Snowmobile Insurance in New Hampshire

snowmobile

What Is Snowmobile Insurance?

Snowmobiling is a fun and exhilarating sport, but it comes with some inherent dangers. The activity results in about 14,000 injuries and 200 deaths each year, according to one study, and these don’t take into account property-related risks. Snowmobile insurance doesn’t prevent accidents and other incidents from occurring, but it can help snowmobile owners in New Hampshire recover from many of the financial consequences that can follow covered incidents.

Snowmobile insurance is a specialized form of personal insurance that’s specifically crafted to meet the risk mitigation needs of snowmobile owners. While some of the coverages in these policies are similar to other types of personal insurance, the coverages in these policies are adjusted for the particular risks associated with snowmobiling.

Who in New Hampshire Needs a Snowmobile Policy?

Anyone who owns a snowmobile in New Hampshire should insure it with a snowmobile policy. This includes both state residents who have snowmobiles, as well as out-of-state residents who have a second home in the state for winter activities and keep a snowmobile at that home.

Additionally, New Hampshire residents who take their snowmobiles out of the state should be aware that other states might have minimum insurance coverage requirements that apply to all snowmobilers in their state. Vermont, for instance, requires riders who go on state trails to maintain minimum levels of insurance for their snowmobiles.

What Coverages Can Be Provided With Snowmobile Insurance?

Snowmobile policies have similar coverages as an auto policy, as it includes multiple coverages. Some of the coverages that a particular policy might offer a standard or available protections include:

  • Bodily Injury Liability Coverage, which may cover injuries that people on the insured snowmobile sustain

  • Personal Injury Protection, which may cover injuries that people not on the snowmobile sustain

  • Comprehensive and Collision Coverage, which may cover damage to the snowmobile

  • Property Damage Liability Coverage, which may cover damage to property other than the snowmobile

  • Underinsured and Uninsured Motorist Coverage, which may cover accidents caused by improperly insured riders and drivers

  • Accessories Coverage, which may cover safety equipment, aftermarket parts, and a trailer

Many policies also offer roadside assistance and towing coverage, which generally pays to tow a broken-down snowmobile in certain situations. Not all policies provide the same level of towing help, though. Some may only tow from the side of a paved road, while others might extend towing onto trails.

An insurance agent who specializes in snowmobile policies can help riders find a policy that provides appropriate towing coverage for their needs. Of course, the agent can also check all other coverages to make sure they offer robust protection.

Can a Snowmobile be Covered Under My NH Homeowner's Insurance or Auto Policy?

Typically no as most NH homeowner policies exclude any vehicle subject to vehicle registration while a snowmobile does not meet the definition of a private passenger vehicle.  This is a common misconception, which is why snowmobile insurance is so important.  To be sure, check with your home and auto agent. 

Are Snowmobile Policies Expensive?

Snowmobile policies vary in cost because insurance companies consider many factors when setting rates. The year, make, model and engine power of the particular snowmobile, garaging location, rider’s driving records, and past claims history are just a few of the items that might influence the premium.

Even with the variance in premiums, however, snowmobile policies tend to be quite affordable. Because snowmobiles are typically only used for part of the year, insurance companies are frequently able to keep rates low.

How Can Snowmobile Owners Get Snowmobile Insurance?

For help finding snowmobile insurance, contact the independent insurance agents at HPM Insurance. Our agents have helped many snowmobilers in New Hampshire find robust yet affordable policies, and we’re here to assist you with your coverage needs. Since we’re an independent agency, you can trust us to recommend some of the best available options regardless of what insurance company offers them.