Words by Allen Brown
Let’s face it, if you’re riding a motorcycle or similar vehicle, you are going to be looked at. It simply comes with the territory (and we have a feeling you knew that). With that being said, it is important to be mindful of how your actions might influence others, like youngsters that are dazzled by the speed and sound of your bike, just like you once were.
Showing off and driving daringly on the road that you share with others is not cool. Not only is reckless driving irresponsible, but it is also downright rude when one is selfishly putting others in danger. Because this type of careless driving has been done by plenty of riders before you, bikes have gained somewhat of a bad rap. With proper actions going forward, this outlook can be changed.
Having worked with countless motorcycle crash victims and their families, Houston motorcycle accident attorney Joe Stevens knows first-hand how tragic these wrecks can be. Mr. Stevens urges motorcyclists to set an example for aspiring motorcycle riders and their critics alike. Not just anyone can handle the wisdom and responsibility of being on a bike, and the rules of doing so should always be respected.
Not sure what we mean? Let’s go through a few often-ignored guidelines on how to be a responsible biker.
Riding in Traffic
When possible, it is really best to take an alternate, back-road route to avoid traffic. This puts a biker at less risk of being overlooked in the mess of rush hour. Of course, that is not always a feasible option, especially for those that use their bike as a main source of transportation.
Be patient. It is easy to get tempted into taking advantage of a motorcycle’s small, convenient size and whip through any open path. On roads with a lot of traffic, you must always go in the same direction as traffic. Use the same attitude toward driving that you would in a regular car. When it comes to being on the road, the more predictable your actions are, the safer you are.
Stay alert and stay visible. When cars turn left, they tend to be more watchful of the middle of the road rather than the sides. Therefore, if traffic is heavy, position yourself as centered as possible. Avoid the blind spots of other drivers and make eye contact with them when possible. If you are riding at night, use your lights and be as reflective as you can.
Motorcycle Turn Signals
Any motorcycle made after 1973 is required to have turn signals. However, they can be less noticeable on a bike, and road safety matters for everyone involved. For extra assurance, it is wise to know and implement traditional hand turn signals. They are as follows:
Turning left: Left-arm points straight and outward to the left side of your body.
Turning right: Left-arm goes out with hand upward, creating a 90-degree angle at the elbow.
Stop: Either arm can technically be used, but the left is the safest. Arm goes out with hand downward, creating a 90-degree angle at the elbow.
There are also other, less-used hand signals such as “slow down”, “speed up”, and several more. Get familiar with these if you plan to ever ride in a group, where they are more likely to be put into action.
Hazardous Road Conditions
Being able to identify what is safe or not for your motorcycle can literally be “life or death”. Do not take the risk if the road does not appear to be adequately smooth and even. Find an alternate route. Objects or rocky surfaces on the road can cause you to lose your balance or control. You may also get a flat tire.
You can signal a “hazard on the road” to fellow bikers, such as potholes or roadkill. If the hazard is on your left side, simply point to the left (toward the object) at a 45-degree angle. If the hazard is on the right, point toward it by using your right foot outward.
Weather is also a huge factor when it comes to road safety. If conditions are slippery, such as in nice or heavy rain, they are not safe to bike in at all.
Motorcycle accidents are steadily on the rise and have doubled within the last decade. Whether the fault for these crashes lies on riders or the other vehicle drivers is irrelevant. It is clear that motorcycle safety and responsible driving need to be put in the forefront. Drivers and bikers alike can improve our statistics by pledging to be more focused, alert, and responsible while sharing the road.