By Andrew Phillips, Esq. – The right hook happens when a motorist makes a right turn across the path of a cyclist who is riding in the same direction as the motor vehicle.
In last month’s column, I discussed the Left Hook. Another common and dangerous cycling vs car collision is the Right Hook. By knowing what the right hook is, you can be better prepared to avoid being “knocked out” by one while on a ride.
Here is a Right Hook scenario:
A cyclist is riding straight ahead on the right side of the road or in a designated bike lane. A motorist who is travelling in the same direction passes the cyclist on the left and then turns right in front of cyclist’s path cutting them off. The cyclist is left with a few options: brake hard to avoid crashing, get hit by the motorist that has just turned in front of them, get forced into the curb or off the road, collide with a stationary object like a car or pole that is to their right.
Right hooks happen because the motorist doesn’t see the cyclist on the right as they prepare to turn or the driver assumes the cyclist will stop or yield, even though the cyclist has the right of way.
How to Avoid or Reduce the Risk of a Right Hook Collision:
- Avoid the “death zone”. Don’t ride along side a vehicle that may potentially turn right. Even though you have the right of way, does not mean the motorist will respect your space or that they have even seen you. Let the vehicle pass, slow down, and be on your hoods and assume that they just might turn into your lane.
- Control your position when entering an intersection. If you have enough time and an upcoming vehicle is not traveling at light speed, move towards the center of the lane to make yourself more visible and to discourage the car from passing and turning in front of you.
- Watch for turn signals, body language and other cues. Turn signals, although not used by all motorists, allow you to react accordingly. Additionally, watch a driver’s head to see if they look to the right in preparation for their upcoming turn. Finally, pay attention to see if the vehicle is slowing or starting to creep into your path. These small actions can give you enough time to avoid a collision.
- Be Extremely Cautious at Intersections and Driveways. When approaching a driveway or intersection be proactive and ride as if a vehicle on your left is going to turn into you. Be vigilant and always on the offensive.
- Be Visible and Predictable. Use a bright rear light that grabs the attention of a motorist, a highly visible kit or shirt, or reflective gear. Far too often a driver’s response after hitting a cyclist is, “I just didn’t see them. They came out of nowhere.” In addition, ride predictively. Signal your intentions and ride a steady line to avoid confusing motorists.
