My job used to require me to drive a truck with equipment on a trailer. I always tried to keep a safe distance in front of me. That just bugged some people. They couldn't wait to get past and pull in front of me. It used to get me upset but towards the end it was like what ever, I just backed off. And now we are still going the same speed. I keep saying there are a lot of nice people that become idiots on the road. All we can do is look out for them and try not to become one ourselves.
The problem in US is that most of them are idiots - why? Because they don't even have to aptitude to drive a manual then they will learn how to properly operate a machine. Since they don't know how then they don't know how to drive period.
A gem this is. In crowded roads of India, it is very difficult though to find such open spaces, i.e. not to tailgate and not to be tailgated. I ride 35 kms everyday to my way to work on a single-lane highway, and if someone is tailgating me, I simply indicate them to pass. Also, I have noticed that tailgating cars usually move in clusters. If there is a cluster of too many cars, I simply pull aside and let all of them pass. Sometimes, even take a tea break, which will cool down both my engine and my (dare-not-to-race) brain.
In US and on I95 with I495 connector, this cluster always happen with 18 wheeler trucks. Avoid them like a plague. And then you stupid truck drivers on the second to the left lane going slow, causing miles of traffic behind them and empty in front of them. I see this almost everyday in NOVA area that is I95 (I495 loop).
Been riding for over 40 years. Riding my motorcycle also made me a better car driver as well. I drive my car as if I am riding my bike. Stay away from all other drivers and always give me more time to react to avoid collisions at all costs.
I've only started riding in January of this year and I know exactly what you're talking about. I use to just look at my mirrors and then pass as I have already judged the speed of the cars around me, on a 8 lane highway, but after riding, I now turn my head and check my blindspots almost everytime now when I drive. That's just one thing I noticed.
Good comments - This past week I had opportunity while traveling interstates to follow 3 different groups of riders in my SUV. One of the followings was 2 hours the other 2 were 1 to 1 1/2 hours. I don't think any group knew I was following them - I tried to maintain 3-5 second following distance and I am aware of multiple times I prevented other vehicles from comming up on the group too fast or from trying to tailgate the group. One group impressed me as they were riding in staggered formation and every 10 or so miles they would change up and swap right/left lane positions. Each group always kept their distance from any vehicles in front of them and when I sensed the group was going to do a lane change - I always moved over first to allow them room so the whole group could manuever without incident. - I don't care if they knew if I was there or not- they are my brothers and sisters and if I can protect them - I will
These videos are invaluable. I had a close call on my motorcycle today and it's how I reacted and what I prepared for, based on these videos, that got me through. I was coming to an intersection and I always cover the brake with 2 fingers, and I cover the rear brake slightly with my foot. This person came out as if I wasn't even in the roadway. I had to brakes quite hard let up and swerve. It was bad enough that the driver stopped and ran over to me where I had finally come to a stop to ask if I was all right and he kept apologizing. I firmly believe that these videos and my practice of them saved my bacon today! Different video lesson, but I thought I would state it here.. Thank you, Kevin
I went on a later afternoon motorcycle ride on river road by the potomac river on Maryland side, speed limit is 50 on most of it but I was going 25 to 30 on second gear on my way back. I saw hundreads of deers grazing on the fields and on the sides of the roads. There weren't many cars but people were flickering their headlighhts for me to watch out. NOt going there again in the afternoon.
☆☆☆☆☆ Excellent explanation, sir. I ride MY RIDE! period. The whole lane is mine to fluidly use as i see fit; left or right. I have friends who are afraid of ever exceeding the speed limit: 1st, my safety is worth more than a static speed limit; 2nd, the FLOW of traffic is the speed you must deal with regardless; so that becomes relevant - not your speedometer. While watching ahead for hazards is primary focus, one must be acutely aware of rear, or side by threats. Your videos are major. Thanks so much!!
one thing about changing lane position to see better down the road is that the more you do this the more it becomes instinctual so you do this automatically to get the best view of what's down the road
Well done, Kevin. Your work gives all riders, new or experienced, a framework for thinking about all aspects of riding. I especially appreciate “not a turf war” and “ riding is a thinking man’s game.”
Hi Sir, I crashed my bike out of tiredness in the French Alps and broke my ankle. Monday I go into surgery. I pushed myself to much in heat, busy traffic, lack of sleep and nutrition - general bad timings. I rode solo for 9 days without a rest day. Before I crashed I was like 20sec. dreaming and I crashed in a ditch at speed of 30km/h on a mountain road. Bike fell on the ankle. I made so many mistakes in this trip, and actually ignored some physical warnings as well. Like starting to make corner mistakes and lack of concentration, increased stress. Before the crash I was contemplating to take a day rest and drive home. All tips to emphasise on this are welcome. Thank you for making these style of videos
Totally agree with you on lane position. A single bike rider has a right to any spot in that lane, and it's always best to switch spots to prepare for corners or get the best view of the situation. I personally like to stay to one side of a lane when stopping and give myself distance from the car in front of me incase some idiot pulls up behind me and doesn't stop. If I am paying attention to the traffic coming up behind and feel they aren't going to stop in time I let out the clutch and angle for one side of the car ahead of me so I am not sandwiched in between both cars. This is why I always drop it into 1st gear as well when I stop. If it's in neutral I'm toast!
I ride in California mainly commuting and hour each way. Your videos are on point and your preaching a lot of what I do everyday. I’m always trying to see 1000 ft down the road and switching lane position allows me to do this. I’m also constantly moving to get into a position where I have a clear bubble free of vehicles around me. I consistently split lanes for part of my ride and I’m always intrigued passing people who really aren’t focused on what they doing. Keep posting your videos, they are a godsend for the rest of us.
On Florida interstates. at least 75, three seconds is often untenable. Two cars will fill the gap. Two seconds is better, but I use dynamic lane positioning to keep the gap and most important, see far ahead for the pattern. I change lanes a lot.
Let them take the gap if you just want to cruise. Otherwise, shoot for 5 mph faster than average traffic so you are always passing (not cruising in the slow lane).
It is incumbent on us all to find ways to safely create space in front of and behind (and if possible all around) us. I’m gonna go practice that right now...Good episode; thanks!
I have ben riding over 20 years. Never had my endorsement. Took my safety training course last year, and aced it. I still learn alot or get reminded from your videos. Thank for what you so.
"Not in a turf war".. I will forever remember this line. And have already told a friend of mine to watch this video, as that is how he rides!!! I'm not an overly experienced rider, and have been watching your videos daily, and have learned a ton. Thanks for all ya teach, and stay safe.
