Bikers MUST ride defensively: it’s the only way!

We often mention in our articles about the need for bikers to be more aware of the dangers on the road and actively anticipate errors by other drivers for your own benefit. Listening to the radio the other day, a reminder that bikers must always “ride defensively” was broadcast across the digital airwaves when a listener sent a message to the show on this very topic. The understandably annoyed biker was essentially saying that they wear high-vis gear all year round – not just at night and in winter – because drivers still fail to see motorcyclists on the road.

It was this message to the show’s hosts that triggered the reminder that it’s always wise to ride defensively.

The host’s response was a stark reminder about the different worlds bikers and drivers exist in. In winter for example, a biker is facing the cold, harsh elements head on with nothing but their clothing to keep them warm in the rushing wind. Their mind is often as sharp as the snappy weather itself; it has to be, as respite in such cold and wet conditions is difficult.

A driver on the other hand is safely contained within their heated vehicle with the radio on. And what does that mean? It means distraction and loss of concentration; that’s the radio to distract the driver, and the warm snuggly car to allow their mind to wander.

Therefore, bikers have no alternative but to expect that a distracted driver – or a driver whose concentration has lapsed – is around every corner. That gaping yawn in the warmth could be all it takes to fail to spot a biker when changing lanes, or singing along to the radio could cause that momentary distraction when emerging from a junction where the biker isn’t spotted.

The thing is, bikers must ride defensively and expect hazards and anticipate the dangers ahead.

Although drivers ought to be fully alert and it’s really a driver’s fault if they fail to do this and become a hazard, riding defensively can save your life.

We get that it shouldn’t be the riders who have to take extra care, but the reality is that there are dangerous drivers out there and riders are at risk.

So – always ride defensively so you’re ready to dodge a dangerous driver. It might just save your life…