Dealing with Hazards Flashcards

You are riding on a paved road and approach a section covered in loose gravel. What is the safest course of action?

Answer: Roll on the throttle smoothly and avoid any sudden changes in speed or steering.

The key to navigating loose surfaces like gravel is to be smooth and steady. Abrupt actions like hard braking, sudden acceleration, or sharp turns can easily cause the tires to lose traction. [9, 10] Maintaining a steady speed with smooth throttle control allows the motorcycle to maintain its momentum and stability through the hazard. [8]

Which of the following is the most effective way to handle a strong, steady crosswind coming from your left side?

Answer: Lean the motorcycle slightly to the left, into the wind.

To counteract a steady crosswind, the rider must lean the motorcycle into the wind. [2] For a wind from the left, a slight lean to the left (by pressing on the left handgrip/counter-steering) will keep the motorcycle traveling in a straight line. [1, 3] A relaxed grip is better than a tight one to avoid overcorrecting. [1]

Why are painted road markings, such as crosswalks and lane lines, particularly hazardous for motorcyclists when wet?

Answer: The paint offers significantly less traction, becoming extremely slippery. [18, 23]

The non-porous surface of road paint does not allow water to drain away like asphalt does. [11] When wet, a thin layer of water sits on top of the paint, drastically reducing the friction available for the motorcycle's tires. [17, 23] This can make the surface as slippery as ice, leading to a loss of control, especially when turning or braking. [18]

You are riding alongside a row of parked cars on a city street. Which of the following represents the most immediate and significant danger?

Answer: A driver suddenly opening their car door into your path.

While all listed items are potential hazards, a car door opening suddenly is one of the most dangerous because it can happen instantly, leaving the rider with little to no time or space to react. [20, 22] It is crucial for riders to maintain a lane position that avoids the 'door zone'.

When approaching a railway crossing where the tracks cross the road at a sharp angle, what is the recommended technique for a motorcyclist?

Answer: Adjust your path to cross the tracks as close to a 90-degree angle as possible.

Crossing tracks at a shallow angle increases the risk of a tire getting caught in the flange (the gap next to the rail), which can cause a loss of control. The safest method is to slow down and adjust your lane position to cross the tracks at or near a right angle (90 degrees). [12, 13, 14]

You are riding in traffic and a car in an adjacent lane begins to merge into your space, seemingly unaware of your presence. What should be your primary response?

Answer: Adjust your speed and position, preparing an escape path, while using your horn.

The safest response is a combination of actions that prioritize creating space and avoiding a collision. You should adjust your speed (usually by decelerating smoothly), use your horn to alert the driver, and identify and prepare to move into a safe escape path, such as an open space in another lane or the shoulder. [25, 28] Relying on a single action or assuming the driver will correct their mistake is risky.