Most motorcycle crashes happen on trips shorter than five miles, just a few minutes after the rider starts out.

Riding safely at night is challenging because it is harder to see and be seen than it is during the day. The absence of normal shadows and light contrasts makes it harder to judge distances.

When being passed, it is best to ride in the center portion of your lane. Riding on the side nearest to the passing vehicle increases the risk of a collision. Riding on the side farthest from the passing vehicle is also dangerous because it may tempt them to merge back into your lane too soon. Stay in the center portion of the lane when being passed.

Because motorcyclists are more vulnerable than the drivers of cars and trucks, appropriate use of signals by motorcyclists is even more important than it is for other drivers.

Wearing brightly-colored clothing will help you to be seen by other road users. Wear clothes that increase your visibility both during the day and at night.

To ride safely on a slippery surface, you should use both brakes when slowing or stopping, reduce your speed, and avoid making sudden moves. Be alert to oily areas, dirt, gravel, shaded areas, and bridges, as these surfaces are more likely to be slippery than others.

When turning, look through the turn to where you want to go by turning only your head. Keep your knees against the gas tank to help maintain your balance while turning. Your arms should be slightly bent any time you are holding the handgrips.

To prevent any dangerous situations caused by technical issues, you should perform a thorough inspection of your motorcycle before every ride. Compared to a car, small technical problems can have more serious consequences on a motorcycle.

During normal turns, the motorcycle and the rider should be leaning together at the same angle. In slow, tight turns, only the motorcycle should lean while the rider keeps their body straight up.

A number of surfaces can provide poor traction for tires. Wet pavement; roads covered in loose gravel or sand; muddy, snowy, or icy areas; painted lane markings; and metal covers and plates in the road can be more hazardous for a motorcyclist than dry pavement.

Passing is prohibited in no passing zones. It is also prohibited to pass by riding off of the main-traveled portion of a roadway.

It is recommended that you change gears prior to entering a turn.

The rear brake of a motorcycle is usually operated with the right foot.

The single most effective action you can take to improve your chances of surviving a crash is to wear a high-quality helmet that is securely fastened.

The liver burns alcohol at a set rate, and there is nothing you can do to speed along the process. The only way to lessen the effects of alcohol is to give your body the time needed to remove it.

A plastic, shatter-resistant face shield helps protect your entire face, including your eyes. Goggles can protect your eyes, but not the rest of your face. A windshield is not an adequate substitute for either.

When riding at night, travel at a slower speed than you would during the day under similar weather and traffic conditions. It can be difficult to see potential hazards in the dark, so slowing down can increase your chances of avoiding any hazards.

Develop the habit of using both brakes every time you slow or stop. If you need to stop quickly, it is best to apply both brakes. It will be easier to apply both brakes in a quick stop if you have already developed this habit.

Jackets and pants made of leather offer the greatest degree of protection to those riding motorcycles.

A small mechanical fault can have more serious consequences on a motorcycle than on a car. Conduct a thorough pre-ride inspection of your motorcycle before every ride.

While a properly chosen lane position can offer several advantages, you should be certain that your lane position will allow you to be seen by others and have an adequate space cushion.

If you are not riding slowly enough when shifting into a lower gear, the motorcycle will lurch and the rear wheel may skid.

If a tailgater is following you too closely, it is advisable to flash your brake light before you begin to decelerate. The tailgater may be concentrating on you and may not be aware of hazards farther down the road that you are slowing to avoid.

To help reduce your reaction time, you should cover the clutch and brakes. This is especially helpful when riding through areas where potential hazards are likely.

To reduce the risk of a crash, you should always ensure that you are visible to others. Communicate your intentions through proper use of your signals, brake light, and lane position. Maintain a space cushion around your motorcycle and consistently scan the road ahead of, behind, and next to your vehicle. Always be ready to avoid an unexpected hazard.