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Difficulty: MediumWindy Conditions

When following a motorcyclist across an open, unsheltered stretch of road in gale-force winds, why is it essential to maintain an increased separation distance?

  1. A
    Motorcyclists generate a strong aerodynamic vortex behind them that can destabilise your steering.
  2. Motorcyclists can easily be buffeted sideways by sudden crosswinds and may need to swerve across the lane.Answer
  3. C
    Motorcyclists ride at significantly higher speeds during gales to use forward momentum against side winds.
  4. D
    Motorcyclists require trailing vehicles to travel close behind to act as a physical windbreak.

Answer

Motorcyclists can easily be buffeted sideways by sudden crosswinds and may need to swerve across the lane.
In severe winds, two-wheeled road users such as motorcyclists and cyclists are extremely vulnerable to being blown off line by sudden crosswinds. Keeping a generous separation distance gives them room to manoeuvre and gives following drivers enough time to react safely if the rider swerves.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify how gale-force winds impact two-wheeled road users.
Recognise that motorcyclists are particularly susceptible to sudden side gusts and lateral instability.
Lightweight vehicles with two points of contact can be pushed sideways without warning.
2
Determine the necessary driver response to maintain adequate safety margins.
Increase the following distance well beyond normal driving margins.
A greater gap provides sufficient time and stopping distance if the rider swerves or loses balance.

Key Concept

Adjusting vehicle separation when following vulnerable road users in high winds
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Windy Conditions

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