Quote:

Number one:
If it's a two lane road, when someone pulls out to pass, especially a big vehicle they can't see around, the first part of your lane they will see is the extreme right. They can't see the left part of your lane until they are several feet into it.

Number two:
Again a two lane road, if they wander into your lane, the left part is the first they invade.




I had to read your number one several times also. Bottom line riding near the center of the road should put your headlight in about the same place as a typical car or truck traveling in the same direction. If the oncoming passing vehicle doesn't see you, you will see them and be able to move right and slow down. There are times I will use other parts of my lane, it all depends on the conditions of the road and traffic. This isn't a game of chicken.

In a two lane road if a vehicle is passing another and heading for me from behind I will see them from the left side of the road long before they get to me. If I was in the right side of the road I might not see them until they were entering my space.

It all boils down to being in a position to make it easier for them to see you, and for the rider to have a better view of the whole road not just part of it.

I know some people are not comfortable riding near the center of the road, but I have found that cars give me more space when I ride near the center (but well within my lane) than they would if I was in the middle or even sometimes on the right side of the road. They are just more aware of me being there.

I learned years ago (from lane splitting in California) to know what all the vehicles around me are doing. The only position on the road that you can do that from is near the center of the road. When it's a four lane road, then near the center of the two lanes. In that position I can observe every vehicle that is in my zone, and take action as required.

Tom

Last edited by tcv; 10/17/2008 1:22 AM.
Those who would give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety. Benjamin Franklin, US author, diplomat, inventor, physicist, politician, & printer (1706 - 1790)