If you see a dog approaching your motorcycle, slow down and downshift until you are close to the dog. Quickly accelerate away from the animal as it approaches.

Jackets and pants should fit snugly enough that they do not flap in the wind, but also loosely enough that you are able to move freely.

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.

The only way to sober up after drinking is to give your body the time it needs to remove the alcohol. There are no techniques that will speed up this process.

The main factors that determine a person's blood alcohol content (BAC) are the person's body weight, how much alcohol is consumed, and how quickly the alcohol was consumed. It is always safest to not ride after consuming alcohol in any amount.

When traveling in a group, less experienced riders should be placed near the front of the group behind the leader. This way, more experienced riders can lead the way and watch the inexperienced riders at the same time.

Ask your passenger to wait to mount the motorcycle until after you have started the engine. They should sit as far forward as possible without crowding you and firmly hold onto your waist, hips, or belt.

The front brake of a motorcycle is more powerful that the rear brake and can provide at least 70 percent of the bike's total stopping power.

When turning, you should always lean in the direction of the turn. Slow down before entering the turn.

Warning signs are yellow with black lettering or symbols and provide important information to motorists about upcoming road conditions. This sign warns that a railroad crossing is ahead.

On a slippery surface, any sudden change in speed or direction could result in a skid. Be as smooth as possible when you speed up, shift gears, turn, or brake on such a surface.

When being passed, the center portion of the lane is generally the safest lane position for a motorcyclist. Riding on the side nearest the passing vehicle increases the risk of colliding with it. Riding on the side farthest from the passing vehicle can also be dangerous because it may prompt the driver to return to your lane before it is safe to do so.

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.

Motorcycles have blind spots, just like cars. You should always turn your head to check your blind spot before changing lanes.

Before changing lanes, make sure no other drivers are going to be in your path. Do this by checking your mirrors and looking over your shoulder in the direction you want to move.

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.

Most motorcycle crashes happen in broad daylight. To maximize your chances of being seen, you should wear clothing with reflective material when riding, even during the day. Always wear clothing that covers your arms and legs.

When traveling at night, ride more slowly than you would if riding during the day, especially when traveling on an unfamiliar road. Riding more slowly allows you additional time to avoid hazards under conditions of decreased visibility.

A passenger on a motorcycle should sit as far forward as possible without crowding the operator. The passenger should keep both feet on the footrests at all times, even when stopped.

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.

Before beginning your ride, tell your passenger to maintain a firm grasp on your hips, waist, or belt. If there are secure handholds for your passenger, they may also hold those.

Warning signs are yellow with black lettering or symbols and provide important information to motorists about upcoming road conditions. This sign warns that the right lane ends ahead.

Most motorcycle crashes take place in broad daylight. You should always wear brightly-colored clothing to increase your visibility while riding, even during the day.

When parked on the road, a motorcycle should create an angle with the curb that is between 45 and 90 degrees. A wheel or fender should be touching the curb.

Your feet should remain on your footrests while riding to help you maintain proper balance.