There’s no feeling quite like the freedom of riding a motorcycle. The open road, the wind on your face, and the thrill of the ride are unmatched. But with that freedom comes added responsibility. Unlike cars, motorcycles leave riders more exposed to danger, making defensive riding a critical skill. A motorcycle accident lawyer Kansas City warns against catastrophic injuries in bike collisions. Whether you’re a seasoned biker or a beginner just learning the ropes, knowing how to anticipate risks and protect yourself on the road can mean the difference between a smooth ride and a life-changing accident. Here are the top five defensive riding tips every motorcyclist should follow to stay safe and enjoy the ride.

1.   Stay Visible at All Times

One of the biggest threats to motorcyclists is simply not being seen. Many accidents happen because drivers fail to notice a motorcycle in their blind spot or don’t expect to see one at all. To combat this, make visibility your top priority. Wear brightly colored gear or reflective vests, especially during low-light conditions. Use your headlights during the day, not just at night, and avoid riding in the blind spots of other vehicles. Position yourself in the lane where you are most likely to be seen, usually towards the left or right third of your lane, depending on traffic and road conditions. The more visible you are, the safer you’ll be.

2.   Watch for Road Hazards

Unlike cars, motorcycles are highly vulnerable to road debris, potholes, wet leaves, gravel, and other unexpected obstacles that can cause accidents. Even a small hazard can cause a motorcycle to lose balance. Always scan the road ahead for potential dangers. Keep your eyes moving, checking not just the car in front of you but several vehicles ahead to anticipate problems early. Approach curves and intersections cautiously, since hazards are often hidden from view until the last moment. By staying alert to road conditions, you’ll have more time to react safely.

3.   Keep a Safe Following Distance

Tailgating is dangerous no matter what you’re driving, but for motorcyclists, it can be deadly. Unlike cars, motorcycles don’t have the protection of a steel frame, airbags, or crumple zones. Always maintain a minimum three-second gap between you and the vehicle in front of you. This gives you enough time to react if the car suddenly brakes or swerves. In bad weather or on slippery roads, increase that distance even more. It’s better to arrive a few minutes later than to risk your life by riding too close.

4.   Practice Strategic Lane Positioning

Lane positioning isn’t just about staying between the lines; it’s about maximizing your view of the road, increasing your visibility to other drivers, and providing yourself with escape routes. Stay out of blind spots, and position your motorcycle where you have the best chance of being seen and the most room to maneuver. For example, when riding behind a car, position yourself so you can see the car’s side mirrors; that usually means the driver can see you, too. In multi-lane traffic, ride in the lane that offers the best combination of safety and visibility, even if it means switching lanes periodically to maintain this position.

5.   Assume Other Drivers Don’t See You

This might sound pessimistic, but it’s one of the smartest mindsets a motorcyclist can adopt. Defensive riding means expecting the unexpected. Assume that cars will pull out in front of you, that drivers will change lanes without signaling, and that people will run red lights. By preparing for these scenarios in advance, you’ll be more ready to react calmly and effectively. Never rely solely on right-of-way or traffic laws to keep you safe. Your awareness and quick thinking are your best defense.

Final Thoughts: Ride Safe, But Know Your Rights

Motorcycling comes with its risks, but following these defensive riding tips can help reduce the chances of a crash. Staying visible, maintaining safe distances, and anticipating hazards aren’t just smart; they’re life-saving habits. However, accidents can still happen, even to the most cautious riders. If you find yourself involved in a road mishap due to someone else’s negligence, don’t face the aftermath alone. Consult a motorcycle accident lawyer Kansas City who can guide you through the legal process and help you protect your rights.

With Netflix cracking down on Netflix account sharing, the streaming giant introduced a new solution to maintain revenue while allowing flexibility—Netflix Extra Member. While this move makes sense for business, it raises questions for users: Is it worth it? Who qualifies? And how does it work, especially for remote users?

In this review, we’ll explore what the Netflix Extra Member feature is, how much it costs, user experiences, when it’s the right option, and how to add extra member on Netflix from your account dashboard.

I. What Is Netflix Extra Member?

The Netflix Extra Member feature allows standard and premium plan subscribers to add an extra member Netflix account outside their household—for an added fee.

