Summer is in full swing and it’s time to get in a few road trips.  It is unfortunate, but there is a growing trend in the number of motorcycle accidents and fatalities each year, making motorcycle safety a real concern for riders and their families. There are many organizations that have created signs, commercials, radio ads, etc cautioning motorists to look out for motorcycles and they have done a great job in promoting safety for riders. As a motorcycle rider yourself, you also should do your part to ensure your own motorcycle safety. 

Regardless if you cruise across the country or across town, there are some universal motorcycle safety tips to keep in mind.

1) Always wear a helmet and other appropriate gear. Riding clothes should be bright, reflective or easy for passing or following motorists to see. Your motorcycle is smaller then the other vehicles on the road so make sure to make yourself as visible as possible. In the event of an accident, a helmet will help protect you from a fatal head injury.

2) Be cautious of the road conditions. Hazards such as potholes, cracks and bumps in the road and even road kill can throw you off balance and cause you to loose control of the motorcycle. Gravel roads can also be hazardous because of loose gravel which can cause you to skid. Rain can cause slippery roads from not only the water but oily road grime.

3) Do not drink alcohol or use drugs while operating a motorcycle. Just like in a motor vehicle you should never drink and drive. Alcohol and drugs will lower your response time and cloud your judgment. It’s especially dangerous on a motorcycle because there will be no metal frame surrounding your or airbags to deploy in the event of an accident.

4) Follow posted speed limits and road rules just like when you are in any other motor vehicle. Just because your motorcycle is smaller, stay in your lane of traffic. Do not weave in and out of traffic between cars, even at traffic stops, just because you can fit. Always use turn signals to warn motorists of your intentions.

5) Use extra caution when carrying passengers. There will be extra weight along with another person’s balance to adjust for. Inexperienced passengers will not know to lean into turns for example and can throw off the balance of the bike. If your passenger is inexperienced, go over a few “rules of the road” with them before you leave.  

Just like on your personal car or truck, you will also need to maintain insurance coverage on your motorcycle.

 

• • Liability Insurance Coverage will cover bodily injury and proper damage that you may cause to other people involved in an accident

 

• • Collision Insurance Coverage will cover damages, minus your deductible, to your motorcycle if you are involved in an accident.

 

• • Comprehensive Insurance Coverage will cover damages caused by an event other than a collision, such as fire, theft or vandalism and will be subject to your deductible

 

• • Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists Coverage will cover damages to you and our property caused by another driver that is uninsured or underinsured to cover your damages.

 

The safety of you and any passengers is the most important part of motorcycle safety. Have a fun, safe, rest of the summer and hit the road and see some amazing sites!! But don’t forget to review your insurance to ensure you understand your coverage and that it is up to date. Have questions? We can help!

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