{"id":14640,"date":"2025-03-10T09:37:52","date_gmt":"2025-03-10T09:37:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/?p=14640"},"modified":"2026-01-08T06:33:27","modified_gmt":"2026-01-08T06:33:27","slug":"dangerous-motorcycle-habits-need-to-break","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/dangerous-motorcycle-habits-need-to-break\/","title":{"rendered":"10 Dangerous Motorcycle Habits You Need to Break Now"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Motorcycling is an exhilarating experience, offering freedom, adventure, and a unique connection to the road. However, even seasoned riders can develop dangerous habits that compromise safety and performance. In this comprehensive guide, we\u2019ll explore the most common dangerous motorcycle habits, why they\u2019re dangerous, and how to fix them. Whether you\u2019re a new rider or a veteran, breaking these habits could save your life.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_79_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-light-blue ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69f01f78123e6\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69f01f78123e6\"  aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/dangerous-motorcycle-habits-need-to-break\/#1_Skipping_Protective_Gear\" >1. Skipping Protective Gear<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/dangerous-motorcycle-habits-need-to-break\/#2_Speeding_and_Overconfidence\" >2. Speeding and Overconfidence<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/dangerous-motorcycle-habits-need-to-break\/#3_Neglecting_Motorcycle_Maintenance\" >3. Neglecting Motorcycle Maintenance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/dangerous-motorcycle-habits-need-to-break\/#4_Lane_Splitting_Unsafely\" >4. Lane Splitting Unsafely<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/dangerous-motorcycle-habits-need-to-break\/#5_Riding_Distracted\" >5. Riding Distracted<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/dangerous-motorcycle-habits-need-to-break\/#6_Poor_Body_Positioning\" >6. Poor Body Positioning<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/dangerous-motorcycle-habits-need-to-break\/#7_Tailgating_or_Following_Too_Closely\" >7. Tailgating or Following Too Closely<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/dangerous-motorcycle-habits-need-to-break\/#8_Ignoring_Blind_Spots\" >8. Ignoring Blind Spots<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/dangerous-motorcycle-habits-need-to-break\/#9_Riding_Under_the_Influence\" >9. Riding Under the Influence<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/dangerous-motorcycle-habits-need-to-break\/#10_Failing_to_Signal_or_Communicate\" >10. Failing to Signal or Communicate<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/dangerous-motorcycle-habits-need-to-break\/#Bonus_How_to_Break_Dangerous_Motorcycle_Habits\" >Bonus: How to Break Dangerous Motorcycle Habits<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/dangerous-motorcycle-habits-need-to-break\/#Final_Thoughts\" >Final Thoughts<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Skipping_Protective_Gear\"><\/span>1. Skipping <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-5-best-motorcycle-gear-for-beginners\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Protective Gear<\/a><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>The Habit:<\/strong> Riding without a helmet, gloves, jackets, or proper footwear.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_14652\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-14652\" class=\"wp-image-14652\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/riding-motorcycle-without-protective-gear-500x323.jpeg\" alt=\"riding motorcycle without protective gear is one of the most common dangerous habits\" width=\"700\" height=\"452\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/riding-motorcycle-without-protective-gear-500x323.jpeg 500w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/riding-motorcycle-without-protective-gear-1024x661.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/riding-motorcycle-without-protective-gear-350x226.jpeg 350w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/riding-motorcycle-without-protective-gear-768x496.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/riding-motorcycle-without-protective-gear.jpeg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-14652\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">riding a motorcycle without protective gear<\/p><\/div>\n<p><strong>Why It\u2019s Dangerous:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Motorcycle riding exposes you to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/common-mechanical-issues-of-motorcycle\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">greater risks in crashes<\/a>, including head injuries and traumatic brain injuries. Helmets and protective clothing are essential for protection while wearing these items can prevent cuts, bruises, and road rash.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/National_Highway_Traffic_Safety_Administration\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">National Highway Traffic Safety Administration<\/a> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhtsa.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">NHTSA<\/a>) reports that helmets reduce the risk of death by 37% and head injury by 69%. Yet, many riders skip gear for \u201cshort trips\u201d or comfort.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The Fix:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Always wear a DOT\/ECE-certified helmet<\/strong>. Modern helmets are lightweight and ventilated.<\/li>\n<li>Invest in abrasion-resistant jackets, pants, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/how-should-motorcycle-gloves-fit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">gloves<\/a>. Look for CE-rated armor.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/different-types-of-motorcycle-boots\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Choose boots<\/a> that cover ankles. Sneakers offer zero protection in crashes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Pro Tip<\/strong>: Use gear with reflective materials for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/how-to-make-your-motorcycle-more-visible\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">better visibility at night.