By Dr. Donald L. Green, 28 October 2014
There isn’t a whole lot of information that specifically concentrates on defensive riding but many of the things taught in MSF courses – when practiced – can help to develop judgment that will allow riders to anticipate what may happen. Time in the saddle helps, but nothing replaces sound judgment and self awareness. Here are a few things to think about:
Knowing when crashes involving motorcycles are most likely to occur can help you ride safely (defensively) in dangerous situations:
Left Turns – The most common crash between cars and motorcycles is at an intersection when the automobile driver is making a left turn in front of a motorcycle.
Blind Spots – Motorcycles riding alongside a lane of cars are often out of view of the driver. An unsuspecting driver may collide with a motorcycle as the driver tries to change lanes.
Hazardous Road Conditions – Motorcycles have to be very concerned about road obstructions such as potholes and fallen tree limbs. Railroad tracks may be a minor problem for drivers, but a motorcyclist may have to slow down or change lanes to avoid these obstacles.
Weather Conditions – When the road surface is wet or icy, motorcycle braking and handling abilities acan be decreased or impaired.
Strong Winds – A strong gust of wind can move a motorcycle across an entire lane if the rider isn’t prepared for it. Wind gusts from large trucks passing in the other lane can be just as hazardous.
Large Vehicles – A large vehicle such as a van, bus, or truck can block a motorcycle from a driver’s view. The motorcycle may seem to suddenly appear out of nowhere to other drivers.
As a motorcyclist, look out for other vehicle actions and anticipate their movements, signal your intentions, and allow plenty of space around you and others. This can be done by scanning the road and your mirrors to identify potential hazards. Anticipate the actions of others and adjust your driving technique. Use your horn; it is sometimes difficult for other vehicles to hear traffic and they may not hear you otherwise. Ultimately have respect for full-sized vehicles that can make for a bad day on two or three wheels.
Originally Published on October 28, 2014 on Linked In
