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Make the right choices when it comes to Boating Insurance and Safety
Boat Safety Considerations
Whether you’re a first-time boat owner or an experienced veteran, you probably stand to benefit by learning a few things about watercraft insurance and safety.
There are many ways to make sure you have a safe boating experience while protecting the environment and being considerate of those around you. If you’re a seasoned boat operator, this is probably a refresher course for you. You might want to keep this information handy and require less experienced operators to read it before you hand them the key and let them take your future out for a spin.
Prevent accidents and emergencies with the help of the following safety considerations:
It goes without saying that alcohol and drugs don’t mix well with boat operation. They reduce your ability to make quick decisions and to handle your craft in all situations. A study in four states showed that 51% of those killed in boating accidents had been drinking.
Personal flotation devices (PFD) are required for each person on board. Choose a properly fitting, U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD, and wear it! It should have at least a 50 mph impact rating.
Keep a sharp lookout for other vessels, swimmers, and objects. Avoid “tunnel vision” by constantly looking all around to avoid hazardous situations. Know where other boats are before you make a turn or cross a wake.
Do not exceed the maximum load limit.
Check fuel levels before starting. Practice the “One-Third Rule” by using one-third of the fuel going out, one third coming in, and keeping a third in reserve.
Share your “Float Plan” with a friend, so they know where you are going and when you plan to return.
Try not to go out alone.
Never operate your boat in the dark without proper lighting.
Always follow markers and signs.
Stay clear of vegetation. Vegetation can damage your boat and lead to erosion of shorelines.
Take a boating safety course to better learn the rules, regulations, and safe practices.
Check the weather forecast before starting out. Watch for changes in waves, wind, or clouds that signal the approach of bad weather.
Be prepared for cold weather. Cold water cools the body 25 times faster than the air of the same temperature. If you fall off your boat, get back on board as quickly as possible.
Safety Caution!
This is not a complete listing of all rules and regulations that govern safe watercraft operations. For a complete listing of all rules and regulations, be sure to familiarize yourself with all the federal, state, and local laws that apply where you operate your boat. You can obtain these from the Coast Guard or from your state or local government’s boating authority.
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Not having auto insurance on your vehicle can be frustrating and can prevent you from being able to drive. It’s important that you make an attempt to get your vehicle insured as soon as possible to avoid complications. Of course, one assumption made by many is that everyone pays the same price for insurance, regardless of anything else. The fact is that there are several factors insurance companies consider before making a decision on how much you will pay.
* Age
Younger drivers (typically those younger than 25) will end up paying a bit more on auto insurance than anyone else simply because of the level of driving experience. The older you are, the less you are likely to pay, however, every state has different policies, as do insurance companies.
* Type of Vehicle
If your vehicle is considered a sports vehicle, you can expect to pay more. However, if you are driving a car that is considered to be a “family” car equipped with a full list of safety features, you’ll pay much less and also qualify for discounts. Be sure to ask your insurance agent about any discounts you qualify for and how you can qualify for more.
* What Your Car is Used For
All vehicles are classified according to a set system. The price of your insurance will vary depending on why you must drive your car. The different vehicle classifications include Personal or Pleasure (which is where the majority of vehicles fall), Commute, Commercial, Business, and Artesian.
* Your Deductible
People are always urged to purchase policies that have a high deductible. The reason for this is because if your deductible is rather high, your monthly premium will be much lower. However, there are always other overall factors to consider.
* Driving Record
Your driving record is probably the biggest determining factor when figuring out how much you will pay for auto insurance. Do you have any previous speeding tickets or accidents? If so, expect your premium to be considerably higher. All insurance companies perform a background check on the driver’s history, so there is definitely no way to hide it.
* The Age of Your Vehicle
If your car is rather new, you’ll pay a couple more dollars per month, but probably not too much more. If you’re trying to get a relatively “cheap” policy, your best bet is to drive a car that is at least five years old, is not a sports car, and is equipped with every safety feature imaginable.
These are just a few of the determining factors. It’s important to contact at least a couple of insurance companies before deciding who to go with so that you can be provided with an overall view of how much you should be paying. Be prepared to receive some ridiculous quotes. There are companies out there who really do want to “charge you an arm and a leg” for auto insurance. If you take all the right steps, you will find the right type of insurance best suited for you and your particular vehicle.
