Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > Planning, Trip > Trip Paperwork
Trip Paperwork Covers all documentation, carnets, customs and country requirements, how to deal with insurance etc.
Photo by Hendi Kaf, in Cambodia

I haven't been everywhere...
but it's on my list!


Photo by Hendi Kaf,
in Cambodia



Reply
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 6 Apr 2010
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: Montreal
Posts: 103
USA insurance for canadian bike

Hi all,

We seem to have run into a problem. We wanted to purchase insurance from our province (Quebec) for an upcoming trip through the US (all insurance companies in Quebec cover for short trips to the USA). BUT, we were refused by the biggest underwriter on the grounds that we have been away from Canada for too long (2 1/2 years). They said they will only cover us once we are back home with the bike.

No problem we thought. We'll just get some US temporary insurance and drive home (thereby scrapping plans to go to Alaska). BUT, every insurance company we tried only offer insurance for Mexican vehicles coming into the US (we are currently in Mexico) or foreign nationals EXCLUDING Canadians.

Any ideas what we can do to insure ourselves?
__________________
Brian

www.2uprtw.com
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 6 Apr 2010
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Oct 2005
Location: Norwich,Ontario,Canada
Posts: 1,058
See a possible answer USA insurance for canadian bike - ADVrider
But no doubt you are doing that, I just use this as an excuse to practice the copy and paste stuff.I need lots of practice.Hope I helped Since I answered there first I didn´t know about your Quebec problem Quelle domage
__________________
http://advrider.com/index.php?thread....207964/page-5 then scroll down to post #93
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 6 Apr 2010
Mickey D's Avatar
Moderated Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jan 2010
Location: California
Posts: 501
I've not dealt with Canadian insurance companies but perhaps there are some similarities to how US insurance companies work? :confused1:

What about trying another Canadian insurance company? Don't tell them you are out of Canada. Do it all over the phone?

Canada has Summer Only insurance, right? Cheaper.

Tell the new company you are shopping around for a better rate and have let your old policy run out due to Winter. If you tell them where you've been I doubt they would cover you. Best leave that info out. Or perhaps have someone at home buy the policy for you by phone?

In the US, our US insurance policy covers us in Canada (not Mexico) Is this not true for Canadians in the USA?

Do you have an old Insurance ID card from your old Canadian policy to show US cops in case they stop you? You need to show something, but being from Canada my guess is they won't be too strict on this as long as you have some sort of registration/DL and passport.

Remember: US customs should not ask you for proof of insurance upon entry. Only traffic cops do this. So coming in the country should not be an issue. (unless something has changed )

At the border they will be checking Homeland Security watch lists. Tell them you were in Mazatlan. Canadians pretty much get a free pass visa wise, so should be fine.

Be sure to turn in your Mexico vehicle import permit before crossing into USA. Hard to find Mexican Banjercito office but should be around somewhere near the border, ask. If you don't turn it in you go on their shit list and cannot bring another vehicle into Mexico.

Good luck.
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 6 Apr 2010
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: Canada
Posts: 738
Hey Brian and Marie,

Try progressive.com. You can book it online, you only need to come up with a US address as you are insuring the bike as if you are a temporary US resident (which is what you are going to be) and the country the bike is actually registered won't cause an issue. It would be nice to actually have a real address in the US as they will sent the original documents there and if it is a not a real address the package will be sent back and they will email you to track you down. Perhaps you have met a HU member that will kindly pass along their addy for you to use and will forward the documents once they arrive. Once you have purchased the insurance online you can print off a temporary insurance card that will be good for a short period of time in any event. Ride safe.
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 6 Apr 2010
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: Montreal
Posts: 103
Quote:
Originally Posted by Mickey D View Post

What about trying another Canadian insurance company? Don't tell them you are out of Canada. Do it all over the phone?

Tell the new company you are shopping around for a better rate and have let your old policy run out due to Winter. If you tell them where you've been I doubt they would cover you. Best leave that info out. Or perhaps have someone at home buy the policy for you by phone?

