Keeping your motorcycle involves a number of tasks, even some that don’t involve performing maintenance on the vehicle itself. Read on to know the very doable ways of making sure you travel the open road safely on your motorcycle.
Whether you have been a longtime motorcycle user or a new enthusiast who is looking to explore it as a hobby, you must know that the task of taking care of a motorcycle requires more than just a simple oil change or car wash. Safely riding your bike on the road requires a lot of preparation that is not just tied to the vehicle itself.
Before you go on that road trip, be informed about motorcycle safety tips that will keep you and your ride safe wherever you go. Here is a guide to help you adequately prepare for the next time you ride off into (or out of) town. Ask yourself these questions to see where you can make changes.
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Are You and Your Motorcycle Insured?
We cannot emphasize enough the importance of insurance policies to give you peace of mind on your travels. Insurance makes sure your expenses are accounted for should any accident occur or should your vehicle sustain damage.
It should be noted, too, that in such situations, it is wise to approach a motorcycle injury lawyer who can also assist you with discussions with your insurance company. This ensures that you are properly compensated for damages.
Make sure you have the applicable insurance coverage.
Before your motorcycle, let us look at how secure you are when you are on the road. So many people in the United States suffer from trips to the emergency room, not just due to their illnesses or injuries. A trip to the ER can well cost you $250 for just one visit.
Personal accident insurance policies help protect you from these huge medical bills should you sustain an injury. Check your policy, too, to make sure that vehicular accidents are covered. If they are not yet, get an auto personal accident policy to feel safer on your journeys.
Insure your motorcycle, too.
Aside from making sure you are insured, your motorcycle also needs protection. Purchase a motorcycle insurance to make sure that should an accident happen, the expenses needed for replacing or repairing your vehicle are covered.
Insurance is also helpful for when your motorcycle is kept in storage. Should damage occur while it is being stored in your garage, your insurance provider can also address the expenses for that.
Note that some of these policies may have features that already cover personal accident insurance for vehicular accidents. Always check with your provider to know the right approach that will ultimately keep you and your motorcycle safe during your drives.
Tip: When shopping for insurance, do not go for the first one that entices you. Approach various providers to find policies that align with your budget and the kinds of coverages you need for the lifestyle you have. This ensures that the one you settle for provides the best value for your investment.
Are You Aware of Laws and Regulations in Your Destination?
Every state varies in its motorcycle restrictions and allowances. Not knowing these before visiting another area could lead you to facing legal consequences without meaning to.
For instance, state laws vary regarding helmet use laws. Some states require the wearing of helmets for all riders and all kinds of motorcycles, while others require helmets for individuals aged 20 or 17 years old. Note, however, that wearing a helmet is a simple and effective way to avoid head injuries, so it is best to wear one with or without a state requirement.
There are also states that dictate motorcycle movement in traffic. Utah is one such state that has a law allowing lane splitting, or the practice of motorcycles driving between traffic lanes when cars are stopped.
As of today, California is the only other state that has a similar law for motorcycles. Its notable difference with the Utah law is that California allows motorcycles to lane split even as traffic is moving in expressway speeds.
It is also important to know that unregistered motorcycles cannot go on public roads, and motorcycle registration requires insurance.
Do You Perform Your Own Maintenance, Too?
Approaching a professional is definitely reassuring in making sure your motorcycle is in tiptop shape. As an owner, knowing how to do some maintenance on your own saves you money and also builds up your confidence and skills.
The next time you bring in your bike for maintenance, watch what the technicians do to gain some insight. There are also resources online that can explain things such as changing oil, maintaining tire pressure, and replacing your air filters.
However intimidating it may be to start on the journey of keeping your motorcycle protected, it reaps a world of benefits when practiced diligently.
