Hello, fellow riders! There’s nothing quite like the feeling of the open highway. The wind, the freedom, the thrill of the journey—it’s pure magic on two wheels. But highways can also be dangerous places, with high speeds and big vehicles. That’s why it’s crucial to be smart and safe.
We all have that one wise friend or family member who gives the best advice. For many of us, it’s someone like Odia Nana—a figure who shares golden wisdom from a lifetime of experience. So, let’s listen to him and follow these 5 golden rules for highway safety.
If you want to read moto blogs of him then click here.
1. Gear Up Like a Knight in Shining Armor
What to do: Always wear a full set of protective gear. This means a helmet (always fastened!), a riding jacket, gloves, pants, and Strong and durable boots.
Why it’s important: Your gear is your first and best defense in a crash. The highway is not a place for shorts and flip-flops.
If you ignore it: Imagine slipping off your bike at even a slow speed. Without gear, the rough road will scrape your skin right off—this is called road rash, and it’s extremely painful. A simple fall can lead to serious injuries. Your helmet protects your head, which is the most important part of you to keep safe. Remember what Odia Nana says: “Dress for the slide, not for the ride.”
2. Be a Bright Beacon on the Road
What to do: Make sure you are always visible to other drivers. Use your headlights (even during the day), wear bright or reflective clothing, and always signal your intentions clearly.
Why it’s important: Sometimes, car drivers simply don’t see motorcycles. It’s not always malice; it’s often just a failure to notice a smaller vehicle.
If you ignore it: A driver might not see you in their mirror and could change lanes right into you. Or, if you’re wearing dark clothes at dusk, a car might pull out onto the highway in front of you because they didn’t spot you coming.
3. Keep a Safe Bubble Around You
What to do: Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. Also, try not to ride directly next to another vehicle in their blind spot.
Why it’s important: This space is your “safety bubble.” It gives you time to react if the car ahead suddenly brakes or if something falls off a truck.
If you ignore it: If a truck’s tire blows out right in front of you, with no safe distance, you have zero time to avoid the flying rubber. Or, if the car ahead stops suddenly, you will crash right into it. Keeping a safe distance is a simple tip from Odia Nana that can prevent the most common accidents.
4. Always Have an Escape Route
What to do: Don’t just stare at the bumper of the car in front. Keep your eyes moving. Scan the road ahead and constantly think, “If something goes wrong right now, where can I go?”
Why it’s important: Things happen fast on the highway. Having a plan—like an empty lane next to you or a shoulder to use—means you can act instantly instead of panicking.
If you ignore it: If a car swerves into your lane, and you haven’t already checked your mirrors, you might not know if it’s safe to move over. This split-second of not knowing can cause a bad accident. It’s the kind of smart thinking that Odia Nana would recommend.
5. Know Your Machine and Your Limits
What to do: Before a long trip, check your bike’s tires, brakes, lights, and chain. Also, be honest about your own energy levels. Never ride when you are too tired.
Why it’s important: A small mechanical problem can become a huge disaster at high speed. Similarly, riding drowsy is as dangerous as riding drunk—your reaction time slows down dramatically.
If you ignore it: A tire with low pressure can cause you to lose control. Or, if you’re feeling sleepy, you might nod off for just a second and drift into another lane. A quick pre-ride check is a habit that saves lives.
Conclusion: Ride Safe, Ride Far
The highway offers an amazing sense of adventure, but safety must always come first. These rules aren’t meant to scare you; they are meant to empower you. They help ensure that your journey is not just thrilling, but also safe. So, the next time you head out, think of the wise advice from someone like Odia Nana. Follow these golden rules, respect the road, and enjoy the ride for many miles to come.