What does a helmet on the ground behind a motorcycle mean? Biker signal explained
11/12/2024 09:59 AM
GETTING around on a motorbike can be a quick and easy way to travel.
The biking world is known for its tightknit community and they often share special signals which each other. Here’s why bikers might leave a helmet on the road.
There is a strong bond between motorcyclists across the world.
The biking community sees motorcyclists using special signals which each other to communicate.
They often can be seen waving to one another, or letting them pass by with ease.
One of the universal signs motorcyclists use, is when their bike is stopped on the side of the road with a helmet placed on the ground.
It’s an unofficial rule, but a widely recognised one.
Signal of distress
This type of action taken by a motorcyclist is to show they are in distress.
The biker could be having mechanical trouble, and may have broken down.
Or it could be something more serious, and the motorcyclist could have an injury and need medical assistance.
Warning of hazard
The reason why a biker might need to use this warning sign is because they may not have hazard lights.
Some of the newer bikes do come with them, but many older ones don’t.
So as a way of warning there is a hazard, and to get the attention of a passersby, a helmet may be placed in the road.
This signal will be recognised by other bikers, but it might not be obvious to car and truck drivers.
Long tradition
The tradition of putting a helmet a few feet behind a motorcycle has a long history amongst motorcyclists.
When a biker breaks down on the road, a passing motorcyclist often stops to help if they see this signal.
The sign was created as a non-verbal way of saying “I need help”, as it’s an easy way to convey a distress message to a fellow biker on a busy or loud road.
Most common illegal driving activities
Here's a list of reckless driving behaviour and the fines and penalties you risk getting from it.
- Using phone while driving
A cheeky glance at a phone screen will result in six penalty points on your licence and a £200 fine.
New drivers might lose their licence if caught doing so within two years of obtaining it. - Speeding
Lovers of fast and furious will end up with a minimum of three points and a £100 fine. - Running a red light
This offence will incur three points and £100 fine. - Middle lane hogging
It constitutes careless driving and police will hand you a £100 fine with three penalty points. - Undertaking
This could possibly result in three points on your licence and a £100 fine.
