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Ride defensively -

Ride defensively and confidently, and anticipate what other road users are going to do. Be prepared to react appropriately.

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Ride within your skill level -

Most of us don't have the skills to tap into the full power of our bikes. Proficiency and muscle memory take practice to develop.

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Ride smoothly -

You can react quicker than any other vehicle out there, but that doesn't mean you have to make moves that startle others.

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Ride within the speed limit -

This might sound obvious, but speeding is one of the biggest factors in fatal collisions involving motorcyclists. Ride within the speed limit.

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Keep a safe distance -

Follow other vehicles at a safe distance. Motorcycles require less stopping distance than other vehicles, but you should still allow enough distance in front of you for the vehicle behind you to stop.

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Adapt to the weather -

Slow down in poor weather conditions. The dangers of wet or icy roads multiply when you're on two wheels.

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Ride sober -

This goes without saying. Never ride your motorcycle while you're under the influence.

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Always scan your environment -

Conduct traffic checks by scanning your environment while waiting at an intersection or traffic light. Proceed only when it’s safe.

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Watch for road hazards -

Sand, oil, and gravel can make you lose traction. Bumps and potholes are also dangerous, so do avoid them.

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Intercoms -

Use intercoms only as needed and keep your chatting to only when it's necessary.

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Keep audio to a minimum -

That includes listening to music and/or chatting with friends or your passenger on your intercom. These can all be distracting as you ride.

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Always wear a helmet -

Wearing a motorcycle helmet is crucial. They're effective in preventing deaths, and they also reduce the risk of head injury by 69%.

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Make yourself visible -

Stay seen with high-visibility reflective gear, especially on your upper body, where it’s more likely to catch the attention of drivers.

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Wear appropriate gear -

Heat and cold impair judgment and your ability to react. Dress for the ride and the weather, and be prepared to adapt to changing conditions.

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Make sure the gear is well-fitting -

It’s better for gear to be snug rather than flapping in the breeze. In the case of a mishap, snug-fitting gear protects you better from injuries and holds armor in place.

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Carry a first-aid kit -

Make sure to include disinfecting wipes, bandages, hand sanitizer, gauze, adhesive tape, and band-aids.

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Take a safety course -

Driving a motorcycle requires skill and good judgment, and a safety course can help you practice these.

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Check the blind spots -

Always check the blind spots before moving away, when coming to a stop, and before making a lane change.

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Brake light -

Brake lightly when decelerating, so that your brake lights turn on, alerting other drivers to your change in speed.

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Avoid surprising other road users -

Never do anything on the road that could cause others to slow down, brake, swerve, or that could startle pedestrians.

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Choose your riding partners wisely -

Riding as part of a group carries its own responsibilities. It’s wise to build experience before riding with others.

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Peer pressure -

Don’t give in to peer pressure to ride beyond your skill or comfort level.

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Be courteous to other drivers -

When they see you driving responsibly, they’re more likely to do the same.

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Keep your cool -

Getting angry and being pulled into a confrontation with another driver doesn't help the situation.

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Make sure two isn't a crowd -

Make sure you're comfortable with a passenger, and also that they know how to do their part to make sure the ride stays safe.

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Maintain your motorcycle -

Keep your motorcycle well-maintained. A breakdown while riding can lead to a crash.

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Check your tires -

Check your tires before you ride for sufficient pressure, adequate tread, and any irregularities or embedded objects.

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Further checks -

Check brake lights, turn signals, and headlights regularly to make sure they're all working.

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Take an advanced riding course -

Increase your skills by taking an advanced riding course. You'll learn collision avoidance maneuvers, advanced turning, and control tips. 

Sources: (Road Safety Authority) (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)

See also: Important traffic safety tips for all

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