Railway crossings are potentially hazardous due to the fact that trains travel much faster than they seem, and cannot stop quickly. It can take 2 km or more for a train to stop even when brakes are fully applied. Never depend on a train to be able to stop on time to avoid you, and drive on only once the train has passed. Other hazards at railway crossings may include having to stop for other vehicles, and the loss of traction which can occur because train tracks are slippery at all times, and more so when they are wet.

Applying the brakes too hard and too fast can cause the wheels to lock. Threshold braking is a way to stop quickly without causing the wheels to lock. It involves applying both brakes at the same time, then quickly releasing before the point where the wheels lock up, then quickly repeating the process to enable the motorcycle to quickly and safely stop without locking the wheels.

Any time an uneven road surface results in a feeling of loss of control or shakiness, it is important to maintain a strong grip on the handlebars and avoid sudden movements or rash reactions.

Only travel when the way is clean and is safe to do so.

A staggered formation allows motorcyclists to drive close to each other in a group but prevents them from driving too close or alongside one another. Using staggered formation, motorcyclists ensure they have enough room in which to safely maneuver.

A seized engine means the engine has frozen or become locked. There are usually some warning signs before this happens, so motorcyclists have some time to react before the engine seizes and the wheels lock. It is important to stop and pull over before that happens.

Cargo must be secured in a low position. If cargo must be placed on both sides of the motorcycle, be certain to distribute the weight of the cargo evenly on both sides so that balance will not be affected.

Special care should be taken when towing a trailer with a motorcycle. The trailer must have a mandatory white plate light, two red reflectors on the rear and a red tail light.

To ensure safety, always stop a good distance - 5 metres at least - from the train tracks when the barrier is down and/or the lights are flashing. Motorcyclists should never attempt to cross around or under gates that have been lowered for an approaching train. Motorcyclists must drive on only after the gates have been raised and it is safe to do so.

Being prepared for any kind of circumstance on the road is one of the biggest hallmarks of a skilled motorcyclist. The ability to anticipate and respond appropriately to dangerous situations is what separates good drivers from average and not-so-good ones. It is important to be able to anticipate and be ready for all suddenly-changing circumstances in order to respond properly. Anticipating dangers before they occur can also prevent panic and nervousness, both of which can further complicate situations where the motorcyclist already faces danger.