Top motorcycle insurance add-ons every Filipino rider should consider

Millions of Filipinos rely on motorcycles for their daily activities, such as commuting to work and running errands. Bikes are considered a convenient mode of transportation, easy to navigate Metro Manila’s traffic or take provincial roads. However, being a motorcycle owner comes with a set of responsibilities, which include riding carefully, adhering to speed limits & traffic rules, and obtaining insurance.

You see, in the Philippines, motorcycle insurance is a legal requirement, which includes signing up for the CTPL package. However, for most, it is not enough, and so comprehensive coverage and add-ons become necessary. While we have discussed comprehensive motorcycle insurance in detail in our previous blogs, it’s time to focus on add-ons.

Add-ons provide additional protection for the rider against unforeseen risks, including natural disasters, theft, accidents, and costly medical or legal expenses. However, motorcycle insurance applicants need to understand that this additional shield comes at a cost, and therefore, it is essential to draw a line between financial security and unnecessary expenses.

In this article, we’ll be discussing the top motorcycle insurance add-ons a Filipino rider should consider and how to know if an add-on is the right pick for you. All this, along with the claim process and answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

So, without further ado, let’s begin…

Motorcycle insurance in the Philippines - Clearing the basics

Before discussing add-ons, it is essential to clear the fundamentals of motorcycle insurance. In the Philippines, motor vehicle insurance is broadly categorised as CTPL and Comprehensive insurance.

CTPL, Compulsory Third-Party Liability (CTPL) insurance, is mandatory for motor vehicle registration with the LTO. It only covers third-party bodily injuries or death caused by the insured motorcycle. It doesn’t cover damage to the rider, passenger, or motorcycle. To fill this coverage gap, a comprehensive insurance plan is available that offers broader protection, is more flexible, and can be customised with add-ons.

Note that for a Filipino motorcycle owner, relying solely on CTPL could be risky. For better coverage, both financially and personally, it is recommended to get comprehensive insurance with add-ons.

Also Read: Why motorcycle riders need both CTPL & comprehensive coverage

Motorcycle insurance add-ons: Definition & importance

What are motorcycle insurance add-ons? These are additional coverages that enhance your insurance plan by offering financial protection against specific situations.

Key benefits of insurance add-ons include -

Add-ons are flexible; policyholders can opt for them as per their requirements.
Policyholders enjoy peace of mind knowing that they are covered against unexpected events.
The protection plan is expanded beyond standard coverage.
The additional premium you pay is affordable compared to the out-of-pocket payments for damages.

Photo from Freepik

Top motorcycle insurance add-ons to consider

Let us now take a look at some of the most crucial add-ons for Filipino riders that can genuinely elevate your protection plan to the next level.

Roadside Assistance	This add-on makes sure that the policyholder never gets stranded in the middle of nowhere. It comes in handy in case of emergency fuel delivery, flat tyre, and engine breakdown.
Personal Accident	It offers coverage for both rider and passenger against injuries, disability, or death. This add-on provides a cash benefit to the policyholder in the event of loss of income and medical expenses resulting from an accident involving the insured's motorcycle.
Theft Protection	This add-on provides compensation in the event the insured unit is stolen. Furthermore, it encompasses both partial (damage resulting from attempted theft) and total theft cases.
Acts of God/Acts of Nature	This is one of the most highly recommended add-ons for Filipino rides. It offers protection against damage caused by floods, typhoons, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and other calamities.
Accessories & Modification Coverage	This add-on is recommended for riders who are into motorcycle modifications and aftermarket parts. It offers protection against custom parts, such as accessories and upgraded components.
Legal Assistance	This add-on provides coverage for legal fees and other related expenses resulting from a motorcycle accident that leads to a court case.
Hospitalisation and Medical Reimbursement	As the name suggests, this add-on provides reimbursement for hospital and medical bills incurred after the insured's motorcycle is involved in an accident. It relieves the injured riders from out-of-pocket expenses.
Replacement Vehicle Service	This add-on provides temporary motor vehicle coverage if the insured unit is being repaired.

Also Read: How to choose the best motorcycle insurance in the Philippines

Tips to choose the right insurance add-ons

Access your riding style and route

When confused about selecting an add-on for your motorcycle insurance policy, ask yourself the questions below. Doing so will give you an idea of the dangers you are prone to and help you opt for coverage accordingly.

