Do You Have to Have Motorcycle Insurance in Ohio?
- Ohio's financial responsibility laws allow drivers and motorcyclists to choose how they will meet the requirements. Motorcyclists who elect to carry motorcycle insurance must carry liability limits of, at minimum, $12,500 per person, $25,000 per accident with $7,500 in property damage.
- Motorcyclists who reject motorcycle insurance have the option of securing and depositing a certificate of bond or surety bond with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). Riders who elect this option must purchase a bond of at least $32,500. Riders must complete an application with the BMV and receive approval before they are permitted to make a deposit. Motorcyclists who own 25 or more vehicles also have the option of self-insuring, if approved by the Ohio BMV.
- Ohio mandates do not require motorcyclists to maintain uninsured and underinsured motorist coverages, or UM/UIM. However, motorcyclists might consider these coverages, if they elect to purchase motorcycle insurance. Although recent reports from Insure.com show that Ohio's auto insurance rates are some of the lowest in the country, studies from the Insurance Research Council show that approximately 13 percent of Ohio motorists are uninsured.
- Riders are required to show proof of their financial responsibility at the time of any traffic violation or accident. Riders must also show proof of financial responsibility upon the request of a police officer, court official or BMV representative. Drivers who fail to comply with Ohio's financial responsibility regulations are subject to penalties and fines that include suspension of all driving and riding privileges and reinstatement fees. Suspended drivers must secure an SR-22 filing before driving privileges can be reinstated.
