7 PLACES A MOTORCYCLIST SHOULD BE CAUTIOUS IN TRAFFIC

• BLIND SPOTS

If you find yourself riding in the blind spot of the vehicle in front of you move quickly and safely out of it.  This might include moving up next to the driver so they can see that you are there or if that is not possible, pulling back far enough so in case the vehicle changes lanes towards you there is enough room to do so.

• THE CENTER OF THE LANE WHEN STOPPED

If you stop in the center of your lane behind traffic, other drivers might not see you sitting or eventually moving there.  Stop to the left rear of the vehicle in front of you with enough room between you and the vehicle in front of you for an escape route should a approaching vehicle from behind fails to stop.

• PASSING WITHOUT DUE CAUTION ON COUNTRY ROADS

Don’t be in a hurry to go around a vehicle in front of you that is slowing to turn right.  Traveling in the opposite lane to pass the vehicle might not be a safe move.

• BEING THE FIRST ACROSS THE INTERSECTION

Motorcycle can usually take off from a stop at a traffic light faster than most cars.  Don’t be in such a hurry.  You might be the first one to get hit by a vehicle running their red light from your side.

• PASSING ON MOUNTAIN ROADS

Hills, blind curves, bushes and hidden side roads make passing on mountain roads double dangerous.  Think of all the bad possibilities before you make your move.

• BAD LANE POSITIONING

Ride most of the time in the left portion of your lane.  This gives you the best vantage point to see around the vehicle in front of you and allows oncoming traffic a better chance of seeing you behind another vehicle.  If you are being passed move over to the right and let the passing vehicle go by.  Remember if the passing vehicle driver misjudged the distance of an approaching vehicle, and it come down to whether the passing vehicle has a head-on or taking you out, your gone.

• WHERE CARS TEND TO MAKE BLIND TURNS

In stopped traffic drivers will often leave an opening for cars to pull out of side roads or driveways.  Be cautious of open gaps in traffic as you approach anticipating that a vehicle might emerge.

These were just some safety tips to think about to help keep you safe.  80% of riding a motorcycle safely is eyes and mind and only 20% is hands and feet.

Ride safe,

Dominick