Snowmobile Insurance FAQs

Snowmobile insurance is an essential form of coverage to have because your sled typically isn't covered under standard homeowners insurance or renters insurance policies. While you may be able to insure your snowmobile under a motorcycle insurance or ATV insurance policy, in certain cases, you may need a specific snowmobile insurance policy. In fact, a handful of states require this coverage by law. Read on to get answers to some of the web's most frequently asked questions about snowmobile insurance and why it's necessary.

Table of Contents

Q. What Does Snowmobile Insurance Cover?

Q. How Does Snowmobile Insurance Work?

Q. Is Snowmobile Insurance Expensive?

Q. When Is Snowmobile Insurance Required?

Q. How Much Snowmobile Insurance Do I Need?

Q. Does Snowmobile Insurance Cover Passengers?

Q: How Can I Save Money on Snowmobile Insurance?

Q: Do You Need Coverage for a Rented Snowmobile?

Q. Where Can I Get Snowmobile Insurance?

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What Does Snowmobile Insurance Cover?

When it comes to snowmobile insurance, you can buy specific coverage for your sled, such as liability-only coverage, or you may be able to buy a package of coverage. A basic snowmobile insurance package may include the following:

Depending on the insurance company, other insurance options you may be able to purchase for your snowmobile could include:

An independent insurance agent can help you build a complete snowmobile insurance policy that includes every type of protection you need.

How Does Snowmobile Insurance Work?

Snowmobiling is a risky winter sport for several reasons. The speed at which these machines can travel, the fact that trails can be multi-use, and the high likelihood of compromised visibility can make snowmobiling tricky. 

Additionally, snow cover can make it difficult to detect hazards such as rocks, stumps, and open water. Every year, snowmobilers are involved in accidents resulting in personal injury, damage to their expensive machines, and harm to other snowmobilers and other people’s property.

Snowmobile insurance can help protect you from expenses associated with injury and property damage, whether yours or someone else’s. These can include payments for another person’s medical costs and property damage, as well as your legal fees and the costs of a lawsuit. If you have adequate snowmobile liability insurance, you can be covered if another person files a claim against you for damages or injuries you cause. 

If you have collision and comprehensive coverage, you may be able to file a claim for damage to your vehicle, whether it is caused by another person, a collision with an object, or a fall through the ice. You may also be able to file a claim if your snowmobile is stolen or damaged due to theft or vandalism. Medical payments coverage can reimburse you for medical treatments to you and your passengers if anyone is injured after an accident, regardless of fault.

Is Snowmobile Insurance Expensive?

Snowmobile insurance typically isn't very expensive, especially when compared to other types of insurance, including a personal auto policy. The cost of insurance for your sled varies depending on the coverage you buy and the type of snowmobile you own. Snowmobile insurance usually averages around just $200 per year. 

A snowmobile insurance company may consider a number of factors when quoting the cost of a policy, including:

An independent insurance agent can help you find affordable snowmobile insurance near you.

When Is Snowmobile Insurance Required?

Many riders who enjoy this popular winter pastime often ask, “Is snowmobile insurance necessary?” Snowmobile insurance is not required in every state, but it is mandatory in some states and some parks and recreation areas. 

The following states require all riders to carry at least snowmobile liability insurance:

Also, if you buy a new sled and will be financing your purchase, the lender will typically require you to buy snowmobile insurance. In any event, buying snowmobile insurance can be a wise choice. If you get into an accident without the proper coverage, especially if you damage someone else’s machine or cause an injury, you may find yourself involved in an expensive lawsuit which could be financially devastating.

How Much Snowmobile Insurance Do I Need?

The amount of coverage you need for your snowmobile depends on your personal circumstances, including the value of your sled and how often you ride. Most insurance professionals recommend that you purchase at least liability coverage. Further, the state you live in may require you to carry at least its mandated minimum liability coverage to be able to operate your sled.

If you're a frequent rider with a newer or more expensive model, consider adding collision and comprehensive coverage to your policy. To be fully protected, you might also want to purchase optional trailer insurance, coverage for accessories and aftermarket upgrades, and coverage without a “lay-up” period, which is an off-season period when you may not have coverage.

Does Snowmobile Insurance Cover Passengers?

Some policies cover passengers, while many others do not unless you buy additional coverage. If you will be taking riders along with you on your snowmobile, be sure to ask your independent insurance agent or insurance company about how to cover them for injuries and medical expenses. If passenger coverage is not included in your policy, make sure you can add snowmobile passenger insurance and that you have adequate liability insurance as well.

Get Snowmobile Coverage

Our independent agents shop around to find you the best coverage.

Request a quote

How Can I Save Money on Snowmobile Insurance?

You can often save money on your coverage by way of snowmobile insurance discounts. You may be able to reduce the cost of your premiums by maintaining a safe driving record, bundling your coverage with another policy through the same insurer, or paying your entire annual premium upfront. Ask your independent insurance agent to look for any snowmobile insurance discounts you may be eligible for.

Do You Need Coverage for a Rented Snowmobile?

Whether you need snowmobile insurance coverage for a rented snowmobile depends on a few factors, including your state's requirements, the rental company's policies, and the location where you'll be riding the sled. 

Snowmobile renters who already have their own policy might be able to use their existing coverage for a rental sled. However, it's important to be aware that there may be coverage exclusions for a rented snowmobile under your existing policy, so you may need to get additional coverage anyway. 

Where Can I Get Snowmobile Insurance?

It’s wise to shop around to find the most suitable snowmobile coverage for your needs, as the cost of insurance for your snowmobile can vary considerably. To compare snowmobile insurance quotes and coverage options, enlist the help of a local independent insurance agent. These agents work with multiple insurance companies and can do the comparison shopping for you.