What should a motorcycle rider do before making a U-turn?

Before making a U-turn, it is essential for a motorcycle rider to signal their intentions and check for traffic. Signaling informs other road users of the rider's planned maneuver, promoting safety and reducing the risk of accidents. Additionally, checking for traffic ensures that the rider can assess their surroundings for any oncoming vehicles or obstacles, allowing for a safer execution of the U-turn. This practice aligns with the principles of defensive riding, where being aware of other road users and communicating intentions is crucial.

Other approaches, such as speeding up to complete the turn quickly or ignoring signals, could lead to dangerous situations, as they may not account for other vehicles or pedestrians that could be present. Making a U-turn at the first opportunity without assessing the situation may also result in unsafe conditions, as there could be traffic or other hazards that the rider overlooks. Hence, proper signaling and checking for traffic serve as vital steps in ensuring a safe U-turn.