SECTION 7. BASIC STREET STRATEGIESSQ
Thinking ahead to manage risks for a safe, enjoyable ride is part of being a good rider. Risk is always present, and much of it occurs around intersections and in curves. At intersections, others may not see you or yield the right of way, especially when they are turning left across your path from the opposite side of the intersection. In curves, it is often a matter of going too fast when entering a curve. It is important to search for possible collision traps and escape paths as part of your overall strategy.
POSITIONING
Lane Choice
76If there is more than one lane, pick a lane where you do not have to change lanes often and can see ahead while being visible to others.
Lane Position
77Change lane positions to avoid hazards, to avoid bad road conditions, and to see and be seen. Presentation is a term that means to use a lane position where others have a better chance to see you, especially as you approach a line of oncoming cars.
BEING VISIBLE
Use your eyes and mind to determine how and when to adjust position as situations unfold.
AN ACTIVE STRATEGY
RiderRadar
Search far and near as well as from side-to-side.
Visual Lead Times and Distances
81● 2-second following time and distance This is a minimum when conditions are ideal and you are paying close attention ahead.
82● 4-second urgent time and distance This helps you react properly to conditions, whether approaching an intersection, rounding a curve, or following another vehicle.
● 12-second anticipation time and distance Evaluate areas it would take you that long to reach.
Total Stopping Distance
83
1. Perception distance
2. Reaction distance
3. Braking distance
You can reduce risk by improving each part of total stopping distance.
MENTAL PROCESSING
Search and Evaluate relate to the eyes-and-mind part, and Execute refers to the hands-and-feet part.
85Search: Search means to scan far and near and side-to-side.
87Evaluate: To evaluate means to think about what could happen.
88Execute: This means to use smooth and well-timed actions.
1. Adjusting speed, which means to slow down or speed up to separate hazards.
2. Adjusting position, which means to pick a better lane or better spot within a lane.
3. Communicating intentions, which means to use turn signals, brake light, or horn.
ESCAPE PATHS
You must have time and space to maneuver.90 You want to have an escape path that is open and allows you to avoid a collision. 91 Avoid target fixation so you do not crash into what you are staring at. It is best to have more than one escape path open so you don’t get trapped.
Choosing A Good Lane
Lane Position= LP1 - LP2 - LP3?
Strategy For Being Seen
Birds Eye View, What If?
Location Of Key Factors
RiderRadar - Following Time and Distance
RiderRadar - Urgent Time and Distance
RiderRadar - Anticipation Time and Distance
A Good Mental Strategy
Search Catagories
86
1. Traffic controls and roadway design features (lights, signs, medians, etc.).
2. Roadway users.
3. Road and surface conditions.
4. Escape paths, in front and to each side.
Escape Path?
Mental Processing