5 Risky Behavioral Issues Every Motorcyclist Must Avoid

Mishaps involving motorcycle riders happen primarily because of two reasons. First, and the most common reason is associated with behavioral issues of the rider. The second reason is technical problems which can be easily solved with pre-emptive repairs and maintenance. But behavioral issues is different ball game altogether. This has to be resolved by the rider, and for that he or she must be intimately aware of the problems that may be happening at a subconscious level.

Aggressive riding

One of the most common behavioral problems that get motorcyclists in trouble is getting into an aggressive mindset. This is also called the racer mindset; the only difference is that they start racing on public roads! Behavioral experts who analyzed such patterns strongly recommended that motorcycle riders, as well as four-wheeler drivers should always ride defensively and passively. If somebody on the road challenges you with an aggressive overtake, instead of taking it in a negative sense, focus on staying safe rather than winning a road race. There are also other conditions and situations when a motorcyclist can become aggressive and try to filter through traffic thereby endangering other motorists on the road. Patience is a virtue, but when you're riding a motorcycle, it is a lifesaving quality!

Driving under the influence of alcohol

Despite the legal penalties of riding or driving a vehicle under influence of alcohol, there are people who still continue to do that! Not only but it is also a very risky behavior that can definitely endanger yourself as well as other people on the road. The usual justification people give themselves while riding a vehicle after drinking alcohol is that they're not out of control, and they have complete control of the vehicle. Unfortunately, that is not always true. Depending on the physical conditions of the person at a particular period of time, alcohol can have different effects which might not be consistent with previous experiences. Do not mix drinking and driving together.

Riding with a fatigued mind

For many office commuters and even long-distance tourers, staying on the motorcycle after a difficult day at the office, or after a tiring day-long journey can be quite challenging. If the mind is not completely aware and prepared to take emergency decisions, the risk of getting in accident becomes high. If you find yourself incapable of focusing on the road, or you feel exhausted, take a cab instead of risking it on a two-wheeler. Open estimating the limitation of how far you can push the physical limits is a common behavioral issue that puts motorists and two-wheeler riders at risk.

Competitive mindset

Human beings are inherently competitive. That is what has made us the best and most successful creatures on earth collectively. However, self-preservation is another quality that makes us ‘human’. Being able to differentiate the thin line that separates a challenge from definite doom is crucial for survival and staying safe. This is often clouded by the rush of adrenaline while riding a motorcycle which can lead a two-wheeler rider in taking unnecessary risks that end up in accidents. If you feel the urge to compete on two-wheels do it safely within the safety net of a race-course. The public roads are unsafe for going all out which is why there are legal speed limits in place. It is important to respect the logic behind the traffic laws because they are there to protect you from risks of an injury or worse.

Lack of situational awareness

Finally, the lack of situational awareness is another common behavioral issue common in both riders and drivers. Zoning out in the middle of the ride or being distracted with the mobile phone or the infotainment system on the motorcycle impairs the brain’s ability to focus on evolving risks on the road. Listening to loud music or talking to someone via a Bluetooth-equipped branded motorcycle helmet while riding a bike can certainly take your attention away from the road. It is highly recommended to keep the calls short or stopping safely at the side of the road to talk on the phone.