Motorcycles have blind spots, just like any other vehicle. You should always turn your head to check for traffic in your blind spot before changing lanes. Do not rely on your mirrors alone.

Shifting your motorcycle into a lower gear causes an effect similar to applying the brakes. This is known as engine braking.

Do not try to accelerate out of a wobble because doing so will only make the motorcycle more unstable. Instead, grip the handlebars firmly, slow down by gradually closing the throttle, move your weight as far forward and downward as possible, and pull off the road as soon as you can. Avoid applying the brakes, as this may also worsen the wobble.

In Oregon, it is illegal for motorcycles and mopeds to pass between two moving vehicles on a multilane highway or one-way street.

You can reduce your risk of injury when riding a motorcycle by wearing an approved helmet, face or eye protection, and protective clothing.

Make sure that you are aware of the locations of all your motorcycle's controls before beginning to ride. The horn button on a motorcycle is usually located next to the left handgrip.

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.

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.

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

To reduce your risk of being involved in a crash, you must ensure that you are visible to others on the road and that other drivers understand what you're planning to do. Clearly communicate your intentions through proper signaling and lane positioning. Maintain an adequate space cushion and scan your path of travel, identifying upcoming hazards and being prepared to react.

If your drive chain or belt fails, you will experience an immediate loss of power to the rear wheel.

The accelerator of a motorcycle is located by the right handgrip and is controlled with the right hand.

Instead of mechanical turn signals, operators may use hand signals to indicate turns or stops. If an operator's left arm is extended straight out to the left, it means the operator plans to turn left or change lanes to the left.

Riding directly next to another vehicle is dangerous because you could be riding in the vehicle's blind spot. Additionally, the vehicle may block your route of escape if another hazard arises. If you find yourself riding directly alongside another vehicle, either speed up or drop back.

The clutch lever of a motorcycle is usually located on the left handgrip.

Swerving is a quick maneuver that requires a lot of traction in order to be safely executed. Making sudden moves, such as swerving, on slippery surfaces should be avoided.

Motorcycles generally have one brake for each wheel. The front brake carries more braking power than the rear brake.

The best way to handle a tailgater is to change lanes and let them pass you. Speeding up may cause them to tailgate you at a higher speed, only increasing the danger. Never ride on the shoulder of a road because drivers will never expect you to be there and may leave the road suddenly.

Taking a turn too fast is dangerous. If you cannot hold the turn, you may end up turning into another lane or even off of the road entirely. Use caution when taking a turn.

When a group of motorcyclists is passing another vehicle on a two-lane road, the riders should pass the vehicle one at a time. Each motorcyclist should complete their pass before the next rider's pass begins.

For your safety, it is important to be aware of what's behind you. Frequent mirror checks should be a part of your normal searching routine.

If one of your tires fails, hold the handgrips firmly and begin to slow down by easing off the throttle while maintaining a straight course. If you must brake, gradually apply the brake of the tire that is still good, if you are sure of which tire that is. Edge toward the side of the road as you slow down, squeeze the clutch, and stop.

Always use both brakes any time you slow or stop. It is safe to use the front brake, which is more powerful than the rear brake, as long as you use it properly.

Oily drippings from cars collect in a strip in the center of each lane. Unless the road is wet, this area still generally offers enough traction for motorcyclists to safely ride. You should still avoid riding on big buildups of oil and grease, often found at busy intersections or near toll booths.

If you are being chased by a dog, downshift and approach it slowly. Then, as you approach the dog, accelerate and leave it behind. If you encounter a larger animal, brake and prepare to stop.