In a nutshell, e-bikes are bikes that can be run on electric power as well as by pedaling. The motorized element of an e-bike causes an issue for insurance coverage as we will explain in this article.
E-bikes are one of those gray areas that many insurance companies have a tough time tackling. In a sense, they are technically motorized and therefore lose coverage under a typical homeowner’s policy. However, some could argue that these bikes are not self-propelled and therefore not a true motorized vehicle.
A typical homeowner’s policy is not meant to cover “miscellaneous” vehicles. The policy may even be written to exclude them. It would take major convincing to get an underwriter to deliberately outline e-bikes as covered under your homeowner’s insurance.
So what are the options?
- A miscellaneous endorsement on the auto insurance policy may offer coverage.
- You may need to pull a recreational vehicle policy in order to ensure that you have proper coverage.
- Some carriers may even treat the e-bike as a motorcycle and insure it as such.
The best way to make sure that you have proper coverage is to contact iSCHURING. We can talk you through all of the nuances and review your policy to be sure that you have the best coverage.
iSCHURING’s Resource Center is meant to provide an overview of the topic, rather than an in-depth review. When deciding how this information applies to your specific situation, we recommend discussing with an iSCHURING licensed insurance agent. Any information provided at iSCHURING may also need to be reviewed by an attorney or tax consultant to determine the best course of action for your unique situation. No information may be copied, reprinted or otherwise reproduced without the expressed written consent of iSCHURING.com.
