Injury Law Group Blog

Motorcycle Insurance & Safety Tips

Auto Accidents

With motorcycle sales increasing in Canada, it is important to make sure your insurance coverage is up to par. 

A standard motorcycle insurance policy includes:

• Third Party Liability – Protects you in the event that you are responsible for injury or property damage to others
• Accident Benefits – Covers medical treatment, income replacement, and other benefits, regardless of who is responsible for the accident
• Uninsured Automobile Coverage – Protects you in the event of death or injury caused by someone who is uninsured

When buying motorcycle insurance, rates may vary based on age, experience, type of motorcycle, etc.

Shop around for insurance: compare deductibles.  A deductible is the amount paid in the event of a claim.  Choosing a higher deductible will decrease your premium, so make sure to choose a deductible based on what you can pay out of pocket in the event of a claim. 

Take an approved motorcycle training course, install a security device, and join a rider`s club.  These may even provide you with a discount as an incentive. 

You may be able to combine policies to reduce rates, though maintaining a safe driving record is the best way to ensure your rates stay down.

In addition to insurance, it is important to maintain your own safety on the road.  As previously mentioned, it is important to take a certified motorcycle safety course.   It is recommended to always wear an approved full-face helmet.   Additionally, after using your helmet for a number of years, it can deteriorate over time, even if it still looks fine from the outside.  It is recommended to replace it every five years, or sooner, if it has been damaged in a crash. 

Make sure that you are wearing the right protective gear.  For example, a reinforced or leather jacket, gloves, full pants, over the ankle footwear (even in warm weather), effective eye protection such as a visor or goggles, and bright gear.

Invest in antilock brakes which are proven to be less likely involved in a fatal crash.  The brakes lock and can prevent the rider from skidding and crashing the motorcycle.  ABS helps you retain steering control during an emergency stop. 

Many times in motorcycle accidents involving cars, the other vehicle may be at fault.  You need to be defensive, be extra alert, keep an eye out for other vehicles, avoid tailgating, and keep a safe stopping distance.

Avoid riding in bad weather.  If you do end up in a situation where you are in the rain, remember that the most dangerous time is right after precipitation begins, as the water can cause oil and residue to rise. Avoid sudden movements and be gentle with the brakes.  In strong side winds, anticipate the potential push by moving to the side of the lane where the wind is coming from.  This will give you some leeway in the lane. 

Watch for road hazards such as bumps, potholes, sand, wet leaves, etc.  Before riding, also make sure that you do a quick walk-around your bike to make sure that your lights, horn, directional signals, breaks, chain, belt, shaft, and tires are in proper working order.   

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