Why is it important to check for motorcycles and bicycles before changing lanes?

Why is it important to check for motorcycles and bicycles before changing lanes?

• A. They can be in your blind spots and may be less visible.
• B. They never use bike lanes.
• C. They always stay in the same lane as you planned.
• D. They are always slower than cars so you don't need to check.

Answer: (A)

Before changing lanes, you need to check for motorcycles and bicycles because they can be in your blind spots and may be less visible. Their smaller size means they don’t stand out as easily in mirrors, so a quick shoulder check toward the lane you plan to enter helps you spot riders who could be in or approaching your path. Cyclists and motorcyclists can be riding close to the edge of their lane or even in a position you don’t expect, and they can accelerate or brake suddenly, making a careless lane change dangerous for them as well as for you. Clearing your blind spots and confirming the space you’re moving into keeps vulnerable riders safer and reduces the chance of a collision. While riding, bikes and motorcycles may use bike lanes or ride in the traffic lane, and they’re not always slower than cars. This means you can’t assume the lane is empty or that a rider isn’t there just because you don’t see a car. Always signal, check mirrors, and perform a shoulder check before changing lanes.

Before changing lanes, you need to check for motorcycles and bicycles because they can be in your blind spots and may be less visible. Their smaller size means they don’t stand out as easily in mirrors, so a quick shoulder check toward the lane you plan to enter helps you spot riders who could be in or approaching your path. Cyclists and motorcyclists can be riding close to the edge of their lane or even in a position you don’t expect, and they can accelerate or brake suddenly, making a careless lane change dangerous for them as well as for you. Clearing your blind spots and confirming the space you’re moving into keeps vulnerable riders safer and reduces the chance of a collision.

While riding, bikes and motorcycles may use bike lanes or ride in the traffic lane, and they’re not always slower than cars. This means you can’t assume the lane is empty or that a rider isn’t there just because you don’t see a car. Always signal, check mirrors, and perform a shoulder check before changing lanes.