Florida’s laws for helmet requirements and safety gear vary from person to person. While some people don’t have to wear them, it is always best that you wear these safety materials at all times. It will help you securely protect yourself whenever you ride your bike. Florida law states that helmets are required unless the operator is over the age of 21 and they have insurance that provides at least $10,000 in medical benefits.

Florida has the 80% rule – if damages exceed 80% of the value of vehicle then it is a total loss. If it is a total loss, the insurance company owes you the actual cash value (ACV) of the motorcycle, plus sales tax. However, some insurance companies make you wait until you have replaced the vehicle to pay the sales tax.

Here are many ways to secure your motorcycle to prevent theft. The best deterrent is to use more than one security measure. The more a thief has to defeat, the lower potential for success. Here are some easy tips to help keep your bike safe:

• Always keep the ignition locked and handlebars/forks locked
• Secure your motorcycle to a fixed, or anchored object, or another motorcycle
• Park in a secure and well-lit area (if in doubt, don’t park there)
• If your bike is not garaged, keep it covered; non-name brand covers are preferable to prevent advertising the type of bike that lies beneath
• Limit the amount of time your bike is left unattended, or unsupervised
• Vary your routes and routines to prevent being followed
• Use a high quality lock and chain
• Secure the chain through the bike frame versus the wheels which can be easily removed
• Consider adding a motorcycle anti-theft, or security system