Left Turn Across Oncoming Traffic
You are riding eastbound on a two-lane urban road with a posted speed limit of 50 km/h. You approach a signalized intersection where you intend to turn left. The light is green, but there is no dedicated left-turn arrow. Oncoming traffic is moderate, with a steady stream of vehicles. You have slowed to about 20 km/h and are positioned just left of the lane center, preparing to turn. A vehicle behind you is following closely. You notice a gap in oncoming traffic that seems sufficient for a car, but you are on a motorcycle with a passenger. The gap is about 3 seconds at your current speed. You must decide whether to proceed with the turn or wait for a larger gap.
1. What factors should you consider when deciding whether to accept the 3-second gap for your left turn?
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When evaluating a gap for a left turn, consider:
- Your acceleration and speed: A motorcycle with a passenger accelerates more slowly than a solo rider or a car. The 3-second gap may be adequate for a car, but with a passenger, you need more time to clear the intersection.
- Oncoming vehicle speed: The gap is measured in seconds, but if oncoming vehicles are traveling at 50 km/h, they cover about 14 meters per second. A 3-second gap means the nearest oncoming vehicle is roughly 42 meters away. At 20 km/h, you need to accelerate and complete the turn before that vehicle arrives. With a passenger, your acceleration is reduced, so you may need a larger gap.
- Your visibility and being seen: Ensure oncoming drivers see you. Use your turn signal early and make eye contact if possible.
- The vehicle behind you: A tailgater may pressure you, but do not let that force an unsafe turn. If you must wait, keep your brake light on and be prepared for the rear vehicle to stop.
- Road surface and traffic conditions: Check for oil, gravel, or wet spots that could affect traction during the turn. Given these factors, a 3-second gap with a passenger may be marginal. It is safer to wait for a larger gap (e.g., 4-5 seconds) to ensure you can complete the turn without impeding oncoming traffic.
2. How should you position your motorcycle and manage your speed while waiting for a safe gap?
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While waiting for a safe gap:
- Position: Keep the motorcycle in the left-turn position, just left of the lane center, to be visible in oncoming drivers' mirrors and to have a straight path through the intersection. Do not hug the center line too closely, as oncoming vehicles may encroach.
- Speed: Maintain a slow roll (about 10-20 km/h) if traffic is moving, or come to a complete stop if necessary. Keep the bike in first gear, ready to move.
- Observation: Continuously scan oncoming traffic, checking for vehicles that may be speeding or changing lanes. Also monitor your mirrors for the vehicle behind you.
- Signal: Keep your turn signal on to communicate your intention.
- Escape route: Have a plan if an oncoming vehicle fails to stop or if the situation changes. Be prepared to straighten up and proceed straight if the turn becomes unsafe.
3. If you decide the gap is too small and choose to wait, what should you do to manage the tailgating vehicle behind you?
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If you wait:
- Communicate: Keep your brake light on (by holding the brake) to signal you are stopped or slowing. Use hand signals if necessary.
- Position for visibility: Stay in the left-turn position so the tailgater can see you and hopefully go around if they are impatient. Do not move to the right, as that may encourage them to pass unsafely.
- Be prepared: Watch the tailgater in your mirrors. If they do not appear to be stopping, be ready to move forward or take evasive action. However, do not proceed into the intersection just because of pressure from behind.
- Remain calm: Do not let the tailgater dictate your decision. Safety first. If the tailgater continues to be aggressive, consider pulling over after the turn to let them pass.