Return to article: How to Avoid an Accident on a Motorcycle
on 11/22/2005 When cornering, don't look down at the road surface in front of you! Look at where you want to go, not where you are! Never commit yourself to powering through a bend until you can see the exit.
on 11/22/2005 I never ride without full protection, even when it's scorching hot. To stay cool, at every stop, I drench my T-shirt with water before putting that jacket back on. Ya might get some funny looks, but it sure feels good.
on 11/22/2005 When riding long distances, pace yourself and stop frequently to hydrate. It doesn't have to be 90 degrees to become dehydrated on a bike either. If you become light-headed all of a sudden, stop immediately and drink plenty of water.
on 11/22/2005 When coming to an intersection especially at night, your section may be green and ready to go, but look before you move because the other section might rush through a red light. When you move off too fast, you may hit head on with the other vehicle.
on 11/22/2005 Whenever traveling near or around traffic, distance is your best safety. There is no substitute for added reaction time in the event of an emergency requiring evasive action.
on 11/22/2005 When stopping for a red light, always position your motorcycle slightly to the left or right of the vehicle in front of you and stay a safe distance away. Never center yourself in the lane. This will enable you to react if a vehicle comes from behind.
on 11/22/2005 When riding past an onramp on the highway in the right lane, position yourself to the right side of the lane. It is easier for vehicles entering on the highway to see you.
on 11/22/2005 Accident statistics show the majority of motorcycle accidents occur: at intersections, during passing, or when other vehicles are passing motorcycles. Be alert and ready to react, and always execute a headcheck (not just mirror check) before passing.
on 11/22/2005 Statistics indicate that a large number of motorcycle fatalities involve riders who have been drinking. Riding requires good vision, balance, coordination, and (especially) judgement - all impaired by alcohol.
on 11/22/2005 Research shows that a large number of accidents involve motorcyclists who do not know how to brake rapidly/properly. Learn proper technique and practice rapid & controlled stops in a safe area once a week.
on 11/22/2005 When lane splitting, be aware of open spaces between cars. Many times other cars will change lanes quickly to fill them.
on 11/22/2005 The number-one threat from cars is a car turning left in front of an oncoming motorcycle. So while riding and an oncoming car is stopped at an intersection, presume he doesn't see you and is turning left.
on 11/22/2005 Bald tires on turns may prove fatal.
on 11/22/2005 Learn what your bike will do in limited traction situations. Street bikes are firmly connected to the ground by their tires MOST of the time. When they are not, as in an emergency, the bike behaves differently, but still can be controlled.
on 11/22/2005 Scan constantly, keep your eyes moving, don't focus on anything for any length of time. Situation awareness is the name of the game in staying alive on a bike.
Copyright © 1999-2008 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Partner Sites
