Page 30 - Final GA Motorcycle Operators Manual Updated June 2021

SECTION 5 : STREET STRATEGIES

(NOTE: New motorcycles sold in the USA since
Maintain an Escape Route
1978 automatically have the headlights on when
running.) Studies show that, during the day, a
< Bumper-to- < Truck ahead
Three Escape Routes All Escape Routes motorcycle with its light on is twice as likely to
Open bumper traffic Closed stops be noticed. Also, use your low beams in fog or
< Cushion < Vehicle behind at night when traffic approaches.
preserved still approaching
Signals
< Three escape < All escape routes
routes open closed The signals on a motorcycle are the same as
those on a car. They tell others what you plan
to do. Use them anytime you plan to change
lanes or turn. Use them even when you think
no one else is around. Due to a rider’s added
vulnerability, signals are even more important.
They make you easier to spot.
When you enter a freeway, drivers approach-
ing from behind are more likely to see your
signal blinking and make room for you.
Once you turn, make sure your signal is off
or a driver may pull directly into your path,
5.6 – Increasing Conspicuity Clothing thinking you plan to turn again.
Most crashes occur in broad daylight. Wear Brake Light
In crashes with motorcyclists, drivers often bright colored clothing to increase your chances
say that they never saw the motorcycle. From of being seen. Remember, your body is half of Your motorcycle’s brake light is usually not
ahead or behind, a motorcycle’s outline is the visible surface area of the rider-motorcycle as noticeable as the brake lights on a car – par-
much smaller than a car’s. Also, it’s hard to see unit. ticularly when your taillight is on. (The taillight
something you are not looking for, and most Reflective, bright colored clothing is best. goes on with the headlight.) If the situation will
drivers are not looking for motorcycles. More Bright orange, red, yellow or green jackets or permit, help others notice you by flashing your
likely, they are looking through the narrow, vests are your best bets for being seen. Brightly brake light before you slow down.
two-wheeled silhouette in search of cars that colored helmets can also help others see you. It is especially important to flash your brake
may pose a problem to them. Reflective material on a vest and on the sides light before:
Even if a driver does see you coming, you of the helmet will help drivers coming from • You slow when others might not expect (for
aren’t necessarily safe. Motorcycles may appear the side spot you. Reflective material can also example, turning off a high-speed highway.)
farther away, and seem to be traveling slower be a big help for drivers coming toward you or
than they actually are. It is common for drivers from behind. • You slow where others may not expect it (for
to pull out in front of motorcyclists, thinking example, in the middle of a block or at an alley.)
they have plenty of time. Too often, they are Headlight If you are being followed closely, it’s a good
wrong. However, you can do many things to idea to flash your brake light before you slow
make it easier for others to recognize you and The best way to help others see your motor- down. The tailgater may be watching you and
your cycle. cycle is to keep the headlight on – at all times.
not see something ahead that will make you

Signaling

Bright colors and reflective materials are the best choices for keeping you visible to
surrounding traffic both day and night.

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