Motorcycle Safety in Heavy Traffic

Choose a safe road position. Keep to the left where required and appropriate, avoid remaining in the far-right lane, overtake only when lawful and necessary, and return to the appropriate lane safely.

Hazards to watch for in congested traffic

• Another motorcycle may suddenly filter through a gap between stationary vehicles.
• A vehicle stopped in the left lane may pull out to the right without warning. Observe its position and signals and be prepared to slow down.

Anticipate risk and ride defensively

• Maintain adequate space in front and to the sides to reduce the risk of being squeezed by another vehicle.
• Observe surrounding traffic and look well ahead, including vehicles in neighbouring lanes.
• Assess changing conditions and be prepared to brake smoothly before a hazard develops.
• When motorcycles are moving in a line, avoid unsafe overtaking that could cause a sideswipe collision.

Source: Department of Land Transport road-safety guidance