What is critical to prevent accidents while making a left turn on a motorcycle?

When making a left turn on a motorcycle, checking blind spots is crucial for preventing accidents. Motorcycles are smaller than most vehicles, which can make them less visible to other drivers. By checking blind spots, a motorcyclist can ensure that no vehicles or obstacles are approaching from behind or from the side, which could endanger their safety during the turn. This practice helps in assessing the traffic situation thoroughly and allows the rider to make informed decisions, significantly reducing the risk of collisions.

Increasing speed is not advisable during a turn, as it can compromise control of the motorcycle and may lead to losing balance. Using hand signals alone does not provide the comprehensive awareness necessary for safely executing a left turn, as it does not replace the need to observe surrounding traffic carefully. Riding on the sidewalk is not only unsafe but also illegal in most areas, and it does not provide a viable option for making turns in traffic. Therefore, checking blind spots remains the most effective strategy for a safe left turn on a motorcycle.