As with any other vehicle, the mirrors of a motorcycle have blind spots. Always turn your head to check for traffic in your blind spot before changing lanes.

A passenger places extra weight on a motorcycle. Because of the added weight, the motorcycle will respond to the operator's movements more slowly than it would otherwise, taking more time to speed up, slow down, and turn. To accommodate the change in handling when carrying a passenger, you should reduce your speed, begin slowing down earlier when you stop, and look for larger gaps when crossing, entering, or merging into traffic.

The mirrors of motorcycles have blind spots, just like those of cars. Always turn your head to check your blind spot before changing lanes.

To shift up to a higher gear, position your foot under the shift lever and lift.

Many drugs, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, can impair your ability to ride safely. Some medications become even more dangerous when combined with alcohol.

At night, you should always ride at a lower speed than you would under similar conditions during the day. Doing so will give you a better chance of avoiding hazards. Additionally, increase your following distance and be flexible about your lane position.

While the center strip of the road can be oily, it usually provides enough traction for safe riding, unless it is raining. The oily strip is usually no more than two feet wide, so motorcyclists can generally ride on either side of the strip and still be in the center portion of the lane.

On a two-lane road, a group of motorcyclists should pass another vehicle one at a time. Each motorcyclist should complete the pass before another begins to pass.

Maintaining an adequate space cushion ensures that you will have time to respond if another driver makes a mistake. A cushion of space also allows you the space you need to safely maneuver your motorcycle.

Check your clutch and throttle before riding your motorcycle. The throttle should snap back when you let go and the clutch should feel tight and smooth.

To stop quickly, apply controlled pressure to both the front and rear brakes at the same time.

You should wear brightly-colored clothing when riding to maximize your chances of being seen. Bright oranges, reds, yellows, and greens are best. Most collisions occur in broad daylight, so be sure to wear bright clothing even when riding during the day.

If you accidentally lock your rear wheel while stopping on a straightaway, you can keep it locked until you have completely stopped. Even with a locked rear wheel, you can usually control your motorcycle if it is upright and traveling in a straight line.

Motorcyclists may pass on the right if there is unobstructed pavement with a width of at least eight feet to the right of the vehicle being passed. Motorcyclists, and other drivers, should never leave the road to pass another vehicle.

You should do a pre-ride inspection of your motorcycle before every ride. This will usually take only a few minutes.

There is no lane position that is always best and no lane position that should always be avoided. A responsible rider will adjust their position as road and traffic conditions warrant. If vehicles are on both the left and right sides of a rider, the center lane position is probably the safest option.

Georgia law requires riders to wear U.S. Department of Transportation-compliant helmets every time they ride. A helmet is a rider's best defense against head and neck injuries in the event of an accident.

When being passed on your left, you should ride in the center portion of your lane. Riding in the right portion of the lane can be dangerous as it may tempt the passing driver to re-enter your lane too quickly.

A “wobble” is when the front wheel and handlebars suddenly start to shake from side to side. Most wobbles are a result of improper loading, unsuitable accessories, or incorrect tire pressure.

The greatest potential for conflict between you and other traffic exists at intersections.

It is a good idea to get into the habit of using both the front and rear brakes every time you slow or stop.

A traffic signal displaying a solid red arrow has the same meaning as a red traffic light. Drivers must come to a complete stop and wait for a traffic signal that allows them to turn in their desired direction.

Pavement can be particularly slippery after it has just started to rain. Oil from vehicles will have not yet washed away from the surface of the road, forming a slippery mixture with the water.

To avoid becoming fatigued when riding your motorcycle on a long trip, limit how much time is spent riding each day and take frequent rest breaks. Avoid the use of artificial stimulants because you may experience extreme fatigue when they start to wear off.

When riding a motorcycle, it is highly recommended that you wear protective apparel. Clothing that may help protect a motorcycle user in the case of a crash include long-sleeved jackets; long, heavy pants; over-the-ankle, closed-toe boots; and full-fingered leather gloves. It is a good idea to cover as much skin as possible when riding a motorcycle.

Keep your feet firmly on the footrests for balance. The motorcycle should be equipped with passenger footrests. Firm footing prevents your passenger from falling off and pulling you off, too.

All curves are different. When taking a curve, choose a lane position that is appropriate for conditions and adjust as needed.

To reduce the risk of fatigue on a long trip, dress to protect yourself against tiring elements, such as wind and rain. Limit yourself to no more than about six hours of riding per day and take a rest break at least every two hours. Avoid using artificial stimulants because they may cause extreme fatigue when they begin to wear off.

On average, a person's body can remove the alcohol content of about one drink per hour. This rate can vary based on the individual. The safest option is to not ride after consuming any amount of alcohol.

To get the best possible protection, choose a helmet that meets U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and state standards. It should fit snugly all the way around and be free of obvious defects, like cracks, loose padding, and frayed straps.