What is recommended for rider positioning to maximize visibility and space in traffic?

• A. Stay in the gutter to reduce risk.
• B. Maintain lane position appropriate to traffic, stay out of blind spots, and maintain a buffer.
• C. Ride in the door zone near parked cars.
• D. Position to minimize space and proximity.

Answer: (B)

Position yourself so you are clearly visible to motorists and have space to maneuver. In traffic, ride where your presence is anticipated by other road users and where you can react to hazards without being squeezed by adjacent vehicles or parked cars. That means choosing a lane position that fits the flow of traffic, not hugging the gutter or drifting into a driver’s blind spot. Keep a safety buffer around you—space in front, behind, and to the sides—to allow for braking, lane changes, or quick evasive moves. Riding in the gutter or the door zone near parked cars reduces visibility, increases exposure to debris and doors, and limits your ability to respond, whereas proper lane positioning with a buffer keeps you seen and gives you room to maneuver, which is why this approach is recommended.