Wherever you ride your motorcycle, you recognize that it might face damage risks if a wreck occurs. Those risks might also be present in any parking space you use in public. However, while you might not think about it, even when you leave your bike in your own driveway, it could face risks of damage or theft. That's why many insurers take your location into account when determining your motorcycle insurance premiums. With this in mind, what can you do to protect your bike in your driveway?
You probably know your residence and neighborhood better than anyone else. Therefore, you will know the unique ways you can protect your bike against the hazards that might pop up at any time. Often, it doesn't cost much to take some of these practical steps.
1. Keep The Bike Covered
It goes without saying that if you have a garage or carport, you should place the bike inside. Not only will this keep the bike safe from the elements, it can also help keep it out of sight from potential thieves and vandals.
If you don't have one of these structures, consider investing in a bike cover. This cover often can protect the leather, gauges and mechanics of the bike from damage. It can also act as a bit of camouflage to keep the bike shielded from passers-by.
2. Use Security Steps
You should use as many security steps in your driveway as you would in any parking lot or unfamiliar setting. These might include:
- Chaining the bike to a structure on the property (some people even take their bikes into the house or onto the porch)
- Arming the bike's security systems
- Never leaving personal items in the bike's storage bins
- Parking the bike out of sight, such as behind a bush or close to the home
- Installing a security camera to look onto your driveway
- Keeping a motion-activated light near your driveway
Don't forget to be careful where you park the bike. If you can park it close to the home or out of sight of the public, this might reduce your risks of theft. Also be careful when parking under trees, as falling branches might damage the bike.
3. Have Your Paperwork
If you ever face damage to your bike in your driveway, you'll likely have to turn to a particular part of your motorcycle insurance to compensate you.
Comprehensive coverage applies to bike damage that results from accidents like theft or weather damage. If the bike is simply parked in your driveway when a problem occurs, this is the coverage that will apply. Keep in mind, however, that on most policies, comprehensive coverage is optional, so you'll need to add it to your policy.
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