Motorcycle Insurance and Safety Tips

There are over 4 million motorcycles registered in the United States. The popularity of this mode of trans- portation is attributed to the low initial cost of a motorcycle, its use as a pleasure vehicle and, for some models, the good fuel efficiency. Motorcycle fatalities represent approximately five percent of all highway fatalities each year, yet motorcycles represent just two percent of all registered vehicles in the United States. One of the main reasons motorcyclists are killed in crashes is because the motorcycle itself provides virtually no protection in a crash. For example, approximately 80 percent of reported motor- cycle crashes result in injury or death; a comparable figure for automobiles is about 20 percent. An automobile has more weight and bulk than a motorcycle. It has door beams and a roof to provide some measure of protection from impact or rollover. It has cushioning and airbags to soften impact and safety belts to hold passengers in their seats. It has windshield washers and wipers to assist visibility in the rain and snow. An automobile has more stability because it's on four wheels, and because of its size, it is easier to see. A motorcycle suffers in comparison when considering vehicle characteristics that directly contribute to occupant safety. What a motorcycle sacrifices in weight, bulk, and other crashworthiness characteristics is somewhat offset by its agility, maneuverability, ability to stop quickly, and ability to swerve quickly when necessary.

Save Money on Motorcycle Insurance

A motorcyclist should attend a motorcycle rider-training course to learn how to safely and skillfully operate a motorcycle. A motorcyclist has to be more careful and aware at intersections, where most motorcycle -vehicle collisions occur. Motorcyclists must remain visible to other motorists at all times. Don't ride in a car's "No Zone" (blind spot). Anticipate what may happen more than other vehicle drivers may. For example, anticipate that drivers backing their cars out of driveways may not see you; and place greater emphasis on defensive driving. Motorcyclists also must be more cautious when riding in inclement weather, on slippery surfaces, or when encountering obstacles on the roadway. They must place greater reliance on their helmet,

Motorcycle Insurance Institute Reports

The causes of many motorcycle crashes can be attributed to:

lack of basic riding skills

failure to appreciate the inherent operating characteristics

failure to appreciate the limitations of the motorcycle

failure to use special

precautions while riding

failure to use defensive driving techniques.

lack of specific braking and cornering skills

failure to follow speed limit

eye protection and clothing to increase riding comfort and to reduce the severity of injury should they become involved in a crash. Approximately half of all fatal single-vehicle motorcycle crashes involve alcohol. A motorcycle requires more skill and coordination to operate than a car. Riding a motorcycle while under the influence of any amount of alcohol significantly decreases an operator's ability to operate the motorcycle safely. An estimated 33 percent of motorcycle operators killed in traffic crashes are not licensed or are improperly licensed to operate a motorcycle. By not obtaining a motorcycle operator license, riders are bypassing the only method they and state licensing agencies have to ensure they have the knowledge and skill needed to safely and skillfully operate a motorcycle.

Motorcycle Saftey Tips

A motorcycle should be selected for a comfortable fit and functional requirements.

Select a motorcycle that fits. A motorcyclist should be able to touch the ground with both feet when astride the vehicle.

If you will be carrying a passenger, make sure the motorcycle you select has a passenger seat as well as footrests (footpegs) for the passenger.

Check the location of the controls. Make sure you can reach and operate them easily and comfort

Functional Requirements:

Buy the power you need, but only as much as you can handle safely. Large motorcycles are heavy, and you must be strong enough to push it, or pick it up if it falls over. But smaller bikes (e.g., a 125cc machine) may not have the speed, performance and ride you'll need if you plan to travel long distances.

Consider the primary use of your bike. Don't buy a "trail" bike for highway use. Similarly, don't buy a "highway" bike if most of your riding will be off the road. Some motorcycles are built especially for trail use, with special tires and suspension. Other motorcycles have special characteristics for highway use, such as tires designed to grip pavement, and more powerful braking systems. If you have dual requirements, combination cycles are available that make a compromise between road and trail riding.

The safe operation of a motorcycle requires different skill and knowledge than is needed for a passenger car.

Never ride without a certified motorcycle helmet and eye protection.

Insist on a helmet that has a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) label.

Read your owner's manual thoroughly.

Use it to get familiar with your motorcycle. Attend a motorcycle rider-training course. It is the best way to learn how to operate a motorcycle safely and skillfully. Rider- training classes provide unique knowledge and skills that you may not learn if a friend teaches you how to ride.

For the location of an MSF approved rider-training course, call toll free, (800) 446-9227.

Wear the right shoes, gloves and clothing.

Thick, protective garb not only provides comfort against the elements, but also may be all there is between you and the pavement in a crash.

source: U.S. Department of Transportation