When you're a motorcycle rider, you're exposed to a lot more dangers on the road. To learn what the biggest ones are and how you can avoid them, read this post by D&M Marketing, LLC in Covington.
Road Dangers Motorcyclists Need to Look Out For
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Oncoming Traffic
It should go without saying that you should look out for oncoming traffic when you're riding on your motorcycle (and even if you're driving a regular vehicle). When you're a motorcyclist you're at a greater risk, since you're not as visible as others on the road.
That's why, it is especially important that you pay attention in streets that don't have dividers. You never know what driver could be distracted and swerve into your lane without noticing.
If that does happen, be careful about swerving, too, since you may end up hitting the vehicle next to you.
Turning Vehicles
A recurring theme in this post will be that the ability of other drivers to see you is limited because you're in a smaller vehicle. This means that you should drive defensively to avoid getting in an accident because of this.
To that end, be aware of vehicles that will be turning or changing lanes, as they may not see you there. In those cases, your best bet is to try to understand the intentions of the vehicles around you. Moreover, be sure to drive at a greater distance, so they won't accidentally bump into you.
Sudden Braking
You never know what could happen on the road that could make a driver brake all of a sudden. Still, even though sudden braking can be a stressful situation for the drivers around, it can be more so for motorcyclists.
This isn't only because you risk more if you hit the vehicle in front of you, but because braking at a moment's notice may cause your front wheel to lock, and you being thrown off the motorcycle as a result. Aside from putting your full attention on te road, it is recommended that you invest in anti-lock brakes so you can avoid a disaster.
Inclement Weather
Snow, rain, hail, and other bad weather conditions can be very tricky for everybody out and about: the roads are slippery, the drivers' visions are compromised, people can get nervous, etc. However, if you're a motorcycle rider, there's another downside to add: you'll be soaking wet because you don't have anything to cover you from the weather.
To remain safe, wear the right motorcycle gear to stay warm and protected. But, if the conditions become too harsh, you should stop to wait out the rain. Or, if possible, avoid riding at all.
Other than snow or rain on the road, there are objects that could be laying around that could make riding on your motorcycle a little bit more dangerous. For example, debris, dead leaves, dirt, rocks, gravel or other loose objects could make you slip. That's why, you should keep your eyes open for them and avoid them whenever possible. If you're ever not able to swerve away, slow down and try to go over them without making any sudden movements, so you won't lose control of your motorcycle.
Riding Too Fast
Speeding, though thrilling, can be incredibly dangerous for motorcycle riders. Once again, your nearly-null protection, the shortened reaction time, and your reduced grip on the road, can make going at greater speeds a potentially disastrous decision. That's why, you should try your best to stick to the speed depicted in the traffic signs, especially while you're turning.
Road Rage
Finally, you should avoid road rage. As you may be aware, road rage is that angry feeling you may experience while driving around (normally directed at other drivers and their abilities behind the wheel), which can lead you to make rash decisions and big mistakes.
If you notice other drivers are raging, stay away from them to avoid trouble. If you're the one experiencing road rage, breathe in deeply, calm down, and try to resolve the issues that are making you feel this way.
Browse through AMSOIL's online shop or call D&M Marketing, LLC at (770) 312-7542 to purchase high quality products for your motorcycle's maintenance, such as the best synthetic oil in Covington.