Remember: US customs should not ask you for proof of insurance upon entry. Only traffic cops do this. So coming in the country should not be an issue. (unless something has changed )


Good luck.
Hi Mickey D,

Thanks for your response. Our plan now is to try a few more companies in Canada. The trick is to try and find one that is not underwritten by the company that refused to insure us.

After I posted this I spoke to somebody here in Real de Catorce that said the same thing you mention, customs does not ask for proof of insurance. One less thing to worry about. The person I spoke to also said that there were many insurance companies just past the bridge on the US side of Nuevo Laredo border crossing that sell insurance. But will they do it for a Canadian bike?
__________________
Brian

www.2uprtw.com
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 6 Apr 2010
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: Montreal
Posts: 103
Quote:
Originally Posted by MountainMan View Post
Hey Brian and Marie,

Try progressive.com. You can book it online, you only need to come up with a US address as you are insuring the bike as if you are a temporary US resident (which is what you are going to be) and the country the bike is actually registered won't cause an issue. It would be nice to actually have a real address in the US as they will sent the original documents there and if it is a not a real address the package will be sent back and they will email you to track you down. Perhaps you have met a HU member that will kindly pass along their addy for you to use and will forward the documents once they arrive. Once you have purchased the insurance online you can print off a temporary insurance card that will be good for a short period of time in any event. Ride safe.
Hi Mountain Man,

After searching the Hubb for solutions I saw a few people recommend Progressive. So I sent them an e-mail:

"I am interested in purchasing third party liability insurance for my
motorcycle for a 3 month period for a trip to the United-States. I am a
canadian citizen and the motorcycle is registered in Canada. Do you have
any products that might be of interest to me?"

And they responded this morning with this:

"We appreciate your interest in representing Progressive Insurance.

At this time, Progressive does not write third party liability insurance."


Not sure why they chose the word "representing" but anyway, looks like a no go.
__________________
Brian

www.2uprtw.com
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 6 Apr 2010
Mickey D's Avatar
Moderated Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jan 2010
Location: California
Posts: 501
Quote:
Originally Posted by Brian and Marie View Post
Hi Mickey D,Thanks for your response. Our plan now is to try a few more companies in Canada. The trick is to try and find one that is not underwritten by the company that refused to insure us.

After I posted this I spoke to somebody here in Real de Catorce that said the same thing you mention, customs does not ask for proof of insurance. One less thing to worry about. The person I spoke to also said that there were many insurance companies just past the bridge on the US side of Nuevo Laredo border crossing that sell insurance. But will they do it for a Canadian bike?
Yes, start fresh and find a new insurance company that does not know anything about you. US Insurance companies share information but not all info. Typically, if you have no citations or accidents and are not too young, you should be good to go. (these are US parameters anyway. I would bet Canadian companies are similar?)

My guess is the Insurance Kiosks on the US side of the border will be set up to handle short term Mexican visitors. Most are rip offs. Talk to local Mexican/Americans (who drive), they'll tell you whats going on with them. (local residents)

They may cover you by going through another US company at a very inflated rate, so use caution. On the other hand, they probably write short term policies, just enough time to allow you to finish your trip and get back into Canada. Most US companies require a minimum one year policy. The Kiosks typically charge 5 to 10 ten times the normal cost and probably only offer basic liability insurance. (that is all you need to travel in USA)

Loved your RR on ADV! Followed it from the start! Keep on Keepin' On!
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 7 Apr 2010
fredsuleman's Avatar
Contributing Member
HUBB regular
 
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: Vancouver, BC, Canada
Posts: 68
US insurance

Hi Brian and Marie. Joel and Taz here, finally made it to Peru on the slow journey south.

Back before I moved to Canada, I had all my car and moto insurance with Progressive. I do not understand what they mean by not writing liability insurance. That is all I ever had for my car and moto, and it was dirt cheap, about $70/yr as I recall (for the moto). What the policy is for underwriting a Canadian bike for a temporary trip, I do not know. It was always my experience that US insurance companies will take anyone's money with few questions asked as long as you have an address. Sorry, I no longer have a US address for you to use, but perhaps another HUBBer can help with that.

