Whether you ride your snowmobile through the groomed trails of the Maine Snowmobile Association's Interconnected Trail System (ITS) or you cruise the ditches and forests of your own land, snowmobile insurance can protect you financially and help you ensure your winter toys are ready for the next season. Before you search for snowmobile insurance quotes, however, careful research will help you find the right policy for yourself.
Why Is Snowmobile Insurance Important?
Maine's ITS offers more than 10,000 miles of pristine trails that crisscross and network heavily all across the state. Although Maine does not require riders to obtain snowmobile insurance, accidents causing thousands of dollars' worth of damage happen each year. A snowmobile insurance policy can protect you and your ride.
Is Your Sled Insurable?
As snowmobiling has become more and more popular in wintry Maine, the types of sleds available have increased. Most ME insurance companies offer policies that cover the following types of vehicles:
- Trail snowmobiles: Typically designed for riding on groomed trails, this type is a smart choice for beginners. Trail snowmobiles tend to be lighter than other varieties, but that doesn't mean they can't be powerful. In fact, it's not uncommon to find some with over 1,000 cc engines that can go quite fast (Example: the 2012 Yamaha RS Vector, which sells for $11,899).
- Cross-Country snowmobiles: Serious riders who plan on traversing rough paths or deep snow own a cross-country snowmobile. These vehicles can make very sharp turns and provide excellent traction (Example: The $11,299 Ski-Doo MX Z X).
- Performance snowmobiles: Sometimes called race snowmobiles, these are models with powerful engines capable of reaching high speeds. They typically make for a smooth ride and have premium suspension systems.
- Utility snowmobiles: These versatile snowmobiles are capable of towing and tend to perform well in deep snow. They can vary greatly between models, as some are better suited for trails, some for cross-country and some mainly for work.
What if You Injure Someone While Riding Your Sled?
When you purchase a snowmobile insurance policy from one of Maine's providers, the policy covers your legal liability for an accident that involves injury to another person or damage to someone's property, up to the limit of liability you select.
For example, limits of 15/30/10 provide the following:
- Coverage up to $15,000 per person for bodily injury
- Coverage up to $30,000 per accident for bodily injury
- Coverage up to $10,000 per accident for bodily injury
What if You Crash Your Sled?
If you opt for a snowmobile insurance policy with comprehensive and collision coverage, the policy pays to repair or replace your snowmobile if someone steals it or someone damages it in an accident regardless of who is at fault. For each coverage option, you select a deductible that you pay out of pocket. Your insurance company pays for the remaining cost.
With collision coverage, your insurance company pays for damage to your snowmobile when you collide with another vehicle or object, such as a tree or fence post.
With comprehensive coverage, your insurance company pays for damage to your snowmobile caused by an event other than a collision, such as fire, theft or vandalism. If you hit an animal, such as a member of Maine's moose population, or if your snowmobile catches fire or is stolen, comprehensive coverage will apply.
Protect Your Custom Paint Job
Generally, when you buy comprehensive or collision coverage from one of Maine's insurance providers, accessory coverage of about $1,000 is included at no additional charge. But if the custom paint job and other bells and whistles you've added to your sled exceed that amount, you can buy extra insurance coverage, usually up to a total limit of $30,000.
Accessories include equipment, devices, enhancements and changes other than originally installed that alter the appearance or performance of the snowmobile. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:
- Any electronic equipment, antennas and other devices used exclusively to send or receive audio, visual or data signals or to play back recorded media, excluding manufacturer-installed items that are permanently installed on the snowmobile using bolts or brackets
- Trailers designed to be pulled behind a snowmobile
- Custom paint, engine modifications, suspension/springs
- Exhausts, racks, saddlebags, hitches, seats/backrests, windshields
- Safety apparel, including helmets
- Plow blades or winches
It is recommended you keep photos of the snowmobile and all receipts for accessories on your snowmobile in the event you need to make an accessories claim.
What Does Snowmobile Insurance Cost?
As with car insurance rates, most Maine insurance companies consider several factors when coming up with your snowmobile coverage premium, including the following:
- Your deductible
- Your limits
- Your coverage options
- Make and model of your snowmobile
- Number of people you wish to have on your policy
- Your ZIP code
- Age of driver(s)
- Driving record of the driver(s)
Often, Maine insurance companies will give you a discount on your snowmobile insurance policy if you do the following:
- Also carry auto or homeowners insurance with the same company
- Take a snowmobile safety course
- Maintain a claims-free driving record
Snowmobile insurance can cost as little as $30 a year for liability or a few hundred dollars a year for more comprehensive policies with extra liability insurance.
Start Sledding Care-Free with Snowmobile Insurance
You haven't invested thousands of dollars in your snowmobile to have one accident or injury end your trail riding joy. When you contact a knowledgeable Trusted Choice® independent insurance agent, you will be sure your agent can find the best snowmobile insurance coverage to meet your sledding needs.
Contact an independent agent for your quotes, and find out how you can hit the trails with peace of mind.