Why is it important to check your mirrors before riding?

Checking your mirrors before riding is crucial for being aware of the surrounding traffic and potential hazards. This practice enhances your situational awareness by providing a view of what is behind and beside you, which is vital for safe riding. Understanding the positions of other vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles helps in making informed decisions while navigating the road. By actively monitoring your environment, you can anticipate changes in traffic flow, detect any potential dangers, and react appropriately, thereby significantly reducing the risk of accidents. This habit is an essential part of safety that every motorcyclist should adopt, aligning with the fundamental principles of defensive riding.