Question

Difficulty: MediumDefensive Driving and Hazard Anticipation

When driving adjacent to a bicyclist on a street lined with parked vehicles, a defensive driver should scan the road ahead of the bicyclist for potential hazards, such as opening vehicle doors or debris, and anticipate that the bicyclist may suddenly swerve left into the travel lane.

Answer: Answer

Answer

True
Defensive driving requires identifying potential hazards before they materialize into emergencies. Because bicyclists often need to maneuver left to clear opening car doors or road debris, scanning ahead of them enables a driver to reduce speed and grant safe buffer space in advance.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Scan the driving environment beyond your immediate vehicle path.
Identify potential hazards in the bicyclist's line of travel, such as occupied parked cars or road debris.
Hazard anticipation requires evaluating conditions that affect other road users.
2
Predict the bicyclist's probable evasive maneuvers.
Recognize that the bicyclist will likely swerve left into the motor vehicle lane to avoid an opening door or obstacle.
Bicyclists must maintain stability and safety, which often requires taking additional lane space around obstructions.
3
Execute preventive driving adjustments.
Cover the brake, reduce speed, and allow extra lateral space when passing or following.
Proactive adjustments eliminate collision risks before dangerous situations develop.

Key Concept

Defensive Driving and Hazard Anticipation
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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