Riding Defensively

Collision Awareness

• Door Zone

  • The area beside parked cars where doors can swing open.

  • Always ride outside the door zone — about 5 feet from parked cars, even if that means leaving the bike lane.

  • Drivers/passengers may open doors without checking behind them.

• Right Hook

  • Occurs when a motorist passes you and turns right across your path.

  • Stay toward the center of the lane at intersections to stay visible.

  • Continuously scan for turning vehicles.

• Left Hook

  • Happens when a motorist turns left across your path while you go straight.

  • Drivers may underestimate e-bike speed.

  • Ride center-lane, stay visible, and anticipate distracted drivers.

• Overtaking Crashes

  • When a car passes too closely without enough space.

  • Protected or separated bike lanes reduce risk.

  • If none exist, ride predictably and visibly; follow road rules.

• Large Vehicles (Trucks, Buses, RVs, SUVs)

  • Have large blind spots — if you can’t see the side mirrors, they can’t see you.

  • Maintain visibility; keep both hands on handlebars.

  • Wind blasts from high-speed vehicles can throw you off balance — stay alert and ride in the rightmost safe lane or shoulder.