Caution as You Cruise on the Open Road

In 2004, more than nine million Americans rode motorcycles to their jobs, for recreational fun and to see the sites. However, according to the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, of those riders, 4,000 died in an accident. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that motorcycle accidents are approximately five percent of all highway fatalities each year, yet motorcycles represent only two percent of the vehicles on the road.  Michigan motorcycle insurance can help pick up the pieces should you have an accident, but it is highly recommend that you follow the rules of the road to avoid a casualty.

Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

There are several key reasons to why motorcycle accidents are prevalent on America’s roadways:

• Motorists fail to see riders when they are coming out of a driveway, making a left turn in front of an oncoming rider or when the motorcycle is in the driver’s “blind spot.”
• Many riders do not obtain the proper motorcycle license and training to learn how to properly operate the bike. Of those who do get licensed, many only learn enough to pass the test.
• Riders speed excessively while also weaving in and out of traffic lanes.
• Riders are under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol (the cause of almost half of all motorcycle accidents).

Michigan insurance companies consider the above reasons to be high risk.  If you show yourself as being a high risk, it could cost you thousands of dollars in fines and higher premiums on your insurance policy, and possibly even the loss of your license and jail time.

How Can Riders Remain Safe?

• Attend motorcycle training courses and get a license specifically for a motorcycle.
• Always wear a helmet; eye protection; a jacket made of denim, nylon or leather; long pants; boots and gloves.
• Do not drink alcohol or use drugs while operating a motorcycle.
• Read the owner’s manual and learn the capabilities and operations of the vehicle.
• Practice using the controls and gears by sitting on the bike while it is off and parked.
• Follow posted speed limits.
• Turn on your headlines all the time, even when it is sunny.
• Look out for hazards such as potholes, cracks and bumps in the road.
• Exercise extreme caution when you are carrying passengers and always have them wear a helmet, too.

Safety First

Respect motorists so they respect you back! The phrase “look twice, save a life” should be earned, not just expected, especially according to your Michigan motorcycle insurance.

• Do not tailgate or weave between lanes if traffic slow.
• Abide by traffic laws, just like motorists are expected to do.
• Minimize the noise coming from your bike by using a muffler and keeping your radio volume down.
• Always use turn signals to warn motorists of your intentions.

No matter what, coverage is available.  Contact your Michigan insurance agent today to learn more about risk management and insurance solutions for your auto, home and life.