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When it’s time to buy a new car, a lot of people dread the inevitable trip into the dealer where a sleazy fella hounds you and yells lies at you, lies that you know are lies, but you don’t know how to prove to him and yourself that you recognize that. There’s almost nothing you can do: you buy a car only every so often, and this guy does it daily, for his job. He has the upper hand every time. But the only thing you can do is get yourself educated and prepared for all the lies and tricks the dealer will throw at you. Here are a few tips to make sure that you don’t get totally suckered at every corner.
1. Compare to Other Dealers
The worst thing you can do is go to a dealer, hear the quote on the price, and then take them at their word that this is the best deal in town. And in this day and age, you have no excuse, since so much information is online. Go to the internet and see what they’re selling different cars for – taking note as to what model and what options are there – and then you’ll know what you’re dealing with when you go to the dealer in person. Be very meticulous about the add-ons and features, because that’s definitely a way that the dealer will be able to deceive you. Oh, that’s cheaper over there because here it comes with this or that. You can say, that car listed on the internet also comes with the same this or that that you’re talking to me about right now!
2. Reject the Deals
If a dealer mentions that they can give you a special, unique deal for you within the first minute of conversation, you know that it’s a total lie, or there’s something up his sleeve. For example, if you hear that they’re running a special on a certain color of the car you’re looking at because it’s the most popular – think about that for a second. Why would they be putting a deal on a car that’s the most popular? This is a standard dealer trick and lie, and it means there’s some sort of dealer incentive to move undesirable cars. Now, if the one on bargain fits your needs, that’s a good deal and you can go for it, but recognize that it’s a blatant lie.
3. Watch for Increased Monthly Payments
When a dealer quotes you a cost with the down payment and a monthly cost, that is always based on perfect credit rating. They know this and will often come back with a higher monthly rate and claim it’s because your credit is not good enough. Make sure you come armed with knowledge about your credit rating. If you have a great credit score, and you know that, you’ll be able to counter their claim that your credit will result in a higher monthly payment with the confidence that you know that is not true. If you can argue back against the dealer, that will put them in the hot seat and maybe they’ll be willing to make a better deal. They know when they’re being insincere, and if you call them on it, you can get a better deal.
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When it comes to finding the right insurance coverage for your automobile, there is no shortage of quotes available out there. It may be easy to find a good deal, but finding the best auto insurance quote requires a little effort.
The Internet is the perfect resource for this very purpose, with fast insurance quotes online ensuring that access is provided to the best available with none of the tiring phoning or traipsing around that is traditionally done. Of particular use are the quote comparison sites that exist, gathering policies worth considering conveniently in one place.
With the right auto insurance policy, real savings can be enjoyed without having to sacrifice the quality of coverage. There are some simple steps to finding the best deals.
Use the Online Comparison Sites
If nothing else, the Internet opens up a whole world of offers and deals that would otherwise be missed. Comparison websites are designed to find the best auto insurance quotes given the particular information that is entered in the online quote request form.
The chief advantage of these sites is that literally hundreds of deals a filed through by the search engine within seconds, and then listed in a simple table that allows for easy comparison. But, while providing fast insurance quotes online is great, it is important to look in detail at the terms of those that attract attention.
Looking at the overall cost is perfectly fine, but be careful to check out the finer details before committing to any particular auto insurance policy. Reading the first one or two deals listed does not mean the best policy is found given your own circumstances.
Improve Your Options
Improving the range of options available depends on taking a few simple measures – namely, making sure the key factors involved are provided accurately. The best auto insurance quotes are offered when the insurer is convinced the risks of theft or damage to an automobile are minimal.
The key factors are the age of the automobile, driving history, and what security features are on the car. Then, fast insurance quotes online tend to be very good. Someone with a history of accidents will struggle to find a good deal, though the time of accidents is usually taken into account.
If some improved security features have been installed, then these should also be mentioned. A better locking system, for example, will lessen the chance of theft, and so the auto insurance premium is reduced accordingly.
Finding the Right Policy
Choosing between the different quotes that are provided requires some thought and examination, and should never come down to picking the least expensive or highest ranking offer on the comparison site. The best auto insurance quotes will not just be low in cost but will provide the level of cover needed. It will also offer the chances of discounts and incentives in the long-run.
To select the best, first draw up a shortlist of the best of five or so policies. The beauty of getting fast insurance quotes online is that this may take no more than 15 minutes. Contact the insurers directly, either by chat, email, or even by telephone, then quiz them on the terms and conditions.
Also, be sure to check their reputation with the Better Business Bureau to be sure an auto insurance quote is truly as good as it seems.
