New York City Motorcycle Permit Practice Test

What is a crucial action to take when passing a truck?

1. Merely speed up and go

2. Avoid slowing down suddenly when you merge back in front of the vehicle

3. Drive closely behind the truck

4. Flash your lights to alert the truck driver

The correct answer is: Avoid slowing down suddenly when you merge back in front of the vehicle

When passing a truck, avoiding sudden deceleration when merging back in front of the vehicle is essential for several reasons. Trucks are significantly larger and heavier than motorcycles and can take longer to stop or react to sudden changes in traffic. If a motorcyclist were to suddenly slow down after passing, the truck driver might not have enough time to react safely, potentially leading to a dangerous situation, including a rear-end collision. In contrast, speeding up suddenly or driving closely behind the truck can create unsafe conditions as well. Speeding up might not ensure adequate distance for a safe merge, and driving closely behind a truck can severely restrict visibility. Flashing lights might not be necessary or effective and could also confuse the truck driver rather than provide clarity regarding the motorcyclist's intentions. Therefore, maintaining a smooth and gradual approach and retreating from the truck's blind spots while ensuring that there’s enough distance upon merging is critical for safety on the road.