 Sharing The Road
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Turning Tricks
1. Positioning for turns
- Before a turn: scan, signal and move into the lane that leads to your destination
- Ride in the right third or middle of the lane, as lane width dictates
- To traverse multiple lanes, move one at a time, scanning and signaling each move
2. Avoid turn lanes
- If your lane turns into a right-turn-only lane, change lanes before the intersection
- Changing lanes too late could result in an overtaking motorist turning in front of you
- Maintain a constant position relative to the curb or shoulder during a turn
3. Beware of blind spots
- Most drivers do not always expect to see cyclists on the roadway
- Do not ride next to another vehicle unless you are in a different lane or passing
- If you can't see bus, truck or car mirrors, drivers can't see you
4. Signaling
- Signal well before the intersection; make sure you are in the proper lane position
- Left arm out and down with palm to the rear to indicate stopping
- Left or right arm straight out to indicate left or right turn
5. Scan
- Look for potential hazards in front and behind as well as to each side
- Scanning allows you to avoid dangerous situations
- Scan for motorists, road conditions, pedestrians, animals, traffic signals
Tip courtesy of the League of American Bicyclists (bikeleague.org).
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