Signals & Pavement Markings

Study questions with answers

12 sample Signals & Pavement Markings questions with the correct answer, a short explanation, and the official handbook reference. Read through them, then take the quiz above.

1. 1. Using your turn signals before every turn helps traffic around you in what way?

   Correct answer: It reduces confusion and lets others react

   Signaling before you turn lowers confusion for the drivers around you and gives them time to react to your plan.

   Source: Maryland Motorcycle Operator Manual (DL-001) — Increasing Conspicuity: Signals

2. 2. The best way to help other drivers notice your motorcycle in daylight is to do what?

   Correct answer: Keep the headlight on

   Keeping the headlight on makes a motorcycle about twice as likely to be noticed during the day, which is why bikes since 1978 run lights automatically.

   Source: Maryland Motorcycle Operator Manual (DL-001) — Increasing Conspicuity: Headlight

3. 3. What is a good habit when using the horn near a driver who might move into your lane?

   Correct answer: Give a short beep to get their attention

   A quick beep before passing anyone who could pull over gets their attention, though a motorcycle horn is not loud, so don't rely on it alone.

   Source: Maryland Motorcycle Operator Manual (DL-001) — Increasing Conspicuity: Horn

4. 4. After you complete a turn, why is it important to check that your turn signal has switched off?

   Correct answer: A driver may pull into your path thinking you'll turn again

   A signal left blinking can make another driver think you plan to turn again and pull into your path, so cancel it once the turn is done.

   Source: Maryland Motorcycle Operator Manual (DL-001) — Increasing Conspicuity: Signals

5. 5. Why must a rider do a head check in addition to using the mirrors before changing lanes?

   Correct answer: Motorcycles have blind spots the mirrors miss

   Motorcycles have blind spots just like cars, so a quick turn of the head catches vehicles the mirrors can't show before you move over.

   Source: Maryland Motorcycle Operator Manual (DL-001) — Increasing Conspicuity: Head Checks

6. 6. On a motorcycle, the brake light comes on with the taillight, which means at night it may be what?

   Correct answer: Less noticeable than in daylight

   Because the taillight is already lit at night, the brake light is less noticeable, so flashing it before slowing helps others see you brake.

   Source: Maryland Motorcycle Operator Manual (DL-001) — Increasing Conspicuity: Brake Light

7. 7. How should convex (rounded) motorcycle mirrors affect the way you judge distance?

   Correct answer: They make cars look farther away than they are

   Convex mirrors give a wider view but make following vehicles look farther away than they are, so allow extra distance before changing lanes.

   Source: Maryland Motorcycle Operator Manual (DL-001) — Increasing Conspicuity: Using Your Mirrors

8. 8. When should a motorcyclist use turn signals?

   Correct answer: Every time you plan to change lanes or turn

   Signals should be used any time you plan to change lanes or turn, even when you think no one is around, because signaling also helps others spot you.

   Source: Maryland Motorcycle Operator Manual (DL-001) — Increasing Conspicuity: Signals

9. 9. The oily strip that collects drippings in the center of a lane is usually about how wide?

   Correct answer: About two feet

   The greasy center strip is normally no more than about two feet wide, and unless the road is wet the surface around it still gives good traction.

   Source: Maryland Motorcycle Operator Manual (DL-001) — Keeping Your Distance: Lane Positions

10. 10. Why should you use turn signals even when your next move seems obvious, such as entering a freeway?

    Correct answer: They make you easier to spot and help others make room

    Signals make you easier to spot; a blinking signal helps drivers approaching from behind notice you and make room as you merge.

    Source: Maryland Motorcycle Operator Manual (DL-001) — Increasing Conspicuity: Signals

11. 11. Flashing your brake light ahead of a slowdown matters most in which situation?

    Correct answer: You slow where others won't expect it

    Give the light a flash when you will slow faster than others expect, or in a spot they wouldn't anticipate, such as mid-block or near an alley.

    Source: Maryland Motorcycle Operator Manual (DL-001) — Increasing Conspicuity: Brake Light

12. 12. How can a rider make the motorcycle's brake light more useful to drivers behind?

    Correct answer: Flash it before slowing down

    Flashing the brake light before slowing draws attention, which is especially helpful before slowing suddenly or in a spot where others won't expect it.

    Source: Maryland Motorcycle Operator Manual (DL-001) — Increasing Conspicuity: Brake Light