If your front wheel locks while braking, you should release the brake lever until the tire regains traction and re-apply the brake.

Orange, red, yellow, or green clothing can make you easier to see while riding a motorcycle. Wear brightly-colored clothing no matter what time of day you are riding.

When preparing to pass another vehicle on its left, you should ride in the left portion of your lane. This will increase your line of sight and make you more visible to oncoming traffic.

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 slippery surfaces. Motorcyclists should ride with extra caution when riding over slippery surfaces.

When riding, you should wear sturdy footwear that is high enough to cover and support your ankles. Short-heeled footwear is best because taller heels may catch on rough surfaces. Laces should be tucked in so that they can't be caught on anything.

It is particularly important for a rider to check their mirrors when slowing down or stopping, when stopped at an intersection, when changing lanes, and when turning.

The cornering characteristics of a three-wheeled motorcycle or a motorcycle with a sidecar differ from those of a two-wheeled motorcycle. The best path for a three-wheeler to take through a curve may not actually follow the curve. For example, you may need to move from the outside of the curve to the inside of the curve before straightening out your path.

Wearing reflective and brightly-colored clothing is always a good idea when riding a motorcycle. Crashes occur in broad daylight and at night, so it is best to wear highly visible clothing at any time of day.

You should select a helmet that meets U.S. Department of Transportation and state standards; fits snugly all the way around; and has no obvious defects, such as cracks, loose padding, or frayed straps.

When riding, wear boots or shoes that are high and sturdy enough to cover and support your ankles. Heels should be short so they don't catch on rough surfaces. Laces should be tucked in so they can't catch onto the moving parts of the motorcycle.

On average, a person's body can eliminate the alcohol content of about one drink per hour.

On average, a person's body can eliminate the alcohol content of about one drink per hour. The amount of time required to lower a person's blood alcohol content (BAC) can vary, so it is safest not to operate any motor vehicle after consuming any amount of alcohol.

No matter the speed, riders who are not wearing helmets are three times more likely to die from head injuries than riders who are wearing helmets at the time of a crash.

To safely cross railroad tracks, trolley tracks, or pavement seams running parallel to your lane, move to a lane position that will allow you to cross them at an angle of at least 45 degrees. Then, make a quick, sharp turn. If you try to edge across, the tracks or seam could catch your tires and throw you off balance.

When passing a row of parked cars, it is generally best to stay on the side of your lane that is not directly next to the cars. This will help to protect you from potential hazards like car doors being opened or people stepping out from between the cars. If there is traffic coming from the opposite direction, it is a good idea to stay in the center portion of the lane.

You should not carry a passenger unless your motorcycle has a seat that is large enough for two riders. The motorcycle should be equipped with footrests for the passenger. Your passenger should wear the same kind of protective gear that is recommended to operators.

Use both brakes every time you slow or stop, regardless of the condition of the road.

You should transport a passenger only if your motorcycle is appropriately equipped and adjusted to do so. Among other things, your motorcycle should have separate footrests for the passenger and a seat that is large enough for more than one person to sit comfortably. You may need to adjust your headlight, tire pressure, and suspension to accommodate the extra weight of a passenger.

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.

When riding in a group, it is generally best to use a staggered formation. Use your mirrors periodically to check on riders behind you. Both the lead and sweep riders should be experienced motorcyclists who know group riding procedures well. Maintain proper space cushions within the group of riders.

Rounded, or convex, mirrors provide a wider view of the road than flat mirrors, but they also make objects seem farther away than they actually are.

The gearshift lever of a motorcycle is located in front of the left footrest and is operated by the rider's left foot.

When hazards exist to your left, it is often best to ride in the right portion of the lane. Be prepared to adjust your lane position as road and traffic conditions change.

Passengers should lean as the operator leans. A passenger should sit as far forward as they can without crowding the operator and hold firmly onto the operator's waist, hips, or belt.

You should always use both brakes every time you slow or stop.