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Distance to the Side
Motorcycle riders can do one thing other drivers cannot – they
can move across the lane to increase their distance from other
vehicles. An experienced rider changes position in the lane as
traffic conditions change.
Vehicles alongside
Don’t ride beside other vehicles if there is no need. A vehicle in
the next lane could change into your lane at any time without
warning. Vehicles in the next lane also block your escape if you
run into danger in your own lane. Speed up or drop back until
you find a place that is clear on both sides.
Here are some of the conditions that require changes in lane
position:
Passing vehicles
When you’re being passed from behind or by an oncoming
vehicle, move a little toward the centre of the lane. There’s no
point in being any closer to a passing vehicle than you have to
be. A slight mistake by either driver could cause a sideswipe.
Moving towards the centre of the lane also helps to keep you out
of the way of extended mirrors, things thrown from windows or
kicked up from the tires of other vehicles.
Give way to large trucks. They can create air turbulence that
affects your control. You have more room for error if you move
away from the truck.
Parked cars
When passing parked cars, the
motorcycle rider has an
advantage over the automobile
driver. By staying in the left
portion of the lane, you can avoid
the problems caused by doors
opening, drivers getting out of
cars or people stepping from
between cars.
A bigger problem is cars pulling
out. Drivers often take a quick look
behind them and fail to see a
motorcycle. Cars making U-turns
are a particular danger. Suddenly
the car turns across the road and
blocks the lane, leaving the
motorcyclist with no place to go. If
you see a car pulling out, approach
very cautiously.
Lane Changes
Weaving in and out of heavy traffic is a sure sign of a careless rider.
When you have to change lanes or change position in a lane,
make sure there’s no overtaking traffic.
When it is safe, look,
then signal and look again before changing lanes.
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