Wear
brightly colored, preferably fluorescent, clothing. Use retro-reflective
materials on clothing and motorcycle,
especially
at night.
Be especially alert at intersections because approximately
70% of motorcycle-vehicle collisions occur there! Watch
for vehicles that may unexpectedly turn in front of you
or pull
out from a side street or driveway. At intersections where
vision is limited by shrubbery, parked vehicles, or buildings,
slow down, make doubly sure of traffic, and be prepared
to react quickly.
Check the rearview mirrors before changing
lanes or stopping. A quick stop without checking rear
traffic may result in
a rear-end crash. When changing lanes, use signals and
make a
visual check to assure that you can change lanes safely.
Watch the road surface and traffic ahead to
anticipate problems and road hazards — potholes,
oil slicks, puddles, debris or other objects on the roadway,
ruts,
uneven pavement, and
railroad tracks. Painted roadway markings and manhole
covers can be extremely slippery when wet. Spot such
hazards from
a distance, slow down before reaching them and make sure
you have enough room before changing direction. Railroad
tracks
should be crossed at an angle as close to 90 degrees
as possible.
Maintain a safe speed consistent with
driving conditions and your capabilities. Gravel on the
road and slippery
road surfaces
can be hazardous. Avoid sudden braking or turning.
When
riding in the rain, get better traction by driving
in the tracks of vehicles in front of you. But avoid
following too closely and riding on painted lines and
metal surfaces
such as manhole covers. If possible, sit out the beginning
of a rain shower. If you’re caught in a sudden
shower while riding, pull off the highway under shelter
(e.g., an
overpass) and wait for the rain to stop. If you must
ride in the rain, remember that it’s most dangerous
during the first few minutes of rainfall because of oil
and
other automobile
droppings on the roadway.
Don't tailgate, and
don't let other drivers tailgate you. Following too closely
behind
another vehicle may make it
difficult for
you to brake suddenly. If another vehicle is following
too closely, wave it off with a hand signal or tap
your brake
pedal. If they continue to follow too closely, change
lanes or pull off the road and let them pass.
Pass only
when it is safe to do so. Do not pass or ride
on the shoulder. Pull over to the left third of
the lane
before
passing and make sure that you are at a safe following
distance. Use turn signals, and avoid crowding the
other vehicle as
you pass. Remember to make a head check before changing
lanes.
Use brakes wisely. Use
both brakes together. Brake firmly and progressively and
bring the motorcycle
upright before
stopping.
After passing through water, look for following
traffic, and when safe to do so check your brakes by applying
light pressure.
Dogs can be a problem
for riders. Don't become distracted and don't kick at a dog. As you
approach a dog, downshift,
when
you reach the dog, accelerate quickly away.
Riders must ride aware, know their limits and
ride within them. They must also be aware of
and understand their motorcycle's limitations and the environment
in which they
ride.
