Is Your Motorcycle Safe and Insured?
Whether you ride a motorcycle to cut fuel expenses, to commute on the ferry more easily, or just for the pure exhilaration of hitting the open road on two wheels, it’s time to make sure you’re prepared for riding season. Keep the following three tips in mind.
Service Your Motorcycle
Make sure your motorcycle is maintained. Check your oil, oil filter, belt, chain, all nuts/bolts, fluids and lights.
Brush Up on Your Riding Skills
Find a safe place and practice fast stops, figure 8s, U-turns, etc. In addition, refamiliarize yourself with your bike’s unique capabilities such as turning, braking and cornering. Pushing your bike beyond its limits could cause an accident.
Review Your Motorcycle Insurance
As of July 28, 2019, Washington state requires motorcycles to carry liability insurance and show proof of insurance if stopped by police. The only exception to the law is that it does not apply to motor scooters and mopeds less than 50CC and those that do not exceed 30MPH. Your insurance should be provided by a company that specializes in motorcycle insurance. The most important coverage is for bodily injury and property damage liability – make sure your coverage is adequate. Additional coverage options include guest passenger liability coverage (if you ride with a passenger), medical payment coverage and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
