Motorcycle Driver Safety

Executive Summary by Elizabeth Allen &Rachaelle Lynn

motorcycle safety guide book

In many important ways, operating a motorcycle is not like driving an automobile. So you have to change your way of thinking and your way of driving when you ride your motorcycle. What are some of the basics in motorcycle safety?

Wear bright colored clothing. At night, wear reflective material on helmets, vests/jackets, and even shoes. Remember, you must be seen from the side, not just the back and front.

Stay out of blind spots. Motorcyclists are more at risk in a blind spot than other motorists because their cycles are relatively small compared to trucks and automobiles. Whenever you approach a vehicle you may want to pass, you must make a choice, and quickly too. Do you really want to pass? If so, pass as fast as you reasonably can. If not, drop back, well out of the blind spot. The less time you spend in another driver’s blind spot, the safer you will be.

Keep your headlights on night and day.

Wear a Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 218- compliant helmet every time you ride your bike.

Make training a priority. Even if a license is not required, for safety’s sake, practice extensively in a variety of road and weather conditions.

Watch for vehicles following you too closely. You have the ability of stopping much more quickly than cars. If you stop quickly in front of a vehicle that is following too closely, you could be run over. Drivers may tailgate a moped or scooter because these vehicles often travel at lower speeds than cars. Use a hand or electric signal well ahead of a stop or turn to give drivers behind you time to slow down.

Never carry a passenger unless it is legal and you are comfortable doing so. Passengers change the way you operate your vehicle. If you are inexperienced in transporting a passenger, you may have extra difficulties with balance and control of your vehicle.