Anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
Should I file a claim for minor damage?
It depends on repair cost versus deductible.
Filing a Claim Is Easier When You’re Prepared
Motorcycle insurance claims don’t have to be overwhelming. When you know what to do—and what to avoid—you can protect yourself financially and get back on the road faster.
Understanding your coverage, documenting your bike and upgrades, and acting quickly after an incident are the keys to a successful claim.
Ride prepared. Protect your investment. Stay safe.
