California DMV Motorcycle Knowledge Test (M1)Lane Position and VisibilityEasy
You are riding in the far left portion of your lane. A car behind you appears to be preparing to pass. What is the most appropriate action for you to take?
- AMove to the center portion of the lane to block the pass.
- BSlow down and wave the car past you.
- CSpeed up to maintain your lead position.
- DMaintain your speed and move to the right portion of your lane.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Maintain your speed and move to the right portion of your lane.
When another vehicle intends to pass, it is courteous and safer to facilitate their maneuver if safe to do so. Moving to the right portion of your lane provides them with more room to pass you safely without forcing them into an adjacent lane or off the road.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Blocking a pass is aggressive and dangerous, potentially causing a collision.
- B. Slowing down abruptly can be unexpected and unsafe for the vehicle behind you; waving them on is not a regulated safety procedure.
- C. Speeding up can lead to road rage or unsafe conditions if the driver still attempts to pass.
Facilitating a Pass
When another vehicle intends to pass, a motorcyclist should adjust their lane position to provide more room and ensure the passing maneuver can be completed safely.
- Move to the farthest safe portion of your lane.
- Maintain speed or slightly reduce if necessary for safety.
- Avoid blocking or accelerating.
Memory trick: When a car wants to zoom, give them room.