California DMV Motorcycle Knowledge Test (M1)Rules of the Road and Impaired RidingEasy
A motorcyclist is riding on a congested city street and notices a driver in an adjacent lane talking on a cell phone and swerving slightly. What is the most appropriate defensive riding strategy?
- AHonk loudly and gesture to alert the distracted driver.
- BStay close to the distracted driver to ensure they notice the motorcycle.
- CCreate a significant space cushion around the distracted driver and anticipate erratic movements.
- DIncrease speed to quickly pass the distracted driver and get ahead.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Create a significant space cushion around the distracted driver and anticipate erratic movements.
Distracted drivers are unpredictable and dangerous. The safest strategy is to increase your space cushion, which allows more time and distance to react if the distracted driver makes an erratic move, and to avoid their potential path.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Honking might startle the driver but doesn't guarantee they will become less distracted; gesturing can also distract the motorcyclist.
- B. Staying close to a distracted driver places you in a high-risk zone, making a collision more likely.
- D. Increasing speed to pass quickly increases risk, as the distracted driver might swerve into your path without warning.
Dealing with Distracted Drivers
Motorcyclists should identify and actively avoid distracted drivers by creating large space cushions and anticipating unpredictable movements.
- Distracted drivers are unpredictable.
- Maintain maximum space.
- Anticipate sudden lane changes or stops.
- Avoid direct confrontation.
Memory trick: Space is your shield against their distraction!