How to Approach Cars at Intersections While Riding a Motorcycle

Navigating Intersections: Your Motorcycle Survival Guide

When you're cruising on your motorcycle through the beautiful roads of New Hampshire, nothing quite compares to the thrill of the ride—except maybe the adrenaline of approaching an intersection. Here’s the thing: intersections can be one of the riskiest spots on your journey. So, let’s break down how to approach cars at intersections like a pro while keeping safety front and center.

Keep Your Eyes Open—They Might Not See You

First things first—assume the driver may not see you. Yes, you heard that right. While you might have the best intentions, the truth is, many drivers don’t always have their heads in the game. So, approach every intersection with this mindset. Think of it like this: you can’t just trust that everyone is looking out for you. It’s like playing a game of dodgeball where your only defense is to be aware and ready.

• Be vigilant: Keep an eye out for vehicles turning left, right, or even straight across your path.

• Watch their wheels: A car’s wheels can be a telltale sign of movement. If they start to pivot, you might need to prepare for action.

Get in the Right Position

So, let’s think about positioning for a second. Riding directly behind a car can feel safe initially. After all, you’re just a few feet back, right? But hold on! This could actually limit your ability to respond if that car makes an unexpected stop or swerve—yikes! Instead, make sure you position yourself slightly to the side or in a way that keeps you visible to other drivers.

A good rule of thumb here is to ride within the lane position that maximizes your visibility. Being more visible means other drivers can spot you easier, which, let’s face it, could save your life.

Complacency Can Be Dangerous

Now you may be thinking, "Well, surely drivers will yield to me, especially if they see my cool bike." Woah there! How many times have you heard a story about someone who assumed a driver would yield only to be caught off guard? Yeah, it happens more often than you might think.

This notion of assuming compliance can lead you down a slippery path. Relying on drivers to yield means you’re leaving your safety in their hands, and that’s just not a great place to be. Awareness is your friend!

When in Doubt—Be Ready to React

This is where the idea of being proactive comes into play. Whether it’s adjusting your speed, positioning yourself to enhance visibility, or simply being ready to make a quick stop, embracing a defensive driving mindset is crucial.

Here’s the kicker—motorcycles are less visible than cars. So many drivers can be oblivious, especially during busy times on the road. That’s why it’s worth investing some time in developing awareness skills.

• Practice defensive riding: This skill can make a huge difference in emergencies.

• Prepare to stop: If a car suddenly decides to make a move into your path, you’ll be glad you were ready.

Clear Signals Matter, But...

And while we’re at it, let’s talk about signaling your intent. Sure, signaling loudly might seem like a solid strategy, but it’s important to remember that signals can be misinterpreted or simply ignored. Instead, pair your hand signals with clear and assertive movements that communicate your intentions without confusion.

Recap of Your Intersection Strategy

Alright! Let’s wrap things up: when you’re approaching a car at an intersection, keep these key points in mind:

1. Assume they may not see you and ready yourself for a potential halt.

2. Position yourself wisely—a little lateral movement can help visibility.

3. Stay alert and proactive—react swiftly if anything seems off.

4. Communicate effectively—signal your intentions clearly.

Mastering your approach to intersections isn’t just about passing that motorcycle permit test; it’s about ensuring your safety every time you hit the road. So gear up, stay aware, and enjoy every twist and turn of your ride in New Hampshire. Safe riding!