I agree with your comments on both videos. I personally struggle with 'letting things go' when other drivers do something that I don't like. Knowing that you should relax is key and strategies to do it are important. In addition, I don't think unsafe lane changes (like using the merge lane) can also piss the guy off that is now directly behind you, and I think that is a bad idea.
Thanks Kevin. Giving myself space (minimum two seconds), looking ahead, hopefully staying visible and assuming that I am invisible or in your words, using effective road strategies, helps in decreasing the need to utilize emergency braking and evasive techniques. Love your calm delivery of life saving information. Once again, thank you! 😎
Thanks, Kevin! As a new rider I'm always thinking of how quickly, and safely, I can stop in a pinch. I'm also checking my mirrors frequently, line of sight, and speed. Your videos are always helpful and you are a great presenter.
I commute on Phoenix freeways and I've learned to watch my mirrors as if they are part of the brakes. Do whatever you need to do to stay a safe distance away from cars and especially big trucks.
I agree - lane position is a dynamic thing and situational. One thing though - in heavier traffic I alway ride the portion of lane closest to where cars may pull in (right for the passing lane, left for the through lane) - a car will see a gap if you are on the other side, and once they start changing lanes, human nature says they will continue even if they see you. Totally agree, road positioning is a dynamic scenario and not always a passive one - assert yourself where necessary (to hopefully prevent a dangerous scenario from developing) , but have the plan B in you back pocket. and ego? - hard to do, but leave it at home. In hot weather I give myself a talking to before the ride - and if I feel I'm getting too agressive. I pull over - have a smoke and hear the grass grow.
When I am riding in traffic I try to position myself so that I can see the face of the driver in front of me in their wing mirror. My wheels are outside of theirs which gives me the most clear road in front of me. I can also see what the driver in front can see, adding seconds to my reaction time.
A lifetime ago the only question I missed on the (then) written motorcycle license test was, what position in the lane should you ride. The correct answer at the time was the left hand side as you would be visible in both the rear view and side view mirrors of the driver in front of you…. Center lane has frequent oil droppings that could cause a problem, especially in wet conditions.
Love this. 100% on everything said. From making lane positioning dynamic to making more room in front when a tailgater comes up behind. Practical stuff for a student of human behavior to practice--especially on two wheels.
This may not be politically correct, but I usually ride faster than most traffic, especially on highways. I tend to stay in the left lane towards the right hand side of the lane because this allows cars in the center lane to see me down the edge of their vehicles. As I pass them I drift to the left to give more room. I know this strategy actually increases my speed quite a bit considering most highway traffic, at least in my area (FL) run 5-10 over all the time. However, I have been pulled over several times and the police have not written me a ticket after they I explain myself to them. Be aware that I am an older (58) rider with half a million miles in the saddle, and I am not blitzing through traffic. I ride a Triumph Speed Triple 1200RS. I do road trips, commuting and weekend rides. I still have noneider friends who say that I am riding too fast, but my explanation usually quiets them or at least gets them to think about a motorcyclist's perspective.
I live in northwest Canada lots of animals can appear out of nowhere 5:10 . Most of the time I ride near the center lane . Gives me more highway to play with. To avoid. That's with not much traffic. But when there is more I ride like you said what ever gives me the most important of all things. Vision.
I am 61 years old and passed the motorcycle test 7 months ago(!) in the UK. If you say ‘only a fool breaks the 2 second rule’ (slowly and clearly)when comparing yourself to the vehicle in front at a fixed point, your following distance is reasonable, say it twice if it is raining. If the vehicle behind is getting close, slow down a little, they will overtake and remove the problem. Thanks for the video, it reinforces my teaching , in a different country
Thank you, sir, for the follow up video. In general, there is a broad lack of patience on our highways no matter the vehicle. Particularly for motorcyclists, a good dose of patience will complement everything you have said, particularly referencing the complaints from people about vehicles cutting in when you leave proper following distance. I particularly like your terminology "riding a motorcycle is not a turf war" because it can often feel that way and when it comes down to it, it's just a stupid mentality to have, again, regardless of the vehicle but for certain on a bike. TY!!
Regarding lane position, I was always taught to avoid the center of the lane. The first reason is because of the oil buildup in the center of the lane from all the cars. It's going to increase your braking distance in an emergency and also make it more likely your wheels may slide out from under you if you need to change direction in a hurry. The other reason is that if you are following a car and a muffler falls off, or their engine pukes a piston... the debris and oil is going to wind up in the center of the lane. You don't need that hazard.
Great follow up video! My lane position changes with traffic, road conditions, etc. I took my first rider safety course in 1987, in order to ride onto a Navy base. Never stop learning!
Here's the scuttlebutt, I came up with that decades ago There are Old Riders And there are Bold Riders There are no Old Bold Riders Originally came came from E. Hamilton Lee There are old pilots, and there are bold pilots, but there are no old, bold pilots!”
I always leave distance. Of course doing that means bike being tailgated. But in this way I slow traffic for temporary then speed closer to traffic in front. I have found this opens up my lane both front and rear and has been working really well.
thank you MCrider. something i read years ago and i believe it is true just from observing on the road is, other drivers tend to maintain the same gap as the drivers in front of them. so if you are on a bike with a big gap to the car in front of you, there is a better chance the car behind you will maintain a bigger gap. now there are plenty of drivers out there that will prove this statement wrong and get right up on you, but they can go around get in front of you and you can slow down to get the gap back. if they stay on you then change lanes or speed up or do what it takes to get away and stay away from them.
Kevin, awesome !. " Non- Existence" or invisibility to other road users. I only own two stroke motorcycles. I feel safest on the slightly noisier one; because it's noticed !. The quiet one just isn't noticed; despite it's high dollar value, which is meaningless to other road users. When riding I allow others tine to notice me. Visually or by sound. Traffic being dynamic as you stated; I believe car/ SUV/ truck drivers need time to get used to you being there. I call this " non existence". It the difference between " I didn't see you " and their knowing that you exist. Riders violate this at their own peril !. Any comment/s. I agree with every tip and pointer you raise. They're all relevant and all important !. Any comment on the above ?.
As a trucker, the car tailgating a semi truck with a semi behind that car…. Is sometimes referred to as the “cream filling”. Because when that car gets crushed between the two trucks in an emergency stop, that’s what typically happens to said car and occupants. NEVER VOLUNTEER to be the cream filling between any vehicles.
