Reducing Risk while Riding in a City Environment
First step to city riding is: avoid it if possible. Yes, if you can go around the city, by all means do that ! That being said, realistically we will be entering the city at times, either to reach our destination or perhaps you even live in a city environment. So look at a few of the things you can do to improve our chances in such an environment. The biggest difference with city riding is all the things going on at once that our brains have to process. Our multitasking is increased tremendously. We have to pick out the important things that our senses are collecting and take appropriate actions to keep us as safe as possible.
A good way to help spot potential problems is to look further down the road. Back off the car in front of you and look around it. You’re looking for things you may need deal with coming up as far as you can see down the road with detail. Don’t just stare in one spot, move your eyes around and understand what you are seeing. Spend extra time observing items you see as potential threats.
Now that you have spotted potential threats you will be prepared ahead of time and avoid most of them, perhaps preventing several from occurring at the same time even.
Get yourself away from potential problems or things that might cause a problem. Try to stay clear of large vehicles, not just buses and trucks, but SUV’s as well. These vehicles not only have large blind spots, but also block everyone around from seeing you when you are close to them. Remember, intersections account for the majority of motorcycle collisions, and a large percentage of those are from a left turning vehicle. BE SEEN, make yourself stand out!
Remember,
ALL THE GEAR ALL THE TIME. (ATGATT)
Most of all, ride safe and have fun!
Your PA District Educators Gerry and Bonnie Kerkeslager