Yamaha DT501988 Owner's Manual page 8

b. Know your skills and limits. Staying within your limits may help you to
avoid an accident.
c. We recommend that you practice riding your motorcycle where there is
no traffic until you have become thoroughly familiar with your motorcycle
and all of its controls.
5. Many motorcycle accidents have been caused by motorcycle operator errors.
A typical error made by the operator is veering wide on a turn due to EX-
CESSIVE SPEED or undercornering (insufficient lean angle for the speed).
a. Always obey the speed limits and never travel faster than warranted by
road and traffic conditions.
b. Always signal before turning or changing lanes. Make sure other motorists
see you.
6. Operator's posture is important for proper control.
The operator should keep both hands on the handlebars and both feet on the
operator footrests during operation to maintian control of the motorcycle.
7. Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
PROTECTIVE APPAREL
The majority of fatalities from motorcycle accidents are the result of head in-
juries. The use of a safety helmet is the single most critical factor in the pre-
vention or reduction of head injuries.