Spring is here in full force, birds have returned from their southern trip, and are waking me up early in the morning, more people are outside walking and running, baseball fields are abuzz with activity, the weather is a little crazy, and of course, more and more motorcycles are on the streets and highways.
This time of year is always good for some reminders about motorcycle safety for bikers and car drivers alike. Just as car and truck drivers must get readjusted every winter to driving in snow—in the spring they must readjust to sharing the road with motorcycles. Of course bike riders also go through a period of adjustment early in riding season when they are anxious to hop back on their bike.
For Bikers
Too many bike riders out there are not properly licensed. Also, get proper insurance coverage—the costs vary quite a bit, so do some shopping around.
While my personal belief is that everyone should wear helmets while riding, I understand it’s a personal choice in some states. Know the requirements and laws in your state, and also in other states you may be traveling to, or through.
Also, always position your bike where it can be seen by vehicles.
Don’t drink and ride. Really, did that even have to be mentioned? Sadly yes, in Illinois in 2007, 44% of the motorcycle operators killed in accidents were legally drunk.
Keep up with the maintenance on your bike. Faithfully follow your motorcycle’s maintenance schedule as listed in the owner’s manual. Furthermore, you should have all this work done by an authorized dealer to prevent potential problems.
For Car/Truck Driver
When you see motorcycles on the highway or streets, be aware. Understand that since they are smaller vehicles, they are harder to see at times, so be vigilant in looking out for them.
You need to realize that bikers don’t always slow down by using their brakes. Sometimes they downshift, or just ease off the throttle, so it’s imperative that you keep focused on maintaining the spacing between vehicles.
Understand that motorcyclists have the same rights as you do to be on the road—respect that.
When bikers adjust their position within lanes, they are usually doing it for a reason, whether it is to be seen more easily, to avoid debris on the road, to pass cars, or due to wind conditions. Car and truck drivers need to understand that these movements are not reckless, nor are they making room for you to share a lane with them.
Hopefully by following these guidelines, and giving some thought and attention to safety on the roads, we will all have an enjoyable and safe riding season.
About the Author
Jim Buchanan is an Internet Marketing Specialist for Mindscape at Hanon-McKendry. His hobbies include reading, writing, going to concerts, sports, and riding motorcycles.
He is a writer for Powers Honda Parts. For more information and for all your motorcycle parts, ATV parts, and accessory needs please visit http://www.powershondaparts.com
How much should I expect to pay for motorcycle insurance on a cheap bike in MA? (I’m in cambridge.) I know it depends on a variety of factors, and I could call an agent and get a quote, but I’m just looking for a rough estimate.
Check Progressive or Geico Ins companies. They will give you a quote on-line.
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Can anyone give me an average on what motorcycle insurance would we for an 18 year old in Michigan? I keep trying to find out and they keep telling my to input all my information for a quote. I really dont care how much its gonna cost I just want a ballpark estimate…
Please dont reply here with, go to progressive.com or something, I want numbers not instructions on how to find out.
I dont know for your area but here in texas its about 150.00/month. The most important thing to remember is not to use USAA insurance. They never pay claims accordingly.
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