<\/a><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Speeding_and_Overconfidence\"><\/span>2. Speeding and Overconfidence<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>The Habit:<\/strong> Riding too fast for conditions or showing off with risky maneuvers.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Why It\u2019s Dangerous:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/10-common-causes-of-motorcycle-accidents\/#Common_Causes_Of_Motorcycle_Accidents_Speeding\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Speeding<\/a> and overconfidence are common temptations for motorcyclists, leading to unnecessary risks and accidents. Speeding reduces the time for reactions, increases <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/motorcycle-stopping-distance-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">stopping distances<\/a>, and reduces the margin for error. Overconfidence can blind riders to potential hazards, leading to misjudgments and potential legal consequences. It's crucial for motorcyclists to stay aware of their surroundings and maintain a safe speed to protect themselves and others on the road.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The Fix:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Follow speed limits and adjust for weather, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/11-tips-for-riding-safely-in-heavy-traffic\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">traffic<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/tips-for-riding-in-bad-road-conditions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">road quality<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/riding-a-motorcycle-at-slow-speed\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Practice slow-speed maneuvers<\/a> in empty <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/common-motorcycle-parking-mistakes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">parking lots<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Take advanced riding courses (e.g., <a href=\"https:\/\/msf-usa.org\/advance-your-ride\/advanced-ridercourse-arc\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">MSF Advanced RiderCourse<\/a>).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Did You Know?<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Anti-lock_braking_system\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ABS (Anti-lock Braking Systems)<\/a> can reduce fatal crashes by 31% (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/@iihs-hldi\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IIHS<\/a>).<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Neglecting_Motorcycle_Maintenance\"><\/span>3. Neglecting <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/electric-motorcycle-maintenance-expert-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Motorcycle Maintenance<\/a><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_14654\" style=\"width: 810px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-14654\" class=\"wp-image-14654\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-maintenance-is-necessary-500x265.jpg\" alt=\"motorcycle maintenance is necessary\" width=\"800\" height=\"424\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-maintenance-is-necessary-500x265.jpg 500w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-maintenance-is-necessary-1024x543.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-maintenance-is-necessary-350x186.jpg 350w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-maintenance-is-necessary-768x407.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-maintenance-is-necessary-1536x814.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-maintenance-is-necessary.jpg 1800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-14654\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">motorcycle maintenance is necessary<\/p><\/div>\n<p><strong>The Habit:<\/strong> Ignoring <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/best-tire-pressure-for-atv\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">tire pressure<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/how-to-clean-your-motorcycle-chain\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">chain lubrication<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/how-often-should-change-motorcycle-brakes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">brake checks<\/a>, or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/choose-the-right-engine-oil-for-motorcycles\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">oil changes<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Why It\u2019s Dangerous:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/how-long-do-motorcycle-tires-last\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Worn tires<\/a> cause poor traction. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/how-to-handle-motorcycles-brake-failure\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Faulty brakes<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/how-to-tighten-motorcycle-chain\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">loose chains<\/a> can lead to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/common-mechanical-issues-of-motorcycle\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">mechanical failure<\/a> mid-ride.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The Fix:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Check<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/dirt-bike-tire-pressure\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> tire pressure<\/a> weekly.<\/strong> Underinflated tires reduce stability.<\/li>\n<li>Lubricate the chain every 500 miles.<\/li>\n<li>Replace <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/what-are-the-best-brake-pads-cheap-vs-expensive\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">brake pads<\/a> if the thickness is below 1\/8 inch.<\/li>\n<li>Follow the manufacturer\u2019s maintenance schedule.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong> Use a motorcycle <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/motorcycle-maintenance-secrets\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">maintenance<\/a> app (e.g., Drivvo) to track service dates.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Lane_Splitting_Unsafely\"><\/span>4. