What should riders do to minimize danger from merging vehicles?

To minimize danger from merging vehicles, adjusting speed or changing lanes to give merging drivers plenty of room is the safest and most effective strategy. This approach allows you to create a buffer zone that enhances visibility and reduces the likelihood of a collision. Merging situations can be unpredictable, and drivers may not always accurately judge the speed or distance of approaching motorcycles. By modifying your speed or changing lanes, you provide ample space for other vehicles to enter the lane, thereby decreasing the tension on the road and allowing for safer navigation.

In contrast, speeding up to merge quickly can lead to reckless driving behaviors and potential conflicts with other vehicles. Preparing to stop and waiting for merging traffic can create confusion and might worsen traffic flow, especially in heavy traffic situations. Maintaining your current speed and position does not account for the dynamics of merging traffic, which may result in dangerous close encounters. Thus, the best practice is to adapt your actions to ensure everyone on the road can operate safely.