While teenagers in Iowa and around the country may be allowed to ride a motorcycle, the choice to do so doesn’t come without risk. The fatality rate while riding a motorcycle is 35 times greater than driving in an automobile. Furthermore, teen riders have 5.7 times more collision claims than riders between the ages of 35 and 60. This is partially because they prefer to ride bikes that may be harder to learn how to control.
No matter what type of bike a teen decides to ride, he or she can benefit from a motorcycle safety course. Roughly 90 percent of riders who got into an accident did not receive training prior to it occurring. In addition to staying safe, motorcycle insurance companies may offer a discount for taking such a course. When a person is riding a motorcycle, it is important to wear a helmet as well as clothing that covers the arms and legs.
As a new rider, the focus should be on safety. This means that a teen rider should choose a bike that is relatively easy to control. Furthermore, it may make sense to refrain from having passengers on the bike or driving faster than the posted speed limit. Overall, 35 percent of fatal crashes are because of excessive speed.
Victims of a motorcycle collision may be entitled to compensation or other relief from the person who caused the crash. Compensation may be available to help a victim recover lost wages and pay medical bills. A personal injury attorney could attempt to negotiate a settlement with the at-fault driver’s insurer.