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After over forty years of riding a motorcycle, I have learned a few simple rules to make each riding experience as safe and enjoyable as possible. I am not an instructor but I am a veteran motorcycle rider and enthusiast. I commute and ride leisurely every chance I get.
In this article, I will briefly discuss the motorcycle, the riding gear, and highway safety.
If you are new to motorcycling, I strongly recommend that you contact your local Department of Motor Vehicle Office and obtain all study guides and literature available for your state and city in which you reside.
THE MOTORCYCLE
Is your motorcycle safe to ride?
Before swinging your leg over the seat, it’s always a good idea to inspect the following items on your motorcycle. Always use your manufacturer’s owner’s manual to identify measurements, tolerances, and specifications to complete the checklist below. If you don’t have an owner’s manual, purchase one, read it and get to know your motorcycle.
1. Tire condition
2. Proper tire pressure
3. Front and rear breaks
4. Fluid levels
5. Forks and shocks
6. Chain or drive belt
7. Headlights, tail light, brake light and turn signals.
If you feel that your motorcycle may be unsafe to ride, don’t ride it until you have made the necessary repairs. The above safety precautions may avoid an accident or a crash. Should you find yourself in an emergency situation, odds are in your favor if your bike is at peak performance level.
RIDING GEAR
What are you doing to protect yourself in case of an accident or from road hazards that you may encounter while riding?
1. Properly fitted DOT approved helmet is probably one of the most important riding gear for a rider. Helmets save lives!
2. Leather, mesh, or leather armored jacket to protect your upper body.
3. Leather chaps or pants will save you much pain from road rash, should you go down.
4. Leather boots that are, at minimum, ankle-high to protect your toes and ankles.
5. Leather gloves, to protect your hands and fingers.
6. UV protection approved riding wraparound sunglasses or goggles in the morning help to protect your eyes from dust and road debris while protecting your eyes from UV rays. Clear riding wraparound glasses or goggles work best for night riding.
If you have met the safety tips above, you are now ready to throw your leg over the seat and get on the road.
HIGHWAY SAFETY
The following tips may be helpful to keep you from harm’s way when riding your motorcycle in traffic and highways:
1. Be aware of your surroundings by keeping your eyes moving.
2. Be intuitive.
3. Always expect the unexpected.
4. Be prepared to act rather than to react.
5. Make certain you are seen.
6. If motorcycle equipped with turn signals, get in the habit of using them. If not use a hand signal. Always let drivers know your intentions.
7. Stay away from drivers’ blind spots.
8. Make certain drivers see you by making eye contact via side view mirrors. If not successful give yourself room to get away if need to or make a safe effort to pass the vehicle.
9. When traveling in a group:
• Ride in staggered formation in one lane.
• Don’t horseplay. If you go down, you can be certain you will be taking others down with you.
• If riding in a group makes you uncomfortable, position yourself at the back of the group.
10. Be respectful to all with whom you share the roadways and in return, you will be respected.
11. Ride your own ride.
If you are planning a road trip, consider the following tips:
1. Plan your ride in advance.
2. Familiarize yourself with the roads and highways that you will be riding on.
3. Check the weather and road conditions from previous days to the day of the ride. Check for possible flash floods, sand storms, rock slides from days prior. Sand on the road can be just as hazards and dangerous as black ice. In both cases you won’t know it’s there until your front tire rolls over it.
4. Carry the following:
• Tool Kit, equipped with basic tools
• First Aid Kit
• Emergency blanket or emergency sleeping bag. These emergency products are very lightweight (approx 2 ounces) and compact (approx the size of a cell phone) and will fit in any jacket or pants pocket or easily stored in the storage compartment of the motorcycle.
• Emergency lightweight (approx 1 ounce) high visibility vest or poncho. These come in handy if you ever have to do repairs on your motorcycle on the side of the road or to keep you dry if caught in a downpour of rain (not recommended to use while riding).
Unfortunately, even the best riders are sometimes involved in accidents. The idea is to take all precautions necessary to protect yourself as much as possible from the unavoidable.
All motorcycle riders must know and respect the fact that the odds are stacked against us every time we ride. No matter our age, gender or the kind of motorcycle we ride, it is very important for us to use common sense when operating a motorcycle and to make certain that our motorcycle and our riding gear is always properly maintained.
Be safe! Happy riding! Keep the chrome side up!
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Many dogs love going on a road trip, hanging their heads out of the window while the breeze flaps through their ears, eagerly anticipating an exciting new place to explore, new scents, new places and new adventures. Some dogs, however, for whatever reason don’t seem to enjoy the experience as much as others. Here are a few tips for you so your family and your dog can enjoy a stress-free, fun road trip.
