How to Ride a Motorcycle Safely

In many states, helmets are mandatory when riding a motorcycle.

Motorcycles fatalities account for 11 percent of all vehicle-related fatalities in the United States. Deaths in single-vehicle accidents -- a motorcyclist alone -- account for 45 percent of that figure. Collisions between motorcycles and other vehicles can also lead to serious injury. Motorcyclists must possess sufficient skills, equipment and awareness to survive the thrill they gain from riding. Formal instruction will allow you to ride safely.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Safety equipment

1. Get a helmet. Consider only appropriately certified models from reputable manufacturers. There are at least four agencies that certify the effectiveness of helmets, two among them being the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Snell Foundation. Wearing a helmet will reduce your chances of a serious head injury during an accident. Also make sure you have proper eye protection.

2. Get more safety apparel. Smart motorcyclists always begin any ride by putting on their gear, such as a heavy jacket designed for motorcycle use, motorcycle gloves, heavy trousers made of thick denim or leather and a stout pair of boots.

3. Go to a motorcycle safety school. You'll be taught commonsense strategies for survival in the concrete jungle. One acronym in particular -- SIPDE or sip-dee -- can be helpful. It stands for scan, identify, predict, decide and execute. This helps you keep an eye on potential threats on the road and encourages you to formulate ways to escape potential dangers.

4. Pass the proper course in your state and get your motorcycle license. Keep your evasive-maneuvering skills sharp by practicing emergency stops, riding progressively tighter figure-eights and controlling your machine at slow speeds.

5. Maintain your motorcycle, paying particular attention to lights, tires and periodic oil and filter changes. Inspect the drivetrain and bring it in for servicing regularly.

6. Ride safe. Obey all the rules of the road and don't exceed speed limits. Avoid lane splitting, especially at higher speeds. Be a defensive driver and ride on one side of the lane you're in rather than the middle. Always assume other drivers will have difficulty seeing you.

Tips & Warnings

• Helmets save lives.

• Safety equipment is only useless when it isn't used.

• Motorcycles and wet roads don't mix.

• Never drink and ride.

References

• California Department of Motor Vehicles: 2011 California Motorcycle Handbook
• Network of Employers for Traffic Safety: Motorcycle Related Injuries and Fatalities

Resources

• The Motorcycle Safety Foundation