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.

Use both brakes every time you slow or stop. It is important to be able to brake quickly by using both brakes.

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.

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.

The best way to handle a tailgater is to allow them to pass you. Speeding up may result in them continuing to tailgate you, just at a higher speed.

In California, motorized scooter can be used by anyone possessing any class of driver license.

To determine upcoming road conditions when riding at night, use the vehicle ahead of you. For example, the headlights of the vehicle may provide a better view of the road than your own high beam. If the vehicle's taillights bounce up and down, this indicates the presence of bumps on the road.

It is important to maintain a cushion of space around your motorcycle at all times. This way, if a hazard arises, you will have more time to respond to the hazard and more space to safely maneuver.

When riding a motorcycle, it is highly recommended that you wear protective apparel. Clothing that may help protect a motorcycle user in the case of a crash include long-sleeved jackets; long, heavy pants; over-the-ankle, closed-toe boots; and full-fingered leather gloves. It is a good idea to cover as much skin as possible when riding a motorcycle.

Passing must be completed within posted speed limits. Only pass another vehicle where it is safe and legal to do so.

On a slippery surface, you should reduce your speed, avoid making sudden moves, and brake by using both brakes.

Maintaining a space cushion helps to ensure that you will have enough time to react to the movements of others and enough room to maneuver safely.

All passes must be completed within the posted speed limits and only in areas where passing is permitted.

In a group, less experienced riders should be positioned toward the front, just behind the leader. This will allow more experienced riders to watch them from behind.

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.

When inspecting your motorcycle before a ride, be sure to check the tires, controls, lights, signals, mirrors, brakes, oil, fluids, chassis, and stands.

On a slippery surface, any sudden change in speed or direction could result in a skid. Be as smooth as possible when you speed up, shift gears, turn, or brake on such a surface.

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.

Pavement can be particularly slippery after it has just started to rain. Oil from vehicles will have not yet washed away from the surface of the road, forming a slippery mixture with the water.

Most motorcycle crashes occur in broad daylight, so wearing brightly-colored, reflective clothing while riding is advised no matter the time of day.

Check your clutch and throttle before riding your motorcycle. The throttle should snap back when you let go and the clutch should feel tight and smooth.

If the rear tire of a motorcycle goes flat, the back of the motorcycle may jerk or sway from side to side. If you experience this movement when riding your motorcycle, you should stop riding and check your tires as soon as possible.

It is best to change gears before starting a turn. However, if you must shift while turning, shift smoothly. A sudden change in power to the rear wheel can cause a skid.

A motorcycle's horn is not as loud as the horns of other vehicles. Motorcyclists should use their horns where appropriate but should not rely on their horns to keep them safe.

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