I watch your channel consistently. I value the material you provide. Often times I’ll share them with my sons and one daughter in law because they ride too. I especially like the road strategy info as good road strategy can prevent having to use road skill. So thank you for all your trading tips, I do have one question though. Are all of your roads that full of tar snakes?😂
Glad to see someone putting out educational videos I enjoy every once in a while looking at your videos I've been riding for 50 years. Has not become easier but more Dangerous. When someone younger asks, I Discourage or Suggest reading proficient motorcycling or checking out your site.
Thanx, Kevin. Always great info, especially for they newer riders! I wish you’d do a video backing up a study by the insurance industry I saw about 20 years ago (I’ve got over 5 decades of riding under my belt). The study was about helmet color, and how critical it was in order to be seen by oncoming drivers. In a nutshell, it concluded wearing any color other than black or grey increases the likelihood you’re seen by those drivers by over 20 times. I tested that theory myself, and the difference was absolutely eye opening. I’ve a worn hi-vis helmet (and gear) ever since.
In his brilliant book "The Upper Half of the Motorcycle", Bernt Spiegel tells one to always plan an escape route, even if it means that one will have to go off road. In the earlier chapters, he talks extensively about other sports, and the book at times is somewhat philosophical, but I recommend it strongly. Unfortunately, it's expensive.
Defensive Riding: One thing that I realized I do that I haven't seen mentioned on any of these videos is using a big vehicle (car or truck) for defense. Let's say you are sitting or riding in the right lane at an intersection with the posibility of something coming from the Left. Try to time it so you are riding on the right side of the large vehicle so that if any thing trys to turn in your direction, it is blocked by the large vehicle therefore creating a barrier between the intruding vehicle and you.
Thanks for the tips they’re appreciated especially when it comes to tailgating or tailgated I’ve been in a lot of situations that put me in situations like that. Knowing how to clear headed handle the situation is important. If idve seen this video few months ago I probably wouldn’t be in physical therapy. I know for next time. Much love
Man.. I got caught in a sudden out of no where HEAVY downpour at 70mph and could only see 2 car lengths ...felt more more I was on a jet ski.. Anyways, I just dropped down to 55, put hazards on to increase my visibility and kept going.. Heavy traffic & nowhere to pull over, definitely felt the Lord was watchin over me. Honestly surprise I kept the bike up, luckily I jad brand new tires on it
Congratulations on you and your lovely assistant's thirty-two year "collaboration". Here is wishing you two at least another fifty years together, and may your riding years reach into the higher numbers of that span. God Bless.
I took Honda’s on road safety course. There recommendation was a center of lane riding position. I strongly disagreed! Many years later and a lot of miles I discovered, they were right on target! For ultimate visibility on multi lane roads that practice works best. Exceptions to the rule, you bet! When possible, I practice emergency braking by stopping at yellow lights instead of cruising through. My scooter has a white strobe on the front and a red strobe on the rear and I wear a construction workers vest.
If we were doing 70 mph on a road and we give only a 2 second gap that gives us a distance of some 210 ft of safe space. However in the UK Highway Code [ available on line if you want to look at it ] its suggests that the recommended safe distance to follow at that speed would be about 100 metres or some 315 feet. Many road users would consider that 210 ft to be reasonable? However you don't have to right up to the rear bumper of another vehicle to be in danger and tailgating. At 70 mph one would be travelling at approx. 105 ft or over 30 metres distance per second and it could take us anywhere between half a second to say 3 seconds to realise that we have to do something like braking in order to stay alive. So if it took us say one second to realise that we definitely needed to brake in the first place we have already travelled about 105 ft nearer the obstruction before we actuate the brakes. Then we only have that same distance, 105 ft to actually brake in and at 70 mph there is not a cat in hells chance of doing that. We would probably hit the rear end of the vehicle in front at about 40 mph and that no fun at all. If we don't hit anything else then we may have to swerve and that leads itself to other problems of putting others at risk on the road or we could collide head on with an oncoming vehicle for instance. So the giving of safe following on distances or in the UK the full stopping distance is something we should all aspire to and at all times Its a life saver.. Your life and that of others around you at that time. So don't be a selfish idiot, look out for and give the correct safe distances and think of your family and friends and how they would feel if you didn't return home that day.
Congrats on the 32 years Kevin . Im Old and Bold at times , I know when I can get it up and when not to . Im talking 120 mph plus lol I stick to the limits 95% of the time or go 5 over as long as the traffic is light . I stay back 200 foot from Semi trucks them Alligators will get you .
I’ve learned to ride and drive by looking as many vehicles ahead of me as I can and as much as I can what is happening behind me. I don’t tailgate and do my best to not let anyone tailgate me. If someone tailgates me I slow down to make them pass move out of the way when I can and let them go by. Like you said if they pass me I’m better off as they are less a threat to me off my tail. I’d rather pull off the road for an aggressive tailgater, then to be hit by their stupidity, thinking they will get to their designation faster by tailgating.
The challenge with that driving distance is that no one else follows it. It's absolutely crazy in the Northeast. People drive one car length behind each other and their little cookie cutter mini SUVs and crossovers. They have no concept of breaking distance. And even when they do get a scare moment and try to pull the left or right without even looking they still go right back into tailgating. It's almost impossible to follow this rule rule of breaking distance. I was raised on one car lane for every 10 mph. But it's virtually impossible because everybody wants to cut in front of you because they're irritated that you have so much space in front of you. Aggravating
Emergency breaking saved my butt yesterday on a ebike, guy turned in front of me, I was able to stop. I was going about 22mph in a legal bike lane. My buddy brought this up to my attention. Practicing emergency breaking is important, no matter the speed
Great video, I practice all of what was discussed. I do think that as for being seen by other drivers in their rear view mirrors a noticeable headlight is a must. I switched to a led halo a few years ago and have noticed being seen by drivers much improved.
I’m a new motorcyclist. I’ve only been riding for 2 1/2 years. My personal observation has been that there are not many dangerous situations on the road that cannot be mitigated by slowing down. I cannot say that I have ever met a fellow motorcyclist for whom that has been an acceptable option. I have been sternly warned that my 600cc cruiser is not fast enough to keep me out of dangerous situations on the road. I’ve sadly come to the conclusion that motorcyclists, as a group, are more dangerous road users than the average car driver. Motorcycling is dangerous enough without riding fast, following too close, and fighting for your space on the road. My favorite thing is when a fellow motorcyclist passes me, while riding in my lane, to fill the three car length buffer I have between myself and the car ahead.
Tell you what. Riding a bike made me a much more aware driver in my truck. Especially at spotting riders that are not thinking about their visibility and safety.
I've had luck getting a tail gater to back off by courteously signalling "slow down" (palm down, hand slightly up and down) gesture with my left hand behind my back.
