When riding a motorcycle, it is generally recommended to turn your head and look behind you when cornering, especially at high speeds. This action is known as a "head check" or a "lifesaver glance" and is an essential part of maintaining situational awareness and ensuring safe maneuvering on the road.
Looking behind you while cornering serves several purposes:
Checking Blind Spots: By turning your head and looking over your shoulder, you can effectively check your blind spots to ensure there are no vehicles or hazards in the adjacent lanes before changing your position or completing a maneuver.
Assessing Traffic: Looking behind you allows you to gauge the position, speed, and behavior of vehicles in your vicinity. This information is crucial when making decisions about lane changes, overtaking, or adjusting your riding strategy to account for the actions of other drivers.
Predicting Potential Hazards: By scanning the area behind you, you can identify potential hazards or unexpected situations that may require you to adjust your riding strategy. This could include vehicles approaching rapidly, drivers who may not see you, or any other potential risks.
While it may be possible to ride a motorcycle without turning your head and looking behind you during cornering, it is not advisable. Failing to perform a head check limits your ability to gather critical information about your surroundings, increasing the risk of collisions, blind spot accidents, or other hazardous situations.
That being said, there are technologies available, such as blind spot monitoring systems and rearview cameras, which can provide additional assistance in monitoring your surroundings. These technologies can enhance your awareness, but they should not replace the fundamental practice of physically turning your head to check for blind spots.
Ultimately, practicing good riding habits, including regular head checks and maintaining situational awareness, is essential for safe motorcycle riding, especially when cornering at high speeds.