A common hazard when approaching an intersection, especially when you have a limited sight distance to your right is the approaching vehicle from the right cutting the corner to beat opposing traffic in order to make the turn at your expense.
Whenever you approach this type of scenario, be cautious. Favor the center lane or nearside position to avoid getting clipped. You should be approaching slowly anticipating this type of hazard.
If you are approaching the intersection and intend to turn right, position to the nearside (road edge) as close as practical. Stop before entering the intersection, if your view is still obstructed, continue forward slowly until you can see approaching traffic.
If you are approaching and intend to turn left, your position would probably be near the center-line (far-side from your lanes road edge). This is where you need to make the adjustment to avoid this scenario.
Your approach position should be toward the center of your lane (not the center-line of the roadway) favoring the nearside (your lanes road edge) until you can slowly position yourself before entering the intersection for a better view.
Be sure to look behind you (rear observation) before making a left turn. An approaching vehicle from your rear may misconstrue your position for a right turn and might come up on your left. This may be a good time to use an arm signal and a turn signal. The arm signal will be much more noticeable to traffic behind you.
Identifying Hazards with limited sight distance on your right
4 responses so far ↓
Mr. Motorcycle // 03/12/2009 at 3:19 pm
Hey, I just found your blog today via Road Captain (Jay Green). Took a few minutes to read the last three posts. Great information here. I found out you were having problems getting viewers, or at least viewers who are commenting.
I think you have great information here definitely worth sharing, and please keep it coming. I’m going to spread the word about your blog through a post on mine as well.
Thanks! I’ll be back.
rubenandjoann // 03/12/2009 at 4:54 pm
Thanks brother, I really appreciate that. I consider the blog to be somewhat of a “ministry”, always free, just sharing to keep others from making the common mistakes. Most crashes can be avoided.
Mr. Motorcycle // 03/12/2009 at 4:58 pm
I agree. I’ve crashed three times in 20 some years of riding. All three, looking back, If I’d done something a bit smarter, I could have avoided them from happening. Education is key. I’m glad I’ve found your site.
Bigdaddy // 03/12/2009 at 5:42 pm
This site will help save a lot of riders.
In thirty years of riding, driving and trucking
I have always believed that more education is the key.
The day you think you don’t need to learn more…..is the day you need to pack it in.
Kudos to you.