Motorcyclists — South Carolina Permit Test

Allow a motorcyclist a full lane width; do not share the lane.

The rider needs that space to react to other traffic and to steer around hazards.

Allow a motorcyclist a full lane width. Do not share the lane.

Before turning left, be alert for motorcycles by looking carefully to the front and sides of your vehicle.

Small motorcycles are easy to miss in oncoming traffic, and left turns across their path are a common way they are hit.

Before turning left, be alert for motorcycles by looking carefully to the front and sides of your vehicle.

Do not assume a motorcycle is turning when its turn signal is flashing, because motorcycle signals may not self-cancel.

The rider may have forgotten the signal is on, and a driver who pulls out on that assumption is hit.

Do not assume a motorcycle is turning when you see its turn signal flashing.

When following a motorcyclist, allow a minimum 4-second following distance, or more in wet conditions.

Riders may change speed or lane position suddenly to avoid potholes, gravel or pavement seams.

When following a motorcyclist allow for a minimum 4 second following distance or more in wet conditions or you may not have enough time or space to avoid a collision.

Scooters and mopeds travel at much slower speeds than motorcycles.

Closing on a scooter at motorcycle-traffic speed leaves little time to slow down.

Keep in mind that scooters and mopeds travel at much slower speeds than motorcycles.

Motorcycles are small and harder to see, so always check your mirrors and blind spots for them.

A motorcycle fits easily inside a car's blind spot, where a quick glance will not find it.

Motorcycles are small and therefore more difficult to see.

How much of a lane is a motorcyclist entitled to?

A full lane width. The rider needs that space to react to other traffic and to steer around hazards. South Carolina Driver's Manual, p.114: “Allow a motorcyclist a full lane width. Do not share the lane.”