Esurance proudly offers motorcycle insurance for all of you brave and wind-blown road warriors who prefer 2 wheels to 4. We sincerely hope you never have to use it, however, so we've provided a list of safety tips for our easy-riding customers.
Use your noggin
The single most important piece of gear you can strap on before hitting the road is your helmet. Riding a motorcycle can be dangerous. By wearing a DOT-certified helmet at all times, you'll exponentially increase your chances of surviving a crash.
Make sure to wear a helmet that fits comfortably and always fasten the strap securely. If you don't wear a full-face helmet, be sure to wear shatter-proof glasses or goggles as well. Helmets come in a wide range of sizes, colors and styles, so find one you like and wear it!
Gear up
Wearing the appropriate gear — jacket, pants, gloves, and boots — is absolutely essential to your safety when you ride. While motorcycle gear comes in a variety of durable fabrics, leather is the toughest and the most ideal.
Leather pants or chaps and a leather jacket will protect most of your body against road rash (or worse!) in case of an accident. Leather boots with good traction and protective gloves are also a must. If you ride in the heat a lot, buy a jacket with zippered vents so that you can remain cool (and safe) at all times.
Be seen
No matter how cautious a rider you are, you still run the risk of getting into accidents if other drivers can't see you. You can limit this risk by wearing brightly colored or reflective clothing and by keeping your headlight on at all times.
Observe the rules of the road and make sure you clearly signal your intentions to those around you. Remember, the more visible you are, the safer you are.
Ride like you can't be seen
Although you do everything within your power to be visible on the road, there's still the chance that preoccupied or less-than-cautious drivers won't see you. Anticipate this and adjust your riding accordingly.
If you assume that other drivers can see you and you're wrong, then you inadvertently put yourself in danger. If you assume that they can't see you, however, and it turns out you're right, then you will have already taken the necessary precautions to avoid disaster. Ride like you're invisible and you'll be prepared when other drivers don't see you.
Know your bike
Before you head out on the open road, make sure you know your bike and are completely comfortable with how it handles. Practice riding in low-traffic areas and make sure you know how to handle your bike in all kinds of inclement weather and under all types of strenuous conditions. The more comfortable you are on your bike, the more likely you'll be able to respond quickly and appropriately to any situation.
No matter how safe you are and how many precautions you take, accidents still happen. When they do, you can feel confident knowing that Esurance will be there to help you file a claim, repair the damage, and get you back on the road as quickly as possible.
Visit our motorcycle insurance page to find out about a wide range of discounts and coverages. We're here 24/7 in case you need us. In the meantime, ride safe!