The SEE strategy is a 3-step process used to make appropriate judgments in different situations. SEARCH ahead for hazards before they arise, EVALUATE potential problems, EXECUTE your decisions.
If the rear tire goes flat, the back of the motorcycle may jerk or sway from side to side. Hold handgrips firmly, ease off teh throttle and keep a straight course.
Never count on “eye contact” as a sign that a driver will yield. Too often, a driver looks right at a motorcyclist and still fails to “see” him. The only eyes that you can count on are your own. If a car can enter your path, assume that it will.
Make a special point of using your mirrors before you slow down. The driver behind you may not expect you to slow or may be unsure about where you will slow.
Always turn off your turn indicators after you make a turn. If you fail to do so, a driver may pull directly into your path, thinking you plan to turn again.
While helmets do have their protection limits, your chances of surviving an accident are usually better with a helmet on, regardless of speed.
Grabbing at the front brake or jamming down on the rear brake can cause the brakes to lock and result in control problems. Use caution and gently squeeze the brake lever, never “grab” it.
Most collisions occur in broad daylight. Wear brightly-colored and reflective clothing day and night to increase your chances of being seen.
When riding with a passenger or carrying a large load, place the load over, or in front of, the rear axle. Having additional weight behind the rear axle affects how the motorcycle turns and brakes. It can also cause a wobble.
Look through the turn to where you want to go. Turn just your head, not your shoulders, and keep your eyes level with the horizon.
Reduce your speed as you approach an intersection. After entering the intersection, move away from vehicles preparing to turn. Do not change speed or position radically. The driver might think that you are preparing to turn.
Riding over rain grooves or bridge gratings may cause a motorcycle to weave. Relax, maintain a steady speed and ride straight across. Crossing at an angle forces riders to zigzag to stay in the lane. The zigzag is far more hazardous than the wandering feeling.
In normal turns, the rider and the motorcycle should lean together at the same angle. This will help to keep the bike balanced.
A plastic shatter-resistant face shield can help protect your whole face in a collision. Face shields, when lowered and locked-in, offer protection from wind, dust, dirt, rain, insects, pebbles, and other debris.
When it starts to rain, ride in the tire tracks left by cars. Often, the left tire track will be the best position, depending on traffic and other road conditions.
After passing the leader should return to the left position and continue riding at passing speed to open room for the next rider.
If you are being chased by a dog, downshift and approach the animal slowly. As you approach it, accelerate and leave the animal behind.
“Following too closely” (tailgating) is a factor in collisions involving motorcyclists. In traffic, motorcycles need as much distance to stop as other vehicles. Normally, you should maintain a two-second following distance.
In high-risk areas, such as intersections, shopping areas, schools, or construction zones, reduce your speed, and cover the clutch and both brake levers to reduce your reaction time.
