Riding a motorcycle through Virginia’s scenic highways, from the Blue Ridge Parkway to the coastal Hampton Roads, can be exhilarating. But before you hit the road, it is important to know that motorcycle insurance in Virginia isn’t just a smart idea, it is legally required.
Still, many riders do not fully understand what coverage the law mandates or how to protect themselves in the event of an accident.
Do You Legally Need Motorcycle Insurance in Virginia?
Yes, motorcycle insurance is required to operate a motorcycle in Virginia. As of July 1, 2024, all motorcycle owners must carry liability insurance. Paying the Uninsured Motor Vehicle, or UMV, fee is no longer an option for any type of vehicle, including motorcycles. This change was part of a broader reform to increase protection for all drivers and riders on Virginia roads.
Under the current law, skipping insurance or failing to pay for coverage can result in serious consequences, including fines, license suspension, and personal liability for damages after a crash.
Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable in collisions, and lacking insurance could leave you financially devastated. At Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers, we help Virginia riders understand their rights and confidently navigate complex insurance issues.
What Motorcycle Insurance Coverage is Required in Virginia?
To legally ride a motorcycle in Virginia, you must carry at least the state’s minimum liability insurance. These are often referred to as 30/60/20 coverage limits:
- $30,000 for bodily injury per person
- $60,000 for total bodily injury per accident
- $20,000 for property damage
These minimums are designed to satisfy legal requirements, but may not offer enough protection in a serious motorcycle crash. Hospital bills, vehicle damage, and other costs can quickly exceed these limits, leaving you personally responsible for the difference. Meeting Virginia’s legal minimum is essential, but it is just the starting point to protect yourself.
What Are the Penalties for Riding Without Motorcycle Insurance in Virginia?
If you are caught riding without motorcycle insurance in Virginia, the consequences can be serious and expensive. You could face both legal penalties and long-term financial setbacks, especially if you’re involved in an accident.
Here’s what you risk driving without insurance:
- Fines and penalties: You may be fined and must pay a $600 noncompliance fee.
- License suspension: Your driver’s license and motorcycle registration may be suspended.
- Reinstatement fees: You must pay to restore your driving and registration privileges.
- SR-22 requirements: Your insurance company may be required to file an SR-22 certificate, proving future financial responsibility, for three years.
- Out-of-pocket liability: If you cause a crash while uninsured, you could be personally liable for medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
- Limited compensation access: Even if you were not at fault, riding uninsured can complicate your ability to recover damages under Virginia’s strict contributory negligence laws.
In short, riding without insurance puts everything on the line—your license, your finances, and your right to fair compensation.
Is the UMV Fee Still an Option for Motorcycle Riders in Virginia?
No. As of July 1, 2024, the Uninsured Motor Vehicle (UMV) fee is no longer an option in Virginia. Motorcycle riders must carry liability insurance. This change means you can’t legally ride without insurance, and doing so could lead to fines, license suspension, and serious financial risk after a crash.
What Motorcycle Insurance Options Do Virginia Riders Have?
Virginia law requires riders to carry liability insurance, but additional coverage options can offer greater protection. Here are the main types of motorcycle insurance available in Virginia:
- Liability Insurance: Required
This required insurance covers common motorcycle accident injuries and property damage you cause to others in an accident. - Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Optional
UM/UIM coverage helps cover your expenses if you’re hit by a driver with no insurance or insufficient insurance to cover your losses. - Collision Coverage: Optional
Pays for damage, like theft, vandalism, or weather-related incidents. - Comprehensive Coverage: Optional
Covers non-crash-related damage like theft, vandalism, or weather-related incidents. - Medical Payments: Optional
MedPay helps pay medical bills for you and your passengers after an accident, no matter who caused it.
While only liability coverage is required, disputes with uninsured motorist claims or denied payouts on optional policies often arise. If your insurance company isn’t holding up its end, Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers can help you fight for the compensation you’re owed.
Can My Motorcycle Insurance Be Denied or Canceled in Virginia?
Yes. Motorcycle insurance can be denied or canceled in Virginia under specific legal circumstances, such as:
- Non-payment of premiums
- Fraud or intentional misrepresentation on your application
- Significant changes in risk, such as multiple accidents or violations
Virginia law requires insurers to provide written notice before canceling a policy.
Policyholders often face legal issues when coverage is suddenly dropped, claims are denied, or insurers accuse them of misrepresentation. If you’re dealing with a cancellation or denial and aren’t sure what to do next, Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers can help you understand your rights and take action if necessary.
What Can I Do If I Disagree With My Motorcycle Insurance Company?
If your motorcycle insurance claim is denied or mishandled, you can dispute it. Common reasons for insurance disputes include:
- Disagreements over policy coverage or exclusions
- Delays in processing or paying valid claims
- Low settlement offers that don’t reflect the damage or injuries
- Bad faith practices, such as denying a claim without a proper investigation
These issues can be stressful and confusing, but an experienced attorney can review your policy, gather evidence, and take legal action if your insurer isn’t acting in good faith.
How Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers Help With Virginia Motorcycle Insurance Disputes and Claims
Understanding motorcycle insurance in Virginia can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Whether you’re choosing a policy, facing a denied claim, or dealing with the aftermath of an accident, Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers is here to guide you.
With over 120 years of combined experience, a client-first approach, and a deep knowledge of Virginia’s insurance laws, we’re ready to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call (757) 333-3333 or contact us online to get your free case evaluation today.
