It is almost impossible to be too careful when out on the road. Motorcyclists suffer life-altering injuries when they crash or are struck by other motor vehicles, so the ideal situation is to avoid an accident in the first place. Defensive driving skills are at a premium for all drivers, even those with decades of experience while riding on two wheels. Below, a Marietta motorcycle accident lawyer reviews whether it is time to take a safety course. It is never too late to improve your handling skills. You might even save money in the long run.
Safety Courses: Not Only for Beginners
Safety courses often combine a classroom experience, typically offered online nowadays, with time out on the road. You should search for one that is targeted to your experience and needs.
Basic Rider Course
New motorcyclists can derive considerable benefit from a course as they learn basic information regarding:
- Traffic laws
- Balancing
- Turning
- Braking
- Safety gear
- The appropriate motorcycle
Some courses will even provide a motorcycle for a participant to use, so a basic course is a nice way for someone curious about motorcycling to decide whether this is a hobby they wish to pursue without having to borrow a motorcycle.
Intermediate Rider Courses
A course designed for intermediate riders can build on what motorcyclists learned in the basic course or what they have experienced out on the road. These courses cover more complicated maneuvers, while giving riders a chance to strengthen their skills and increase confidence. Before registering, take a look at the materials covered. Some intermediate courses are too easy for a rider with a little experience.
Advanced Rider Courses
Have you been riding for several years already? Look for Advanced Rider Courses in your area. You can learn advanced techniques related to:
- Improved awareness
- Increased appreciation of risk
- Emergency braking
- Swerving
- Advanced cornering
An advanced course is an excellent way to connect with a group of experienced riders, especially if you are new to the area and looking for a new group to join. As with basic courses, advanced courses should have a classroom component as well as ample time out on the road to practice techniques.
Specialized Courses
Experienced riders will certainly benefit from specialized courses, which might cover off-road riding, touring, or racing. A specialized course is a great asset and can increase your confidence while broadening your experience on a motorcycle.
Many experienced riders pursue specialized courses to keep riding fresh. After a while, you might fall into a rut of riding your motorcycle the same, year after year. A course can give you the confidence to take a motorcycle off the road or to even participate in a race.
Key Considerations Before Signing Up for a Course
A main concern for riders is whether the cost of the course is worth it. When a driver has no experience, the answer is usually “yes.” But more seasoned riders might balk at paying any money. After all, they know how to ride a bike. Why should they pay for someone else to teach them something that they already know?
However, there is a benefit to taking a course if it lowers your accident risk. Motorcycle wrecks can easily cost more than $10,000 in financial losses when you add up medical bills, bike repairs, and lost work opportunities. More serious accidents can increase the cost into six figures. A course might only cost a couple thousand dollars, which represents a large savings.
Certainly, if you were not at fault for your crash, you can seek compensation for the responsible driver. But the at-fault motorist might lack insurance or not have enough. It is a great idea to do anything which reduces the risk of a crash.
Riders might also get a discount with their insurance if they take a course, making this an even more affordable hobby. You should check with your insurance provider and shop around if your current insurer declines to cut the premiums.
Injured in a Motorcycle Accident in Georgia? Contact Our Office
Despite their best efforts, even the most careful motorcyclists can end up in the hospital with injuries. There is no way to control what other drivers do, and too many Georgia drivers are distracted, careless, or intoxicated. Call Lawbike Motorcycle Injury Lawyers for assistance with your case. Filing an injury claim is one way to obtain compensation. It also forces accountability on dangerous and careless drivers. You deserve a lawyer who has detailed knowledge of motorcycle accident claims to represent you from the start.