Why do I need Motorbike Insurance ?

The Road Traffic Act requires anyone using a vehicle on the public highway to have insurance against their liability arising from the use of the motorbike for damage caused to property and for personal injuries caused to any other party.

It is a Motoring Offence to drive without insurance covering this liability. You will also need to produce your insurance certificate when you need to re tax your motorbike at the Post Office or other Licensing Authority.

When you take out a Motorbike Insurance Policy you will normally be provided with a Cover Note. This acts as a temporary Insurance Certificate. If you do not receive the actual Insurance Certificate before the cover note runs out (normally one month) make sure you contact your Insurers and ask them to send a further Cover Note. The cover note acts as an Insurance Certificate and complies with the Road Traffic Act.

Within a few days of the Policy starting you should receive an Insurance Certificate. The Certificate will confirm the Registration number of the bike and the named riders who are entitled to drive it under the Motorbike Insurance Policy. It will also specify if the bike is to be used for social and domestic use including travelling to and from work or business use.

When you get the Insurance Certificate check the wording and ensure that the cover is correct. If there are any changes necessary make sure you advise your Insurers immediately and ask them to re issue the certificate.

In addition to the Motorbike Insurance Certificate you will also receive a Policy Document. The Policy sets out the terms and conditions of the Policy.

Make sure that you read the Policy in conjunction with the Insurance Certificate and ensure that the Policy provides the cover that you expected.

If it does not then advise your Insurers straightaway.

There is no excuse for not reading the Policy and the Policy will not be rewritten in the event that you need to make a claim.