Feel the Wind and Freedom of owning a Motorcycle
Steven Conway • December 15, 2024
Feel the Wind and Freedom of owning a Motorcycle
A motorcycle insured in Oklahoma must be kept in good working order to avoid accidents
Oklahoma motorcycle riding can be thrilling and rewarding, but it is not without risk. It is easy to get caught up in the state's wide-open roads and scenic routes when you take a ride along them. A good motorcycle insurance policy, proper maintenance, and safe riding can reduce your chances of getting into accidents and financial burdens.
Safety and insurance for motorcycles
The ability to protect you in the event of an accident is an important feature of motorcycle insurance. According to the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office, nearly 60% of motorcycle crashes resulted in injury or death.
A motorcycle accident is 29 times more likely to result in death than a road accident involving a passenger vehicle, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. It is imperative that proper safety precautions be taken considering statistics like these.
One should always wear a helmet. It is not just a good idea for safety but is also required by law in Oklahoma and most States of the United State if not all of them. It is always a good idea to choose one with a good safety rating.
Other safety apparel should not be neglected either. A motorcycle rider should consider clothing and gear that reduces road rash, impact protection to minimize broken bones and internal injuries, increases visibility, and weather protection.
Don't speed or drive recklessly: Speeding and reckless driving increases your chances of getting into an accident. To stay safe, follow all road rules.
Motorcycle Maintenance: Preventing Mechanical Failures
Maintaining your motorcycle properly is essential to avoiding mechanical failure-related accidents. Focus on these things:
• Make sure that your tires are properly inflated and treaded to prevent slipping and blowouts.
The front and rear brakes should be inspected for wear. A brake pad should be replaced when it begins to thin.
• Check that your headlights, taillights, and turn signals are working properly, especially at night.
• Ensure smooth and safe operation by regularly checking oil levels, engine coolant, and brake fluid.
Maintenance, especially before and after long trips, can prevent accidents caused by avoidable breakdowns and mechanical failures.
How Motorcycle Insurance Protects You
Just like an automobile owner, motorcycle owners are required to carry a minimum amount of liability coverage, but this is often insufficient to cover the costs associated with motorcycle accidents. A motorcycle accident can cause a great deal of damage and if you have just state minimum liability insurance, you may be covering damage not just to your motorcycle out of your own pocket but also any injuries you sustain.
It is estimated that a motorcycle accident can result in a significant amount of bodily injury. U.S. motorcycle bodily injury claims average more than $25,000, according to the Insurance Information Institute (III). Damages to your motorcycle or property are not included in this calculation. Having adequate insurance can protect you financially if the unexpected happens.
Here are some types of motorcycle insurance you should consider:
• Liability Insurance: Covers you if you damage property or cause injury to someone else.
• Comprehensive and Collision Insurance: These cover damages to your motorcycle in event of an accident (regardless of fault), theft, hail damage, and other perils.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Insurance: Covers injuries and other bodily injury damages you incur if you are hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver and the other driver is at fault.
• Medical Payment: Covers medical payments in event of an accident regardless of fault.
Invest in the right coverage
Motorcycle accidents are more common than many people realize, and their consequences can be severe. Maintaining your bike, having the right insurance coverage, and practicing safe riding habits are all key steps in protecting yourself on the road. Invest in comprehensive coverage today to enjoy peace of mind on every ride.
Please note that the information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not apply to your specific situation. Insurance laws and regulations can vary significantly from state to state, and it’s crucial to understand the specific requirements and coverages that apply to your location. We strongly recommend consulting with a licensed insurance agent in your state to discuss your unique needs and ensure you have the appropriate coverage for your circumstances.
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