This initiative aims to curb unauthorized Netflix account sharing, especially among friends, distant relatives, and students living apart from the household.

Here’s the catch: the feature is geographically restricted. Extra members must live in the same country as the main account holder, and Netflix uses IP addresses and device IDs to verify location.

This solution is Netflix’s way of allowing controlled sharing without giving out full access to your main account—ideal for semi-close connections who don’t live under your roof.

II. Netflix Extra Member Cost & Availability

As of mid-2025, here’s the breakdown of Netflix Extra Member availability and pricing:

• Available In: Over 30 countries including the U.S., UK, Canada, Australia, and most of Europe.

• Not Available In: India, Indonesia, South Africa, and a few others (due to low ARPU markets).

• Pricing:
  • U.S.: $6.99/month with ads or $8.99/month without ads per extra member

  • UK: £4.99/month with ads or £5.99/month without ads

  • Canada: CAD $7.99/month

This fee is added on top of your ad-free Standard or Premium subscription. You can add:

• 1 extra member on the Standard plan

• Up to 2 extra members on the Premium plan

Each extra member gets:

• Their own login and password

• A separate profile (either new or transferred)

• Personalized recommendations

• Access to Netflix on a limited number of devices

III. User Experience About Extra Member

Like any new feature, the experience of adding an extra member Netflix comes with pros and cons.

Pros:

• Keeps sharing legitimate and within policy

• Ideal for families or couples living separately (but within the same country)

• Offers individual access, history, and personalization

• Cheaper than buying a full second subscription

Cons:

• Not available in many global regions

• Requires users to live in the same country

• Extra members cannot access Netflix on more than one device at a time

• Travel restrictions make it a poor solution for frequent flyers or students abroad

Also, note that offline streaming is limited for extra members—device registration can be an issue if users frequently change devices or travel.

Learn more about offline streaming

IV. When Extra Members Make Sense?

Good Use Cases:

• Children or siblings living in dorms in the same country

• Parents sharing with a child who just moved out but stays local

• Couples or families separated for work but not internationally

Not Ideal For:

• Students studying abroad

• International family members

• Users who travel frequently and use multiple devices

• Larger families needing more than 2 extra member slots

Pro Tip:

If you want to get around some of the device and location limitations, consider combining the Premium Plan + Netflix Downloader. This allows you to permanently download Netflix content for offline use, regardless of device or travel restrictions.

Try this Netflix Downloader to make your content portable.

V. How to Add an Extra Member on Netflix.com?

Adding an extra member is relatively straightforward. Here’s how to do it in two ways:

1. Add an Extra Member Directly

1. Go to Netflix.com and sign into your account.

2. Navigate to Account Settings > Manage Extra Members.

3. Click “Add Extra Member” and enter the email of the new user.

4. The invitee will receive an email to activate their account, set up a password, and start streaming.

2. Transfer an Existing Profile to a New Extra Member

If you’ve been sharing your account with someone and want to comply with the new policy:

1. Go to the profile you want to move.

2. Select “Transfer Profile” from account settings.

3. Enter the email for the new extra member.

4. The profile, history, watchlist, and recommendations will be migrated.

This way, you don’t lose years of watch history or personalization when complying with the Netflix add extra member policy.

VI. FAQs

Can extra members watch on multiple devices?

No. Each extra member can stream on one device at a time and download to one device only.

Is the feature available globally?

No. As of now, Netflix Extra Member is not available in regions like India, Pakistan, or most of Africa. Netflix may roll it out further depending on market reception.

Can extra members watch while traveling?

Yes, but inconsistently. Streaming may be restricted if you’re abroad for too long or if the system suspects that the user isn’t in the same country as the main account holder.

How many extra members can I add?

• Standard plan: 1 extra member

• Premium plan: Up to 2 extra members

Can I cancel an extra member slot?

Yes. You can remove an extra member anytime through your Account Settings > Manage Extra Members.

Final Thoughts

Netflix’s new policy around Netflix account sharing has definitely changed how users think about subscription management. While it can be frustrating for global families or remote users, the Netflix Extra Member feature does provide a more structured way to share access without fully breaking the rules.