Reduce the chances of your dog being car-sick.
Dogs can easily become scared or excited when they go for a ride in the car, some dogs get so excited that they can be sick. If your dog isn’t used to riding in the car or you know is prone to being sick then take a few simple precautions. Don’t give him any food for a few hours before you set off and limit the amount of water you give him. It’s also a good idea to remember to give him plenty of potty breaks and a good long walk before you set off. Make no mistake, if your dog is sick or eliminates in the car it’ll spoil the journey for everybody.
Keep your dog still while in the car.
Your dog needs to be kept still and secure for his and your safety while on a car journey. There are loads of products available to help in this matter: carriers, seat belts, harnesses, car barriers, and crates. Some of the harnesses can be used to take the dog for a toilet break on the trip. Crate trained dogs should travel for even long periods of time. Some cars have built-in car barriers, check it out when you next choose a new vehicle if you want to be able to transport your dog safely.
Keeping a nervous dog calm on a road trip
Some dogs do get nervous in car trips but there are a few things which you can do to help them relax. Taking your dogs favorite toy along can help to keep him calm, especially if your dog travels on his own blanket and bed (which is where crates can come in).
• Talk to your dog in a soothing, positive voice. This doesn’t work for all dogs; some prefer to be left in silence so just see which he reacts to the best. The important thing is that the dog does not become any type of distraction for the driver. If your dog is a little nervous don’t shout at him or scold him while he’s in the car.
• Play some music. Soothing background music can really help to ease the tension for your dog as well as be a distraction from any unfamiliar noises along the road.
• Open the window. This is a very welcome distraction for many dogs. Not only will it let in a little fresh air but it will also allow new smells to enter the car. Depending upon the restraint used he may not be able to actually stick his head out of the window but it could still be an enormous help.
Get your dog used to going in the car.
If you are planning a long road trip with your dog it’s a good idea to let him get used to it beforehand. Make sure that your car journeys are to somewhere nice – the park, the beach, somewhere he can run, socialize and have fun. If your dog associates a ride in the car with something enjoyable it will be easier for everybody involved.
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49,791 Motorcycles were stolen in one year alone according to reports by the National Insurance Crime Bureau. The popularity of motorcycles has been on the rise in recent years and it’s caught the attention of thieves. A gang of 3 or 4 people can make off with a motorcycle in a matter of minutes, and the bikes can be stripped down for parts in a very short period of time after that. For these reasons, it’s more important than ever to take precautions to protect your bike.
You are at especially high risk if you live in a state with year-round riding weather. Texas is in the top 5 states with the most thefts. Interestingly enough, Honda is the top make to be stolen with the other Japanese powerhouses (Suzuki, Yamaha, & Kawasaki) not far behind. This is most likely because they sell a large number of sportbikes which can be resold more easily than a custom Harley Davidson for example. The more customized a motorcycle is the higher the risk factor for the thief. The lesson here is to customize your bike, make it less appealing for criminals while making it more appealing to you and other riders.
You’ve invested thousands of dollars into your motorcycle, don’t let some bad guy take it from you. The recovery rate for motorcycles is quite low, so if your bike is stolen don’t hold your breath for its return. What you should do instead is act preemptively. There are some things you can do without spending a dime to make your bike less appealing to thieves. Try to park in view of a security camera, and never park behind a big truck or another object that can hide your bike. You want it right out in plain sight. You can also spend a little bit of money and install a security system on your bike. If the bike is moved while the alarm is activated it will oftentimes scare away a would-be thief. Another piece of technological magic is the GPS locator. You can buy one of these little sweethearts and mount it on your bike. This works two-fold, it alerts you if your bike is moved without your consent, and it will also provide information to authorities to increase your chances of getting the motorcycle recovered.
I’d also like to touch on another problem caused by the criminal world, motorcycle fraud. Essentially people are selling bikes that are not authentic at a high price. For example, somebody might build a custom cruiser from cheap aftermarket parts and try to sell it as an authentic Harley Davidson. They could have a couple thousand into it and sell it for $15,000 and the buyer would be out all that money for a cheap knock off. Always ask to see the title when buying a motorcycle. Take a good look at the bike, oftentimes you can tell the difference between authentic parts and Chinese knock offs. Mostly just be aware, especially of deals that seem too good to be true!
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You’ll get more affordable homeowners’ insurance rates if you get group home insurance. You can confirm from associations you are part of because they may have group discounts.
