Being Safe and Responsible

Causes of Accidents

• When riding off-road, you usually can avoid the main cause of motorcycle accidents: drivers of larger vehicles who disregard the motorcyclist's rights. Most often, the driver of the larger vehicle claims he or she “didn't see” the motorcycle.
• Other factors in accidents include the motorcyclist's lack of skills or training:
  • Overbraking
  • Turning too wide and losing control
  • Drinking alcohol, which impairs the ability to perform basic maneuvers

Preventing Accidents

• Make yourself visible to other drivers.
  • Wear bright clothing.
  • Use your lights at all times.
  • Use hand signals when turning or stopping.
  • Flash your brake lights when you slow to a stop.
  • Ride in the area of the road where others are most likely to see you.
  • Stay out of blind spots.
  • Let the driver ahead see you.
  • Help drivers at intersections see you.
  • Use whip flags on sand dunes.
• Practice skills in a safe area before exploring more difficult areas.
• Always observe regulations.
• Never drink and ride.