What You Should Do If a Car Speeds Up While You're Passing

Motorcycling is all about freedom—the wind in your face, the open road ahead, and the thrill of handling a machine that’s as much an extension of you as your own limbs. But just as exhilarating as it is to ride, it's crucial to remember that safety should always take the front seat. Let's dive into a situation that might rattle even seasoned riders: what should you do if you're in the middle of passing a car, and that vehicle suddenly decides to speed up to the posted limit?

A Scenario to Ponder

Picture this: you’re cruising along on a peaceful Louisiana highway, feeling the joys of the ride. You're about to pass a slower vehicle, and just as you begin your maneuver, the driver accelerates, matching the posted speed limit. What now?

A. Ignore it and continue passing
B. Drop back and wait
C. Speed up to overtake
D. Change lanes immediately

If you found yourself thinking through these options, we’re glad you did! The answer here is quite clear:

B. Drop back and wait.

But why should you choose that path?

Safety First, Always

When you're passed by a speeding vehicle after just merging beside it, safety must be your number one concern. It might be tempting to rush your maneuver or press on, thinking, "I got this!" But let’s be honest—this isn’t a race.

Here’s the thing: returning behind the car gives you breathing room—space not only to evaluate the behavior of the vehicle you're passing but also to adjust your riding strategy. Remember, the driver may not even know you're there! Couples with an increasing speed on their end can easily create a dangerous situation if you’re still trying to overtake them.

The Art of Defensive Driving

This scenario beautifully illustrates the principles of defensive driving, a must-learn skill for every motorcyclist. When you drop back, you provide yourself time to reassess the scenario. Ask yourself these questions:

1. Is it still safe to continue?
2. Should I perhaps wait for a better opportunity?
3. Am I sufficiently distanced from any potential collision?

These are vital mental check-ins that keep you ahead of the curve (pun intended).

Why Waiting Works

Giving yourself space isn't just about immediacy; it’s a chance to recalibrate. As the driver ahead makes subtle adjustments to increase their speed, you want to be in a position to respond without panic. Dropping back can feel counterintuitive—after all, no one likes to lose momentum—but handling your motorcycle needs to be about patience and perspective, not speed.

You’ll find that dropping back ultimately gives you better control, less stress, and a safer ride. It’s like applying the brakes on an adrenaline rush. Rather than doubting your choice, know that you’re making the right decision for you and other vehicles on the road.

Timing Is Everything

When considering when to re-pass, think about traffic conditions, visibility, and the speed of oncoming cars. If that vehicle still lingers in your rearview mirror or you see other cars approaching, it might be best to chill for a bit and wait for a clearer opportunity. Remember, patience pays off, especially when it comes to motorcycling.

Beyond the Basics: Mindset Matters

Here’s where things get interesting—motorcycling isn’t just about following rules; it’s also about mindset. Adopting a defensive riding attitude can be the difference between a smooth ride and an accident waiting to happen. So, the next time you find yourself considering your actions on the road, think beyond just the ‘what’ and get comfortable with the ‘why.’

In Conclusion: Wisdom on Wheels

Embracing the unexpected is part of the biking experience, but knowing how to navigate those surprises safely makes you a smarter, safer rider. Whether you're prepping for the Louisiana Motorcycle Permit Test or just want to polish your skills, consider this: a little patience and foresight can go a long way on the road.

So before you hit the pavement next time, take a moment to reflect on how you’d handle this scenario—because in the world of motorcycle riding, being prepared is always better than being caught off-guard.