What is 'lane positioning' and why does it matter for a motorcycle rider?

LANE POSITIONING is one of the most important motorcycle safety strategies. The lane has three usable positions: LEFT THIRD: increases visibility from oncoming traffic and left-side hazards; increases the driver's view ahead around left curves; appropriate when avoiding gravel or drain grates on the right; RIGHT THIRD: appropriate when approaching intersections from the left side improves your visibility to cross-traffic; AVOID THE CENTER: Oil, antifreeze, and fuel drop from vehicles and accumulate in the center strip — the center of the lane is the most contaminated area. Choose position based on: where you are most visible; what you can see ahead; what hazards are present; and what you want other drivers to be able to see about you.