Head Checks - Vermont Castings MOTORCYCLE Manual

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from behind. If the drivers aren't
paying attention, they could be on
top of you before they see you.
• Before you change lanes� Make
sure no one is about to pass you.
• Before you slow down� The driver
behind may not expect you to slow,
or may be unsure about where you
will slow. For example, you signal a
turn and the driver thinks you plan
to turn at a distant intersection,
rather than at a nearer driveway.
Most motorcycles have rounded
(convex) mirrors. These provide a
wider view of the road behind than
do flat mirrors. They also make cars
seem farther away than they really are.
If you are not used to convex mirrors,
get familiar with them. (While you
are stopped, pick out a parked car in
your mirror. Form a mental image of
how far away it is. Then, turn around
and look at it to see how close you
came.) Practice with your mirrors until
you become a good judge of distance.
Even then, allow extra distance before
you change lanes.

Head Checks

Checking your mirrors is not enough.
Motorcycles have "blind spots" like cars.
Before you change lanes, turn your head,
and look to the side for other vehicles.
On a road with several lanes, check
the far lane and the one next to you. A
driver in the distant lane may head for
the same space you plan to take.
testyourself
Reflective clothing should:
A. Be worn at night.
B. Be worn during the day.
C. Not be worn.
D. Be worn day and night
ridewithinyourabilities
7
Answer - page 47
usingMirrors
Frequent head checks should be
your normal scanning routine, also.
Only by knowing what is happening
all around you are you fully prepared
to deal with it.
Horn
Be ready to use your horn to get
someone's attention quickly.
It is a good idea to give a quick beep
before passing anyone that may move
into your lane.
Here are some situations:
• A driver in the lane next to you
is driving too closely to the vehicle
ahead and may want to pass.
• A parked car has someone in the
driver's seat.
• Someone is in the street, riding a
bicycle or walking.
In an emergency, sound your horn
loud and long. Be ready to stop or
swerve away from the danger.