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/how-to-master-motorcycle-lane-splitting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lane Splitting<\/a> Unsafely<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>The Habit:<\/strong> Weaving between cars at high speeds or in heavy traffic.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Why It\u2019s Dangerous:<\/strong> While lane splitting is legal in some states (e.g., California), doing it recklessly can cause collisions. Drivers often don\u2019t expect motorcycles in tight spaces.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The Fix:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Only lane split if it\u2019s legal in your state.<\/li>\n<li>Keep speeds under 10 mph faster than traffic.<\/li>\n<li>Avoid splitting near large vehicles (trucks, buses).<\/li>\n<li>Watch for car doors opening or sudden lane changes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Did You Know?<\/strong> California\u2019s lane-splitting guidelines recommend not exceeding 30 mph.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Riding_Distracted\"><\/span>5. Riding Distracted<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_14655\" style=\"width: 810px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-14655\" class=\"wp-image-14655\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/riding-distracted-is-dangerous-500x328.jpg\" alt=\"riding distracted is dangerous\" width=\"800\" height=\"524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/riding-distracted-is-dangerous-500x328.jpg 500w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/riding-distracted-is-dangerous-1024x671.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/riding-distracted-is-dangerous-350x229.jpg 350w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/riding-distracted-is-dangerous-768x503.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/riding-distracted-is-dangerous.jpg 1170w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-14655\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">riding distracted is dangerous<\/p><\/div>\n<p><strong>The Habit:<\/strong> Using phones, adjusting GPS, or daydreaming while riding.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Why It\u2019s Dangerous:<\/strong> A 2023 study by <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/American_Automobile_Association\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AAA<\/a> found that riders who text are 8x more likely to crash. Distractions delay reaction time.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The Fix:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/gps\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mount your phone\/GPS<\/a> securely and use voice commands.<\/li>\n<li>Pull over to adjust settings or check directions.<\/li>\n<li>Stay mentally focused\u2014avoid \u201cautopilot\u201d mode on familiar routes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/helmet-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Use Bluetooth helmet communicators for hands-free calls.<\/a><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Poor_Body_Positioning\"><\/span>6. Poor Body Positioning<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>The Habit:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/motorcycle-cornering-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Leaning incorrectly in turns<\/a>, gripping handlebars too tightly, or slouching.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Why It\u2019s Dangerous:<\/strong> Bad posture reduces control and increases fatigue. Improper leaning raises the risk of low siding.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The Fix:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Look through turns\u2014your head and eyes guide the bike.<\/li>\n<li>Relax your grip; use your knees to grip the tank.<\/li>\n<li>Shift your weight to the inside footpeg during turns.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong> Watch YouTube tutorials by certified instructors for visual guidance.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Tailgating_or_Following_Too_Closely\"><\/span>7. Tailgating or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/motorcycle-following-distance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Following Too Closely<\/a><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_14656\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-14656\" class=\"wp-image-14656\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/keeping-proper-following-distance-to-avoid-danger-500x434.jpg\" alt=\"keeping proper following distance to avoid danger\" width=\"600\" height=\"521\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/keeping-proper-following-distance-to-avoid-danger-500x434.jpg 500w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/keeping-proper-following-distance-to-avoid-danger-350x304.jpg 350w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/keeping-proper-following-distance-to-avoid-danger.jpg 637w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-14656\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">keeping proper following distance to avoid danger<\/p><\/div>\n<p><strong>The Habit:<\/strong> Riding too close to the vehicle ahead.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Why It\u2019s Dangerous:<\/strong> Motorcycles need more stopping distance than cars. Tailgating leaves no room to react to sudden stops.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The Fix:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Follow the \u201c3-second rule\u201d: Pick a marker, and ensure 3 seconds pass before you reach it.<\/p>\n<p>Increase distance in rain, fog, or gravel.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Did You Know?<\/strong> A motorcycle traveling at 60 mph needs 120\u2013140 feet to stop (MSF).<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Ignoring_Blind_Spots\"><\/span>8. Ignoring Blind Spots<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>The Habit:<\/strong> Lingering in car or truck blind spots.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Why It\u2019s Dangerous:<\/strong> Drivers won\u2019t see you, increasing the risk of sideswipes or lane-change collisions.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The Fix:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Stay visible: Ride in the left or right third of the lane.