It must be nice to ride in traffic where a 2 second following distance is possible. Here, if someone pulls into that gap and you roll off the throttle, someone else will pull into the gap you just created by rolling off the throttle. This goes on and on and on, until you are going so slow you are a road hazzard, or you give up and keep that gap compromised between too many people pulling in front of you and following too close. It's also a constant time; reaction time varies a lot between different riders. Ride within your reaction time and ability to avoid a collision if something changes is my rule.
"If there's somehow a bunch of cars cutting in front of you and forcing you to slow down in traffic... there's nothing wrong with passing a bunch of slower traffic to create safe space and visibility around yourself." Okay... no argument. Let's get that perfectly clear first... Everything said in this segment was true. I just have a tiny addendum. There's a tendency of cars and drivers to move in packs. Many drivers use other traffic around them more than their own speedo's to judge their pace, and this results in groups of cars bunching up together like a caravan or an impromptu "group ride" among US. It's just worth acknowledging this phenomenon, because it leads into a sort of mental space where car drivers tend to WANT to stick to their "pack" for whatever reason. It's not everybody, but for some, the idea that you (biker) have disrupted the flow and pattern of their "pack" on the road just gets under some drivers' skin, and they feel like they HAVE to get around you. They'll crowd you, threaten you, and insist for some ridiculous ideal or reasoning that they are "right" or that you are somehow "wrong" for being there. While I have no problem with the principle of being allowed to pass an entire group of slower vehicles, maybe it's worth noticing that groups of vehicles seem to like to move together in a closer than comfortable manner, and maybe that's all the more they're "hung up on"... JUST giving up the space, frequently is enough, and you can return to your wide-open real estate BETWEEN packs of other vehicles, with everybody enjoying their preferences in traffic patterns, pace, and direction. Reading the patterns of vehicles and movements, and even the spaces, in traffic around you not only becomes second nature as you practice, but saves you a LOT of time, effort, energy, and anxiety on the road. It's easy to pop off a "stock answer" for whatever situation as an absolute, but in the dynamics of traffic, we all know already that absolutes never work. As in my own "stock answer" on lane position, I default most of the time to the left. This puts me in relative line to the drivers' side rear views for traffic ahead of me, since it's the most frequently checked rear view mirror aside from the interior one in 99% of vehicles on the road. It's my "default" because it's where I tend to go for that advantage whenever I'm just not sure where might be the most advantageous or in situations where there simply is no more advantage to be gained... BUT it's nothing like "written in stone". The rule I DO try to keep in stone as much as possible, is my proclivity for "wide open real estate"... Any time I can get to the vast distances between packs of other vehicles, I'm likely to take it unless there's a reason I shouldn't... AND that includes recognizing a whole pack of cars and trucks steaming up from behind at considerably higher pace than I'm comfortable riding. It DOES happen, though not very often, and the packs in question are rarely larger than 4 to 6 vehicles, obviously enough trying to form an improvised "caravan" or formation without the obvious experience or training to accomplish it. It's similar to how I try to handle myself around impromptu group rides, with untrained and unskilled riders, or mob rides where it's obvious nobody even has a f*** to give. ;o)
If you got a tailgater increase your distance, even in a car. No emergency stops with a tailgater, you need more planning and plenty of stopping distance
Food for thought as I saw passing other vehicles in your video. In Texas, how many MPH are you allowed to exceed the speed limit if you are passing traffic? Answer...... ZERO mph over the existing speed limit is the correct answer. I don't know of any state that has a different answer. I know, many folks are likely to quote differently but IF you conduct some honest research, you will find those are usually urban myths. People love to quote those; it's entertaining to many. Good Rides
A lot of people riding motorcycles follow various _Mantras_ They have been taught and/or conditioned to always do something rather than using good old common sense. I believe in only one Mantra: _Do what is best¹ for _*_you_*_ in that particular situation._ If that means breaking all the rules, so be it. My life and safety are more important. Remember the situation on the road is always evolving and changing... ¹ Best could have any number of different meanings depending on the context. Though, usually, it means safest.
I don't mind getting closer to the car in front of me, but I won't get there directly behind them. I always position in 1 or 3 to be able see in front of them, and not be effected by their sudden stopping.
That's a good point about following distance, but you're riding directly behind a vehicle (your wife's truck) that you can't see over, through, around or under. Your following distance is better, but you've impinged your line of sight by staying behind that truck. You should have positioned yourself in the line of traffic behind that white Impala in the left lane. 4:38 you're talking about lane position. There's a truck about to pass you and you're positioned on the left side of the lane, making you less visible to any impatient drivers who want to pass the truck. Should've been on the extreme right side to increase your visibility so that no cars would come rushing up trying to pass the truck. We know much drivers don't like driving behind vehicles they can't see around.
I liked the guy who said that his sport motorcycle group had two factions: the leisure riders and the seizure riders. The number of people who fetch up before the pearly gates because somebody wanted to go 3 mph slower than they thought they wanted to travel.... I wish I couldn't count on the fingers of both times the number of times I pulled entirely off the road and stopped for a while when I found myself in a dangerous set of traffic or some weird moron who wanted to contest my right to use the road. I'll get there eventually.
My job used to require me to drive a truck with equipment on a trailer. I always tried to keep a safe distance in front of me. That just bugged some people. They couldn't wait to get past and pull in front of me. It used to get me upset but towards the end it was like what ever, I just backed off. And now we are still going the same speed. I keep saying there are a lot of nice people that become idiots on the road. All we can do is look out for them and try not to become one ourselves.
Everyone should learn the Smith System.
Extremely well said.
The problem in US is that most of them are idiots - why? Because they don't even have to aptitude to drive a manual then they will learn how to properly operate a machine. Since they don't know how then they don't know how to drive period.
A gem this is. In crowded roads of India, it is very difficult though to find such open spaces, i.e. not to tailgate and not to be tailgated. I ride 35 kms everyday to my way to work on a single-lane highway, and if someone is tailgating me, I simply indicate them to pass. Also, I have noticed that tailgating cars usually move in clusters. If there is a cluster of too many cars, I simply pull aside and let all of them pass. Sometimes, even take a tea break, which will cool down both my engine and my (dare-not-to-race) brain.
In US and on I95 with I495 connector, this cluster always happen with 18 wheeler trucks. Avoid them like a plague. And then you stupid truck drivers on the second to the left lane going slow, causing miles of traffic behind them and empty in front of them. I see this almost everyday in NOVA area that is I95 (I495 loop).
Been riding for over 40 years. Riding my motorcycle also made me a better car driver as well. I drive my car as if I am riding my bike. Stay away from all other drivers and always give me more time to react to avoid collisions at all costs.
