Saskatchewan SGI Driving Practice Test

How can a driver identify if a bicycle is approaching from behind?

1. By turning their head to look backwards

2. By listening for sounds or checking mirrors before making a lane change

3. By observing reflections on the side mirrors

4. By watching for the shadow of the bicycle

The correct answer is: By listening for sounds or checking mirrors before making a lane change

A driver can identify if a bicycle is approaching from behind primarily by listening for sounds or checking mirrors before making a lane change. This method enhances situational awareness and helps ensure safety on the road. Checking the mirrors allows a driver to see if there is a cyclist in the vicinity, while being attentive to sounds can provide auditory cues of a bicycle approaching. Listening for the sound of a bicycle can be particularly effective, as bicycles are often quieter than motor vehicles and may not always be visible in rear-view mirrors. Regularly checking mirrors ensures that the driver has a clear view of their surroundings and can make informed decisions when changing lanes, which is crucial for avoiding collisions with cyclists. Turning the head backward may not provide a complete perspective of the traffic situation and may momentarily divert attention from the road ahead. Observing reflections in the side mirrors can be helpful but can sometimes miss cyclists who are positioned in the driver's blind spots. Watching for shadows can be unreliable due to varying light conditions and may not always indicate the exact position or distance of an approaching bicycle. Thus, the most effective approach to identify a bicycle approaching from behind involves a combination of auditory cues and visual checks with mirrors.