If you’re in the same country and need to split your plan among a couple of people, adding an extra member can be a smart way to do so without purchasing a separate subscription. However, if you travel often or want more freedom, pairing the Premium plan with tools like the Netflix Downloader can help you sidestep some of those restrictions with permanent offline downloads.

Summer storms can strike fast and hard, bringing high winds, torrential rain, and even hail. If your home’s exterior isn’t storm-ready, you could face significant repairs or even safety risks. Preparing ahead of time is essential, and the steps you take now can save you money and stress later. Whether it’s securing loose items or inspecting your roof, proactive measures are key. One of the most important parts of your home to evaluate is the roof. If you haven’t already, now is the time to schedule a professional inspection with a Rochester roofing expert to ensure your home is ready to withstand the season.

Inspect and Reinforce Your Roof

Your roof is the first line of defense against summer storms. Loose shingles, minor leaks, or weakened flashing can all lead to significant problems once the storm hits. A professional roofing inspection can catch these issues early. Clear any debris from the roof and gutters to prevent water buildup, which can lead to leaks and damage. Make sure downspouts are positioned to direct water away from your foundation.

Storm winds can also cause shingles to peel off or detach entirely. Reinforcing roof edges and sealing around vents or chimneys helps increase wind resistance. For homes in areas with frequent severe weather, impact-resistant roofing materials are a worthwhile investment.

Secure Windows and Doors

High winds can easily break or damage unprotected windows and doors. Install storm shutters if available, or use plywood as a temporary solution. Caulk around windows and door frames to prevent water intrusion. For added safety, consider upgrading to high-impact glass or reinforced storm doors.

Garage doors are another vulnerability often overlooked. If not properly reinforced, they can blow in during a strong wind, compromising the structure of your home. Installing a bracing kit can help protect this large opening.

Check Siding and Exterior Fixtures

Loose siding panels, broken trim, and unsecured outdoor fixtures can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. Walk around your property and tighten or repair anything that appears loose or worn. Check your home’s siding for cracks or gaps where water might seep in. If needed, seal these areas with waterproof exterior caulking.

Don’t forget to inspect exterior lighting, house numbers, or other mounted items. Make sure they’re firmly attached and replace any rusted or failing fasteners.

Clear Yard Clutter and Trim Trees

Flying debris is one of the most common causes of property damage during a summer storm. Take time to declutter your yard by removing or securing outdoor furniture, toys, tools, and decorations. Store smaller items in your garage or shed when not in use.

Overgrown trees or branches that hang too close to your home should be trimmed back to a safe distance. Heavy winds can easily snap limbs, causing them to fall onto your roof, car, or power lines. Hire a certified arborist to inspect and trim trees safely, especially those that are large or close to structures.

Inspect Fences, Decks, and Outdoor Structures

Fences and decks may be overlooked, but they’re vulnerable in severe storms. Walk around and test posts for stability. If anything wobbles or leans, reinforce it now. Tighten loose bolts and replace any rotted or damaged wood. Anchoring sheds or pergolas to the ground with storm straps or braces helps prevent them from tipping or shifting.

If you live in an area with high winds, consider installing storm-rated upgrades for your outdoor structures. These additions can enhance safety and reduce the chance of costly damage.

Review Your Insurance Coverage

Before the season ramps up, take a moment to review your homeowner’s insurance policy. Make sure it includes storm-related damage, and document your home’s current condition with photos or videos. This step can help support any future claims and provide peace of mind during uncertain weather.

Keep important documents, insurance contact information, and emergency supplies in a safe and easily accessible location. If a storm warning is issued, having everything prepared helps you act quickly and confidently.

Work With Local Experts

Don’t wait for the forecast to become a reality before taking action. Local professionals are familiar with the weather conditions specific to your region and can provide targeted advice. For example, a seasoned Rochester roofing contractor can provide valuable insight into materials and techniques best suited for your area’s summer storm patterns.

Conclusion

Summer storms are unpredictable, but your home’s readiness doesn’t have to be. With a few smart preparations, like reinforcing your roof, securing outdoor items, and trimming trees, you can significantly reduce the risk of costly damage. Always stay one step ahead of the forecast. When in doubt, consult a trusted Rochester roofing expert to keep your home strong and storm-ready.