Changing lanes with a bicycle alongside
Look at the picture, read the situation, and mark each of the three statements true (○) or false (✕). All three right scores 2 points.
You are driving in the left lane at 40 km/h, and a bicycle is riding alongside you on your left, near the shoulder. You are thinking of changing lanes to the right lane, but another vehicle is also approaching from behind. Answer true or false for each of the following.
- (1)You are moving to the right, so you change lanes without paying any attention to the bicycle on your left.
- (2)Before changing lanes, you check your distance from the bicycle using the left side mirror and a direct look.
- (3)The bicycle is slower than you, so there is no problem in changing lanes.
Show the answers and explanation
- (1) ✕ FalseYou are moving to the right, so you change lanes without paying any attention to the bicycle on your left.
- (2) ○ TrueBefore changing lanes, you check your distance from the bicycle using the left side mirror and a direct look.
- (3) ✕ FalseThe bicycle is slower than you, so there is no problem in changing lanes.
Explanation
When you change lanes, you need to check for safety in every direction: front, rear, left and right (Rules of the Road (kyōsoku), Ch. 5, Sec. 5, 2(1)). With a bicycle right beside you on the left, you need to be prepared for it to change course suddenly. When you pass on the right of a bicycle, leave enough space, or else drive at a safe speed for the space you have (Road Traffic Act, Art. 18, para. 3).
Source: Rules of the Road (kyōsoku), Ch. 5, Sec. 5, 2(1) (safety checks when changing lanes) / Road Traffic Act, Art. 26-2 (prohibited lane changes) / Road Traffic Act, Art. 18, para. 3 (passing on the right of a bicycle)