Before you purchase, check if you can get a lower home insurance rate with another company than that given by your association. This is because you may end up getting an insurance company that is willing to take less than you’ll even obtain with your association’s discount. So it actually does pay to do extensive comparison shopping if you want the most affordable rates.
2. You are eligible for a retiree discount once you are a retired person. But bear in mind, though, that not all insurers give this discount.
The rationale for this discount is the fact that someone always around making a home a better risk. The risk of fire damage is also reduced with people who are always at home since they will likely spot them quickly.
3. You’re eligible for a loyalty discount if you’ve been with an insurer for up to three years. Most insurers will give discounts once you keep your policy with them for three years and above. Nevertheless, I do NOT expect that you stay with one insurance company for that long simply because you’re looking to qualify for a loyalty discount.
If it is about paying less, you’ll almost always be able to pay lower than you’re paying at any moment. Do shop extensively and you’ll be pleasantly surprised. I recommend that you get quotes from insurers you have never received quotes from time to time.
4. There’s the possibility that you could spend less on home insurance if you take the time to go through your policy either whenever there’s a considerable change in your house or just always once or twice annually. The hand-woven rug Aunt Molly gave you mightn’t really be worth the $10,000 you insured it for at the moment.
You will save and still have enough coverage by lowering your home insurance coverage by the right margin if it has dropped in its worth. Nevertheless, bear in mind that a review could as well reveal that it is now valued a lot more and therefore require that you add to your coverage. The interesting thing, though, is that whichever it turns out to be you’ll be at an advantage.
5. You may be paying a lot more if your’s is a government homeowner’s insurance policy. Natural disasters in some places made it very difficult for folks there to get home insurance coverage. The only solution for such people then was to go to a government agency that offered government homeowner’s insurance. This has changed in some areas as some private insurance companies have braved it and worked out a means of giving insurance to such areas.
It’s true that government homeowners’ insurance may still be your only option depending on where you reside. But if your area is presently catered for by some private insurers you might make considerable savings by buying from them.
6. A CLUE (comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange) report is a must-read for every home buyer. You will save because you’ll know things that might make you spend more for a home insurance coverage with the property in question. It will help you avoid places that would cost you much in home insurance.
If a house is in a town that has only a volunteer fire service, you’ll pay higher rates. How far away the closest police station, fire station, and/or fire hydrant are will also affect your rate.
So, make sure you do NOT pay for a home until you’ve gone through this report. The little savings you made on buying the wrong home might pale in significance to the premiums you’ll pay in a few years.
Improve your ability to save massively on insurance by going online for free homeowners insurance quotes
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So you have just bought a motorcycle! If so, then it is time to shop for motorcycle insurance. You probably want to know how to find cheap motorcycle insurance. Here are some tips to ensure you get the best insurance at the best rates.
First, you must understand what insurance companies look at to determine your rate. They will look at the kind of bike, how old you are, where you live, what is your leadership, and duration of your trip. Most of these things you have little control over, for once you understand how the motorcycle insurance company will rate your figure, you’re ready to take steps to get this lower rate.
First, shop around for cheap motorcycle insurance. Get quotes from each company, you can think of. Prices vary quite a bit from company to another. If you are short on time, you can have an insurance broker to do this for you, but keep in mind that you will have to pay the broker something for their services.
Making your bike secure can reduce your insurance premiums. If you can store your bike in a garage, install an alarm, and use a kind of safety when the motorcycle is parked outdoors, it will give you a discount on insurance.
Avoid the temptation to ensure your bike for more than it is worth. Know what your bike value and only to ensure that amount. If something happens to your bike, the insurance company is only going to pay you the fair market value for your bike. Only insuring your bike for what it is worth will help reduce your insurance premium motorcycle.
Cheap motorcycle insurance may be affected by the type of bike you ride. If you have an older model motorcycle, you more likely to be able to obtain cheaper motorcycle insurance rates then someone who is driving the latest model motorcycle just off the assembly line.
If you happen to be looking for cheap motorcycle insurance, searching online for multiple quotes is wise. That way, if you have any questions, a representative of insurance may take care to explain it to you.
If you are only going to ride your bike for leisure, you are a candidate for very cheap motorcycle insurance. Be sure to indicate this fact to insurance companies when you’re shopping for premiums. The less mileage you put on your bike, the less risk for them, so the lower your rate.
Finally, if you need cheap motorcycle insurance, consider taking a motorcycle DMV class. These types of classes can reduce your insurance premium if you have proof of your certification. Remember, insurance companies are seeking to ensure the safety of pilots!
