Brake Light; Using Your Mirrors - Vermont Castings MOTORCYCLE Manual


have the headlights on when running).
Studies show that, during the day, a
motorcycle with its light on is twice as
likely to be noticed. Use low beam at
night and in fog.
Signals
The signals on a motorcycle are similar
to those on a car. They tell others what
you plan to do.
However, due to a rider's added
vulnerability, signals are even more
important. Use them anytime you plan
to change lanes or turn. Use them even
when you think no one else is around.
It's the car you don't see that's going to
give you the most trouble. Your signal
lights also make you easier to spot.
That's why it's a good idea to use your
turn signals even when what you plan
to do is obvious.
When you enter a freeway, drivers
approaching from behind are more likely
to see your signal blinking and make
room for you.
Turning your signal light on before
each turn reduces confusion and
frustration for the traffic around you.
signaling
Once you turn, make sure your signal is
off or a driver may pull directly into your
path, thinking you plan to turn again.
Use your signals at every turn so drivers
can react accordingly. Don't make them
guess what you intend to do.

Brake Light

Your motorcycle's brake light is usually
not as noticeable as the brake lights on
a car — particularly when your taillight
is on. (It goes on with the headlight.)
If the situation will permit, help others
notice you by flashing your brake light
before you slow down. It is especially
important to flash your brake light
before:
• You slow more quickly than
others might expect (turning off a
high-speed highway).
• You slow where others may not
expect it (in the middle of a block or
at an alley).
If you are being followed closely, it's
a good idea to flash your brake light
before you slow. The tailgater may be
watching you and not see something
ahead that will make you slow down.
This will hopefully discourage them from
tailgating and warn them of hazards
ahead they may not see.

Using Your Mirrors

While it's most important to keep
track of what's happening ahead, you
can't afford to ignore situations behind.
Traffic conditions change quickly.
Knowing what's going on behind is
essential for you to make a safe decision
about how to handle trouble ahead.
Frequent mirror checks should be part
of your normal searching routine. Make
a special point of using your mirrors:
• When you are stopped at an
intersection. Watch cars coming up
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