First things first…

by Bill Kingsley

… keep Zooming. it is working well. All ABATE of Wisconsin insurance coverage is completely up to date. Yippee! I can ride my motorcycle more!

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 (or a similar program) already to stay connected with family, friends, or other organizations. ZOOM has great potential for ABATE. ZOOM 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 –There should not be any additional insurance needs for remainder of the year and early 2022 –unless a special event is to occur. 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 insurance. Hopefully, your insurance is already in full force. Maybe you’ll find a nugget or two of goodness in here to keep yourself properly insured.

Three Questions to Ask Before Buying Motorcycle Insurance: Whether you’re new to motorcycles or a veteran rider searching for discounts, you likely have questions about motorcycle insurance. Well, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we provide answers to three questions all riders, regardless of experience level, should ask before buying motorcycle insurance.

1.) What kind of motorcycle insurance do I need? As you’ve likely learned through your research, there are a variety of insurance coverage options available. While liability insurance is fairly standard for motorcycle insurance, and is required in most states, below lists coverage you may want to consider. Collision, Comprehensive, Physical damage plus, Optional/special equipment, Replacement cost, Medical expense, Guest passenger, Underinsured and Uninsured protection and Roadside assistance. It’s important to note that each state has its own insurance requirements, so make sure to research what’s required where you live before purchasing a motorcycle insurance policy. Florida and New Hampshire are the only states that don’t require motorcycle owners to carry motorcycle liability insurance. But even if your state doesn’t require insurance, I believe it’s in your best interest to purchase a policy to protect yourself and those around you—and potentially save money on damage or injury costs, should you have them.

2.) How much is motorcycle insurance? The cost of motorcycle insurance can vary depending on the coverage options you need and want. Similar to auto insurance, there are many factors to take into account, such as where you live, the type of bike you own, your driving record, and your payment history. Customizing your coverage plan is a good way to help save money on your policy. There are also several things you can do to find money-saving deals. For example, did you know completing a motorcycle safety course can earn you a discount on your insurance costs? Below are other discounts that may be available.

• Multi-cycle: For riders who own more than one motorcycle.
• Home ownership: For riders who have homeowners’ insurance for a house, condo, townhouse, mobile               home, or modular home
• Harley Owners Group® (H.O.G.®) or rider group member: For riders who are H.O.G. members or part a riding group.
• Transfer: For riders who make the switch from another insurance carrier.
• Loyalty: For long-term customers who’ve been with their provider for a long period of time.

Think about how your lifestyle could end up saving you money on your policy. And before you make           your decision on a motorcycle insurance carrier, compare rates across companies to ensure you get the right      coverage at the lowest price for your bike.

3.) What information do I need to insure my motorcycle? So, you’re ready to pull the trigger on motorcycle

insurance. While your provider will let you know exactly what information you should have ready, start with:

• The make, model, and year of your bike
• The names of the riders you want on the plan.
• Your current coverages and limits, if you’re currently insured.
• Your date of birth and address

Choosing the right insurance is one of the most important decisions you can make as a motorcycle rider—and that begins with asking the right questions. If you have motorcycle insurance questions you can reach Jim at 414-540-9101 / jim@barandshieldinsurance.com/ www.barandshieldinsurance.com.

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 Member’s 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 listing 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