Are you a frequent rider? (get comprehensive with suitable coverage)
Do you ride via an accident- or flood-prone route? (get personal accident & acts of god coverage)
Do you travel long distances - on highways or in the countryside? (get roadside assistance)
Do you invest in after-market accessories? (get accessories & modification coverage)

Evaluate your budget

While it is crucial to match your riding habits with the add-ons, it is equally essential to ensure your budget accommodates the added expense. Why? Failing to pay the premium on time can result in a delay or even denial of the claim. The key is to create a balance between protection and affordability.

Note that don’t be afraid of getting add-ons, as they may cost a few hundred pesos, but compared to the repair cost, it's not much.

Check the insurer’s reputation

Technically, this should be the first tip. Ensure that you choose an insurance provider with a good reputation for prompt claim settlement and excellent customer service. One way to do so is by reading customer reviews.

How to save money on motorcycle insurance add-ons

Compare policies from at least two to three providers.
Bundle add-ons with comprehensive insurance.
Bundle insurance policies, such as home, medical, and life insurance.
Look out for offers & discounts.

Also Read: What insurers look for in a responsible motorcyclist (riding habits)

Bottom line

Motorcycle insurance is a must for every Filipino rider. While CTPL is mandatory by law, the remaining coverage options are highly recommended - opt for what you think is required. Apart from comprehensive insurance, the insurance provider also offers several add-ons, including roadside assistance, personal accident coverage, and legal aid, among others. These additional and optional coverages provide an extra layer of protection, allowing you to ride worry-free.

However, the added financial shield tailored to your lifestyle comes at a cost. Therefore, be sure to select your insurance plan carefully—one that offers optimal coverage without placing a significant strain on your budget.

At the end, we’d say - Peace of mind is a priceless possession; so protect yourself, the pillion, the bike, and your future with insurance.

FAQs

Q1. Is motorcycle insurance mandatory in the Philippines?
Ans. Yes, every motor vehicle, whether it is a car or a motorcycle, needs to have insurance. While CTPL insurance is mandatory by law, comprehensive insurance is optional.

Q2. Which add-on is considered essential for a motorcycle owner?
Ans. While the list is long, personal accidents and acts of nature coverage are highly recommended.

Q3. Does Acts of God coverage include typhoon-related damage to the vehicle?
Ans. Yes. Acts of God coverage protects against natural calamities, including floods, earthquakes, landslides, and volcanic eruptions.

Q4. Is roadside assistance worth it for Filipino motorcycle owners?
Ans. Yes, especially for riders who frequently travel long distances on highways.

Q5. Will an add-on increase my insurance cost?
Ans. Yes, you would be charged by the insurer for the added coverage. However, the extra cost is nothing compared to the repair cost.

Q6. I already have motorcycle insurance. Can I add theft protection now?
Ans. Yes, most insurers allow you to add protection mid-term.

Q7. How is personal accident coverage different from hospitalisation coverage?
Ans. Usually, personal accident coverage is a lump sum payment against the financial impact of accidental death or disability (temporary or permanent). On the other hand, hospitalisation coverage covers actual medical expenses.

Q8. Can I insure the modifications on my motorcycle?
Ans. Yes, add-ons related to motorcycle accessories and modifications will offer the required coverage.

Q9. How long does it take to process an insurance claim with add-on coverage?
And. While the claim processing time varies depending on the insurer, it typically takes between a few days and a few weeks to be processed.

Q10. What documents are required to file a motorcycle insurance claim?
Ans. To file a claim, you need to submit the following: OR/CR, driver’s license, photos of the damage, estimated repair cost, and a police report.

Q11. I rarely ride my motorcycle. Isn’t CTPL insurance enough?
And. CTPL Insurance provides coverage for third-party bodily injury or death, but does not offer protection for you or your motorcycle; therefore, it is highly recommended.

Q12. Are add-ons transferable if I sell my motorcycle?
Ans. Usually, motorcycle insurance add-ons are not transferable when you sell your unit.

Q13. Does legal assistance coverage include lawyers’ fees?
Ans. Yes, most legal assistance coverage includes a lawyer's fee along with other related costs.

Q14. Can I pay for add-ons monthly?
Ans. It entirely depends on your insurance provider, as some offer an instalment plan facility to their clients.

Q15. My motorcycle insurance claim got denied. What can I do?
Ans. You can demand a written application from the insurance provider. If that doesn’t work, escalate the matter to the Insurance Commission.

Also Read: Top 10 must-have car insurance add-ons for Filipino drivers