 | Kevin Helt has been racing in all forms of motorsports, building and maintaining his race equipment since 1984. He has worked in the aircraft field for about 12 years in Quality Assurance before going to work for Nmotion Race Technology in early 2004 as a dyno technition and engine builder. In 2005 Kevin became an owner and took over the parts manager position where he made many contact in the motorcycle and atv industry which has proven to be very beneficial to Nmotion. Kevin is experienced in most of the day to day operations at Nmotion where he has taken an active role in managing Nmotion. |
Motorcycles
2008-04-01 12:10:00
Riding safer during the summer months
Answer: Spring is here, and with gas prices continuing to rise, there will probably be record number of motorcycles riding on our streets and highways this year. So we all need to be safe and watch out for each other.
Please remember that the number one cause of motorcycle accidents is that the motorist operating the car did not see the motorcyclist. So stay out of other motorists’ blind spots. Motorcyclists always need to assume they’re invisible to everyone else. A good rule of thumb is to look at the car’s mirror; if you can’t see the driver, he can’t see you either.
Another way to stay more visible is to refrain from weaving in and out of traffic, since drivers cannot predict where you’re going to be next and might even get nervous and swerve into you. Plus this can be considered aggressive driving, and we all know where that can lead too.
Look through the back windows and windshields of cars in front of you, and double-check the passing lane before you pass. Pass only in instances where it’s legal and safe. Remember that “white lining it,” or passing other motorists in their own lanes, is not recommended for beginning riders, and California is the only state where this is even legal.
To summarize
Be visible:
• Remember that motorists often have trouble seeing motorcycles and reacting in time.
• Make sure your headlight works and is on day and night.
• Use reflective strips or decals on your clothing and on your motorcycle.
• Be aware of the blind spots cars and trucks have.
• Flash your brake light when you are slowing down and before stopping.
• If a motorist doesn’t see you, don’t be afraid to use your horn.
Dress for safety:
• Wear a quality helmet and eye protection.
• Wear bright clothing and a light-colored helmet.
• Wear leather or other thick, protective clothing.
• Choose long sleeves and pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves.
• Remember – the only thing between you and the road is your protective gear.
Apply effective mental strategies:
• Give yourself space and time to respond to other motorists’ actions.
• Give other motorists time and space to respond to you.
• Use lane positioning to be seen; ride in the part of a lane where you are most visible.
• Watch for turning vehicles.
• Signal your next move in advance.
• Avoid weaving between lanes.
• Pretend you’re invisible, and ride extra defensively.
• Don’t ride when you are tired or under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
• Know and follow the rules of the road, and stick to the speed limit.
Remember: Give yourself space. People driving cars often just don’t see motorcycles. Even when drivers do see you, chances are they’ve never been on a motorcycle and can’t properly judge your speed.