<\/li>\n<li>Pass quickly if you\u2019re near a vehicle\u2019s blind spot.<\/li>\n<li>Use your horn or rev the engine to alert drivers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong> Install auxiliary lights to improve visibility.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Riding_Under_the_Influence\"><\/span>9. Riding Under the Influence<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_14657\" style=\"width: 810px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-14657\" class=\"wp-image-14657\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/do-not-drunk-before-riding-motorcycle-500x268.jpg\" alt=\"do not drunk before riding motorcycle\" width=\"800\" height=\"429\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/do-not-drunk-before-riding-motorcycle-500x268.jpg 500w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/do-not-drunk-before-riding-motorcycle-350x188.jpg 350w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/do-not-drunk-before-riding-motorcycle-768x412.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/do-not-drunk-before-riding-motorcycle.jpg 994w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-14657\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Don't get drunk before riding a motorcycle<\/p><\/div>\n<p><strong>The Habit:<\/strong> Consuming alcohol, drugs, or medications before riding.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Why It\u2019s Dangerous:<\/strong> Alcohol impairs balance, judgment, and coordination. In 2021, 29% of fatally injured riders were alcohol-impaired (NHTSA).<\/p>\n<p><strong>The Fix:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Never drink and ride. Use ride-sharing apps instead.<\/li>\n<li>Check medication labels for drowsiness warnings.<\/li>\n<li>Stay hydrated\u2014dehydration mimics alcohol impairment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Did You Know?<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Blood_alcohol_content\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> A blood alcohol concentration (BAC)<\/a> of 0.08% reduces reaction time by 20\u201340%.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Failing_to_Signal_or_Communicate\"><\/span>10. Failing to Signal or Communicate<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>The Habit:<\/strong> Not using <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/why-your-motorcycle-turn-signals-matter\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">turn signals<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/16-essential-motorcycle-hand-signals\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">hand gestures<\/a>, or brake lights properly.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Why It\u2019s Dangerous:<\/strong> Drivers rely on your signals to anticipate moves. Sudden lane changes confuse traffic.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The Fix:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Use turn signals 100\u2013200 feet before turning.<\/li>\n<li>Flash brake lights before slowing down.<\/li>\n<li>Use hand signals (e.g., pointing to hazards) to communicate with riders.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong> Install self-canceling turn signals to avoid leaving them on accidentally.<\/p>\n<div class=\"su-box su-box-style-glass\" id=\"\" style=\"border-color:#0000b1;border-radius:5px;\"><div class=\"su-box-title\" style=\"background-color:#0913e4;color:#FFFFFF;border-top-left-radius:3px;border-top-right-radius:3px\">Safe Riding Habits<\/div><div class=\"su-box-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" style=\"border-bottom-left-radius:3px;border-bottom-right-radius:3px\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/riding-habits-motorcyclist-should-know\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Top 10 Riding Habits Every Motorcyclist Should Know<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bonus_How_to_Break_Dangerous_Motorcycle_Habits\"><\/span>Bonus: How to Break Dangerous Motorcycle Habits<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Self-Assess:<\/strong> Record your rides or ask a friend to critique your habits.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Practice Mindfulness:<\/strong> Stay conscious of your actions\u2014no autopilot!<\/li>\n<li><strong>Take a Refresher Course:<\/strong> Many organizations offer advanced training.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Final_Thoughts\"><\/span>Final Thoughts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Getting over lousy bike-riding habits ain't quick, but man, it's worth it. You score safer treks, dodge more scrapes, and just dig the ride heaps more. Keep up with the know-how, make sure you\u2019re seen, and put bike upkeep at the top of your list.<\/p>\n<p>Don\u2019t forget minor tweaks such as a weekly tire pressure check, could be a game-changer for staying alive.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p>You may also be interested in: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Top 3 Motorcycle Dangers and Prevention Strategies<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Motorcycling is an exhilarating experience, offering freedom, adventure, and a unique connection to the road. However, even seasoned riders can develop dangerous habits that compromise safety and performance. In this comprehensive guide, we\u2019ll explore the most common dangerous motorcycle habits, why they\u2019re dangerous, and how to fix them. Whether you\u2019re a new rider or a [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":14651,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[94,32,29],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-14640","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-education","category-motorcycle","category-safety"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14640","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14640"}],"version-history":[{"count":20,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14640\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":18923,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14640\/revisions\/18923"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/14651"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14640"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14640"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14640"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}