Motorcyclists Group Riding Safety

Even though motorcycle accidents share similarities when it comes to traffic accidents, motorcycle accidents are typically far more severe than that of car or truck accidents. One of the most important things for any rider to remember is the fact that motorcycle accidents can and will happen. Hopefully it will not happen to you. In order to help keep you safe, read up on some of these great motorcycle safety tips to help you prepare for riding as a group.

When Riding as a Group

• It’s important that before you and your fellow group of riders take off, that you guys hold a meeting to discuss the route to be taken and where you intend to stop for rest or refueling. Also discuss types of hand signals to be used, and what should be done in the event of an accident, emergency or if someone is separated from the main group.

• Make sure that a knowledgeable and experienced lead and tail rider are appointed to help keep the group safe.

• The group should be kept to a controllable size of about five or seven riders. If plan to have a larger group, consider breaking it into smaller sub-groups, each of which have their own lead and tail rider.

• At least one rider in the group should have a cell phone, first-aid kit and a complete tool kit should anything happen.

• When traveling as a group, it is important to give each rider an appropriate riding space for maneuvering and reacting to hazards. Consider riding in this formation: leader of the group rides in the left third of the lane, next rider stays at least one second behind in the right third of the lane, the rest of the group follows the same pattern. When riding on a curvy road or where you feel more space is needed between riders, ride in a single-file formation.

• Avoid riding in a side-by-side formation since it reduces the space cushion.

• Occasionally check on the riders following behind you by glancing at your rear view mirror from time to time.