I've only started riding in January of this year and I know exactly what you're talking about. I use to just look at my mirrors and then pass as I have already judged the speed of the cars around me, on a 8 lane highway, but after riding, I now turn my head and check my blindspots almost everytime now when I drive. That's just one thing I noticed.
You’re correct. I did my road apprenticeship on a bike. I’ve transferred much from what I learned on my bike to four wheels.
Good comments - This past week I had opportunity while traveling interstates to follow 3 different groups of riders in my SUV. One of the followings was 2 hours the other 2 were 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
I don't think any group knew I was following them -
I tried to maintain 3-5 second following distance and I am aware of multiple times I prevented other vehicles from comming up on the group too fast or from trying to tailgate the group.
One group impressed me as they were riding in staggered formation and every 10 or so miles they would change up and swap right/left lane positions. Each group always kept their distance from any vehicles in front of them and when I sensed the group was going to do a lane change - I always moved over first to allow them room so the whole group could manuever without incident. - I don't care if they knew if I was there or not- they are my brothers and sisters and if I can protect them - I will
These videos are invaluable. I had a close call on my motorcycle today and it's how I reacted and what I prepared for, based on these videos, that got me through. I was coming to an intersection and I always cover the brake with 2 fingers, and I cover the rear brake slightly with my foot. This person came out as if I wasn't even in the roadway. I had to brakes quite hard let up and swerve. It was bad enough that the driver stopped and ran over to me where I had finally come to a stop to ask if I was all right and he kept apologizing. I firmly believe that these videos and my practice of them saved my bacon today!
Different video lesson, but I thought I would state it here..
Thank you, Kevin
I went on a later afternoon motorcycle ride on river road by the potomac river on Maryland side, speed limit is 50 on most of it but I was going 25 to 30 on second gear on my way back. I saw hundreads of deers grazing on the fields and on the sides of the roads. There weren't many cars but people were flickering their headlighhts for me to watch out. NOt going there again in the afternoon.
☆☆☆☆☆ Excellent explanation, sir.
I ride MY RIDE! period.
The whole lane is mine to fluidly use as i see fit; left or right.
I have friends who are afraid of ever exceeding the speed limit: 1st, my safety is worth more than a static speed limit; 2nd, the FLOW of traffic is the speed you must deal with regardless; so that becomes relevant - not your speedometer.
While watching ahead for hazards is primary focus, one must be acutely aware of rear, or side by threats.
Your videos are major.
Thanks so much!!
one thing about changing lane position to see better down the road is that the more you do this the more it becomes instinctual so you do this automatically to get the best view of what's down the road
Well done, Kevin. Your work gives all riders, new or experienced, a framework for thinking about all aspects of riding. I especially appreciate “not a turf war” and “ riding is a thinking man’s game.”
Hi Sir, I crashed my bike out of tiredness in the French Alps and broke my ankle. Monday I go into surgery. I pushed myself to much in heat, busy traffic, lack of sleep and nutrition - general bad timings. I rode solo for 9 days without a rest day. Before I crashed I was like 20sec. dreaming and I crashed in a ditch at speed of 30km/h on a mountain road. Bike fell on the ankle. I made so many mistakes in this trip, and actually ignored some physical warnings as well. Like starting to make corner mistakes and lack of concentration, increased stress. Before the crash I was contemplating to take a day rest and drive home. All tips to emphasise on this are welcome. Thank you for making these style of videos
Riding a motorcycle is not a turf war. Finally I hear the perfect answer to the “someone’s gonna take up the space” argument. Thanks 🙏🏻
Totally agree with you on lane position. A single bike rider has a right to any spot in that lane, and it's always best to switch spots to prepare for corners or get the best view of the situation. I personally like to stay to one side of a lane when stopping and give myself distance from the car in front of me incase some idiot pulls up behind me and doesn't stop. If I am paying attention to the traffic coming up behind and feel they aren't going to stop in time I let out the clutch and angle for one side of the car ahead of me so I am not sandwiched in between both cars. This is why I always drop it into 1st gear as well when I stop. If it's in neutral I'm toast!
I ride in California mainly commuting and hour each way. Your videos are on point and your preaching a lot of what I do everyday. I’m always trying to see 1000 ft down the road and switching lane position allows me to do this. I’m also constantly moving to get into a position where I have a clear bubble free of vehicles around me. I consistently split lanes for part of my ride and I’m always intrigued passing people who really aren’t focused on what they doing. Keep posting your videos, they are a godsend for the rest of us.
On Florida interstates. at least 75, three seconds is often untenable. Two cars will fill the gap. Two seconds is better, but I use dynamic lane positioning to keep the gap and most important, see far ahead for the pattern. I change lanes a lot.
Let them take the gap if you just want to cruise. Otherwise, shoot for 5 mph faster than average traffic so you are always passing (not cruising in the slow lane).
It is incumbent on us all to find ways to safely create space in front of and behind (and if possible all around) us. I’m gonna go practice that right now...Good episode; thanks!
I have ben riding over 20 years. Never had my endorsement. Took my safety training course last year, and aced it. I still learn alot or get reminded from your videos. Thank for what you so.
Love it.
"Not in a turf war".. I will forever remember this line. And have already told a friend of mine to watch this video, as that is how he rides!!! I'm not an overly experienced rider, and have been watching your videos daily, and have learned a ton. Thanks for all ya teach, and stay safe.
Good advice. It’s really all common sense. It’s almost sad that it has to be said. I always ride defensively but not everyone does.
Kevin, aka: MCrider, thank you for another informative video. I practice a safe following distance every time I go out and ride.
I agree with your comments on both videos. I personally struggle with 'letting things go' when other drivers do something that I don't like. Knowing that you should relax is key and strategies to do it are important. In addition, I don't think unsafe lane changes (like using the merge lane) can also piss the guy off that is now directly behind you, and I think that is a bad idea.
I struggle with that as well. Fortunately, as I get older it gets a little easier.
Thanks Kevin. Giving myself space (minimum two seconds), looking ahead, hopefully staying visible and assuming that I am invisible or in your words, using effective road strategies, helps in decreasing the need to utilize emergency braking and evasive techniques. Love your calm delivery of life saving information. Once again, thank you! 😎
Thanks, Kevin! As a new rider I'm always thinking of how quickly, and safely, I can stop in a pinch. I'm also checking my mirrors frequently, line of sight, and speed. Your videos are always helpful and you are a great presenter.
Distance = Time = life saving....... works for all road users BUT motorcyclists are the most at risk. Great video as always Kevin.
