QUICK TIPS: General Guidelines For Riding A Motorcycle Safely

 

1. • Remember that motorists often have trouble seeing motorcycles and reacting in time.

   Dress for safety:

    

   • • Wear a quality helmet and eye protection.

     Apply effective mental strategies:

      

     • • Constantly search the road for changing conditions. Use MSF’s Search, Evaluate, Execute strategy (SEESM) to increase time and space safety margins.

       Know your bike and how to use it:

        

        

       • • Get formal training and take refresher courses. RiderCourseSM nearest you.

         Remember: Give yourself space. People driving cars often just don’t see motorcycles. Even when drivers do see you, chances are they’ve never been on a motorcycle and can’t properly judge your speed.

         www.msf-usa.org 10/06

        

        

       • • Call 800.446.9227 or visit www.msf-usa.org to locate the Motorcycle Safety Foundation hands-on

        

        

       • • Practice. Develop your riding techniques before going into heavy traffic. Know how to handle your bike in conditions such as wet or sandy roads, high winds, and uneven surfaces.

        

      

      

     • • Give yourself space and time to respond to other motorists’ actions.

      

      

     • • Give other motorists time and space to respond to you.

      

      

     • • Use lane positioning to be seen; ride in the part of a lane where you are most visible.

      

      

     • • Watch for turning vehicles.

      

      

     • • Signal your next move in advance.

      

      

     • • Avoid weaving between lanes.

      

      

     • • Pretend you’re invisible, and ride extra defensively.

      

      

     • • Don't ride when you are tired or under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.

      

      

     • • Know and follow the rules of the road, and stick to the speed limit.

      

    

    

   • • Wear bright clothing and a light-colored helmet.

    

    

   • • Wear leather or other thick, protective clothing.

    

    

   • • Choose long sleeves and pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves.

    

    

   • • Remember – the only thing between you and the road is your protective gear.

    

 

 

2. • Make sure your headlight works and is on day and night.

 

 

3. • Use reflective strips or decals on your clothing and on your motorcycle.

 

 

4. • Be aware of the blind spots cars and trucks have.

 

 

5. • Flash your brake light when you are slowing down and before stopping.

 

 

6. • If a motorist doesn’t see you, don’t be afraid to use your horn.

 

Motorcycle Safety Foundation