New York City Motorcycle Permit Practice Test

To avoid obstacles on the road, what is the best practice for a cyclist?

1. Keep looking straight ahead

2. Look around and scan their surroundings

3. Focus only on the road directly in front

4. Ignore surroundings and focus on speed

The correct answer is: Look around and scan their surroundings

The best practice for a cyclist to avoid obstacles on the road is to look around and scan their surroundings. This approach enhances awareness of the environment, enabling the cyclist to detect hazards, other vehicles, pedestrians, and changes in the roadway well in advance. It allows for better reaction time and the ability to make informed decisions, such as adjusting speed or changing lanes to avoid potential dangers. By actively scanning their surroundings, a cyclist can identify obstacles that may not be directly in front of them, such as debris, potholes, or cars that may pull into their path. This comprehensive awareness fosters safer riding and reduces the risk of accidents. Relying solely on what is straight ahead limits this crucial perspective and can lead to unforeseen dangers that a cyclist might miss if they do not look around. Prioritizing speed over awareness can also increase the risk of accidents, highlighting the importance of a balanced approach to cycling that values safety through vigilance.