Road safety tips for motorcyclist-
In today’s busy world where everyone seems to be in a hurry to reach somewhere, we forget some of the most important things while driving on the road.I myself travel about 30 kms daily on my TVS Apache 160 RTR to reach my office. On my way I come across almost all possible driving/road conditions, empty road, roads with moderate traffic, roads where there are major pedestrian crossing and finally roads where I have to cut across the traffic in-order to get ahead of the cars and other heavy duty vehicles. Here are some basic rules/tactics for surviving the road and traffic conditions as a motorcyclist;
1. Watch your surroundings. This means watching:
– into the far, middle and near distance, and
– behind you, using your mirrors and checking over your shoulders, before changing position or turning.
2. Keep sufficient distance between you and the vehicle ahead.
3. Be seen. Make sure your position is correct. Use dipped headlights and wear high visibility clothing (such as a neon vest and “Sam Browne” reflective belt).
4. Do not surprise others. Never do anything on the road that could cause another road user to slow down, brake or swerve or that could startle (feel sudden shock) pedestrians.
5. Think like other road users. Anticipate how other road users might react.
6. Read the road. In other words, ride to current road, weather and traffic conditions.
7. Adopt the right speed for the conditions. Never let others dictate your pace.
8. Never ride your bike after consuming alcohol or drugs.
9. Trust your machine by maintaining it properly. Follow the acronym POWDERS and check Petrol, Oil, Water, Damage, Electrics, Rubber (tyres) and Security.
10. Take lessons from an experienced instructor. Practice and treat every ride as a chance to improve your skills.
Avoid driving too slowly –
In normal road and traffic conditions, keep up with the pace of the traffic flow, while obeying the speed limit. While you must keep a safe distance away from the vehicle in front, you should not drive to slowly that your vehicle unnecessarily blocks other road users. If you drive too slowly, you risk frustrating other drivers, which could lead to dangerous overtaking.
Hope you find this article helpful. Do comment below?
Check out more pictures below the jump.
Also see – Steps to take after a Car Accident
With regards,
Yusuf
