Atv Insurance: New Brunswick Requirements

If you own an ATV in New Brunswick, you must have ATV insurance. All vehicles registered and driven in New Brunswick must have the mandatory minimum levels of insurance coverage to protect yourself and the public. This includes third-party liability insurance, accident benefits, and uninsured and underinsured automobile coverage. ATV insurance is essential to keep you and your vehicle safe, and it is required by law for all vehicles driven on public trails, except for dirt bikes and dune buggies.

ATV insurance coverage in New Brunswick

If you own an ATV in New Brunswick, it is essential to get ATV insurance to keep yourself, your vehicle, and others safe. All vehicles registered and driven in New Brunswick must have the mandatory minimum levels of insurance coverage. This includes third-party liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $200,000, direct compensation for property damage, accident benefits, uninsured automobile and unidentified automobile insurance, collision or upset insurance, and comprehensive insurance.

ATV insurance is especially important as it covers you both on and off-road. It is mandatory for all vehicles driven on public trails, except for dirt bikes and dune buggies. ATV insurance will protect you and your vehicle from damage and theft, as well as cover any medical expenses, rehabilitation, funeral expenses, and loss of income due to death or disability.

When choosing an ATV insurance policy, you can opt for additional coverage to suit your needs. For example, collision coverage will cover the cost of repairing or replacing your ATV if it collides with another vehicle or object, while comprehensive coverage will protect your ATV from physical damage not resulting from a collision, such as theft, vandalism, fire, flooding, or wind. You can also add endorsements to your policy, such as the SEF 44 Family Protection Endorsement, which provides additional coverage if you or your family members are injured by an underinsured driver.

When purchasing ATV insurance in New Brunswick, you can choose from a variety of insurance providers, including Allstate and Aviva. These companies offer competitive rates, custom policies, and dedicated claim adjusters who are enthusiasts and experts in off-road vehicles. Remember to shop around and compare policies to find the right coverage for your ATV.

Is an ATV a motor vehicle?

The definition of an ATV, or all-terrain vehicle, according to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), is a vehicle that travels on low-pressure tires, has a seat that is straddled by the operator, and has handlebars. They are designed to handle a wider variety of terrain than most other vehicles. While ATVs are street-legal in some countries, they are not in most states, territories, and provinces of Australia, the United States, and Canada.

In the United States, each state has different requirements for ATVs. For example, in California, there is no requirement to register or insure an ATV, but in Arizona, all motor vehicles operated on roads, including ATVs, must be registered and covered by liability insurance. In Georgia, any vehicle operated on major roadways is considered a motor vehicle and is subject to the same rules as other vehicles.

In Canada, insurance is mandatory for off-road vehicles in Nova Scotia. In New Brunswick, ATV insurance is offered by companies like Allstate and Aviva Canada, but it is unclear whether it is mandatory.

ATV insurance for children under 16

In the province of New Brunswick, it is legal for children under the age of 16 to operate an off-road vehicle, such as an ATV, as long as they follow the rules. If you intend for your child to operate an ATV, be sure to tell your broker so they can add coverage for it. An insurance policy is purchased to insure a vehicle, not a specific operator or driver, although insurance companies usually ask who will be operating the vehicle regularly to assess the risk.

In the case of children under 16 operating ATVs, you would purchase insurance on the vehicle your child operates. Under the conditions and terms of a Standard Automobile policy owner’s form (S.P.F. 1), all operators/drivers who are licensed or eligible to be licensed, which means they are sixteen or older and have the skills to pass a driving test, and operate the vehicle with the owner’s permission may be covered under the insurance policy.

Drivers or operators who meet the qualifications in the province where they reside and operate the vehicles may also be covered. In neighbouring Nova Scotia, for example, OHV drivers/operators must follow the rules for each age group. A youth under the age of 14 operating a snowmobile must have successfully taken a safety training course, must be under the direct supervision of their parent or guardian, and must only be operating the vehicle on private land or a designated trail.

