Motorcyclists Road Safety

There is great concern for the safety of motorcyclists in our roads. Among all users, motorcycle and pillion riders comprise the largest group that is involved in fatal road accidents. Road safety for motorcyclists is a paramount concern, as motorcycle riding requires balancing skills and greater control as compared to car driving. A motorcycle is also less visible and can be easily missed on the road. Furthermore, the body of the motorcycle offers very little protection to the motorcyclist.

Here are important reminders to reduce the risks in motorcycling:

DEFENSIVE RIDING

Year after year, statistics show that motorcycles remain the most vulnerable group among all road users. To enhance safety, motorcycles and all motorists should follow these basic traffic rules and regulations:

Keep to your left, unless you are overtaking
Never ride when you’ve been drinking
Keep a safe distance from other vehicles
Do not swerve in and out of traffic
Don’t overtake a convoy of vehicles
Don’t speed
Slow down when approaching a bend
Anticipate pedestrians who may dash across the road
Stay on the lookout for children and animal that may dart out unexpectedly
Practice the 2-Second Rule: allow for two seconds between braking and making a full stop behind a vehicle
Get out of a car’s blind spot

ROAD SAFETY TIPS FOR MOTORCYCLISTS

To avoid an accident, start with the right gear – properly secured helmet, tight fitting gloves, jacket, and closed footwear. Check that your tyres are not bald and that they are properly inflated. Turn on your headlight at all times and maintain the right posture for better visibility on the road.

Concentrate when you ride, focus on the road
Take good control of your bike
Riding under the influence of alcohol and narcotics greatly increases your chances of getting killed
Don’t speed, ride carefully
Don’t change lanes unexpectedly, signal other road users before changing course
Avoid tailgating, always keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front
Practice road courtesy even when others do not
Be visible, ride with your lights on
Always obey traffic lights

CHARACTERISTICS OF A GOOD RIDER

Keeps vehicle in roadworthy condition
Uses good fitting clothing and riding shoes
Has a crash helmet securely strapped at the chin
Switches on the headlights for visibility, and has signal lights that are all working
Keeps legs close to vehicle, in a gripping stance
Wing mirrors are properly installed
Brakes are effective
Tyres are threaded and properly inflated

Source: “Handbook for Road Users” by Traffic Police Department, Singapore