Motorcyclists in Alabama should have their minds on the road at all times. Due to its size and lack of protection, a motorcycle puts its driver in a more vulnerable position than drivers of cars, SUVs and trucks. Unfortunately, the drivers of those larger vehicles are often distracted and do not devote the necessary care to their surroundings in order to ensure the safety of others. Therefore, it is often incumbent upon motorcyclists to drive defensively in an effort to protect themselves.
Road Guardians offers a few tips to help motorcyclists drive defensively. First, it is essential to remain vigilant about the surroundings. This means constant scanning of traffic patterns, as well as mirrors, in order to identify potential hazards or unpredictable drivers. Scanning the road ahead may help the driver identify an escape route if needed, and keeping an eye on all surrounding vehicles could help to avoid vehicles that seem to be driving erratically or aggressively. It is also important to be familiar with both the road and the directions to the destination. Not knowing the area and having to consult a GPS regularly could lead to deadly distraction or last-second turns and lane changes.
According to Consumer Reports, defensive driving starts even before mounting the bike. Doing regular safety checks, as well as wearing the proper attire, may help diminish accidents and injury. However, even the most cautious motorcyclist could encounter unsafe situations due to a careless driver. For this reason, it is important not to exhibit any aggressive behavior, or to follow any vehicle too closely. Taking a safety course to learn defensive measures may also be beneficial.
