Whether you are a new rider or have registered tens of thousands of miles on your bike’s odometer, you might be curious about what advanced motorcycle riding courses can offer you. In addition to improving your skills and helping you feel safer on the road, motorcycle riding courses can have surprising consequences for your insurance premiums.
Why Motorcycle Insurance Is Essential
Motorcycle insurance is an absolute must in Arizona. The Grand Canyon State requires all motorists, including motorcyclists, to carry a minimum liability insurance policy of $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident, and $15,000 in property damage coverage. Those who operate a motorcycle without a valid insurance policy will face fines of $500 for a first offense, $750 for a second offense, and $1000 for a third offense within three years, in addition to mandatory license suspensions.
Even if the state did not have a legal insurance requirement, having a valid policy is essential to protect you from being personally and financially responsible if you are found to be at fault for an accident. When choosing motorcycle insurance, many riders give themselves increased protection by purchasing policies that exceed the state minimums.
Perhaps even more important, if you are involved in a crash that is not your fault, having Uninsured and Underinsured coverage on your motorcycle policy can be vital. Uninsured coverage can be used to make an injury claim for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering in the event the driver that hit you does not have insurance. Since motorcycle crashes often involve significant injuries, Underinsured coverage can be utilized for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering as well in the event the at-fault driver does have insurance, but not enough to fully compensate you.
Common Myths About Motorcycle Insurance and Advanced Training
Many people hold false beliefs about motorcycle insurance coverage and advanced training, whether due to rumors or assumptions. Some common motorcycle insurance myths include:
- “I don’t need insurance because I am a careful rider” — State laws make no exceptions regarding motorcycle liability insurance requirements, regardless of how good a driver you might be.
- “Motorcycle insurance is too expensive” — While no insurance policy is free, being covered can potentially save you tens of thousands of pounds in the event of a motorcycle crash.
- “My home insurance covers my motorcycle” — Home insurance does not cover events relating to motor vehicle accidents. You will need separate motorcycle liability insurance even if you have a comprehensive home insurance policy.
Misconceptions about advanced training include the following:
- “You can only take advanced motorcycle training after you have been riding for years” — Licensed motorcyclists can take an advanced motorcycle safety course at any time, even if they have only recently passed their test.
- “Motorcyclists learn everything they need to know from their own experience” — Motorcyclists often pick up dangerous habits over months and years of independent riding. An advanced training course can help you recognize and eliminate such habits while helping you acquire safer skills.
- “Advanced motorcycle training is not worth the expense” — While some training courses can seem pricey, they can potentially save you significant money in the long term. Furthermore, what you learn might save your or someone else’s life.
The Benefits of Advanced Motorcycle Training Courses on Rider Safety
Advanced motorcycle training courses offer numerous benefits that can significantly enhance rider safety:
- Improved hazard perception — These courses teach motorcycle riders to anticipate potential dangers and react appropriately.
- Enhanced cornering techniques — Riders learn to navigate curves more safely and efficiently.
- Better braking skills — Advanced training helps riders master emergency braking techniques, reducing stopping distances.
- Increased awareness — Courses emphasize the importance of maintaining situational awareness on the road.
- Proper positioning — Riders learn optimal lane positioning to increase visibility and reduce risks.
By honing these skills, riders can better avoid accidents and handle unexpected situations. This increased competence often translates to greater confidence on the road, allowing riders to enjoy their motorcycles more fully while staying safe.
How Advanced Motorcycle Training Can Influence Insurance Premiums and Claims
Completing an advanced motorcycle training course can have a positive effect on your insurance premiums and claims, such as:
- Lower premiums — Many insurance companies offer discounts to riders who have completed advanced training courses, recognizing the reduced risk these riders present.
- Improved claim outcomes — In the event of an accident, having advanced training on your record can strengthen your position. It demonstrates your commitment to safety and skill development, which can be beneficial when determining fault or negotiating settlements.
- Potential for higher coverage limits — Some insurers may be more willing to offer higher coverage limits to riders with advanced training, providing greater protection at potentially lower rates.
While the specific benefits vary by insurer, investing in advanced training often pays off through reduced insurance costs and improved coverage options.
Choosing the Right Motorcycle Insurance: What to Consider After Advanced Training
After completing an advanced motorcycle riding course, you can reevaluate your insurance needs by taking the following steps:
- Review your coverage limits — With your enhanced skills, you might be eligible for better coverage at competitive rates.
- Explore new discounts — Contact your insurer to inquire about specific discounts for advanced training completion.
- Consider additional coverage options — With potential premium savings, you might opt for added protections like comprehensive coverage or roadside assistance.
- Shop around — Different insurers weigh advanced training differently. Compare quotes from multiple providers to find the best combination of coverage and cost.
- Document your training — Keep your advanced training certificate on file and provide it to your insurer to ensure you receive any applicable benefits.
It is worth noting that while advanced training can lead to insurance benefits, the primary goal is to make you a safer, more skilled rider. The potential insurance advantages are a welcome bonus to the increased safety and enjoyment you will experience on the road.
Contact Our Phoenix Motorcycle Accident Attorney for Help with Insurance Claims
No matter how much experience or training you might have under your belt, motorcycle accidents are always a risk. An inattentive or aggressive driver’s actions can result in catastrophic and even life-threatening injuries for vulnerable riders. In the aftermath, you may face overwhelming pain, financial upheaval, and emotional trauma.
At Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer, we understand how devastating these events can be. Our skilled team is passionate about easing your pain and stress by fighting aggressively for the compensation you deserve. We will help you recognize how much your claim is worth, and we will handle every aspect of your case while you focus on healing. Call us today or contact us online for a free consultation with a Phoenix motorcycle accident lawyer.
