First things first…

by Bill Kingsley

… keep Zooming. it is working well.

ZOOM Video & Chat Webcasting – This is a great low cost, easy to use software program that will allow virtually any of us to attend any ABATE of WI meeting using our mobile or computing devices. Many of you may already be using it already (or a similar program) to stay connected with family, friends, or other organizations.

ZOOM has great potential for ABATE. It can be used for smaller meetings (regional, committee, remote locations) to larger statewide meetings and events. Some of the benefits are; more member inclusion, no limits on any meeting you choose to attend, regional meetings can either be in-person, virtual or both, full interaction, the list is endless… Think about the possibility of attending the monthly BOD meeting from the comfort of your home or get with other ABATE Brothers and Sisters to tune in together.

Regional Reps and District Directors are asked to start incorporating these ZOOM meeting into their regular meeting formats. We are going to start by crawling with Zoom before we try walk and run. Please check it out and stay open minded to how we can all benefit by using ZOOM. Please contact your ABATE rep or me for assistance.
Regional Reps – Please be sure to plan for your appropriate raffle/event licensing. Also, please be aware that an Incident Report will need to be complete in the event of an injury or damage to property at an ABATE event in your region. Consult your Red Book for the form and details that need to be included. Please reach out to me for any questions on this.

Insurance – I am working on the Summer Hummer insurance policies. These are pretty straight forward. It should be renewed by time you read this article.

Here is a previously published newsletter article from Jim Moeckler. Jim is an ABATE member and is our former Business Agent. Jim was good enough to share this timely article on motorcycle insure. Hopefully, you find a nugget or two of goodness in here and keep yourself properly insured.
“Even as an experienced rider, you may not know everything about motorcycle insurance coverage. So, let’s fill in the gaps. Here are 5 things you may not know about motorcycle insurance but are helpful to keep in mind when evaluating your insurance policy options.
1. Motorcycle Insurance Can Cover More Than Just Motorcycles
Did you know through motorcycle insurance you can cover your moped or scooter? Typically, whatever coverage is offered for a motorcycle insurance plan can be applied to your moped or scooter. Most states require mopeds and scooters to have some form of insurance and getting covered through your motorcycle insurance policy is one option available.
2. Motorcycle Insurance Can Cover Your Gear, Too
When you get in an accident, often your bike isn’t the only thing that’s damaged. Sometimes your motorcycle helmet, gear, or special equipment is damaged, too, and it can be expensive to replace those items. So, most motorcycle insurance policies offer optional/special equipment coverage.
The replacement cost that each insurance company will cover varies, but typically the coverage is the difference between the optional equipment’s value and the standard equipment it replaces.
3. There Are Money-Saving Discounts Available
No matter what insurance coverage you opt-for, it should always be affordable. So, motorcycle insurance plans typically offer a variety of discounts. Some examples of motorcycle insurance discounts include: Multi-cycle, Home ownership, Harley Owners Group® (H.O.G.®) member, Rider group, Rider safety course, Transfer and Loyalty. Make sure to discuss available discounts with an insurance agent when you’re researching what insurance plan is best for you.
4. Roadside Assistance Can Be Covered by Your Insurance Company
Some riders may not know that many motorcycle insurance plans offer a roadside assistance coverage option for when you’re on the open road and your bike unexpectedly breaks down. Incidents of dead battery, empty gas tank, lost key, flat tire, low oil, fluids, or water are typically covered. And if you need a tow to the nearest service station, roadside assistance can help with that, too!
5. If You Own A Motorcycle, Insurance Is Required In 48 States
Insurance and helmet laws vary across the United States. Florida and New Hampshire are the only states that don’t require motorcycle owners to carry motorcycle liability insurance. In fact, you won’t be able to register your bike unless you can show proof of insurance. There are different insurance requirements for every state, so make sure to research what’s required where you live before you purchase a motorcycle insurance policy.
And if you live in a state that doesn’t require insurance, it’s still best to purchase a policy. If you decide not to, you could be setting yourself up for some big out-of-pocket costs down the road.”
If you have motorcycle insurance questions you can reach Jim at 414-540-9101 / jim@barandshieldinsurance.com / www.barandshieldinsurance.com

As I become acclimated to this new role and its responsibilities, I will be posting pertinent information in my newsletters for the members (at all levels of participation) to use and become more knowledgeable of the behind-the-scenes details. Sometimes there may not be much news to report, however, I will try to find something timely and of interest. Contact me if you have a topic you would like to see covered.

We are always looking to reduce our costs and spend our Members money wiser while maintaining necessary insurance and licensing coverage while serving our Membership. Suggestions are always welcome!
Should you have any questions regarding Insurance or Licensing (Raffles, fundraiser, etc.) please contact me. My info is listed towards the end of this newsletter. I may not have the answer, but I will get you the answer.

See you at the next Big One!

Bill