SNOWMOBILE INSURANCE IN MASSACHUSETTS

What insurance coverages should snowmobile owners get?

Snowmobile policies frequently come with multiple coverages, because they need to protect against varied risks. Some coverages that riders might specifically want are:

• Bodily Injury Liability: Might apply if injuries are sustained by individuals not on the snowmobile at the time of an accident, such as if bystanders, other snowmobile operators, or people in vehicles are injured.
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Might apply if injuries are sustained by individuals on the snowmobile at the time of an accident, normally including both operators and passengers.
• Property Damage Liability: Might apply if there’s damage to third-party property during an accident, such as damage to other snowmobiles, vehicles, buildings or fences.
• Collision Coverage: Might apply if the snowmobile incurs damage during collisions with other snowmobiles or vehicles.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Might apply if the snowmobile incurs damage during non-collision events, such as damage from fires, lightning, falling objects, animals or theft.
• Accessories Coverage: Might apply if accessories for the snowmobile are damaged or stolen, such as damage to helmets, other safety equipment, mods or a trailer.
• Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Might apply if the snowmobile is involved in a collision where the other operator is uninsured. May also cover hit-and-run collisions.

Is roadside assistance available for snowmobilers? 

A good number of snowmobile policies have optional roadside assistance services, but what exactly is included can vary depending on the policy. Some towing provisions are limited to only public roadways. Other policies will tow from a trail, or at least a certain distance off of a public road.

Which of these options is needed depends on where a snowmobile is typically used. An insurance agent specializing in snowmobile policies can help riders find roadside assistance that suits where they ride most often.

Should snowmobiles continue to be insured during off-season months? 

Even when there’s no snow on the ground, at least certain insurance coverages should be maintained. Canceling a snowmobile policy altogether could violate state regulations or lender requirements, and it leaves a snowmobile unprotected against damage that might occur while the snowmobile is in storage.

In some cases, it may be possible to modify coverage for off-season months. A knowledgeable insurance agent can help riders check what coverages could be changed, without jeopardizing any protections that are needed.

Where can Massachusetts residents get a snowmobile insurance policy? 

If you have a snowmobile and need insurance, contact the independent insurance agents at Garrity Insurance. One of our agents will work with you to determine coverage needs, and then show you policies from a few different insurance companies that would work well. We’ll then help you choose the best from among the options.