Riding through intersections safely

Many serious motorcycle collisions happen at junctions, often when another driver turns across the rider's path and says they did not see the bike. You cannot control other drivers, but you can make yourself easier to see and leave yourself room to react.

Why intersections are risky

A motorcycle is narrow and easy to hide behind a pillar, a mirror or another vehicle. Drivers judge speed and distance badly for small, fast objects, and may look straight at you without registering you. Assume that you have not been seen until the driver's behaviour shows that you have.

Approach with a plan

Reduce speed early and cover the brakes as you approach, so you can stop without a panic.
Scan both sides, then ahead, then the sides again. Look for vehicles waiting to turn, pedestrians and anything that could enter your lane.
Look at the front wheels of waiting cars: if they start to roll, the driver is about to move.
Choose a lane position that puts you in the driver's line of sight, not hidden behind a mirror or pillar.

Be visible

Keep your headlight on and wear bright or reflective clothing.
A small lateral move inside your lane makes your motion easier to notice.
Do not rely on eye contact alone. A driver can look at you and still pull out.

Be ready to brake or swerve

Know your escape route before you reach the junction. Practise emergency braking in a safe place so that the reaction is automatic. See braking technique and being seen by drivers.

Traffic lights and green lights

A green light does not make the junction safe. Check for vehicles running the red light before you enter, and take extra care when you are next to a large vehicle that blocks your view of cross traffic.

Slow down and look before every junction, even when you have priority. Priority does not stop a collision.