10 tips for safe motorcycling in Bermuda

Motorcycles and mopeds are popular ways to get around on our roads, and some of the best views of the island can be seen while on a cycle. Next time you’re planning on hitting the road on your bike, keep these tips in mind for a safe ride:

1. Check the weather forecast before you get on your motorcycle. Island weather can change quickly, so be prepared for sudden rain showers or strong winds that could affect your riding — especially during hurricane season. Rain reduces visibility and makes it more difficult to control your bike, so leave plenty of room between your bike and the vehicle in front of you, and avoid overtaking when visibility is reduced. When winds are high, consider an alternate method of transportation for your trip.
2. Always wear a helmet and keep it fastened while riding — it’s required by law. Look for a helmet that feels a little tight and puts even pressure around your head, without uncomfortable pressure points. It should feel secure when you shake your head. (If you have a passenger, they need a helmet, too.)
3. Wear proper protective gear. In addition to your helmet, a padded jacket, leather clothing, gloves, and non-skid boots can help protect you if you’re involved in a collision or skid. If you’re riding at night, wearing reflective gear will make you more visible to other drivers in the dark. Remember, all cycles are required by law to have working front and rear lighting.
4. Don’t ride under the influence. Operating a vehicle under the influence is an offence. Never ride your motorcycle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
5. Avoid distractions while operating your motorcycle. Distracted driving is a leading cause of collisions. Avoid any activities that require you to take your focus off the road, such as using your phone, eating, drinking, or adjusting your clothing — it’s always safer to carefully pull over or stop in a parking lot. Remember, it is an offence for the operator of any motor vehicle to use a handheld device, such as a mobile phone or entertainment device, while driving.
6. Obey the speed limit. Respect all road users and always obey the island’s speed limits while riding your bike.
7. Use your turn signals. Always signal before turning, changing directions, switching lanes, or using a roundabout. When changing lanes, remember to check your blind spots.
8. Maintain a safe distance between your bike and the vehicle in front of you. You should leave at least two seconds worth of space between you and the vehicle you’re following in good driving conditions, and four seconds in bad conditions. To measure the distance, take note of how many seconds pass between the moment when the vehicle in front of you passes a stationery object (like a signpost) and when you pass the same object — it should be no less than two to four seconds. Keeping the correct following distance ensures you have enough time to react and stop safely if the other vehicle stops suddenly. The faster you’re travelling, the more time you’ll need to react and stop (also known as your stopping time). Other factors that might affect your stopping time are tiredness or distractions, increased weight on your vehicle, poor weather conditions, and poor vehicle maintenance. Always leave enough stopping time between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
9. Watch for blind corners. Since many of our roads are narrow and winding, it’s not always easy to see what’s around the bend. Be careful of oncoming traffic, side roads, and the possibility of stopped traffic, and approach corners with caution.
10. Keep your cycle maintained. Following a consistent maintenance schedule is the best way to make sure you don’t experience any issues that could lead to accidents on the road. It’s also a good idea to perform a visual check before each ride, looking for signs of damage to your bike (including its tires) or potential oil or gas leaks. 

What to do if you get in a motorcycle accident in Bermuda

Sometimes accidents happen, even when you’re a safe driver. If you’re a BF&M customer and you get into a motorcycle accident:

• Call 911 and report the accident to the police right away
• Avoid admitting liability or making an offer to pay the other person involved until we have had a chance to assess your claim
• Get the names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses of any other drivers, pedestrians, or witnesses
• Take pictures and make a detailed diagram to explain the accident while the situation is still fresh in your mind
• Call us at +1 441 295 5566 to report your collision — we're here to help

Protect your motorcycle from theft

In addition to knowing the rules of the road and being a safe driver, it’s important to take some precautions to protect your bike from theft, too. Never leave your keys in your cycle, always park in well-lit and visible areas, install an after-market anti-theft device, and use a secondary lock. Learn more about how to secure your bike and protect it from theft.

Get a quote for motorcycle insurance from BF&M

If you’ve recently purchased a bike or you’re thinking about changing insurance providers, get a quote from BF&M for cycle insurance with comprehensive coverage for accidents, theft, and liability. BF&M offers discounts to motorcyclists who are claims-free or have an alarm system installed on their bikes. Have questions? Contact our customer service team at +1 441 295 5566 today.