By the way, when I moved to BC, I went through sticker shock when I had to pay $500 for the same coverage I used to get for $70. That is what I get for falling in love, marrying, and moving to the Great White North.

Joel
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 7 Apr 2010
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: Montreal
Posts: 103
Quote:
Originally Posted by fredsuleman View Post
Hi Brian and Marie. Joel and Taz here, finally made it to Peru on the slow journey south.

Back before I moved to Canada, I had all my car and moto insurance with Progressive. I do not understand what they mean by not writing liability insurance. That is all I ever had for my car and moto, and it was dirt cheap, about $70/yr as I recall (for the moto). What the policy is for underwriting a Canadian bike for a temporary trip, I do not know. It was always my experience that US insurance companies will take anyone's money with few questions asked as long as you have an address. Sorry, I no longer have a US address for you to use, but perhaps another HUBBer can help with that.

By the way, when I moved to BC, I went through sticker shock when I had to pay $500 for the same coverage I used to get for $70. That is what I get for falling in love, marrying, and moving to the Great White North.

Joel
Good to hear from you guys!

I am happy to report that we tried another insurance company in Quebec and they decided to provide us with coverage (which includes the US). So unless they decided to pull the plug in the next few days it would appear that we are now sorted. As for progressive, I have no idea what that e-mail was all about.

So you are in Peru. Good stuff. Keep an eye out for Ken and Carol Duval on an R80 heading up (currently in Lima) and say hi to them for us!

And thanks to everybody who helped us out with this. Much appreciated!
__________________
Brian

www.2uprtw.com
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 14 Apr 2010
Registered Users
HUBB regular
 
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: Vancouver Island
Posts: 18
Oh wow North American insurance... does this mean you guys are finally nearing the end?! I remember when we were at that point, our insurance money was spent instead on staying this side of the iron bars in Belize. It's been a while and many km's, countries, and adventures since xmas in Uruguay... hope to see you guys soon!

Josh
Reply With Quote
Reply


Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
 

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On


Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Motorcycle Insurance: For a Canadian bike in Europe PanEuropean Trip Paperwork 29 25 Sep 2018 23:28
Canadian Bike Insurance Honesy Trip Paperwork 1 28 May 2008 20:39
Insurance for Canada/US on UK licence, Canadian bike maysmor Trip Paperwork 4 29 Jan 2008 02:18
Canadian Bike Insurance Dodger Trip Paperwork 0 24 Jul 2006 23:02
Mexican/Canadian insurance Dean Cloutier Central America and Mexico 3 23 Aug 2004 12:54

 
 

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now
, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Next HU Eventscalendar

25 years of HU Events
Be sure to join us for this huge milestone!

ALL Dates subject to change.

2025 Confirmed Events:

Virginia: April 24-27
Queensland is back! May 2-5
Ecuador June 13-15
Germany Summer: May 29-June 1
CanWest: July 10-13
Switzerland: Date TBC
Ecuador: Date TBC
Romania: Date TBC
Austria: Sept. 11-14
California: September 18-21
France: September 19-21
Germany Autumn: Oct 30-Nov 2

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

See all event details

 
World's most listened to Adventure Motorbike Show!
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...

Adventurous Bikers – We've got all your Hygiene & Protection needs SORTED! Powdered Hair & Body Wash, Moisturising Cream Insect Repellent, and Moisturising Cream Sunscreen SPF50. ESSENTIAL | CONVENIENT | FUNCTIONAL.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)



Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.

Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.

Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.

Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!


 

What others say about HU...

"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia

"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK

"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia

"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA

"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada

"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa

"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia

"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany

Lots more comments here!



Five books by Graham Field!

Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook

"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.



Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!

New to Horizons Unlimited?

New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!

Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.

Susan and Grant Johnson Read more about Grant & Susan's story

Membership - help keep us going!

Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.

You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.




All times are GMT +1. The time now is 14:26.