Lane Positioning, Lane Sharing, and Being Visible
Ride Where You Can Be Seen
Lane positioning is about visibility and escape space. Avoid riding directly beside a car's door or in its blind spot; instead, ride where the driver can see you in the mirrors and where you can see the driver's face. On multi-lane roads, the center lane gives you escape routes to both sides. In traffic, leave a following gap so you can see the rear tires of the vehicle ahead, and stay out of the center of a lane when oil drips accumulate there.
Lane Sharing and Splitting
Arizona law limits lane sharing. Generally, two motorcycles may ride side by side in a single lane only if both riders consent, and lane splitting (riding between moving traffic lanes) is not permitted. Test questions often present a scenario where a rider wants to squeeze between cars at a red light; the safe and legal answer is to wait in line. Do not share a lane with a car.
Visibility Strategies
Use your headlight day and night, wear bright or reflective gear, and position yourself so you are not hidden behind larger vehicles. Use turn signals before every lane change and cancel them afterward. Flash your brake light when slowing to alert drivers behind you. Avoid lingering in a car's blind spot; either pass quickly or drop back.
Rule of thumb: if you cannot see a driver's eyes in their mirror, assume they cannot see you. Position yourself to be visible and to have an out.