Springtime brings an influx of motorcycle riders into south Florida. Some come from around the state, but many are from northern states eager to get a jump start on the season.
Lots of bikes means that there will be quite a few riders looking to give female passengers rides along the beach roads and beyond. If you are considering climbing aboard, there are some things that you should understand first.
A tanned, bikini-clad lady looks lovely on the back of a motorcycle, but riding like that is neither smart nor safe. Consider the damage to delicate skin and soft tissue that could occur in even a low-speed collision if all that is between you and a serious case of road rash is a few wisps of fabric.
If you want to ride on a motorcycle, first make sure that the rider provides you with a helmet. You also should ideally be wearing special riding gear or leathers, and at minimum, be dressed in sturdy denim with long sleeves. Footwear should either be boots covering the ankles or leather shoes that enclose the toes.
Motorcyclists often only carry the minimum insurance coverage for themselves; never assume that as a passenger you will be covered under their policy if they cause a wreck. If another driver causes an accident, motorcycle passengers can file claims for damages from the at-fault driver’s insurance company for injuries and damages stemming from the accident.
Should the insurance company balk at paying out a claim, it might be necessary to take it to the next level and file a lawsuit in the Florida civil courts.
Source: Motorcycle Cruiser, “How to Be a Motorcycle Passenger,” Art Friedman, accessed March 23, 2016