I commute on Phoenix freeways and I've learned to watch my mirrors as if they are part of the brakes. Do whatever you need to do to stay a safe distance away from cars and especially big trucks.
I agree - lane position is a dynamic thing and situational. One thing though - in heavier traffic I alway ride the portion of lane closest to where cars may pull in (right for the passing lane, left for the through lane) - a car will see a gap if you are on the other side, and once they start changing lanes, human nature says they will continue even if they see you.
Totally agree, road positioning is a dynamic scenario and not always a passive one - assert yourself where necessary (to hopefully prevent a dangerous scenario from developing) , but have the plan B in you back pocket.
and ego? - hard to do, but leave it at home. In hot weather I give myself a talking to before the ride - and if I feel I'm getting too agressive. I pull over - have a smoke and hear the grass grow.
Thanks Kevin. This was one of the most clear and concise descriptions of how to use road strategy! Keep ‘em coming!
When I am riding in traffic I try to position myself so that I can see the face of the driver in front of me in their wing mirror. My wheels are outside of theirs which gives me the most clear road in front of me. I can also see what the driver in front can see, adding seconds to my reaction time.
A lifetime ago the only question I missed on the (then) written motorcycle license test was, what position in the lane should you ride. The correct answer at the time was the left hand side as you would be visible in both the rear view and side view mirrors of the driver in front of you…. Center lane has frequent oil droppings that could cause a problem, especially in wet conditions.
Love this. 100% on everything said. From making lane positioning dynamic to making more room in front when a tailgater comes up behind. Practical stuff for a student of human behavior to practice--especially on two wheels.
Great advice, Kevin. Im 75 yrs old , been riding 60 years. Your common sense , real life advice is right on the money.
This may not be politically correct, but I usually ride faster than most traffic, especially on highways. I tend to stay in the left lane towards the right hand side of the lane because this allows cars in the center lane to see me down the edge of their vehicles. As I pass them I drift to the left to give more room.
I know this strategy actually increases my speed quite a bit considering most highway traffic, at least in my area (FL) run 5-10 over all the time. However, I have been pulled over several times and the police have not written me a ticket after they I explain myself to them.
Be aware that I am an older (58) rider with half a million miles in the saddle, and I am not blitzing through traffic. I ride a Triumph Speed Triple 1200RS. I do road trips, commuting and weekend rides.
I still have noneider friends who say that I am riding too fast, but my explanation usually quiets them or at least gets them to think about a motorcyclist's perspective.
Having attended a few traffic schools, I learned the 2 second rule for following distance. The old so many car lengths rule never worked.
I live in northwest Canada lots of animals can appear out of nowhere 5:10 . Most of the time I ride near the center lane . Gives me more highway to play with. To avoid. That's with not much traffic. But when there is more I ride like you said what ever gives me the most important of all things. Vision.
Keeping my head up and eyes looking where I want to go is great thank you for pointing it.
I am 61 years old and passed the motorcycle test 7 months ago(!) in the UK. If you say ‘only a fool breaks the 2 second rule’ (slowly and clearly)when comparing yourself to the vehicle in front at a fixed point, your following distance is reasonable, say it twice if it is raining. If the vehicle behind is getting close, slow down a little, they will overtake and remove the problem. Thanks for the video, it reinforces my teaching , in a different country
I've been riding my BMW since 1980 and I couldn't agree with you more! I may not get there first, but I get there!
Thank you, sir, for the follow up video. In general, there is a broad lack of patience on our highways no matter the vehicle. Particularly for motorcyclists, a good dose of patience will complement everything you have said, particularly referencing the complaints from people about vehicles cutting in when you leave proper following distance. I particularly like your terminology "riding a motorcycle is not a turf war" because it can often feel that way and when it comes down to it, it's just a stupid mentality to have, again, regardless of the vehicle but for certain on a bike. TY!!
Regarding lane position, I was always taught to avoid the center of the lane. The first reason is because of the oil buildup in the center of the lane from all the cars. It's going to increase your braking distance in an emergency and also make it more likely your wheels may slide out from under you if you need to change direction in a hurry. The other reason is that if you are following a car and a muffler falls off, or their engine pukes a piston... the debris and oil is going to wind up in the center of the lane. You don't need that hazard.
Great follow up video! My lane position changes with traffic, road conditions, etc. I took my first rider safety course in 1987, in order to ride onto a Navy base. Never stop learning!
Here's the scuttlebutt,
I came up with that decades ago
There are Old Riders
And there are Bold Riders
There are no Old Bold Riders
Originally came came from
E. Hamilton Lee
There are old pilots,
and there are bold pilots,
but there are no old, bold pilots!”
I always leave distance. Of course doing that means bike being tailgated. But in this way I slow traffic for temporary then speed closer to traffic in front. I have found this opens up my lane both front and rear and has been working really well.
32 years! Congratulations, brother!
thank you MCrider. something i read years ago and i believe it is true just from observing on the road is, other drivers tend to maintain the same gap as the drivers in front of them. so if you are on a bike with a big gap to the car in front of you, there is a better chance the car behind you will maintain a bigger gap. now there are plenty of drivers out there that will prove this statement wrong and get right up on you, but they can go around get in front of you and you can slow down to get the gap back. if they stay on you then change lanes or speed up or do what it takes to get away and stay away from them.
Kevin, awesome !. " Non- Existence" or invisibility to other road users. I only own two stroke motorcycles. I feel safest on the slightly noisier one; because it's noticed !. The quiet one just isn't noticed; despite it's high dollar value, which is meaningless to other road users. When riding I allow others tine to notice me. Visually or by sound. Traffic being dynamic as you stated; I believe car/ SUV/ truck drivers need time to get used to you being there. I call this " non existence". It the difference between " I didn't see you " and their knowing that you exist. Riders violate this at their own peril !. Any comment/s. I agree with every tip and pointer you raise. They're all relevant and all important !. Any comment on the above ?.
As a trucker, the car tailgating a semi truck with a semi behind that car…. Is sometimes referred to as the “cream filling”. Because when that car gets crushed between the two trucks in an emergency stop, that’s what typically happens to said car and occupants.
NEVER VOLUNTEER to be the cream filling between any vehicles.
As always, awesome advice.
I watch your channel consistently. I value the material you provide. Often times I’ll share them with my sons and one daughter in law because they ride too. I especially like the road strategy info as good road strategy can prevent having to use road skill. So thank you for all your trading tips, I do have one question though. Are all of your roads that full of tar snakes?😂
Glad to see someone putting out educational videos I enjoy every once in a while looking at your videos I've been riding for 50 years. Has not become easier but more Dangerous. When someone younger asks, I Discourage or Suggest reading proficient motorcycling or checking out your site.