In 2006, the New Brunswick government announced plans to ban anyone under the age of 16 from operating all-terrain vehicles following the deaths of two children in separate accidents and the serious injury of a teenager. Despite lengthy public hearings and an all-party report with more than 30 recommendations, the former Conservative government only required safety courses and liability insurance for ATVs.

ATV insurance for seasonal use

ATV insurance is not a legal requirement in most states or provinces, but it is a good idea to have it to protect yourself and your vehicle. If you plan to ride on public trails or state-owned land, you may be required to have proof of ATV insurance. Even if it is not mandatory, ATV insurance can provide financial protection in the event of loss, damage, an accident, injury, or theft of your vehicle.

Types of ATV Insurance Coverage

There are several types of ATV insurance coverage available:

• Liability coverage will cover the costs of bodily injury and property damage if you cause an accident, as well as legal fees if you are sued.
• Collision coverage will pay for repairs to your ATV if it is damaged in a collision with another vehicle or object.
• Comprehensive coverage is optional and will protect your ATV if it is stolen, damaged by fire, vandalism, or severe weather.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is also optional and will cover your costs if another rider causes an accident and does not have insurance.

Seasonal Use

Some insurance providers offer policies that recognize the seasonal use of ATVs and other off-road vehicles. These policies are designed for vehicles that are typically stored for part of the year and only used during certain seasons. By insuring your ATV for the period of the year that you use it, you can save money on your insurance premiums.

ATV Insurance in New Brunswick

In New Brunswick, Canada, ATV insurance is available from providers such as Allstate and Aviva. These companies offer liability coverage, accident benefits, direct compensation for property damage, and optional collision and comprehensive coverage. It is important to note that the requirements for ATV insurance may vary by province, so be sure to check the specific regulations in your area.

Factors Affecting ATV Insurance Costs

The cost of ATV insurance can vary depending on several factors, including the age and driving record of the rider, the top speed of the ATV, how often it is used, and the value of the vehicle. It is recommended to shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the best coverage for your needs.

ATV insurance for high-value vehicles

If you own a high-value ATV, it is important to consider insurance to protect your asset. While ATV insurance is not required by law in most places, there are several reasons why you may want to consider it. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Protection for High-Value ATVs

High-value ATVs can be attractive targets for theft, so insurance can provide peace of mind. Comprehensive coverage typically includes protection against theft, vandalism, fire, and natural disasters. This ensures that your investment is protected even when it's not in use.

Liability Coverage

ATV insurance provides liability protection, which is crucial if you plan to ride your high-value ATV on public trails or property that isn't your own. This coverage will help pay for any property damage or bodily injuries you may cause to others in an accident. Liability coverage is often required by law in such cases.

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage is essential for high-value ATVs as it covers repairs or replacement if your vehicle collides with another object or vehicle. This can be particularly important if your ATV is financed or leased, as collision coverage is usually required in those cases.

Medical Payments Coverage

In the event of an accident, medical payments coverage will take care of the medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of who is at fault. This can be especially valuable for high-value ATVs, as the cost of medical bills can be significant.

Customization and Accessories Coverage

If you've invested in customizations or accessories for your high-value ATV, look for customization coverage. This will protect any enhancements you've made to your vehicle, ensuring that you can repair or replace them if needed.

Discounts and Savings

When insuring your high-value ATV, be on the lookout for discounts and ways to save money. Many insurance providers offer discounts for bundling policies, insuring multiple vehicles, installing anti-theft devices, or completing safety courses.

Location-Specific Requirements

Remember to check the specific requirements for your location. While ATV insurance may not be mandatory in your area, certain trails, parks, or states may require it. Additionally, if you plan to ride in a different province or state, their regulations may differ.

In summary, while ATV insurance for high-value vehicles is not always mandatory, it provides valuable protection for your investment. By considering the coverage options and taking advantage of available discounts, you can ensure that your high-value ATV is properly insured, giving you peace of mind to enjoy your off-road adventures.

Frequently asked questions