By following these tips, you can get cheap motorcycle insurance. Once you have your policy, a safe driving record will keep your motorcycle insurance affordable. A little education will help you get the best and cheapest policy.
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Many motorcycle owners make a serious mistake when they are looking for motorcycle insurance. If you are looking for motorcycle insurance, the most common question “Where can I find cheap motorcycle insurance?” Yet the answer to this question is only half of what must be raised; owner of a motorbike must not only be concerned about where to find cheap motorcycle insurance, but they should also be affected by measures they can take to reduce their insurance.
Shopping around and comparing motorcycle insurance is the first step to get the best policy. Take a few hours and find the best policy, not the best price. The search for cheap motorcycle insurance does not mean that you have the correct amount of coverage for you and your motorcycle; in most states, you will need liability insurance. You will also consider seeking collision, no-fault, passenger, service, and non-coverage. The added coverage may cost you more now, but you can save some later. Take time to read the policy options and choose the motorcycle insurance that suits your needs within the best price.
Then begin to take a motorcycle safety course. Many insurance providers offer lower premiums to those individuals who make the effort to improve their driving skills.
Insurance motorcycle online
A good way to find the best motorcycle insurance for your needs is to go online and use the Internet. The Internet is an ideal place to compare prices and find cheap motorcycle insurance that gives you the right coverage.
The first thing you want to do when looking for motorcycle insurance online is to use a search engine. Just enter the words “motorcycle insurance” in the search box of a search engine and it will show results enough to keep you busy research for a rather long period. If you want to narrow your search, try to make search terms such as “cheap motorcycle insurance” or “motorcycle insurance quotes.”
Many insurance companies will be able to give you the motorcycle insurance quotes online, without your having to call an insurance agent. Simply fill out a form, enter all the information correctly, and you will be presented with a motorcycle insurance quote. The quote is often just an estimate because some insurance companies want to examine the motorcycle before putting anything in writing, but the estimate is generally very close to your final estimate.
Although your main objective is probably to find cheap motorcycle insurance, when you get a quote online, make sure you read all the details of the policy. Sometimes it may be advantageous to pay a little more for a motorcycle insurance policy knowing that you will save a lot of grief if your bike were to be involved in an accident or theft. The price is always a consideration when buying motorcycle insurance, but the right coverage is equally important.
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Yes, this is the terrible word – motorcycle insurance. If you plan to own or buy a motorcycle, then you must have motorcycle insurance. This guide gives you advice and information on the types of motorcycle insurance you need for your bike the best way to get cheap motorcycle insurance and find cheap motorcycle insurance quotes. It is a MUST READ for any amateur motorcyclist.
Ok, you have acquired or are preparing to acquire your “Dream Machine” and are ready to roll. Well, if you plan to cruise on the road, motorcycle insurance is something we all hate to pay for, but we must have. (One of the things in life that are not fair). If you are looking for cheap motorcycle insurance and you want to get the best conditions, you have to educate yourself and have a good understanding of the types of coverage needed and what risk the insurance company determines that you are. That way, if you shop around you can find the best cheap motorcycle insurance coverage for you and your bike, and save a lot of money in the process. Saving is always a good thing.
Motorcycle insurance or any type of insurance is a world of confusion. The stark truth is that if you do not have the right type of coverage, you go into battle with holes in your armor.
To increase your chances of getting cheap motorcycle insurance read how an insurance company rates you and how insurance premiums are determined for your motorcycle:
The motorcycle insurance company through the following criteria determines how much risk is involved if they insure you. The greater the risk you are the higher your rate will be. Here are the key elements that are used by motorcycle insurance companies to determine your risk rate.
1. Your age: As for auto insurance, usually the older you are, the cheaper your rate will be. However, if you’re new to the operation of motorcycles, you will probably be in a higher rate category until you gain some riding experience.
2. The type of bike: If you have the latest and flashiest bike, you will cost more than an old, basic motorcycle.
3. Your Address/Garage Location: Sometimes, the high level of assurance that you receive may be strongly influenced by where you live. If you live and/or regularly drive in a high crime rate high or accident, your rates will probably be higher than someone in a zip code with less crime and accidents.
4. Your driving record: All accidents count. Even if you’re new on a motorcycle, accidents that you had in your car count against you. Therefore, the better your driving record, the cheaper your insurance.
5. Your job: When you drive to work, your motorcycle parking will affect your rates. If you keep your motorcycle parking on a construction site, your insurance may be increased because of an increased risk of damage to your bike.