Thanx, Kevin.
Always great info, especially for they newer riders!
I wish you’d do a video backing up a study by the insurance industry I saw about 20 years ago (I’ve got over 5 decades of riding under my belt).
The study was about helmet color, and how critical it was in order to be seen by oncoming drivers.
In a nutshell, it concluded wearing any color other than black or grey increases the likelihood you’re seen by those drivers by over 20 times.
I tested that theory myself, and the difference was absolutely eye opening.
I’ve a worn hi-vis helmet (and gear) ever since.
In his brilliant book "The Upper Half of the Motorcycle", Bernt Spiegel tells one to always plan an escape route, even if it means that one will have to go off road. In the earlier chapters, he talks extensively about other sports, and the book at times is somewhat philosophical, but I recommend it strongly. Unfortunately, it's expensive.
Defensive Riding: One thing that I realized I do that I haven't seen mentioned on any of these videos is using a big vehicle (car or truck) for defense. Let's say you are sitting or riding in the right lane at an intersection with the posibility of something coming from the Left. Try to time it so you are riding on the right side of the large vehicle so that if any thing trys to turn in your direction, it is blocked by the large vehicle therefore creating a barrier between the intruding vehicle and you.
Good tactics and perfect practice makes for a Great Ride.
Thanks for the tips they’re appreciated especially when it comes to tailgating or tailgated I’ve been in a lot of situations that put me in situations like that. Knowing how to clear headed handle the situation is important. If idve seen this video few months ago I probably wouldn’t be in physical therapy. I know for next time. Much love
Man.. I got caught in a sudden out of no where HEAVY downpour at 70mph and could only see 2 car lengths ...felt more more I was on a jet ski.. Anyways, I just dropped down to 55, put hazards on to increase my visibility and kept going.. Heavy traffic & nowhere to pull over, definitely felt the Lord was watchin over me. Honestly surprise I kept the bike up, luckily I jad brand new tires on it
Very useful video. And remember, like they say, loud pipes do save lives.
Congratulations on you and your lovely assistant's thirty-two year "collaboration". Here is wishing you two at least another fifty years together, and may your riding years reach into the higher numbers of that span. God Bless.
I took Honda’s on road safety course. There recommendation was a center of lane riding position. I strongly disagreed! Many years later and a lot of miles I discovered, they were right on target! For ultimate visibility on multi lane roads that practice works best. Exceptions to the rule, you bet! When possible, I practice emergency braking by stopping at yellow lights instead of cruising through. My scooter has a white strobe on the front and a red strobe on the rear and I wear a construction workers vest.
I enjoy watching this channel.
Helps me stay safe whike on the road
I totally agree!
100% agree!
If we were doing 70 mph on a road and we give only a 2 second gap that gives us a distance of some 210 ft of safe space. However in the UK Highway Code [ available on line if you want to look at it ] its suggests that the recommended safe distance to follow at that speed would be about 100 metres or some 315 feet. Many road users would consider that 210 ft to be reasonable?
However you don't have to right up to the rear bumper of another vehicle to be in danger and tailgating. At 70 mph one would be travelling at approx. 105 ft or over 30 metres distance per second and it could take us anywhere between half a second to say 3 seconds to realise that we have to do something like braking in order to stay alive. So if it took us say one second to realise that we definitely needed to brake in the first place we have already travelled about 105 ft nearer the obstruction before we actuate the brakes. Then we only have that same distance, 105 ft to actually brake in and at 70 mph there is not a cat in hells chance of doing that.
We would probably hit the rear end of the vehicle in front at about 40 mph and that no fun at all. If we don't hit anything else then we may have to swerve and that leads itself to other problems of putting others at risk on the road or we could collide head on with an oncoming vehicle for instance.
So the giving of safe following on distances or in the UK the full stopping distance is something we should all aspire to and at all times Its a life saver.. Your life and that of others around you at that time. So don't be a selfish idiot, look out for and give the correct safe distances and think of your family and friends and how they would feel if you didn't return home that day.
Congrats on the 32 years Kevin . Im Old and Bold at times , I know when I can get it up and when not to . Im talking 120 mph plus lol I stick to the limits 95% of the time or go 5 over as long as the traffic is light . I stay back 200 foot from Semi trucks them Alligators will get you .
I’ve learned to ride and drive by looking as many vehicles ahead of me as I can and as much as I can what is happening behind me. I don’t tailgate and do my best to not let anyone tailgate me. If someone tailgates me I slow down to make them pass move out of the way when I can and let them go by. Like you said if they pass me I’m better off as they are less a threat to me off my tail. I’d rather pull off the road for an aggressive tailgater, then to be hit by their stupidity, thinking they will get to their designation faster by tailgating.
Thanks Kev. Great job. Good info. God bless.
HAPPY TRAILS
Just made me feel really good about my habit of liking at least half a football field between me and the traffic in front of me.
Such an awesome and well explained instructional video !
Thanks Kevin .
A job - well done .
The challenge with that driving distance is that no one else follows it. It's absolutely crazy in the Northeast. People drive one car length behind each other and their little cookie cutter mini SUVs and crossovers. They have no concept of breaking distance. And even when they do get a scare moment and try to pull the left or right without even looking they still go right back into tailgating. It's almost impossible to follow this rule rule of breaking distance. I was raised on one car lane for every 10 mph. But it's virtually impossible because everybody wants to cut in front of you because they're irritated that you have so much space in front of you. Aggravating
Great stuff! I do this in my truck, with all the idiots on the road. I don't know how anyone rides a bike anymore!
I appreciate every video, sir. Keep it up, please.
Emergency breaking saved my butt yesterday on a ebike, guy turned in front of me, I was able to stop. I was going about 22mph in a legal bike lane. My buddy brought this up to my attention. Practicing emergency breaking is important, no matter the speed
Great video, I practice all of what was discussed. I do think that as for being seen by other drivers in their rear view mirrors a noticeable headlight is a must. I switched to a led halo a few years ago and have noticed being seen by drivers much improved.
Nice job showing what to do, and comparing to the rider from last week. It is clear that other rider was really tailgating you and other traffic.
Once again very informative
“Riding a motorcycle is not a turf war”
Well said!
Words of wisdom right here. Preach good sir!
Always a good informative video here. Many thanks for sharing.
