What should be prioritized when riding in urban traffic?

When riding in urban traffic, prioritizing defensive riding techniques is essential for ensuring safety. Defensive riding involves being aware of your surroundings, anticipating potential hazards, and being prepared to respond to the actions of other drivers. In an urban environment, where traffic can be unpredictable and numerous vehicles may interact closely, employing defensive strategies significantly reduces the risk of accidents.

This approach includes maintaining a safe following distance, using proper signaling for lane changes, and staying visible to other drivers by using your headlights and wearing bright clothing. Additionally, it means being alert for pedestrians, cyclists, and sudden changes in traffic patterns, which are more common in urban settings.

While concentrating on other vehicles and their movements is important, defensive riding encompasses this awareness with a proactive mindset geared towards safety. Speed and lane splitting may offer advantages in some circumstances, but they can also increase risks if not performed with caution and in compliance with local laws and regulations. Therefore, the focus on defensive riding techniques is the most effective way to navigate urban traffic safely.