Photo credits by: Safe Wise
Accidents on motorcycles are inevitable and they’ve become a serious concern these days as the number of road accidents are escalating. Motorcycle accidents can happen to anyone, regardless of experience. While you can’t avoid every potential accident, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings can be done. In this blog, we’ll focus on 10 common road hazards for motorcyclists and help ensure your safety while driving.
Gravels and Debris
Small stones spread across roads can significantly impair your bike’s grip, leading to unpredictable handling and a higher risk of accidents. Debris such as fallen branches, trash, or broken glass can present significant risks to motorcyclists. These hazards can cause you to lose traction or even puncture your tires. In Singapore, gravel-related accidents are a notable concern, contributing to motorcycle crashes. According to data from the Singapore Traffic Police, road surface conditions, including loose gravel, are a significant factor in many motorcycle accidents. To minimize this risk, always be cautious when riding in areas where gravel might be present. Regularly check road conditions and adjust your riding techniques before you hit the road to ensure safety.
Bad Weather Conditions
Inclement weather conditions, such as rain or snow make motorcycle riding hazardous. Adverse weather conditions contribute to a notable percentage of motorcycle accidents each year. A report by the Singapore Road Safety Council highlights that around 15% of motorcycle crashes are linked to poor weather conditions, including rain and strong winds. Always take a rain check and avoid riding in severe weather whenever possible, and if you must ride, exercise extreme caution and adjust your riding techniques to account for reduced traction and visibility.
Photo by: Autodeal
Oncoming Traffic
Drivers veering into your lane can pose a serious risk for motorcyclists, often due to distractions or inattention. While you can’t eliminate this risk entirely, staying vigilant and keeping an eye on both oncoming traffic and nearby cars can help you anticipate potential dangers. Adjust your riding position and maintain a safe distance to minimize the impact of sudden lane changes.
Cars Changing Lanes
Drivers frequently change lanes without checking for motorcycles, leading to dangerous accidents. Similar to watching out for oncoming traffic, it’s crucial to stay alert for vehicles starting to drift into your lane.Keep a close watch on surrounding traffic and anticipate potential lane changes. This can help you avoid collisions and stay safer on the road.
Drivers Behind You
When you’re stopped, especially at intersections, there’s a higher risk of getting hit from behind. Drivers who aren’t paying attention might not see you, which can lead to serious accidents. To stay safe, be aware of the vehicles behind you and make sure to position yourself where you’re visible to other drivers.
Opening Car Doors
Be mindful of parked cars and the danger of doors suddenly opening. This risk is significant in urban areas, especially in Bangkok, dooring accidents are a leading cause of motorbike injuries and fatalities. Dooring accidents contribute to approximately 15% of motorbike crashes according to Bangkok Metropolitan Administration. To stay safe, always keep a safe distance from parked vehicles and be extra cautious when navigating through congested areas.
Photo by: Goldblatt
Speeding through corners
Riding too fast through corners can cause you to lose control of your motorcycle. Excess speed reduces your ability to handle turns safely. The ideal speed for safe cornering varies depending on the road conditions, curve severity, and your skill level. However, a general guideline for motorcycles is to reduce your speed by 20-30% when approaching a curve compared to your straight-line speed. This reduction helps maintain stability and allows for better handling.
Panic Stops
Emergency braking can be challenging, especially on a two-wheel vehicle. Applying the front brake too forcefully can lock up the wheel and cause you to fall. This is due to the front brake providing most of your stopping power, it’s important to use it carefully. Practice smooth braking and use both brakes together to stop safely. Knowing how your bike handles braking will help you stay in control during sudden stops.
Potholes
Potholes and road defects can be dangerous for motorcyclists, causing sudden jolts or even losing control of your bike. In many Asian cities like Mumbai and Hanoi, rough roads with potholes lead to many accidents. Always watchout and if you can’t avoid a pothole, slow down and go over it at an angle. Also, keep your motorcycle well-maintained to handle these road conditions better.
Sun Glare
This is unusual but yes sun glare can be a significant issue, especially during sunrise and sunset when the sun is low on the horizon. This can impair your vision and make it difficult to see other vehicles, road signs, and hazards. In countries like Australia, where the sun can be particularly intense, this hazard is prevalent. To mitigate the effects of sun glare, consider wearing sunglasses or using a visor on your helmet. Adjust your position on the road to reduce the impact of the glare and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
Photo by: GEARS
By staying vigilant and utilizing advanced motorcycle safety technologies, you can significantly enhance your safety on the road and reduce the risk of accidents. At Rider Dome, we provide a comprehensive safety solution for motorcycle fleets. For riders, our AI technology generates real-time alerts to prevent accidents. For fleet managers, our Fleet Monitoring Platform enhances safety and operational efficiency. Our Advanced Rider Assistance System (ARAS) uses computer vision algorithms to detect potential road threats.
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