Riding in traffic can be dangerous and such a headache, especially for motorcyclists. So many motorcyclists come across life-threatening circumstances. There is also a specific way that motorcyclists must deal with what may be considered a “normal” traffic-filled commute. You will need to be knowledgeable in certain commuting strategies to stay safe on the road as a motorcyclist. Negligent driving can be fatal to both you and others on the road. Here are some helpful tactics to handle traffic-choked streets.
Watch Drivers’ Heads And Mirrors
Paying close attention to how others on the road are moving their head is much more helpful than you may assume. Watching driver’s head movements through their windows and mirrors is a good method to anticipate their next move. Even if they don’t safely check their mirrors, people are likely to move their heads in the direction that they are looking to go.
Do not Solely Rely on Mirrors
The mirrors on your motorcycle can be lifesavers, but may not give you the full picture even if they’re adjusted properly. It is especially important in traffic that you accompany your glance in your mirrors with a glance over the shoulder. This quick notion may be the difference between you getting in an accident or not and could provide the added rear-view and blind-spot knowledge you’ll need to make your next move.
Never Get Between A Vehicle And An Off-Ramp
Keep in mind that all too often there are many drivers who try to exit at the last minute and end up killing motorists. It may sound simple but be sure to never put yourself between a vehicle and an offramp. Also, passing them on the right is not recommended, however, it may be necessary from time to time. If it is, it should only be done between exits or cross streets.
Cover Your Brakes
Sometimes in traffic, you could need to react so quickly that you can not waste time fumbling for the brakes. You can minimize reach time by keeping a finger on the brake lever as well as your right foot close to the rear brake pedal. When a distracted driver is close by, you will be more prepared.
Be Noticed and Ready
You must be easily seen well at all times. Consider wearing brightly colored gear (particularly helmet and jacket). Highly visible gear is underestimated.
In traffic, it is recommended to stay in a gear lower than what is typical so that the bike can be ready to jump forward quickly if need be. This will allow the option of leaping forward rather than being limited to only using the brakes when traffic begins to pick up. Note that the higher revs could alert more nearby drivers as well and lane-splitting will require high attention to drivers that may not know you are there.
Stay Left or Right in Slow Traffic
If traffic begins to abruptly slow down it is smart to stay to the left or right of the vehicles in front of you so that you have an option of an escape route to help avoid becoming sandwiched between drivers if the one behind you is too slow to stop. If you stop, be ready to clutch your bike in gear and keep your eyes on the mirrors. The goal is to be prepared for anything.
Keep Scanning
It is in your best interest to always be scanning your surrounding environment while riding. This includes all the instruments, mirrors, road ahead, and blind spots. Remain alert and in touch with the current situation so that you are best prepared to react. If you are only focused on one area for too long you are asking for trouble.
Study The Surface
Always stay aware of the conditions of the road you are riding on. You will want to always be checking for spilled oil, antifreeze, or fuel. Also, be cautious of gravel and/or sand, which can be quite difficult to see. You could even be able to smell these elements too, and if you can before your tires discover them, you can prepare yourself for a slippery ride.
Ride In Open Zones
Luckily, your bike can be used as a tool to maneuver through open zones in traffic. When vehicles are grouping together, you can find gaps to ride through to help separate you from four-wheelers and offer more space to drive. This will help you stay away from dangerous blind spots and watch your speed as well. If you ride with the flow of traffic you can make yourself invisible to other drivers which is extremely dangerous.
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