Spring Motorcycle Safety Checklist

Spring is here. The snow has melted, temperatures are rising and soon a swarm of motorcyclists will take to the streets to enjoy their passion for riding. Spring riding can also be dangerous. Below is a list of things you should do before you go out for your first ride:

• Make sure you have Uninsured (UM) and Underinsured (UIM) motorist Insurance: Every day our office receives phone calls from riders who were injured in accidents caused by uninsured or underinsured motorists. Don’t get caught without UM and UIM insurance of at least $100,000 – if you’re riding without adequate levels of UM and UIM, you are taking an unnecessary risk! Call your motorcycle insurance agent today to make sure you’re covered.
• Check your bike: you wouldn’t drive your car without first checking your mirrors or adjusting your seat. Likewise, don’t go for a ride without first checking your bike. Remember the acronym T-CLOCK:
  • T – Tires: tires can develop flat spots, bulges and/or cracks during the winter. Check to ensure your tires are free from these hazards. Also, make sure each tire is inflated to optimal air pressure and your treads and spokes are healthy
  • C – Controls: ensure your hoses, cables, throttle and chain are all in working order, lubricated, and/or free of cracks
  • L – Lights: verify that your wiring isn’t cracked, your lense(s) aren’t broken and are clean and check the turn signals and brake lights to make sure they are operating properly
  • O – Oil: check your oil and fluids. Also, check your gaskets and seals.
  • C – Chassis: confirm that the frame is not cracked, that your forks and shocks are in working order and your chain is secure
  • K – Kickstand: ensure it’s not cracked or bent and is able to support your motorcycle when used

Many of our readers are mechanically inclined and will thus maintain their bikes themselves. If you are hesitant to do so, you can always bring your bike in to the shop for a tune-up.

If you have any questions about how to prep your motorcycle for spring, or if you want to review your motorcycle insurance before you ride, call one of the motorcycle accident lawyers at Kass & Moses for a free consultation or visit us online at kassandmoses.com.