ARE YOU SKILLED ENOUGH TO RIDE AND SURVIVE HINTS TO HELP YOU ENJOY RIDING SAFELY?
FROM TRANSPORT S.A.

1. Look for motorists who are not looking for you. It’s a good idea to always expect the unexpected and be prepared to stop. Scan traffic for other motorist’s, observe indicators, brake lights, and cars running red/amber lights.
2. Be wary at intersections. Approach intersections with caution, slow down and be prepared to stop, even if you have the right of way.
3. Ride to be seen. Avoid traveling in a motorist’s blind spot by positioning yourself where you can easily be seen. You need to be able to observe and anticipate driver’s actions. Never assume you can be seen, wear conspicuous clothing and ride with your lights on.
4. Give cars plenty of space-keep a 3 second gap. By having a 3 second gap between you and the vehicle in front, or a 4 second gap if you are being tailgated and your concentration is to the rear, you will be able to react and act to avert disaster.
5. Change lanes carefully-look and indicate. Do a head check as well as looking in the mirrors when changing lanes or merging. Indicate before changing lanes.
6. Ride at safe speed. Speed limits are set at the highest speed you should travel, but it’s vital to adjust your speed to suit the conditions.
7. No riding if you have been drinking. Between 1999-2003 nearly 25% of motorcycle fatalities and 11% of those with serious injuries had a blood alcohol level above the legal limit. Motorcycling requires 100% concentration, high level observation skills and the ability to react quickly-all of which will be affected if you have been drinking.
8. Regularly check your bike before riding especially brakes and tyres. Tyres should have ample tread and correct pressure. Brakes should work well and have correct fluid in the master cylinder. Brake lights and all other lights should be working. It is a good idea to have your bike serviced regularly making sure it is roadworthy, safe and reliable.
9. Make sure pillion passengers know how to ride safely. The presence of a pillion passenger doubles the risk of a fatality. Make sure that your pillion passenger knows the correct techniques for pillion riding and are wearing adequate protective clothing.
10. Do not lend your motorcycle to unlicensed or inexperienced riders. Unlicensed riders account for 12% of all fatalities and 8% of all riders seriously injured. Make sure that any person who borrows your bike is licensed, experienced and responsible.
11. Dress for safety and comfort. 35 motorcyclists who were either killed or seriously injured between 1999-2003 were not wearing a helmet. Helmets must meet the approved standard and must not be damaged. It’s a good idea to replace them regularly. Gloves, jackets and boots designed for riding are essential for safety and comfort.