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Buying the right kind (and the right amount) of motorcycle insurance can seem complicated – but it does not have to be! When shopping for insurance, there are three main types of policies to consider:
Responsibility:
Liability insurance is the cheapest policy you can buy, and for good reason. It is basically designed to protect the other driver and his bike – not you or yours.
Collision:
Collision insurance, by contrast, will help pay for the repairs of your bike accident.
Integral:
Integral is well, say, the broader policy that covers you for fire, theft, vandalism, and accidents.
When shopping around for motorcycle insurance, it is important to understand all the limitations of the policy you choose. For example, a higher deductible will help reduce your monthly premiums, but in the case of a claim, you have to pay more out of pocket. Another thing to consider is whether your policy will pay to replace your bike if needed, or if the insurance company will pay your claim based on the depreciated value of your bike. This can make a big difference between having enough money to buy the new bike and getting stuck having something you can’t afford.
Of course, there are ways to get your premium down. Something an insurance company will take into account when setting your rate includes:
“The size of the motorcycle.
What type and brand it is.
“How old are you.
“Your driving record (you had any previous accidents, claims, or violations?).
“What are you going to use the bicycle for, travel to work, or for fun.
How many miles you put on the motorcycle every year.
“The place where you live.
What kind of extras your bike has (face it, as everything that makes your great bike also cost the insurance company more to replace should be involved in an accident or theft).
While each insurance company will consider these things when establishing a type of individual insurance, there are ways to reduce your premium – now and in the future. The first is to pay the loans you have on your bike as soon as possible. When you finance a motorcycle, the bank requires a certain amount of insurance to cover the loan, but once that is paid in full, the amount and types of coverage you have is entirely up to you, letting you decide how much risk you want to take.
The second is to keep your driving record clean. All claims submitted and each traffic violation is a cost added to insurance premiums. Keep in mind that the next time you speed down the road.
Be sure to tell your insurance agent if your bike is stored during the winter months (or at any time of year.) The less is on the move, the less you pay for insurance.
Also, keep a good credit score. It is a little known fact among the general population, but more and more insurance companies are looking at the credit score of a client to determine how responsible they are and how much they should be charged for insurance. Statistics have shown that those with higher credit ratings have fewer claims – that is good business for insurers.
Buying motorcycle insurance is much like buying any other type of insurance. The key to a satisfactory policy is to shop around and make sure you understand the policy you have chosen. The fact that premiums are lower at a company does not necessarily make for a better deal.
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It is not always easy to choose the right insurance company to handle your needs – especially when the vehicle you want to insure is not at a car, but a motorcycle.
Shopping for any type of insurance can be complicated. Companies tend to offer different types of plans, making it difficult to know which offer the same basic benefits for the same price. It is not uncommon for an insurance company to offer a policy at a price, and another company at a price totally different from what appears to be the same coverage. The reason? It is not always obvious. Perhaps the highest price agency offers a full replacement value of the motorcycle if it were stolen or totaled in an accident, while the other company only pays the amount the bike was worth at the time of the accident – which can leave thousands of dollars in additional costs to buy a new bike similar to the one you lost.
Another difference in the deductible may be offered. The higher the deductible, the lower the insurance rate. But beware. It is always a good idea to take the highest possible deductible you can afford, as this is the money from your pocket in case of disaster.
It is always important when shopping for any type of motorcycle insurance to check the laws of your particular state to see what they are legally obliged to carry, to avoid buying more coverage than you actually need.
The first thing you have to decide when to buy motorcycle insurance is what type of coverage you want and need. If you obtained a loan to buy your bike, your creditors will more than likely require the purchase of full coverage until the loan is paid in full, but if you were lucky enough to pay cash for your bike, it may be possible to decide exactly how much insurance you really need and want to pay.
Liability coverage allows you a low premium, but please note does not cover your vehicle in the event of an accident, theft, or vandalism. It is basically a policy to cover the other driver’s vehicle.
Collision insurance will help pay for replacing or repairing your own bike should something happen to it, and complete or comprehensive coverage pays for everything, including theft, vandalism, and all costs associated with accidents.
Once you decide on the type of insurance you want and the deductible you’re comfortable with, it’s time to start shopping around. The best way to find a good deal is to talk with other cyclists in your community to see which company they use. After that, the choice is yours. The important thing is to get what you need at a price you can afford.
