Seeing and Being Seen

A lot of riding safety comes down to two things: spotting trouble early, and making it easy for others to spot you. Neither one costs a dime.

Search ahead

The MSF teaches a simple strategy called SEE: Search for hazards, Evaluate what could happen, and Execute your plan. Look well down the road, not just at the car in front of you. Check your mirrors often. Scan intersections, driveways, and parking lots for vehicles that might pull out. Watch a car's front wheels: they'll tell you it's moving before the driver does.

Lane position is a tool

Picture your lane in thirds: left, center, and right. No single spot is always best. Choose the position that lets you see the most, keeps you visible to other drivers, and gives you the most room from hazards. That might mean moving away from a car waiting to turn, out of a driver's blind spot, or away from gravel or the oily strip down the middle of the lane.

Leave yourself space

Keep a following distance of at least two seconds, and more when it's wet, dark, or traffic is heavy. Space gives you time, and time gives you options.

Help them see you

• Ride with your headlight on, and wear bright or reflective gear.
• Don't linger in a driver's blind spot. Speed up or drop back.
• Signal early, and cancel the signal when you're done.
• At intersections, cover your brakes and be ready, even when you have the right of way.

Assume drivers may not see you, and ride so you're ready if they don't. That's not paranoia. It's just good riding.

This course is for education. It doesn't replace a state-approved rider course or motorcycle licensing.