If you are reading this article, I’m guessing that you have just purchased, or are about to purchase, your first snowmobile. The reason I say this is because those experienced snowmobile owners out there already know the definitive answer to that question. And the definitive answer is… maybe. The truth is that there are a number of elements to consider when it comes to snowmobile insurance.  Just remember, modern sleds are typically big, powerful and speedy machines.

 And, like a car, motorcycle, boat or ATV, big, speedy machines can get into accidents. So, if you are asking yourself, “Do I need snowmobile insurance?” the answer is probably… probably.

Am I required to have snowmobile insurance?

The first question you need to consider is, “Does my state require snowmobile insurance?”  The answer depends on what state you are in. Some require it, some don’t. By the latest count, twenty-three states require some form of snowmobile insurance. Further, the terms and minimum coverage amounts vary from state to state. In New York, for example, snowmobile insurance is necessary only if you operate your sled on public property. In Pennsylvania, insurance is required on both public and private land. In any event, some form of license and registration is required to operate a snowmobile in every jurisdiction in the United States. So, before you ride, get licensed and check your state’s insurance laws.

If my state does not require snowmobile insurance, should I get it anyway?

Are you made of money? If so, then maybe not. But just because insurance is not mandatory in your state doesn’t mean that you are not financially liable for the damage you do while riding your sled. If you get into an accident that is your fault and cause property damage or personal injury to another, you are totally liable for the costs associated with that accident. And, as with an automobile or any other vehicle for that matter, the financial consequences to you and your family could be devastating. 

What types and amounts of snowmobile insurance coverage do I need?

A lot depends on your personal financial situation. A good way to measure is to look at your automobile insurance coverage. Let’s assume here that you have very carefully analyzed your assets and finances, and feel certain that you are fully protected when it comes to auto insurance. It is probably wise, then, to insure your snowmobile following the same analysis and criteria. The types of coverage you should consider purchasing are:

• Liability: There are two categories of liability coverage: personal injury and property. Personal injury liability coverage applies to injuries you cause to someone else. Property liability applies to damage you cause to another person’s belongings.
• Personal Injury Protection: Personal injury protection coverage pays for injuries to you and your passengers.
• Comprehensive: Comprehensive insurance covers non-collision caused damage to your vehicle from such things as theft, fire, flood and hail.
• Collision: Collision coverage pays for damage to your snowmobile caused by a collision with another sled, automobile or other object.

Since the costs associated with a snowmobile accident could be equivalent to those from an automobile accident, it would be prudent to insure your snowmobile in similar types and amounts as with your car.

A few random thoughts. 

First, don’t assume that your homeowner’s insurance will cover your snowmobile. It most likely will not.  If you have any doubt, make sure that you check your policy or call your agent. Second, as with your auto insurance, you may be eligible for discounts on your snowmobile policy. Again, talk to your agent. Also, if you take your snowmobile to another state, on vacation for example, check the insurance requirements in that state and make sure you are fully covered.

Finally, keep in mind that all insurance policies are different. Make sure that you fully understand the specifics of your policy before you purchase it. Snowmobiling is supposed to be fun, right? Don’t ruin your good time worrying about whether you are properly covered or not.