Since the financial crisis, California was hit hard economically and seemed to bear no good news; however, recently, the Governors Highway Safety Association announced that drunken-driving and motorcycle fatalities were falling in the state - which is good news indeed.
For 2008, there were 1,112 people killed in California by drunk drivers and 198 in drunken motorcycle deaths. These numbers show a significant decline from 2007 where 1,491 people were killed by drunk drivers and 264 people died in motorcycle crashes. This could result in steep motorcycle insurance rates for many riders.
There are a number of reasons being attributed to the decline in deaths:
- Fewer drinking events: Due to the economy, many people are said to be limiting their optional trips, including hitting the bars. As a result, more people seem to be drinking at home, decreasing the number of drunk drivers on the road.
- Tougher laws: Another reason for the decline in deaths is the tougher laws that penalize drunk drivers harder financially and may even with jail time.
- Higher insurance rates: With each drunk driving infraction, a driver's auto insurance rates will skyrocket, deterring many from hitting the roads after drinking.
Authorities in California suggest that rather than drive drunk, it's always better to designate a sober driver for your events or call a cab. Dunk driving could easily result in increased auto insurance rates. But much worse is the thought of killing an innocent person because you decided to drive irresponsibly.
Many people are fighting the rising cost of gasoline by purchasing two wheeled transportation as they use less fuel. Although a great way to save at the pump, motorcycle ownership comes complete with its own set of rules and laws that dictate the type and amount of insurance that you'll need. Similar to auto insurance laws, basic rules are determined by the state the vehicle is registered in and varies accordingly.
Most states require that a a level ofliability insurance is present to legally operate a motorcycle. Liability insurance is the most affordable of insurance so that won't set you back much. However, if you financed the purchase of your motorcycle, chances are the lender will require that you have a level of coverage in place to ensure that you can pay back the loan if the vehicle is destroyed in a collision.
In general, a good motorcycle insurance policy is comprised of three parts: liability, comprehensive and collision. The amount you pay for the monthly premiums varies on a whole slew of factors including the bike being insured (including engine size, brand, etc.) where you live, your riding history and the years you have been licensed. Those factors make the cost of the insurance fluctuate greatly.
The most important thing to remember when selecting a motorcycle insurance policy is to make sure you get enough coverage to make you whole again in case your bike gets totaled or to protect other assets you have. The most basic thing to remember is that motorcycle insurance is similar to auto insurance in its overall goal, so as a consumer, you need to select wisely.
And make sure you're always being alert and cautious on the road. Happy riding!
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