Take a Motorcycle Safety Course

Whether you've been riding for years or just bought your first bike, you can benefit from a Motorcycle Safety Course. Driving a motorcycle is very different from driving a car and you should be aware of the additional safety concerns on a bike. Because you're essentially unprotected on a motorcycle it's important to hone your skills so you know what to do in case you are ever in a hazardous situation while riding.

Many states offer state-run safety courses. Check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles for more information on courses in your state. A wide range of information is also available on the Internet. Just do a search for "Motorcycle Safety Courses." Many sites will also let you test your skills online. In addition, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation offers beginner and advanced courses in just about every state. If you go to their Web site at www.msf-usa.org you can click on the state map or use a drop down menu to find the Rider Course nearest you. Or you can call 1-800-446-9227. They offer close to 1,000 courses across the United States, so chances are you'll be able to locate one near you.

On a bike, take into consideration things such as weather conditions, traffic, terrain, road conditions, the condition of your bike and your state of mind. Knowing what to do if trouble strikes could be the difference between life and death. Here are a few things to consider every time you ride:

1. Make sure your bike is in proper working order. Check the tires, fluid levels, lights, brakes, etc. before heading out on the road.
2. Be sure you are ready to ride. Make sure you are well-rested, alert and ready to deal with whatever obstacles you may encounter while riding.
3. Be prepared. Make sure you listen to the weather and road conditions where you're going to be riding. Pack some "extras" just in case. You may want to include rain gear, water, snacks, a small tool kit and a couple extra layers of clothing for longer rides.
4. Check the local laws. Riding laws may vary by state and you'll want to make sure you're following the laws where you'll be riding.
5. Put on your safety gear. Helmets, leathers and gloves can all help reduce the risk of serious injury if you are in an accident.
6. Tell a friend. Let somebody know where you'll be riding and what time you plan to reach your destination. You may also want to leave instructions on who to call in case of an emergency.
7. Make sure you have the right insurance coverage. You want to make sure you have coverage for things like uninsured/underinsured motorists, medical payments coverage, as well as coverage for safety equipment and optional equipment.

Taking a safety course helps you know that you're doing what you can to protect yourself and your motorcycle in the event of an accident. You might also get a discount on your insurance if you've taken an approved safety course, such as with Foremost's AARP Motorcycle Insurance Program.