Spring Means Motorcycles!
Spring Means Motorcycles!
Art Glasgow, Peck-Glasgow Insurance
April 11, 2011
Motorcycle riding and spring time are synonomous with each other. As the weather warms up, motorcycle enthusiasts make for the roads in an annual ritual that goes back over a half century. In recent years, motorcycle riding has gained popularity with older and more affluent riders. While the economy has caused sales of new bikes to slow during 2009, the sales are increasing again this year.
Motorcycle fatalities have been rising in recent years according to the Department of Transportation. There has been a dramatic jump in the number of deaths among mortorcyclists age 40 and older in recent years, reflecting the increasing number of older riders.
Motorcycles are by their nature far less crashworthy than automobiles and trucks. They are less visible to other drivers and pedestrians, and less stable than 4 wheel vehicles. Operators need to have a combination of physical and mental skills that is different than those used in driving a car. Weather can also be an increased hazard for motorcycle operators.
As an owner/operator of a motorcycle you also face the insurance requirements and laws of the state you are in. These laws vary by state, so contact your local law enforcement office for more information. Insurance is readily available to cover you for liability and collision losses. Most of the top auto insurance companies offer motorcycle insurance as a rider to your existing auto insurance policy. There are also specialty insurance carriers that offer motorcycle coverage with specialty coverages not commonly available on most personal auto insurance policies.
Contact a local Independent Insurance Agent in order to get a review of the coverage options, premiums and company evaluations for motorcycle insurance. Most of all, use precautions to sharpen your skills before taking off for a fun weekend that can turn tragic! Always wear your helment!
For more information: The Motorcycle Safety Foundation: http://www.msf-usa.org