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Going to a decent driving school in order for you to get a legal driver’s license will tell you a very important thing: you have to get car insurance. However, everyone is trying to save as much as they can these days because of the financial crisis. Instead of spending those precious and hard-earned dollars on a policy, some drivers now prefer to drive carefully and hope for the best.
Hoping for the best might not turn out for the best. First of all, you can get in trouble with the law if you drive without being insured, as you are mandated by the law to get a policy. No matter how careful you are, the situations on the road are not always favorable. A little fall of rain or snow may make the roads slippery. A sudden gust of wind might blow a pile of leaves right in front of your car, obscuring your view. Some other drivers may not be as careful as you. A million things can happen and the absence of insurance can cost you a lawsuit and thousands of cash that you cannot afford.
The law requires you to get a policy from a good car insurance company because it is the only way they can ensure that you can handle the expenses should you get into an accident. That is the expenses for the repairs and the medical expenses of all who are involved in the incident. This way, they can be sure that no one will die or suffer the worst because of the cost of medical attention.
Some drivers still consider the cost of car insurance premiums as a burden and treat it as something they can do without. Well, it is always possible that you are a careful driver and will never meet an accident while you are driving. It is also possible that you can just save the amount you will spend on premiums so that you have some sort of “emergency fund” for when you encounter road mishaps. However, what if other drivers are not as careful as you? What if you do not have the right amount of cash or have not saved enough when you actually get into an accident?
If you get caught driving without car insurance you will be sure to face several charges. Some states charge a huge amount of fines to drivers caught without a policy. Most states really frown on drivers who do not make the effort to get even some cheap auto insurance. They have a number of legal penalties for such careless drivers. These penalties include a suspension of driver’s license or registration and impoundment of the uninsured vehicle. Some states may go as far as require you to spend some time in jail if they catch you without a policy as you are endangering yourself and other people.
It is really unwise to put yours and other’s fates on the line in such a serious matter. Even governments recognize that driving without a policy is being a grave threat to other people. It is not only the driver’s life that is put at risk but even those who may get involved in an accident that the driver may cause. Think about your loved ones who will be riding with you. Make sure that they are covered for anything that can happen while you are behind the wheel.
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Lowest Motorcycle Insurance
Motorcycle insurance may seem to be as standard as car insurance, but there are actually quite a few unique differences that can change the cost of your coverage. Therefore, in order to keep expenses down, while ensuring that you get the exact coverage that you need, it pays to understand at least a little about it before choosing which policy.
First, the type of bike you choose to insure can affect your rates. The fancier and more expensive the bike, the more costly it will be to insure since it will likely be more attractive to thieves. An older or more basic bike will cost you less overall, though the savings will be less if you purchase lots of expensive add-ons and features for it.
Another big factor in setting your motorcycle insurance rates is your own personal profile. Everything from your age to the area where you live to your job can have a bearing on your rates.
Consider taking an advanced driving course, even if you consider yourself to be an apt rider. You simply claiming to be a good driver will have no weight with insurance companies, but an official certificate that says that you are will be sufficient for them to further reduce your monthly insurance premiums.
If you can afford it, raising the deductible (the amount you will actually have to cover in the event of an accident or theft) results in lowering your premium. If it is financially feasible, this is something that you might want to consider.
Getting all of the discounts that are available to you is also important if you want the lowest possible motorcycle insurance costs. To do so, you will need to enlist the help of an independent agent.
As well as getting you the best price, an independent agent will also be able to explain the technicalities of the various insurance policies to you and will answer any questions or queries that you may have. Consulting them will not cost you anything, as they work on a commission-only basis, so you have nothing to lose.
What do I need to know about riding learning to ride a motorcycle?
I know that I can take classes to lower insurance and learn safety. What I really need to know is, do I need to learn how to operate a motorcycle before these classes. Example, Shifting, breaking. I have never operated a motorcycle before in my life. Does knowing the operation help.
Start with the basics. I’m assuming you know how to ride a bicycle? If so, you’re already familiar with balancing a bike.
You can go start a class without any prior knowledge. When I attended my riding school, the first part of our lesson involved just sitting on the bike and familiarizing ourselves with the controls. We then had to group up in pairs and push the other person on the bikes (in neutral, without the engine running). This was not only for the students to learn how to use the brakes properly but it also allowed the instructors to make sure everyone could balance the bikes properly.
If you want to prepare yourself a little beforehand, read up on the basic controls for modern-day motorcycles online and/or in books (your local library should have something like that). You can always also ask to sit on a friend’s bike or go to a local bike store to sit on a bike and get a general feel for how the controls look and feel.
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