Unlike the four-wheeled motor vehicles that you share the road with, motorcyclists aren't protected by a steel cage, energy-absorbing bumpers and crumple zones. Being smaller means you're less visible while on the road, which can be a bad thing in this day and age of distracted drivers. The stakes are much higher for motorcyclists. You have to drive extra defensively to stay safe. Start by following these four tips.

Be Visible

Use your headlights during the day. Since your profile is small compared to cars and trucks, headlights serve to make you more noticeable to approaching traffic, which should reduce the risk of cars cutting you off. Avoid riding a black motorcycle or wearing black clothes. Bright colors for both the bike and your clothing is advised. Wear reflective clothing for night riding. Visibility also means avoiding blind spots. If you can't see the driver's face in their mirrors when approaching from behind, then they can't see you.

Anticipate the Actions of Motorists

When the driver of a car on a multi-lane highway is craning his neck to the left and is checking his left mirrors, it probably means he's about to move into the lane on his left. Therefore, it's not the best time to pass him in that lane. If you are waiting at a red light and the car across the intersection has his wheels positioned for a left turn, expect him to be turning in front of you when the light turns green. Drivers often give hints about their intentions, such as when a car slowly inches on to the road ahead of you from a side road. These hints can save your life if you’re alert to them.

Know the Situations that Cause Accidents

Situations that cause the motorist to take their attention away from driving are especially dangerous for the motorcyclist. An accident scene, a car pulled over by the police and construction work are distracting and often use up a lane, which means cars will be merging into your lane. Be prepared.

Allow Plenty of Empty Road Space in Front

The more space between you and the vehicle in front, the more reaction time you will have for the unexpected. This prevents you from colliding with a vehicle in front and prevents the car behind from hitting you because more reaction time means you won't likely have to slam on the brakes.

With experience, these tips should become automatic riding behavior. When this happens, motorcycle riding may become a safer experience.

We care about your safety. Call Freedom Insurance at 478-784-1885 for more information on motorcycle insurance.