Right of Way & Intersections — Hawaii

Ride with your headlight on so other drivers can see you at intersections. The manual's advice for being seen at intersections starts with keeping your headlight on, and then adds choosing a lane position that gives you the best view of oncoming traffic and the most visibility to drivers who might cross your path. It also tells you to keep a space cushion so you have an escape route. The headlight is the basic step the manual names first, which is why keeping it on is the right choice here.

Intersections are locations with the greatest potential for conflict between motorcycles and other vehicles. The manual states that the greatest potential for conflict between you and other traffic is at intersections. It explains that an intersection can be in an urban area or at a driveway on a residential street, anywhere traffic may cross your path. It also says over half of motorcycle/car crashes come from drivers violating a rider’s right-of-way, with left-turning cars and cars pulling into your lane among the biggest dangers. That is why the manual tells riders to use SEE at intersections and not count on eye contact.

Intersections are usually a dangerous spot for riders, so treat them with extra care rather than relaxing. The manual points out that heavy oil and grease buildups tend to collect where traffic is busy, and intersections are named as one of those places. It tells you to stay off those buildups. A rider leaning through a turn on a slick patch loses grip easily, so the very place where cars stop and drip is a spot to watch rather than a safe stretch. The same page also warns against riding in another vehicle's blind spot, which fits the crowded, close-quarters setting of an intersection.