Motorcycle in traffic
Positioning, visibility, and traffic understanding for safe motorcycle riding.
Visibility is Crucial
Other road users often overlook motorcycles. You must actively make yourself visible to avoid dangerous situations.
- Use your headlight even during the day.
- Choose light-colored or reflective clothing and protective gear.
- Position yourself so that you are visible in mirrors and blind spots of other vehicles.
Lane Positioning
Correct lane position gives you better visibility and makes you more visible to other road users.
| Situation | Recommended Position | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Straight road | Left wheel track | Visible in front mirrors |
| Intersection | Center of the lane | Clear positioning |
| Curves (right) | Left part of the lane | Better view ahead |
| Curves (left) | Right part of the lane | Avoid oncoming lane |
Intersections and Roundabouts
- Reduce speed and cover the brakes when approaching an intersection.
- Make eye contact with other drivers to ensure they have seen you.
- In roundabouts, position yourself clearly in the lane and signal any changes of direction early.
Overtaking and lane changes
- Check your blind spot with a shoulder glance before changing lanes.
- Do not stay in the blind spot of trucks and buses for long.
- Complete the overtaking maneuver quickly and predictably.
Typical motorcycle accidents
| Accident Type | Cause | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Intersection collision | Driver overlooks motorcycle | Reduce speed, cover brakes |
| Single-vehicle accident in a curve | Excessive speed | Adjust speed for the curve |
| Rear-end collision | Short distance | Brake gradually, signal |
Next steps
- Test your knowledge with the free theory test .
- Practice safety questions for MC control.
- Read about safe riding on MC .
- Also see cornering on MC and MC on the highway .
Read next
More in Motorcycle theory
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Cornering on a motorcycle
Curve technique for motorcycles with counter-steering, correct lean angle, and adaptation to road conditions.
Motorcycle equipment
Mandatory and recommended protective equipment for motorcycles, including helmet requirements, CE standards, and clothing for visibility.
Motorcycle license and classes
Everything you need to know about the classes A, A1, and A2 for a motorcycle license.