Thank you for this
Great advice, as usual
I’m a new motorcyclist. I’ve only been riding for 2 1/2 years. My personal observation has been that there are not many dangerous situations on the road that cannot be mitigated by slowing down. I cannot say that I have ever met a fellow motorcyclist for whom that has been an acceptable option. I have been sternly warned that my 600cc cruiser is not fast enough to keep me out of dangerous situations on the road. I’ve sadly come to the conclusion that motorcyclists, as a group, are more dangerous road users than the average car driver. Motorcycling is dangerous enough without riding fast, following too close, and fighting for your space on the road. My favorite thing is when a fellow motorcyclist passes me, while riding in my lane, to fill the three car length buffer I have between myself and the car ahead.
I prefer the 12-second rule for following and looking up the road.
Excellent !!!
Ride Safely
Great stuff, Kevin. Keep em' comin'!
Great information.
Tell you what. Riding a bike made me a much more aware driver in my truck. Especially at spotting riders that are not thinking about their visibility and safety.
I usually plan on the cagers to take my space cushion away. So yeah I slow down and let em. Best to plan for than against it.
I've had luck getting a tail gater to back off by courteously signalling "slow down" (palm down, hand slightly up and down) gesture with my left hand behind my back.
It must be nice to ride in traffic where a 2 second following distance is possible. Here, if someone pulls into that gap and you roll off the throttle, someone else will pull into the gap you just created by rolling off the throttle. This goes on and on and on, until you are going so slow you are a road hazzard, or you give up and keep that gap compromised between too many people pulling in front of you and following too close. It's also a constant time; reaction time varies a lot between different riders. Ride within your reaction time and ability to avoid a collision if something changes is my rule.
Thanks Kevin, great advice!
All good reminders!!💯👍🏽
Being flexable in your lane position also allows you to stay in the cars side mirror's in front of you as opposed to the drivers blind spot.
Good thoughts and advice
"If there's somehow a bunch of cars cutting in front of you and forcing you to slow down in traffic... there's nothing wrong with passing a bunch of slower traffic to create safe space and visibility around yourself."
Okay... no argument. Let's get that perfectly clear first... Everything said in this segment was true.
I just have a tiny addendum. There's a tendency of cars and drivers to move in packs. Many drivers use other traffic around them more than their own speedo's to judge their pace, and this results in groups of cars bunching up together like a caravan or an impromptu "group ride" among US. It's just worth acknowledging this phenomenon, because it leads into a sort of mental space where car drivers tend to WANT to stick to their "pack" for whatever reason. It's not everybody, but for some, the idea that you (biker) have disrupted the flow and pattern of their "pack" on the road just gets under some drivers' skin, and they feel like they HAVE to get around you. They'll crowd you, threaten you, and insist for some ridiculous ideal or reasoning that they are "right" or that you are somehow "wrong" for being there.
While I have no problem with the principle of being allowed to pass an entire group of slower vehicles, maybe it's worth noticing that groups of vehicles seem to like to move together in a closer than comfortable manner, and maybe that's all the more they're "hung up on"... JUST giving up the space, frequently is enough, and you can return to your wide-open real estate BETWEEN packs of other vehicles, with everybody enjoying their preferences in traffic patterns, pace, and direction.
Reading the patterns of vehicles and movements, and even the spaces, in traffic around you not only becomes second nature as you practice, but saves you a LOT of time, effort, energy, and anxiety on the road. It's easy to pop off a "stock answer" for whatever situation as an absolute, but in the dynamics of traffic, we all know already that absolutes never work. As in my own "stock answer" on lane position, I default most of the time to the left. This puts me in relative line to the drivers' side rear views for traffic ahead of me, since it's the most frequently checked rear view mirror aside from the interior one in 99% of vehicles on the road. It's my "default" because it's where I tend to go for that advantage whenever I'm just not sure where might be the most advantageous or in situations where there simply is no more advantage to be gained... BUT it's nothing like "written in stone".
The rule I DO try to keep in stone as much as possible, is my proclivity for "wide open real estate"... Any time I can get to the vast distances between packs of other vehicles, I'm likely to take it unless there's a reason I shouldn't... AND that includes recognizing a whole pack of cars and trucks steaming up from behind at considerably higher pace than I'm comfortable riding. It DOES happen, though not very often, and the packs in question are rarely larger than 4 to 6 vehicles, obviously enough trying to form an improvised "caravan" or formation without the obvious experience or training to accomplish it. It's similar to how I try to handle myself around impromptu group rides, with untrained and unskilled riders, or mob rides where it's obvious nobody even has a f*** to give. ;o)
If you got a tailgater increase your distance, even in a car. No emergency stops with a tailgater, you need more planning and plenty of stopping distance
Food for thought as I saw passing other vehicles in your video. In Texas, how many MPH are you allowed to exceed the speed limit if you are passing traffic?
Answer...... ZERO mph over the existing speed limit is the correct answer. I don't know of any state that has a different answer. I know, many folks are likely to quote differently but IF you conduct some honest research, you will find those are usually urban myths. People love to quote those; it's entertaining to many. Good Rides
A lot of people riding motorcycles follow various _Mantras_ They have been taught and/or conditioned to always do something rather than using good old common sense. I believe in only one Mantra: _Do what is best¹ for _*_you_*_ in that particular situation._ If that means breaking all the rules, so be it. My life and safety are more important. Remember the situation on the road is always evolving and changing...
¹ Best could have any number of different meanings depending on the context. Though, usually, it means safest.
I like the old OR bold , NO in between huh.
I don't mind getting closer to the car in front of me, but I won't get there directly behind them. I always position in 1 or 3 to be able see in front of them, and not be effected by their sudden stopping.
Increased following distance gives you better opportunity to avoid a road hazard that suddenly appears behind the vehicle in front of you.
That's a good point about following distance, but you're riding directly behind a vehicle (your wife's truck) that you can't see over, through, around or under. Your following distance is better, but you've impinged your line of sight by staying behind that truck.
You should have positioned yourself in the line of traffic behind that white Impala in the left lane.
4:38 you're talking about lane position.
There's a truck about to pass you and you're positioned on the left side of the lane, making you less visible to any impatient drivers who want to pass the truck. Should've been on the extreme right side to increase your visibility so that no cars would come rushing up trying to pass the truck.
We know much drivers don't like driving behind vehicles they can't see around.
I liked the guy who said that his sport motorcycle group had two factions: the leisure riders and the seizure riders. The number of people who fetch up before the pearly gates because somebody wanted to go 3 mph slower than they thought they wanted to travel.... I wish I couldn't count on the fingers of both times the number of times I pulled entirely off the road and stopped for a while when I found myself in a dangerous set of traffic or some weird moron who wanted to contest my right to use the road. I'll get there eventually.