A Seasonal Rider's Checklist: 8 Policies for a Safe Motorcycle Season in Georgia
The seasons are changing, and the open roads of Georgia are calling. But before you fire up your engine, it's crucial to implement policies that ensure your bike is safe and you are ready to ride. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcyclists are disproportionately represented in traffic accident fatalities. Adopting these essential policies will prepare you for a safe and exhilarating riding season.
Policy #1: Confirm Your License is Valid
In Georgia, motorcyclists are required to have a Class M license or endorsement to ride legally. This often involves completing a state-approved training course, which is designed to improve your knowledge of motorcycle operation, safety laws, and defensive riding techniques. Rider training is life-saving. Before your first ride, double-check that your license is current and valid to avoid any legal trouble.
Policy #2: Ensure You Have the Best Insurance Coverage
Choosing the right insurance is one of the single best policies for seasonal motorcycle riders. While insurance can't prevent an accident, the right coverage can protect you from devastating financial and emotional fallout. So, what are the best policies for seasonal motorcycle riders?
Look beyond the state minimums and consider coverage that truly protects you:
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage: This is arguably the most important coverage for a motorcyclist. It protects you if you are hit by a driver with little or no insurance.
Medical Payments (MedPay) Coverage: This helps cover your medical bills and those of your passengers, regardless of who is at fault in an accident.
Collision & Comprehensive Coverage: Collision covers damage to your bike from an accident, while comprehensive covers theft, vandalism, or damage from non-collision events like a hailstorm.
Custom Parts & Equipment (CPE) Coverage: If you've made upgrades to your bike, make sure your policy covers their full value. Keep all receipts and documentation for these modifications.
Before the season starts, review your policy to ensure your coverage is up-to-date and adequate for your needs.
Policy #3: Inspect Your Helmet for Maximum Safety
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), wearing a helmet is the most effective way to prevent a traumatic brain injury. Helmets are proven to reduce the risk of death by 37% and the risk of head injury by 69%.
Your helmet has a limited lifespan. If you've ever dropped it or been in any kind of fall, its integrity is compromised and it needs to be replaced. Even without impact, the protective foam liner breaks down over time. As a rule of thumb, replace your helmet every five years to ensure it provides maximum protection.
Policy #4: Gear Up from Head to Toe
While a helmet is the most critical piece of gear, full protective equipment is essential for avoiding serious motorcycle accident injuries. Your personal policy should be to always wear:
Eye Protection: Shatter-proof glasses, goggles, or a full-face helmet visor.
Sturdy Jacket: A snug-fitting jacket made of leather or abrasion-resistant textile.
Gloves: Full-fingered gloves to protect your hands and improve grip.
Long Pants: Durable riding pants or thick denim at a minimum.
Over-the-Ankle Boots: Sturdy boots that protect your ankles and provide a non-slip grip.
Policy #5: Refresh Your Riding Skills
If you've been off your motorcycle all winter, your skills will be rusty. Georgia's Motorcycle Safety Program offers both basic and advanced rider courses. Consider taking a refresher course to sharpen your braking, cornering, and emergency maneuvering techniques. A few hours with an instructor can make you a much safer and more confident rider for the entire season.
Policy #6: Perform a Pre-Ride Inspection
Making sure your bike is road-ready is a non-negotiable safety policy. Before your first big ride, perform a thorough inspection. A great framework to use is the T-CLOCS checklist:
T - Tires & Wheels: Check air pressure, tread depth, and look for any damage.
C - Controls: Levers, cables, hoses, and throttle should all work smoothly.
L - Lights & Electrics: Test your headlights (high and low beams), turn signals, and brake lights.
O - Oil & Fluids: Check oil, hydraulic fluid, and coolant levels.
C - Chassis: Inspect the frame, suspension, and chain/belt for any issues.
S - Stands: Ensure the side stand and center stand operate correctly.
If you aren't comfortable performing these checks, schedule a service appointment with a professional mechanic well before riding season kicks into high gear.
Policy #7: Clean Your Bike (It's Also an Inspection)
A clean bike isn't just about pride; it's a critical part of your safety inspection. As you wash and detail your motorcycle, you get a close-up look at every component. Wiping down the wheels, forks, calipers, and frame can help you spot a loose bolt, a fluid leak, or a potential crack you might otherwise miss. A clean windshield also ensures maximum visibility on the road.
Policy #8: Know Your Plan After an Accident
Even with perfect preparation, accidents can happen, and reports show that motorcycle crashes are on the rise. The final, and perhaps most important, policy is to be prepared for the worst-case scenario. If you are involved in a crash, the consequences can be life-altering.
Knowing who to call is part of that plan. The moments after a crash are confusing and stressful. An experienced Atlanta motorcycle personal injury lawyer can protect your rights and help you navigate the complex issues of liability, damages, and insurance claims. If you find yourself in this situation, contact a professional who understands the nuances of motorcycle law and can help you secure the compensation you deserve.
