Insuring your two-wheel ride in the Wildflower State.
The call of the open road is loud, and a strong draw for people buying motorcycles. In Western Australia the roads are more open than many other states, with great distances between cities. Get stranded out in the Pilbara and you will have a whole lot of troubles.
So if you’re heading that way you have to think about ways of protecting yourself, and insurance is a good place to start. This article will tell you about the features of motorcycle insurance, including how you should prepare for the quirks of travelling in Australia’s biggest state with the world’s most isolated capital city.
Ready to compare motorcycle insurance policies?
Why do I need motorcycle insurance?
You may think you’re the world’s best rider because you haven’t had an accident in 20 years. It doesn’t mean it won’t happen and it’s better to be protected, just in case. If you compare motorcycles and cars you can see how much easier bikes and their riders can be written off in an accident.
With the kinds of roads you find in Western Australia, the chance of hitting wildlife such as kangaroos or camels can be quite high. Insurance gives you peace of mind, knowing that if something goes wrong you’re covered.
What should I consider when purchasing motorcycle insurance in Western Australia?
Western Australia is a unique setting when it comes to insurance for vehicles. The long distances between civilisation have the potential to add expenses you may not need to consider for states such as Victoria or New South Wales, including:
- Cover for roadside assistance for when you’re broken down a long way from Kalgoorlie.
- The cost of hiring a car to get you back to civilisation.
- Extended miles for towage.
What type of motorcycle insurance can I get in Western Australia?
Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance is included in the price of registration in WA. So at the very least you will have coverage for damage you may cause to other people and things, even though CTP doesn’t cover you personally.
But much like the rest of Australia you can get yourself Comprehensive, Fire and Theft, or Third Party Property Damage insurance. Each policy generally covers the following:
| Comprehensive | Fire and Theft | Third Party Property Damage | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Damage to other property |
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| Damage to your bike if it’s your fault |
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| Replacement if your bike is stolen |
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| Damage caused by storms and flood |
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| Damage caused by fire |
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| Damage to protective clothing |
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What affects the cost of your premiums?
The price for insurance can vary depending on a few factors:
- How expensive your bike is. Having a new bike with a high replacement cost will have an impact on your premiums.
- Experience of the rider. The less experience you have, the higher your premiums.
- The power of the engine. If you have a more powerful bike, you will more than likely be paying more.
- Market value versus agreed value. If you stick to an agreed value, your values will rise over time, even though the market value of your bike may drop.
- Where you live. Some postcodes are associated with higher rates of vehicle theft and as such your premiums may be higher.
- Where you store your bike. If it is locked in a garage and not parked on the street, your premiums can be less.
- If your bike is still under finance you will pay more. If you own your ride outright, then your premiums can be less.
- Your personal experience. If you have ridden for a long time with no accidents and no claims then your premiums will be less.
- Optional extras. Adding extras to your policy, such as clothing cover, the cost of hiring another vehicle or an emergency stay, can raise the premiums you pay.
Are there any exclusions and additional costs I should be aware of in Western Australia?
There are some special conditions about insurance in the west. In states such as Victoria and New South Wales there are more people on the roads, so statistically there is a higher chance of an accident and as a result the premiums are high. In Western Australia with fewer drivers the premiums are a little lower.
The distances people drive and the emptiness of the deserts mean the local market insurers are better equipped to give advice, because of their local knowledge of the driving conditions. They can often add a personalised touch compared with the bigger brands who quote all over the country. The good news is that, especially if you shop locally, it may cost you less to insure your ride in Western Australia.
Picture: Shutterstock
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