When mounting or dismounting near traffic, which side should you use?

When mounting or dismounting near traffic, which side should you use?

• A. The side not exposed to oncoming traffic
• B. The side exposed to oncoming traffic
• C. The left side only
• D. The right side only

Answer: (A)

The safest approach when mounting or dismounting near traffic is to do it from the side that is not exposed to oncoming vehicles. This keeps you away from the lane where passing cars travel, reducing the chance of a vehicle catching you as you shift your weight onto or off the bike. Standing and moving toward the curb or shoulder gives you a stable, controlled entry or exit, and if you stumble, you’re more likely to fall toward the safer edge rather than into traffic. If there’s no curb, aim for the widest possible clearance from traffic and still mount from the side away from the traffic flow. This practice minimizes your exposure during a vulnerable moment.

The safest approach when mounting or dismounting near traffic is to do it from the side that is not exposed to oncoming vehicles. This keeps you away from the lane where passing cars travel, reducing the chance of a vehicle catching you as you shift your weight onto or off the bike. Standing and moving toward the curb or shoulder gives you a stable, controlled entry or exit, and if you stumble, you’re more likely to fall toward the safer edge rather than into traffic. If there’s no curb, aim for the widest possible clearance from traffic and still mount from the side away from the traffic flow. This practice minimizes your exposure during a vulnerable moment.