Motorcycles often seem to attract dogs. If you are being chased by a dog, downshift and approach it slowly. Then, as you approach the dog, accelerate and leave it behind.

Motorcycle operators are required to use proper eye protection when riding in Georgia.

It is usually best to simply proceed across angled railroad tracks by riding straight within your lane. Crossing by turning your motorcycle may be dangerous, as doing so could send you into another lane.

A head or neck injury is always a risk when riding a motorcycle, regardless of your speed of travel. With few exceptions, the risk of head and neck injuries is greatly reduced by properly wearing a quality helmet.

As your motorcycle accelerates, you will need to shift into a higher gear.

In general, a staggered formation is the best way for a group of riders to maintain close ranks while allowing adequate space cushions for each rider. A single-file formation is best when taking curves, turning, entering a highway, or exiting a highway.

On a two-lane road, a group of motorcyclists should pass another vehicle one at a time. Each motorcyclist should complete the pass before another begins to pass.

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.

It is important to consistently check vehicles approaching your motorcycle from behind to determine if drivers are paying attention to you and your movements. Use your mirrors when stopping at an intersection to make sure approaching drivers are responding appropriately to your actions.

Tell passengers to avoid unnecessary conversation or movement while on a moving motorcycle. Passengers should get onto a motorcycle only after the engine is started. They should sit as far forward as possible without crowding the operator.

The best way to help others see your motorcycle is to have your headlight turned on (as well as your running lights, if applicable). Use your high beam headlight both day and night, whenever it is legal and safe to do so.

Long-term exposure to wind noise can cause permanent damage to your hearing. Using ear protection when you ride should protect you from the dangers of wind noise while still allowing you to hear important sounds, like sirens or car horns.

When riding, your feet should be kept firmly on your motorcycle's footrests for balance. Your toes should not be pointed downward, as this may cause them to get caught between the road and the footrests.

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.

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.

Motorcycle riders should use their brake lights to communicate with other road users. It is particularly important for a motorcyclist to flash their brake light before slowing down to make a tight, fast turn off of a high-speed roadway. Motorcyclists should flash their brake lights when slowing in any location where other drivers may not expect them to slow down.

To create more space and minimize the harm of any hazard, communicate your presence to other road users by using your horn, lights, and/or signals. Adjust your speed to be appropriate for the situation and adjust your lane position and/or direction of travel as needed.

Unlike other substances, alcohol does not need to be digested before entering the bloodstream. It is absorbed directly through the walls of the stomach and small intestine, quickly reaching and affecting the brain.

When approaching a blind intersection that is controlled by a stop line or stop sign, you must first stop where indicated. You may then edge forward and stop again just short of where the cross traffic lane meets your lane. From that position, lean your body forward and look around buildings, parked cars, or bushes to see if anything is approaching. Make sure your front wheel stays out of the crossroad while you are looking.

In general, it is best for a group to ride in a staggered formation. Move into a single-file formation when taking a curve, making a turn, entering a highway, or leaving a highway.

When riding, you should be seated so you can use your arms to steer rather than to hold yourself up. Your elbows should be slightly bent when you hold the handgrips. Keep your knees against the gas tank to help maintain your balance.

Your motorcycle’s brake light is usually not as noticeable as that of a larger vehicle, especially when the taillight is on. Be aware that surrounding drivers may not notice your brake light.

A plastic, shatter-resistant face shield provides maximum protection for your entire face, including your eyes, in the event of a crash. A windshield is not an adequate substitute.

When being passed, it is generally safest to ride in the center portion of your lane. Riding on the side nearest the passing driver increases the danger of colliding with them, and riding on the side farthest from the driver may tempt them to return to your lane too soon.

When approaching a railroad crossing that is controlled by a sign with flashing lights, you must come to a complete stop and wait until the train has passed and the lights have stopped flashing before proceeding. Never try to outdrive a train.

In most cases, it is safest to ride straight within your lane to cross angled railroad or trolley tracks. Changing the angle of your path to cross tracks may send you into another lane, causing a collision with oncoming traffic.

To be effective, an eye or face shield must be free of scratches; be resistant to penetration; allow clear views to both sides; fasten securely; permit air to pass through to prevent fogging; and allow room for eyeglasses or sunglasses, if needed.

Regulatory signs are white signs with red and black markings that inform drivers of specific traffic laws in the indicated area. This sign indicates that right turns are prohibited.

Look through every turn by turning just your head, not your shoulders, and keeping your eyes level with the horizon.

Even the most experienced riders can be distracted while riding. A defensive driver looks out for the actions of other road users and anticipates potential problems. Developing a defensive attitude toward other road users makes you a more alert and prepared rider.