Safety tips for motorcyclists

• Why motorcyclists face greater risks
• Important safety tips for motorcyclists
• The eight golden rules of riding

Why motorcyclists face greater risks

On average, the risk of being involved in a fatal or injury crash is more than ten times as high for a motorcyclist as for a car driver.

There are many risks for motorcyclists that do not affect car drivers: key factors are decreased stability and a much lower level of protection than is given by a car. In addition, a motorcycle is less visible to other road users than a car or truck.

While the number of motorcycle crashes has fallen over the past decade, the statistics are still too high. In 2003, 28 motorcyclists or their passengers were killed.

Important safety tips for motorcyclists

1. Always wear protective clothing.
2. Always wear a helmet.
3. Ride defensively.
4. Be seen.
5. Maintain a safe motorcycle.
6. Attend a riding school.

The eight golden rules of riding

1. Look where you want to go.
2. Move away from danger.
3. Know the abilities of your motorcycle.
4. The best way to lean your motorcycle for a corner is to countersteer.
5. Ride sober.
6. When in doubt, give way.
7. Cornering: Slow in, Faster out.
8. Learn practice, learn practice.

Last updated: 9 May 2006