Are you a Maryland motorcyclist? If so, it is important for you to know and follow all Maryland motorcycle laws when driving to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. Here are our best safety tips for motorcyclists:
Check The Weather
Before going out on the open road, make sure to check the weather forecast. Road conditions especially affect motorcyclists who already struggle to maintain visibility to other drivers as is. Hazardous conditions like rain, snow, ice, or fog can put you at a greater risk of being involved in an accident. Additionally, checking the weather beforehand allows motorcyclists to wear the appropriate gear for their rides. We recommend wearing a DOT-approved helmet, goggles, leather jacket, leather pants or chaps, closed-toe shoes, and non-slip gloves.
Pay Attention To Your Surroundings
Being aware of your surroundings is especially important when driving a motorcycle. Other drivers may completely overlook you on the roads, making it important for motorcyclists to maintain attentiveness while behind the wheel. Avoid tailgating other vehicles to prevent the need for sudden stops or lane changes. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, in 2009, 48% of motorcyclist deaths were caused by speed violations. Keep a lookout for posted speed limit signs, especially if you are on a long ride, to ensure you know the proper speed to maintain during different portions of your trip. Additionally, be aware of road work, potholes, or bumps that should be avoided.
Insure Your Ride
Accidents happen. It’s important that you know who to call if you are involved in a motorcycling accident. If you are a Maryland resident, you are required to carry appropriate motorcycle insurance before hitting the road on a motorcycle. From minimum requirements to policy options that meet your needs, our agents can work with you to establish a motorcycle insurance policy with Maryland Auto Insurance. Call us at 301-499-0135 to learn more about Maryland Auto Insurance policies for motorcycles in MD. Our experienced My MD Auto agents will work with you to establish a policy that meets your needs so you can enjoy the open road with peace of mind that you are covered.