by Jamie Rider

Created on: December 27, 2008   Last Updated: April 20, 2011

Defensive driving takes on a whole new reality when the vehicle is a motorcycle. Based on the findings of the University of California study, "Motorcycle Accident Cause Factors and Identification of Countermeasures", over three-quarters of all motorcycle accidents were multiple vehicle accidents, and of those accidents, two-thirds were caused by the other vehicle violating the motorcyclist's right-of-way. Put more plainly, as a motorcyclist you truly have to watch out for the other vehicle, as the statistics show they are not looking out for you. Driving defensively is your first and best preventative measure to avoid a life-changing accident.

Some defensive driving seems like common sense, until you realize how infrequently you see those behaviors.

True defensive driving comes with the particular mind set that arriving alive is the highest priority. It starts with obeying all traffic laws and signal. Specifically, do not speed, or roll stop signs or speed up for a yellow light. You do this to give yourself the time to truly pay attention: watch more than just the vehicle in front of you, heighten your awareness around intersections and traffic controls. Finally, evaluate the driving and behavior of the drivers with whom you are sharing the road. If they are behaving aggressively or erratically, give them some extra space.

Second, yield regardless of whether the law states you have right of way. You do not want your eulogy to be: "He had right of way but."

Clear judgment is critical to defensive driving and clear reflexes are critical to motorcycle driving. Don't ruin either, and leave yourself open to liability in an accident situation by driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs.

Just like a seat belt in a car, always wear your helmet. In North Carolina, there is a mandatory helmet law for driver and passenger. Helmets really do lessen the severity of head injuries, and reduce the frequency of neck injuries. A full-face shield is best, if for no other reason than the eye protection it provides. Up to 60% of motorcyclists involved in accidents had no eye protection, and this may cause a delay in recognizing an on-coming hazard.

Clothing and use of your headlight can increase your visibility. Studies suggest that bright colored clothing and day-time headlights can avert up to 60% of motorcycle accidents.

The next step of defensive driving is proper maintenance of your motorcycle, in particular tires, brake lights, directional signals and headlights.

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