Motorcycle and ATV/UTV safety can help protect the ride and the rider

It’s summer and that means people are getting ready to hop on their motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) to enjoy the outdoors. Just like it’s a good practice to apply sunscreen before venturing outside, it’s also a best practice for riders and their ride to be properly protected before hitting the road or the dirt trail.

Related: A motorcycle is stolen somewhere in the U.S. every 11 minutes

Motorcycle basics

Whether it’s a classic bike such as a 1964 Honda Benly Touring 150 or a new 2018 Harley-Davidson Sportster SuperLow 1200T, all motorcycle owners should consider talking with their insurance agents before the start of riding season to review their insurance policy including liability and physical damage coverages. The minimum amount of statutorily-required coverage varies from state to state, but motorcyclists should decide on the right amount of coverage for them with their insurance agents.

Insuring a classic versus a newer motorcycle may also require some additional considerations when selecting an insurer. For instance, how often and how far is the motorcycle ridden each year? Some classic bike owners may only take their bikes out of the garage to ride them to local motorcycle shows, while a newer motorcycle may be ridden every day to work and other activities. Insurance carriers that specialize in protecting motorcycles may offer protection tailored to a classic motorcycle’s more pampered lifestyle and provide the ability to replace any covered damage with original parts.

Protect yourself and your ride

Another consideration when selecting an insurer is whether the policy offers the replacement cost of the bike in the event of a total loss following an accident or the cash value of the bike. A typical cash value policy will pay the policyholder the value of their bike at the time of the accident, less the deductible and depreciation, whereas a replacement cost policy will pay the policyholder the value of the comparable replacement ride, less the deductible, in the event of a total loss.  

Motorcycle riders tend to be passionate about their bikes, but they need to consider their own safety as well. The summer months of June, July and August are peak months for motorcycle collision claims. Riders should be extra careful in August when the average number of motorcycle collision claims is 83% higher, according to American Modern’s 2015-2016 claims data.

Wearing a helmet isn’t required in all states. However, wearing a Department of Transportation approved, full-face helmet may help minimize or eliminate head injuries in case of an accident. The same holds true for protective and bright reflective gear such as motorcycle suits, jackets, pants, gloves and over-the-ankle boots or other footwear which can help further protect the rider. Motorcyclists may also want to take advantage of new technology designed to make riding safer, whether using a device with smartphone connectivity or a helmet with an integrated heads-up display.

Related: 5 key points concerning motorcyclist fatalities from GHSA’s report

Riding Safely in an ATV or UTV

Insurance requirements vary state by state for ATV and UTV owners. For example, some states may not require insurance coverage if the vehicle is used on private property, but insurance may be required if the vehicle is driven on public trails or in public parks. It’s important for ATV and UTV owners to discuss where the vehicle will be used and local regulations with an insurance agent.

ATVs and UTVs also have unique safety concerns. Helmets are not typically required for drivers and riders of these vehicles — many of whom are children. But, it’s a good practice for everyone who is driving or riding in an ATV or UTV to wear a helmet since this could help minimize or avoid a head injury in case of an accident.

It’s also important for drivers to avoid taking these vehicles on paved roads. Designed for off-road use, ATVs and UTVs have thick tires that can be slippery on paved roads. Additionally, they don’t have turn signals and may not have the appropriate headlights or brake lights, making them unsafe on public roads.

Related: 9 tips for staying safe on a motorcycle

Other considerations

All states have age restrictions for driving motorcycles and ATVs/UTVs. In addition, some insurance carriers may offer discounts if the policyholder takes a safety course, rides with a helmet, or owns multiple bikes or ATVs/UTVs.

As the summer months draw more riders to the road and the dirt trail, asking the right questions about insurance and making safety a priority can help motorcycle and ATV/UTV owners properly protect their recreational vehicles and enjoy their ride.

Related: U.S. motorcycle thefts decreased in 2017

Dana Endress is a senior product manager for American Modern Insurance Group. She can be reached at dendress@amig.com.