Rate hikes ahead for motorcyclists

Quebecers who ride sport motorcycles could soon be hit with huge insurance rate hikes.

A panel of experts reviewing proposed hikes to automobile insurance agrees with a plan to increase rates.

It released a report Wednesday saying Quebec's automobile insurance board, the Socit de l'assurance automobile du Qubec, should be allowed to raise the cost of drivers' licences and vehicle registrations.

• PRESS RELEASE: SAAQ

Panel president Michel Sanschagrin says the balance between insurance contributions and compensation to victims has shifted.

He says drivers will now have to pay more to bridge the gap, especially those who are involved in the highest number of accidents: drivers of sport motorcycles.

"There is a real risk attached to these vehicles. They are four times the number of accidents that the ordinary motorcycle would have," Sandchagrin said.

The panel recommends the insurance charges for drivers of such motorcycles be increased from $250 to more than $1,200 by 2009.

Most other motorcyclists will pay about $600.

Last month, hundreds of Quebec motorcyclists took to the streets to protest the potential rate hike.

• FROM MAY 22, 2006: Bikers protest possible rate increases

Sport-style motorcycle bikers represent 11 per cent of the people who drive motorcycles.

The experts recommend staggering the rate increase to make it easier for drivers to absorb.