Motorcyclists must meet Alabama's financial responsibility requirements in order to lawfully operate any motorcycle on the Alabama roadways. These mandates allow drivers to choose between insurance or bonding options, both of which must meet Alabama's minimum financial requirements.
Insurance
Alabama motorcyclists that choose to carry motorcycle insurance must purchase bodily injury and property damage limits of at least $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident, with $25,000 of property damage. These coverages reimburse the other party for damages and injuries caused by the policy holder.
Options
Motorcyclists can also meet Alabama's financial responsibility requirements by depositing a surety bond or cash deposit with the State Treasurer. The minimum deposit must be in the amount of $50,000. The State Treasurer will only accept a bond that has been issued by an authorized Alabama insurer. Similar to bodily injury coverages, the bond only protects the other party from damages incurred by the bond holder.
Proof of Compliance
Alabama motorcyclists must carry proof of their compliance while operating their cycle. The proof must be present at the time of a violation, accident and immediately upon the request of a police official. Motorcyclists must also send proof of their compliance to the Alabama Motor Vehicle Division when selected for random verification. Acceptable proof includes an insurance identification card, declaration page, insurance binder or certificate of liability. The proof must include the year, make and model of the motorcycle, its vehicle identification number, the policy holder's name, the policy number and the policy inception and expiration dates. The document must also include the signature of the insurance carrier's authorized representative.
Non-compliance
Motorcyclists that fail to comply with Alabama's financial responsibility requirements are subject to license and registration suspensions of at least 45 days. This suspension also suspends the motorcyclist's vehicle driving and registration privileges. First offenders can have their suspensions lifted after showing proof of insurance and paying a reinstatement fee. Multiple offenders must serve their entire suspension and pay their reinstatement fees and penalties before privileges are reinstated.
Tags: Alabama financial, Alabama financial responsibility, financial responsibility, financial responsibility requirements, meet Alabama, responsibility requirements, Alabama motorcyclists
