collaborative post | Being out on the open road for a solo travel adventure can be both exhilarating and enlightening. You have the freedom of the road ahead, and your motorcycle can take you nearly anywhere you wish to go. Still, safety is key, and when you’re traveling by yourself, it is all the more important to protect yourself legally.
For starters, did you know that you’ll need your motorcycle drivers license or a motorcycles endorsement added to your traditional drivers license in order to legally drive on the road? This is just one of many things you need to do to legally protect yourself before you go on solo travel adventures. Here, you can learn about five crucial tips for protecting yourself legally when enjoying solo travel adventures.
Have The Right Insurance
It’s illegal to drive without insurance. Motorcycle insurance is not the same as traditional auto insurance, so ensure you have the correct insurance before you hit the road for your solo travel adventures. Your insurance should include the following:
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Roadside assistance (for flats and other roadway emergencies)
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Uninsured coverage (for uninsured drivers if you get in a wreck)
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Underinsured coverage (for underinsured drivers if you’re involved in a wreck)
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Total loss coverage (to help you replace your motorcycle in the event of a major wreck)
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Rental coverage (to help you with rental motorcycle expenses if you wreck and need a rental)
If you’re unsure of the type of motorcycle insurance you currently have, speak to your insurance agent. They can help you modify your current insurance plan to allow for the best insurance for traveling solo, so even if you get caught in a bind in the middle of nowhere, you have the coverage you need.
Have (And Share) Your Travel Plan
Your loved ones should know what you plan on doing and where you’re going on your solo adventure. This is a responsible way to practice self care and manage your health and well-being while you are traveling alone. This way, should you not return when you said you were going to or if you have an accident and police and emergency personnel need to get to you, you can be easily located. Yes, your plan can change anytime you wish, but make sure you share travel plan changes with someone as they occur.
Get A Motorcycle Inspection Done
A motorcycle inspection is necessary for ensuring your motorbike is legally road-ready. Your inspection will include making sure all lights and turn signals are working. You’ll also have all fluids checked to make sure they are filled and have them topped off if they are not already. To be considered street legal, your motorcycle must have an odometer, mirrors, a license plate holder (and current license plate), a headlamp, working horn, and an exhaust. If you have confusions about whether your motorcycle is ready for adventures, contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles, or DMV.
Be Prepared In Case Of An Accident
No matter how careful you are on the road, motorcycle accidents can happen. You’ll need to know how to file motorcycle insurance claims in the event you do get into a motorcycle wreck. If you do get into a wreck, you need to call the local police department to file a report, then contact your insurance company to file a claim. Have your drivers license and motorcycle endorsement ready, along with your motorcycle registration and insurance so you can make filing a police report easier.
You’ll also want to seek medical attention as soon as you can, since you’ll need evidence of injury or medical reports to file an effective insurance claim. Motorcycle accident injury claims can be complicated and complex, so if you are injured while on your solo travel adventure, it’s wise to seek legal counsel. This way, you have the information and expertise necessary to file a claim and get financial compensation necessary to repair your bike, cover your medical costs, and help you with any legalities you may be facing as a result of your motorcycle accident.
Always Travel With Protection And Safety In Mind
Be prepared for any type of roadway incident, from getting lost on the road to encountering wildlife to simply running out of gas. Always have a spare phone charger with you that you can charge with solar energy. This allows you to always have access to your phone, and remember this: you can still call 911 without service or signal in an emergency.
Travel with a small first aid kit to handle minor roadway injuries, and always have fresh water and road snacks with you. Fill up your tank at every available gas station (even if your tank is mostly full from the last stop) and always wear your helmet, leathers, and other protective gear. Most of all, if you’re tire, pull off the road and rest. It’s better to be safely off the roadway for a quick nap than to fall asleep behind the handlebars.
Enjoying Your Adventure
Going out on the open road all by yourself leaves you plenty of room for adventure and can build your confidence with your motorcycle as well. If you travel smart and take the right safety precautions, you can remain both same and legal while on the road. When in doubt, ask your local authorities what legal measures you should be concerned about, and always have a map on-hand, just in case. Happy adventures!
