ATV insurance is liability and damage coverage for your all-terrain vehicle, also known as a 4-wheeler. These vehicles are meant for off-road riding and have the potential for accidents and injuries. ATV insurance closely resembles car insurance. You’ll find base coverage with similar categories, plus ATV-specific add-ons.
Unlike cars, though, not all provinces and territories require ATV insurance. In some cases, the insurance requirement may be waived if the ATV is exclusively driven on the owner’s property. Check with your local Ministry of Transportation to verify what your ATV insurance obligations may be.
If you do need ATV insurance, or perhaps want to opt for the added security, you can find coverage with many car insurance companies. While not all car insurance companies offer ATV insurance, you may also find coverage with independent providers who specialize in this type of policy.
You may need to evaluate how you’ll be using your ATV. For example, if you’re simply riding your ATV at low speeds in a backyard, you could opt for little to no ATV coverage.
However, you will benefit most from ATV insurance in these situations:
When wondering whether to skip ATV insurance, consider that this vehicle type is known for accidents. In the event of an accident or rollover, the driver usually has minimal protection. Insurance could help cover damages and injuries.
ATV insurance will help cover damages you would otherwise have to pay for. Depending on the province or territory you live in, you may be required to get ATV insurance. The following are some types of coverage to consider:
Types of car insurance coverage
If your ATV is involved in a car accident during transport, the car insurance is the primary source of coverage. The same goes for trailer coverage: you’re covered for damage to your ATV if your ATV is transported in a trailer and you’ve opted for trailer coverage under your car insurance policy. Whatever damages aren’t covered under the car insurance policy are assessed according to your ATV coverage.
The cost of ATV insurance can vary widely, from a few hundred to a few thousand per year. Actual rates vary based on the driver and vehicle. You can lower an otherwise expensive policy by considering these insurance cost factors.
Let's say you compete in ATV sports races. During the race, you lose control of the vehicle and collide with another competitor. The accident damages the body and axles of both vehicles. In addition, you and the other competitor will need to get cleared by a doctor before racing again.
In this scenario, your liability insurance would kick in to cover your competitor's medical bills and ATV damage. Then, your collision insurance would pay for repairs on your own vehicle.
Finally, your personal health insurance would help with medical bills. However, if a medical problem needed specialized attention not covered under your health insurance, your ATV medical payments coverage would then kick in.
* This is a fictional, but realistic, example.
Although ATVs can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, most will be covered under general ATV insurance. However, you may want to discuss special coverage with an agent based on how you use the vehicle.
In addition, the type of ATV you use may influence your insurance premium.
ATV insurance may not cover you in the following situations:
Regardless of whether it’s required in your province, ATV insurance could save you money in the event of an accident. Compare auto insurance options to find the best policy for your ATV.
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