How to Increase Visibility on a Motorcycle

In order to maximize personal safety on a motorcycle it is important to maximize visibility. Motorists often find it difficult to see motorcycles for a variety of reasons. Motorcycles are relatively small and are easily obscured by larger vehicles. In addition, drivers are more accustomed to seeing cars and trucks on the roads and, therefore, tend to overlook motorcycles, even when they are in the driver's field of vision. Motorcyclists also have a tendency to surprise other motorists with driving habits that can cause a motorcycle to appear with minimal notice. Prudent motorcyclists take care to maximize visibility and safety on the road.

Instructions

1. Ensure that the motorcycle's headlight beam is properly set and functioning at all times during operation.

2. Wear a brightly colored jacket, such as red or orange, during daytime operation. Wear a white colored and/or reflective jacket during night travel.

3. Avoid driving the motorcycle in other vehicle's blind spots. When in an adjacent lane of travel, avoid the area from the rear passenger door to roughly 20 feet behind a neighboring vehicle.

4. Maintain safe distances from vehicles that you follow. Not only does tailgating increase the risk of rear-end collisions, it also impedes the ability of other drivers to see you.

5. Watch for, and anticipate, other vehicles, particularly on multi-lane roads. Realize that oncoming drivers, depending on the relative positioning of other vehicles, might be unable to see you even though you can see them.

6. Consider placing small flags or pennants on the rear of the cycle. These enhance visibility.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid sudden lane changes. These maneuvers surprise, and many times annoy, other motorists.

• Avoid quick, jack rabbit accelerations. An extremely fast acceleration only minimizes the opportunity for other motorists to see you approaching.