Hazard Avoidance, Crash Avoidance, and Impaired or Risky Riding
Hazard avoidance, crash avoidance, and impaired riding
This domain tests judgment under pressure. The exam expects the SEE process, Search, Evaluate, Execute, and asks how to brake, swerve, and refuse to ride when impaired.
Scanning and escape paths
Search ahead and to the sides for gravel, wet leaves, painted lines, metal grates, and cars that may cross your path. Evaluate which hazard is most immediate and choose an escape path. Execute smoothly; sudden inputs cause skids.
Braking and swerving
For a quick stop, apply both brakes firmly and progressively, keeping the bike upright and looking ahead. If a crash is imminent and you cannot stop in time, swerve: press the grip in the direction you want to go, lean, then straighten. Do not combine maximum braking and a swerve; brake first, then swerve, or swerve if stopping distance is insufficient.
Skids and impaired riding
If the rear wheel skids, keep the rear brake locked and ride it out; releasing it can cause a violent high-side. Alcohol, drugs, fatigue, and distraction degrade balance, reaction time, and judgment. Maryland's impairment laws apply to motorcycle riders; a motorcycle offers no protection from a bad decision.
Worked example
A car turns left across a rider's path. The rider is too close to stop and has a clear path to the right. He should press the right grip, lean right, and swerve around the front of the car, not stare at the car. After clearing it, he straightens and checks traffic.
Traps
- Target fixation on the hazard.
- Grabbing the front brake while leaned.
- Releasing a locked rear brake too soon.
- Riding after just one drink or when exhausted.
Key facts
SEE: search, evaluate, execute. Brake progressively; swerve decisively. Impairment starts before legal limits.