3 Deadliest MISTAKES You Can Make on a Motorcycle

Motorcycles are exhilarating, but they come with significant risks. They demand skill, focus, and constant awareness to operate safely. Unfortunately, many riders make fatal errors that can lead to severe injury or even death. In this article, we’ll explore three of the deadliest mistakes you can make on a motorcycle. Let’s dive in.

First Deadly Mistake You Can Make on a Motorcycle: Assuming You Have the Right of Way

One of the deadliest mistakes you can make on a motorcycle is assuming you have the right of way, particularly at intersections. Did you know that most fatal motorcycle accidents involving another vehicle happen at intersections? The driver of the car is often at fault because they fail to notice the motorcyclist, making a left-hand turn directly in front of them.

But does it matter who’s at fault if the motorcyclist doesn’t survive the accident? Whether or not the car driver apologizes, the outcome remains tragically the same. As motorcyclists, we must take responsibility for our safety by approaching every intersection with caution. Always ask yourself:

• What if that car pulls out in front of me to make a left-hand turn?
• What if the car in front of me suddenly slams on the brakes?
• What if other drivers run a red light or fail to yield?

To protect yourself, increase your following distance and be prepared to brake quickly if needed. Taking proactive steps at intersections can be the difference between life and death.

Second Deadly Mistake You Can Make on a Motorcycle: Not Maintaining Enough Following Distance

Another deadly mistake that motorcyclists often make is failing to maintain a safe following distance. Time and space on the road are your lifelines. For example, imagine riding at 100 km/h behind an SUV. If you’re too close, you’re blind to any potential hazards ahead, like debris, potholes, or even animals.

In a car, hitting a piece of rubber from a truck tire might just be a bump in the road. On a motorcycle, it could result in a serious crash. Establishing a minimum of three seconds of following distance on a good day will give you the time to react and stop safely if necessary. Keep your head up and always look as far ahead as possible to spot any dangers early. This foresight can help you adjust your speed and positioning, reducing the risk of a last-minute, life-threatening reaction.

Third Deadly Mistake You Can Make on a Motorcycle: Rushing Through Corners

Rushing through corners is another one of the deadliest mistakes you can make on a motorcycle. Many single-vehicle motorcycle accidents occur in corners when riders take them too fast for their skill level or fail to anticipate unexpected obstacles. Losing control in a curve can lead to running off the road or crashing into objects.

Professional riders can take corners at high speeds in controlled environments, but out on the street, there’s no room for error. You may face oncoming traffic, roadside obstacles, or even animals darting across your path. Instead of trying to race through every corner, focus on leaving some margin for unexpected situations. You won’t earn a trophy for speeding through the streets, but you’ll gain the pride of knowing you’ve skillfully handled your motorcycle while staying safe.