Whether you’re taking your Harley and heading across the country, or just hitting the Southern back roads, we want you to be safe enjoying your ride this summer. Here are a few top tips:

For Motorcyclists:
■ Wearing a helmet is the single most effective way to protect yourself from a head injury. Use a motorcycle helmet for every ride, and ensure your passengers also use a helmet.

■ Make sure your helmet has a valid U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) label; the label means the helmet meets the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards – this is also known as the FMVSS 218 standard. Novelty helmets without this label may not meet the same standard and will not provide the best protection needed in a crash.

■ Check the fit of your helmet to ensure optimal protection.

■ Wear protective gear like a sturdy jacket, pants, boots, and gloves; safety gear provides protection in case of falls or crashes, and improves comfort during the ride.

■ Make yourself visible by using high-visibility colors and retro-reflective materials to maximize the ability of drivers to see you.

■ Motorcycle riding requires full attention, skill, and coordination. Avoid combining riding with drinking alcohol or using other impairing drugs.

For Drivers:
■ Always be on the lookout for motorcyclists.

■ A motorcycle’s smaller size means it can be hidden in your vehicle’s blind spot.

■ A motorcycle’s size and narrow profile can make it difficult to judge its distance and speed. Take extra care when judging when to turn or merge.

■ Keep a safe distance from the motorcycle in front of you; motorcyclists can slow their motorcycles by downshifting instead of using their brakes. This means the brake lights won’t come on.

■ Remember that motorcyclists sometimes change positions in their lane to avoid debris on the road.

— NHTSA’s Research and Program Development

Did you know training saves?

Thirty-six percent of motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes in 2020 were driving without valid motorcycle licenses. Many of our insurance carriers including Safeco and Auto-Owners offer discounts to riders who attend the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s safe riding courses or are active in one of 10 approved groups that promote safe riding. Do both those things and you can reduce your premium.

New Gear? Update your policy

Some of our companies, including Safeco and Auto-Owners, offer special coverage for custom parts and equipment—but you have to make sure each piece of equipment is listed on your policy. Any time you buy new leathers or safety equipment or customize your bike, call us at 770-371-8247 before you head out on the road.