Motorcycle safety tips every biker should know

Ride defensively - Ride defensively and confidently, and anticipate what other road users are going to do. Be prepared to react appropriately.

Ride smoothly - You can react quicker than any other vehicle out there, but that doesn't mean you have to make moves that startle others.

Ride within the speed limit - This might sound obvious, but speeding is one of the biggest factors in fatal collisions involving motorcyclists. Ride within the speed limit.

Adapt to the weather - Slow down in poor weather conditions. The dangers of wet or icy roads multiply when you're on two wheels.

Ride sober - This goes without saying. Never ride your motorcycle while you're under the influence.

Always scan your environment - Conduct traffic checks by scanning your environment while waiting at an intersection or traffic light. Proceed only when it’s safe.

Watch for road hazards - Sand, oil, and gravel can make you lose traction. Bumps and potholes are also dangerous, so do avoid them.

Intercoms - Use intercoms only as needed and keep your chatting to only when it's necessary.

Keep audio to a minimum - That includes listening to music and/or chatting with friends or your passenger on your intercom. These can all be distracting as you ride.

Always wear a helmet - Wearing a motorcycle helmet is crucial. They're effective in preventing deaths, and they also reduce the risk of head injury by 69%.

Make yourself visible - Stay seen with high-visibility reflective gear, especially on your upper body, where it’s more likely to catch the attention of drivers

Wear appropriate gear - Heat and cold impair judgment and your ability to react. Dress for the ride and the weather, and be prepared to adapt to changing conditions.

Carry a first-aid kit - Make sure to include disinfecting wipes, bandages, hand sanitizer, gauze, adhesive tape, and band-aids.

Take a safety course - Driving a motorcycle requires skill and good judgment, and a safety course can help you practice these.

Check the blind spots - Always check the blind spots before moving away, when coming to a stop, and before making a lane change.

Brake light - Tap your brake light when decelerating. It alerts other drivers to your change in speed.

Avoid surprising other road users - Never do anything on the road that could cause others to slow down, brake, swerve, or that could startle pedestrians.

Choose your riding partners wisely - Riding as part of a group carries its own responsibilities. It’s wise to build experience before riding with others.