When you make eye contact with another driver:

Use this motorcycle practice test question to prepare for the real written exam at the DMV or during your motorcycle safety course. 

When you make eye contact with another driver:

1. It guarantees that they see you.
2. It does not guarantee that they see you.
3. It will anger the other driver. 
4. It means they will give you the right of way. 

Find the answer to this question and an explanation below. 

Answer

This topic may show up on your motorcycle permit test. 

The answer is: B. It does not guarantee that they see you.

How’d you do? Learn more about this motorcycle topic below. 

Explanation: Being Seen While Riding a Motorcycle

In order to pass your motorcycle permit exams and to become a safe rider, it’s important to know why a particular answer on the motorcycle written test is correct. 

Motorcycles are more difficult for other drivers to see for a couple of reasons. 

First, motorcycles are much smaller than other vehicles, which makes them easy to miss or overlook. 

Second, many drivers are not consciously looking out for motorcycles that may be approaching or sharing the road with them. 

You can even be dressed in the brightest, most reflective gear and other drivers still may not see you. 

Unfortunately there are never any guarantees that another driver actually sees you. Even when you make eye contact with another driver, they may still not see you. 

You have to rely on yourself to spot potential hazards and risks from other vehicles and do what you need to in order to avoid them. 

If you believe a car will enter your path, be sure to have a plan for how to deal with it. 

Always be actively scanning for hazards and escape plans. 

You should also do what you can to increase your visibility by:

• Choosing the best lane position. 
• Keep a safe space cushion around your motorcycle. 
• Maintaining a safe following distance. 
• Riding with your headlight on. 
• Wearing bright, reflective clothing. 
• Flashing your brake lights, when necessary. 
• Using your turn signals or hand signals before turning or changing lanes. 

You can find more information about this topic in the motorcycle rider’s handbook.

Check out more motorcycle permit test questions and answers here.

Find in-depth articles for new riders in our section dedicated to learning how to ride a motorcycle.

Plus, check out an overview of the requirements to get a motorcycle endorsement in each state.