California DMV Motorcycle Knowledge Test (M1)Lane Position and VisibilityMedium
You are riding on a multi-lane highway, and a car in the lane to your left is beginning to merge into your lane without signaling. What is your MOST effective immediate action?
- ASpeed up to get ahead of the merging vehicle.
- BMove to the far right of your lane to give them more room.
- CHonk your horn and maintain your current speed.
- DSlow down and create space for the merging vehicle.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Slow down and create space for the merging vehicle.
When a vehicle is merging into your lane without signaling, the safest immediate action is to slow down and create a space cushion for them to merge into. This avoids a collision and allows the other driver to complete their maneuver.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Speeding up could put you in a direct collision path if the vehicle continues to merge.
- B. Moving within your lane might not be enough if the vehicle merges aggressively.
- C. While honking is good to alert, maintaining speed might still lead to an unsafe situation.
Unsignaled Merge Response
When a vehicle merges into your lane without signaling, the safest response is to slow down and create space.
- Prioritize creating a safe buffer.
- Be prepared to use your horn if necessary.
- Avoid aggressive maneuvers.
Memory trick: Merging car, no signal bright, slow down, give space, make it right.