Prevent motorcycle accidents by answering 10 questions

Should Everyone Be Allowed to Ride a Motorcycle?
Riding a motorcycle can be an invigorating experience that is enjoyable. Unfortunately it is not an activity that is appropriate for everyone. There are several considerations a person needs to think about when deciding if motorcycle riding is the right hobby. There are physical components that need to be considered as well as having the right mental attitude. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation has developed a list of questions to ask yourself to determine if you are in a position to take to the road on a motorcycle safely.
1. Are you a higher risk taker than others you know? Consider your tendencies as you drive; do you need or want a thrill while driving? Are you aggressive? Do you follow too closely? Do you talk on the phone while driving? If this describes some of your tendencies then motorcycle riding may not be for you.
2. Do you see well? This seems like an obvious question but there are some perceptual skills needed when riding that rely on good vision.
3. Are you mechanically inclined? These are complicated machines and you need to be able to evaluate them for safety as well as make adjustments to make them safe.
4. Can you handle your car in an emergency? When riding a motorcycle these skills are vitally important. A lot of times cars do not see motorcycles and it is up to the rider to avoid accidents.
5. Can you ride a bicycle? Riding a motorcycle and bicycle both require balance and coordination. If you have trouble with either of these issues riding a motorcycle is not a good choice.
6. Can you drive a stick-shift car? Almost all motorcycles have manual transmissions so if you know how to drive a stick-shift it will make learning to drive easier.
7. Are you safety-minded? When you are working around the house do you exercise safety precautions? Motorcycle riders control their situation only if they make safety their first priority.
8. Do you respect machinery and other equipment that has risk? Successful riders know that safety is really just doing the right thing to lower the risk of accidents.
9. Can you focus? Safe motorcycling requires paying attention and being aware of everything going on around you.
10. Will you commit to taking a rider safety program?
Answering all of these questions will help you decide whether you will be a safe rider.