Why you shouldn't pick up someone else's fallen motorcycle if the owner isn't there.
As a motorcyclist it is in our nature to want to help out a fellow motorcyclist. But what do you do when you come upon a motorcycle lying on the ground? Do you leave it? Do you pick it up? Do you leave a note? This will probably shock some motorcyclist but the answer is, don't touch it. Now before you say why, let's go over some of the reasons.
It could be part of a crime scene. Yes, someone may have done it on purpose and you touching it has contaminated a crime scene and made you suspect number one.
Do you want to be the person the owner finds trying to pick his bike up off the ground? The first thought that is going to run through most motorcyclist head at that moment is, this must be the person who knocked it over.
You could create more damage to the motorcycle if you pick it up wrong and drop it again. The motorcycle may not have been damage in the initial fall but got damage in the subsequent fall. Let's not forget you could also injure yourself in the process.
If you pick it up and there is damage that isn't noticeable, the owner can return and go to ride a motorcycle that may not be functioning properly. Had it been left where it was the owner would have looked their bike over after picking it up.
If there is gas or fluids leaking you should call the police and fire department because this could be a hazmat situation requiring their services.
Your intentions are good but there is more to it than just helping out a fellow motorcyclist. Have fun, be safe.
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