When you want to take a passenger in your car in New York, both of you get in, buckle up and you are ready to drive. On a motorcycle, your passenger is a rider, just like you are. According to RideApart.com, it is your responsibility to educate your passenger because if he or she does not understand the basics, the risk of a motorcycle accident rises significantly.

Getting on and off the motorcycle should be done from the left, and to prevent tipping, your passenger should wait until you give a verbal signal that you are ready before either move is made. Your rider should also understand how important it is to be still, relax and let the body follow the angle of the motorcycle during turns. The passenger’s movement can affect the ride even more than yours.

During the ride, how the passenger holds on depends on whether you are speeding up or braking. While accelerating, the security should come from an arm around your waist. The other hand should be on the tank throughout the ride, and that is where the weight should be supported during braking. A passenger should have a signal you have both agreed on to let you know if there is a reason you should stop.

A motorcycle helmet is a lot like a seat belt in a car. Both are mandatory, and a passenger’s life is likely to depend on wearing it in a crash. In addition, you and your rider should have all skin covered with well-fitted clothing, including boots that cover the ankles. This information is provided because your actions and those of your passenger may make the difference in the safety of the ride. However, it should not be interpreted as legal advice.