California DMV Motorcycle Knowledge Test (M1)Hazard Avoidance and Emergency ManeuversEasy
When swerving to avoid an obstacle, what is the most critical factor for successful execution?
- AMaintaining a high speed to quickly clear the obstacle.
- BLooking where you want the motorcycle to go.
- CLooking at the obstacle you are trying to avoid.
- DApplying the brakes firmly throughout the maneuver.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Looking where you want the motorcycle to go.
Your motorcycle tends to go where your eyes are directed. In a swerve, it's crucial to look through the turn to your escape path, not at the obstacle you're trying to avoid. This allows your body and the motorcycle to naturally follow your line of sight.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Maintaining high speed reduces control and reaction time, making a successful swerve much harder and more dangerous.
- C. Looking at the obstacle will cause you to unknowingly steer towards it (target fixation), making avoidance difficult or impossible.
- D. Braking firmly during a swerve can cause the motorcycle to lose traction and stability, leading to a fall.
Swerving Technique
A rapid, controlled maneuver to change direction and avoid an obstacle in your path.
- Look where you want to go (escape path).
- Use counter-steering.
- Avoid braking during the swerve itself.
Memory trick: Swerve to safety, look ahead, where your eyes go, you'll be led.