Always carefully look for motorcycles before you change lanes because:
Answers
Their small size can make them hard to see.
They usually have the right-of-way at intersections.
It is illegal for motorcycles to share traffic lanes.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: Their small size can make them hard to see.
Motorcycles are much smaller than other vehicles, which can make them difficult to notice, especially in a driver’s blind spots or when merging into a different lane. This poses a significant risk, as the motorcyclist might be overlooked when drivers do not check their surroundings thoroughly before changing lanes.
Here’s a deeper explanation:
- Small Size and Visibility Issues: Motorcycles occupy less space on the road compared to cars, trucks, and SUVs. Due to this smaller size, they can be easily hidden in a vehicle’s blind spots or be overlooked when a driver is quickly scanning the road ahead. Motorcyclists also ride at varying speeds, sometimes slower or faster than other vehicles, which increases the chances of not noticing them in time.
- Blind Spots: All vehicles have blind spots—areas around the vehicle that are not visible to the driver through mirrors. Motorcycles, due to their smaller profile, can easily hide in these blind spots, especially when drivers are switching lanes. A failure to check mirrors or perform a proper shoulder check can result in a collision with a motorcyclist.
- Lane Changes and Safety: It’s essential to use proper safety techniques when changing lanes, such as checking mirrors, signaling, and ensuring there is enough space before moving over. This is especially important when driving near motorcycles, as they may be traveling in spaces where you might not expect them. Their maneuverability and speed can make them seem farther away or closer than they actually are, leading to potential lane-change accidents.
In conclusion, the small size of motorcycles contributes to the difficulty of spotting them when making lane changes, so drivers must exercise extra caution by always checking mirrors and blind spots before switching lanes.