June 24, 2009
FLORIDA MOTORCYCLE HELMET LAW QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
What do I need to do to be able to legally ride a motorcycle without a helmet in the state of Florida?
You need to be at least 21 years of age and have at least $10,000.00 worth of medical coverage insurance to be able to operate or ride upon a motorcycle without a helmet.
Where can I buy PIP insurance for my motorcycle?
You can’t. There is no PIP insurance for motorcycles.
Does my PIP insurance on my car meet the insurance requirements for my motorcycle?
NO, you must have $10,000.00 medical payment insurance or some type of healthcare coverage that does not exclude motorcycles with at least $10,000.00 in coverage.
How much does Medical Payment coverage on my motorcycle cost?
The cost of the coverage depends on your driving record.
Do I have to carry liability insurance on my motorcycle?
It is not required but the above companies require you purchase it to get the Medical Payment insurance coverage.
Can I legally wear my novelty helmet?
If you meet the age requirement and have the proper insurance coverage.
Does my health insurance meet the insurance requirements for my motorcycle?
If it does not exclude motorcycles and has at least $10,000.00 in healthcare benefits. If in doubt request a Certificate of Coverage from your insurance company.
My wife is covered under my company’s health insurance, but her name is not on our health insurance card. How does she prove she has insurance?
Carry the top page of your policy that states her name or that it covers family members. If in doubt request a Certificate of Coverage from your insurance company.
Does my VA Benefits meet the insurance requirements for my motorcycle?
Only if you are retired or 100% disabled. Contact your local VA office for confirmation of your coverage.
Does Medicare or Medicaid meet the insurance requirements for my motorcycle?
Yes. If in doubt request a Certificate of Coverage from your insurance company.
Does my passenger have to have his or her own insurance?
Not if your insurance covers both you and the passenger. If it doesn’t then the passenger needs to have his or her own insurance coverage.
If I’m not a resident of Florida, what do I need to ride without a helmet in Florida?
You need to be at least 21 years of age and have at least $10,000.00 worth of medical coverage insurance to be able to operate or ride upon a motorcycle without a helmet.
Will the police stop me for not wearing a helmet?
They have stated that they would not stop someone for just a helmet violation, unless they feel they do not meet the age requirement.
Approved Motorcyclist Helmet List from the Florida Highway Patrol
href=”http://”>http://www.fhp.state.fl.us/html/helmet.html
June 19, 2009
Windshield Safety – What to Watch Out For When Caring For Your Windshield
The windshield over the years has become integral to overall occupant protection. Yet federal regulators don’t monitor windshields — or any other auto part — not installed as original equipment. Windshields are a particular concern.
Some after-market glass shops use lesser quality sealants to hold windshields in place, said Linda Barnett, director of industry development for the National Glass Association in McLean, Va. Many, she said, neglect to emphasize to their customers the importance of time and temperature in assuring the glass bonds correctly.
As a result, the panels often don’t adhere properly and are at greater risk of falling out under the pressure of a crash.
When you have your original windshield replaced, it is crucial to ensure that your new windshield is installed properly.
If your installer is inexperienced or has not had adequate training or has not been qualified as a certified installer from the National Glass Association, you risk life-threatening danger in the event of a vehicle collision or accident.
Your windshield does not only protect you from the rain; the purpose of the windshield on your car is to protect you from being thrown violently out of your vehicle in the case of an accident.
If your car tumbles, you will be kept inside the vehicle, which greatly decreases the severity of injury. It also deflects the airbag so that you will be properly cushioned.
On the other hand, with a poor windshield installation, the force of the airbag will blow the windshield off, which may allow the roof of your car to cave in and thus putting you at a greater risk for head and chest injury.
Critical mistakes by unqualified and irresponsible installers without enough skill and training has led to millions of improper windshield replacements.
Negligence by installers leads to many tragic accidents where lives have been forever negatively impacted as a result of improper windshield replacement.
When choosing an auto glass installation company, make sure that it and its installers are trained and certified. It is your right as the consumer and to ensure your subsequent safety to do so.
Ask the Right Questions
Make sure that your installer wears gloves to prevent human oil from contaminating the adhesives. Also, question your installer if he had made sure to apply a coat of primer before applying Urethane so to gaurantee that your windshield is properly secured onto the vehicular frame.
Cheap adhesives such as butyl tape which are also far too weak should never be used. Cleaning fluid must also be used. Also, never drive away in your vehicle right after the windshield has been reinstalled.
Thus, it is absolutely necessary for you to find a qualified auto glass company with certified and trained installers.
Even if the installation may be expensive, it is definitely worth the investment. You will not only be investing simply in a piece of glass; you will be investing in your safety.
Do not put yourself and others in danger. Be responsible and choose your auto glass company carefully and make certain that your auto glass windshield is properly installed and replaced.
May 22, 2009
UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF TEXTING
According to AAA and Seventeen Magazine 46% of 1000 teenagers polled said they text-message while driving. 51% said they talk on their cell phones while driving.
“Adults with their blackberries also text-message while driving. This is one of the biggest challenges facing drivers today is distractions,” comments spokesperson for AAA. “The next generation of drivers is doing it and do not think twice about the consequences it could cause.”
Almost 70% of American cell phone users send at least one text a day. Texting statistics done by livescience.com show that 2,600 deaths and 330,000 injuries are caused by cell phone distraction in the U.S. everyday. These numbers are probably on the conservative side, as mobile phone usage is on the rise. Five people a day die from cell phone distractions.
Everyone seems to agree, even those in the wireless industry that the buzz of ones PDA or cell phone shouldn’t be answered in the car. But we still check to see who it is and important or not send a response.
Studies show that text-messaging distractions are like being drunk while driving, cutting down attention and ability to react to dangerious situations. Distractions have been around as long as their has been cars. The most common driving distraction is day dreaming,texting or talking on the phone, fixing hair, comforting or disciplining children and eating.
