It was Dad’s dream to be a rider – a motorcyclist. But the duties involved in work, marriage and children pushed that dream off into the future.
Being a rider has always been about that sense of freedom as you cruise the streets and highways; a reward at the end of a long day on the job.
Pop always wanted a motorcycle. And now, finally, he’s going to receive aHarley as a gift from his family of four for Fathers Day.
But most importantly, we’re worried that Dad will be protected on the roads with the right type of insurance.
Motorcycle insurance covers bodily injury, comprehensive collision, medical payments and even replacement of parts. Roadside assistance is available in many policies just like car insurance. Motorcycle insurance can cover any off the road vehicles which include scooters and bikes.
Specialty insurance can be expensive but many insurance companies offer discounts. One is to enroll Dad in a safety course that can offer a break in premiums. If Mom has a cycle, many will offer a break for an additional vehicle. Sometimes if your car is insured with the same company, you can lower your premium as well.
Figures and research come from the DoT’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which has been tracking this information since 1982 and its latest report for 2011 shows that 4,612 motorcyclists died that year in the U.S. This according to NHTSA is a 2% increase in rider fatalities over 2010. That overall figure of 4,612 deaths also includes other types of bikes (scooters, three wheelers, mopeds, mini bikes, pocket bikes and off-roaders) so the actual two-wheel motorcycle fatality number for 2011 is 4323.
Unfortunately, due to statistics, it is essential to make sure Dad understands the following safety riding tips to help reduce the potential for accidents. Geico suggests the following:
· Always wear a helmet with a shield or eye wear
· Wear appropriate clothing, boots and gloves
· Obey the speed limit and follow traffic laws
· Ride defensively
· Complete a formal riding education program
· Be awake and ride sober.
And most of all, Happy Fathers day to all. Be safe and enjoy the ride!
