Just like any other vehicle, motorcycles have blind spots. A rider should always turn their head to check for traffic in their blind spot before changing lanes. It is a good idea for a rider to make head checks a part of their normal routine.

If not carried in saddlebags, loads should be secured as low as possible. Attaching a load to a sissy bar can raise the motorcycle's center of gravity and upset its balance.

When approaching a blind intersection, move into the portion of the lane that will bring you into any other driver's field of vision at the earliest possible moment.

The belief that a helmet will restrict a wearer's vision is misguided. Any helmet that meets U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) standards will allow the wearer to see as far to the sides as is necessary for safe riding.

If the throttle becomes stuck and you are unable to free it, immediately operate the engine cut-off switch and pull in the clutch at the same time. This will remove power from the rear wheel until you are able to safely leave the road and stop.

The best way to handle tailgaters is usually to change lanes and let them pass. Speeding up may only increase the danger by prompting them to continue tailgating you at the higher speed.

Always allow merging cars plenty of space and never assume that the drivers see you. Change lanes away from the entering traffic, if possible. If there is no room for a lane change, adjust your speed to allow for safe merging.

Wear brightly-colored clothing to maximize your visibility when riding, even during the daytime. Clothing made with reflective materials can also be helpful.

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.

You should always conduct a thorough safety inspection of your motorcycle before you ride. A small technical issue on a motorcycle can be more dangerous than a small technical issue on a car.

A rider should always maintain a cushion of space appropriate for conditions. Motorcycles need as much room to stop as other vehicles.

A properly chosen lane position should provide a number of benefits, including an increased ability to see others and to be seen. It should help you avoid wind blasts, other drivers' blind spots, and surface hazards. Your lane position should discourage other drivers from trying to share your lane and provide you with an escape route, should a hazard arise.

To ensure control when making a turn, you should reduce your speed before entering the turn. Look through the turn in the direction you want to move, press on the handle grip to lean in the appropriate direction, and roll on the throttle through the turn to stabilize suspension.

When taking a turn, you should look through the turn to where you want to go. Turn just your head, not your shoulders, and keep your eyes level with the horizon.

To reduce the risk of a collision, be sure to make yourself visible, clearly communicate your intentions, maintain an adequate space cushion, search your path of travel, and identify and separate hazards. Always be prepared to react to any hazard that could arise.

If traffic allows, the center lane position is usually the best position for a motorcyclist to take when following a car because the center position will place them in the driver's rearview mirror. A motorcyclist should always be prepared to change positions if traffic or conditions require it.

It can be difficult to judge the speed and distance of a small vehicle, such as a motorcycle. Do not assume that drivers of larger vehicles will be able to accurately understand your speed and location.

The more weight being carried by a motorcycle, the more time the motorcycle takes to accelerate and decelerate. Your motorcycle will respond to your commands more slowly when carrying a passenger than it will when you are the only person on the bike.

A helmet will provide a rider with the best protection if it meets U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) standards; fits snugly all the way around; and has no obvious defects, such as cracks, loose padding, or frayed straps.

Clothing made of leather or sturdy synthetic materials provide the greatest degree of protection for those riding motorcycles.

The front brake provides about three-quarters of a motorcycle's total stopping power. Use both the front and rear brakes every time you stop.

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.

When approaching a blind intersection, move into the portion of the lane that will bring you into another driver’s field of vision at the earliest possible moment.

Sit with a posture that allows you to use your arms to control your motorcycle. You should not be positioned in a way that requires your arms to prop up your body and support your weight.

To avoid running into dangerous situations while riding, you should consistently scan the road well ahead of your motorcycle. Watch the road ahead to identify and react to potential hazards before meeting them.