Which technique is best for avoiding hazards on the road?

The technique of scanning the road ahead is essential for avoiding hazards while riding a motorcycle. This approach involves actively observing not just the area directly in front of you but also the wider surroundings, including potential threats such as vehicles, pedestrians, road conditions, and unforeseen obstacles. By scanning, you maintain a comprehensive awareness of your environment, which allows you to identify hazards early and respond effectively—whether that means slowing down, changing lanes, or preparing to maneuver.

This technique also helps enhance reaction time, enabling a rider to make informed decisions based on what is seen ahead. Unlike simply looking straight ahead, which limits vision, or constantly checking mirrors, which can distract from what’s in front, scanning encourages a more effective and proactive riding strategy that focuses on overall situational awareness. Riding closer to the shoulder, while it might seem like a way to avoid certain hazards, can actually introduce risks by potentially placing a rider in the path of debris or close to erratic drivers maneuvering near the side of the road.