Must-Follow Tips on Having Your Motocycle Towed

by Kevin Smith Author

Getting into an accident or having your motorcycle break down is almost inevitable. Stuff breaks no matter how well maintained you keep your bike and when that happens you will have a few choices to make. If you are in need of an Oakland motorcycle towing service, make sure you take the following advice.

Beware Storage Fees

Most people do not realize that a towing company can charge you for the tow of your motorcycle (or vehicle) and start levying storage fees almost immediately. The storage fees are usually charged daily and count over the weekend, even if the company holding the bike are not open for business. The longer you let your bike sit there, the more expensive the overall bill and that can add up to a lot very quickly. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself.

Get AAA

AAA is inexpensive and in most cases, will cover motorcycles. Membership allows you to quickly arrange for towing of your motorcycle to the destination of your choice. The police will call towing services they normally work with, who may have the types of fees mentioned above. By being a member of AAA, you generally can dictate where you want the bike towed.

Determine in Advance Who Tows the Bike

This seems kind of simple, but if you are going on a trip, you should take the time to figure out towing options before you start. This is especially true if the trip is a long one or if you are going to a place you are unfamiliar with. Online motorcycle forums can provide you with some suggestions usually as can contacting a motorcycle dealer in the area you will be visiting.

Insurance

Depending on where you live, you will have options regarding the type of insurance policy you get for your bike. Collision, often called “full coverage” will pay for the cost of towing regardless of who was responsible for the breakdown or accident. The collision is more expensive, but it also removes a huge headache off your shoulders if you run into trouble.

Tow to a Dealer

If all else, fails, specify if you can that you want to be towed to a dealer. This will avoid your bike going to a tow yard and will allow a qualified professional to immediately start assessing what needs to be done. That, in turn, should reduce the number of days you have to go without your bike.

Having a breakdown or getting into an accident is a real risk when riding a motorcycle. If that happens and you need an Oakland motorcycle towing service, follow these tips to minimize at least the pain you feel from the towing experience.