Experts show where you need to pay attention when going out on a motorcycle, whether for work or pleasure
Riding a motorcycle can be quite a challenge in cities. “Whoever goes out on a motorcycle prepares as if they were going to cross a jungle, with unforeseen events ranging from pedestrians and cars to the weather. That's why it's necessary to have a 'flight plan', to know in advance what could go wrong and to prevent it”, says Lylian Tsai, coordinator of the motorcycling group at the National Road Safety Observatory, motorcycle skill instructor and project creator Ride like a Girl.
She explains that taking care of traffic Safety It is the responsibility of all motorcyclists. “Accidents happen to everyone, not just delivery people”, emphasizes Lilian. “Before leaving home, take care of your personal safety first. In traffic, pay attention to the behavior of others to avoid collisions.”
In this sense, iFood joined other bodies and companies to support the “Pilots for Life” campaign, created by SEST SENAT, in partnership with Raízen, this February.
The initiative also has the support of the Ministry of Citizenship, the Ministry of Infrastructure, the National Land Transport Agency, the National Road Safety Observatory and Transjordano.
The movement aims to raise awareness among drivers about the main risks involving motorcycles in traffic and how to mitigate these risks. Thus, it seeks to engage these audiences in taking practical actions that can preserve lives in traffic and make them multipliers of this information.
And car drivers can also contribute to road safety with simple and collaborative attitudes. One of them is to always “give arrows” when changing lanes; another is to always maintain a safe distance from motorcycles.
When parking and getting out of the vehicle, it is always a good idea to look at the road before opening the door, to avoid hitting motorcyclists (and even cyclists), points out Fernando Campos, technical professional training instructor at SEST SENAT Guarulhos (Social Transport Service and National Transport Learning Service).
Below, the two experts give tips for motorcyclists to ride more safely in traffic — for work or pleasure.
How to ride a motorcycle safely
Protect your body
To protect yourself from accidents and the weather (rain or shine), wear a helmet, boots, jacket and gloves, as well as eye protection, as dust particles in the city are very uncomfortable and can hurt.
Check the motorbike
Always carry out preventive maintenance to ensure that the motorcycle is in good running condition. Pay special attention to the tires, which must always be inflated (and never “bald”), and the brakes.
Exercise caution
In traffic, always drive defensively and with caution. Pay attention to movement so as not to be surprised by unexpected movements of vehicles and pedestrians. And always use dipped headlights, day and night.
keep your distance
To avoid accidents with other vehicles, keep a safe distance from them and avoid corridors or driving in zigzags. Don't put yourself in the blind spots of cars and buses: try to always leave your motorcycle visible on the road.
Watch out for tracks in the rain
Crosswalks become more slippery in the rain (and water can also spread oil that leaks from cars and trucks). When turning corners when the ground is wet, reduce speed and lean the motorcycle less to avoid slipping.
Be careful at the intersection
Always reduce speed at intersections and overtake only in places where it is permitted.
