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Difficulty: MediumCyclists

You are driving along an exposed rural road in strong, gusty winds and approach a cyclist travelling ahead. What hazard should you anticipate before attempting to overtake?

  1. A
    The cyclist will ride tightly against the left verge to let following traffic pass safely
  2. The cyclist could be blown sideways or swerve suddenly to maintain balanceAnswer
  3. C
    The cyclist will maintain a steady line because side winds only affect high-sided motor vehicles
  4. D
    The cyclist will accelerate rapidly to improve their stability against sudden gusts

Answer

The cyclist could be blown sideways or swerve suddenly to maintain balance
In open or exposed areas during windy weather, cyclists can easily be buffeted by sudden crosswinds or turbulence near gaps in hedges and over bridges. Drivers must anticipate that a cyclist may suddenly wobble, swerve, or be blown into the carriageway to maintain stability, meaning drivers should hold back and allow even more passing clearance than usual.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Assess the environmental conditions and the road user ahead
Identify that strong, gusty winds pose a severe stability threat to lightweight two-wheeled vehicles
Exposed sections of road offer no shelter from sudden side gusts
2
Anticipate the physical behaviour of the cyclist
Recognise that sudden wind gusts may push the cyclist sideways or cause them to swerve unpredictably
Cyclists must steer and lean into the wind to avoid being knocked off their bicycle
3
Determine the appropriate driver response
Hold back until it is safe and provide extra passing clearance when overtaking
Standard minimum clearance should be expanded in adverse weather to safeguard vulnerable road users

Key Concept

Anticipating sudden lateral movement and giving extra clearance when passing cyclists in windy conditions
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Cyclists

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