What is a key element of defensive riding?

Staying aware of your surroundings is a fundamental aspect of defensive riding. This involves continuously monitoring the environment around you while riding, which includes being alert to other vehicles, pedestrians, road conditions, and potential hazards. By maintaining situational awareness, a rider can anticipate potential dangers and react appropriately to avoid accidents. This proactive approach not only enhances personal safety but also contributes to a more responsive riding experience. Awareness allows a motorcyclist to make informed decisions, such as adjusting speed, changing lanes, or taking different routes to navigate safely through traffic.