Fatigue and Motorcycles: Prevention and Solutions

Riding a motorcycle requires more physical effort and concentration than driving a car. If you are tired, you will be less alert. It is important to be in great shape before hitting the road on a motorcycle.

Fatigue and its effects

Like alcohol, fatigue impairs drivers' faculties. Fatigue can, among other things:

• reduce concentration
• affect judgement and reflexes
• reduce the field of vision, as if you were driving with blinders on

Fatigue is unforgiving, and its effects can play tricks on you.

Plan ahead for long motorcycle trips

• Plan trips by taking into consideration the times when fatigue is most often felt.
• Take breaks and stop regularly.
• Avoid driving at night or at times you would normally sleep.
• Slow down to avoid processing a large amount of information quickly, which, over time, brings on fatigue.
• Wear protective gear adapted to weather conditions. Heat and cold increase fatigue.
• Keep yourself well hydrated.
• Eat light meals.

If, despite everything, you begin to feel drowsy, we recommend that you:

• pull your motorcycle over into a safe location
• take a break to stretch your muscles

Where is it safe to stop?

In the parking lot of a rest area, a roadside service area, a business or any other area where turning off the ignition is allowed without endangering your safety or the safety of others. You can also stop at a village-relais⁠ ⁠ that provides a full range of traveller services.

The shoulder of the road: only in case of emergency

In addition to being prohibited on a highway, stopping on the shoulder is not safe, since there is a risk of collision with other vehicles.