How to avoid the lethal left-hand turn.

The “lethal left” is the most common crash between auto and motorcycle. There are things you can do to minimize the chance of a “lethal left” happening to you.

The most important preventive measure you can take involves your attitude. Assume that every motorist is going to do something foolish that may cause you to be injured or killed. By adopting this attitude, you increase your chances of avoiding the “lethal left” and other motorist errors.

Do not assume the motorist coming at you in an intersection sees you, even if it appears he is looking directly at you. Look at the wheels of the car to tell you what the motorist is going to do.  Any time an auto coming at you has the opportunity to turn left, you must be on high alert.

In these situations always slow down, cover your brakes, and be prepared to take evasive action. Your evasive action plan must take into consideration surrounding traffic conditions. Be aware of the position of other vehicles so you can choose the safest escape route. Hard braking may not be a good choice if you’re being tailgated at highway speed.

By assuming every oncoming motorist is a threat to make a “lethal left,” you immediately increase the likelihood of avoiding this threat.