Inappropriate Clothing? Motorbike Insurance Companies Advising Riders Not To Be Complacent

Figures of the number of fatal motorcycle accidents have seen a decline on UK roads. The news has been welcomed by the Motor Cycle Industry (MCI) as the figures show that in 2008 one hundred fewer bikers were killed bringing the total number of fatalities to the lowest figures since 1996, despite that there are approximately 44% more motorcycle riders on the roads.

However, riders are advised not to become complacent and take every caution they can to help reduce the numbers even lower. Insurance companies are also advising that in order to keep this positive downward trend moving in the right direction both novice and experienced riders should give serious consideration to taking approved advanced driving courses.

Riders which do take part are generally rewarded by insurers with discounts off the cost of insurance policies, as these riders are considered to be less of a risk to insurers than those who choose to ignore the positive impact that the courses offer.

Insurers are also advising riders, especially the young, not to risk losing their lives by wearing the appropriate clothing when riding. Young riders in particular appear to have a 'death wish' as they ride with nothing more than the mandatory crash helmet and shorts, with many riding scooters only wearing flip flops on their feet.

These young people many believe it is 'cool' to be seen wearing only the minimal of clothes in the hot weather, however should they be involved in an accident the injuries they could potentially sustain are beyond description. It is these fool hardy riders who need to be constantly reminded of the dangers the shortest of rides may bring, as well as being aware that even though fatal accidents are fewer, there are still nearly 500 riders who lost their lives whilst riding their motorcycle last year and many more seriously injured.

Motorcycle manufacturers are also aware of the detrimental effects of wearing inappropriate clothing and often include incentives to buy new motorbikes by including clothing and/or crash helmets. Wearing a suitable crash helmet is also a vital part of helping to save rider's lives. It is recommended that once a helmet has endured a crash it should be replaced even though the exterior surface may appear to have just a few scratches, the internal protection may be damaged. Buying second hand helmets is also not advised as the history of the helmet is unknown. Buying a helmet which fits correctly is advised, as an ill fitting helmet can not provide the protection to is supposed to.

These riders should make sure that they fully read the terms and conditions of their motorbike insurance policy carefully, as there are some insurance companies who class wearing inappropriate clothing a breach of the terms of the policy. Whilst some may argue that it is a matter of personal choice as to the clothing people wear, apart from the mandatory crash helmet, the number of personal injury claims being made along with the subsequent associated legal fees is one of the reasons insurance premiums are continuing to rise.