Road Rules: Avoiding the ‘right hook’ when it comes to cyclists

Question: I just heard about something called a ‘right hook,’ and that’s a situation I want to avoid. Can you explain how to make a right turn when there’s a cyclist on the road?

Answer: Right now all the boxing fans reading this (they’re a big part of my demographic) are confused; what does a punch to the side of your opponent have to do with driving near cyclists? And the Australians think they know what I’m talking about, but they don’t; down under, a right hook is a legal driving maneuver that has nothing to do with cyclists.

For those unfamiliar with the right hook in the context of cars and bikes, visualize a typical four-way intersection. For clarity, let’s add a bike lane, although it can happen without one. Now picture a cyclist in the bike lane approaching the intersection headed straight, and a driver also approaching from the same direction, intending to make a right turn. 

You can see the problem already. It’s sort of like if you were on a road with two lanes in each direction and you made a right turn from the left lane, but instead of cutting off other traffic you’re doing it to the cyclist in the bike lane. 

It’s a nightmare scenario for the cyclist, and it’s usually the fault of a driver who either doesn’t notice the cyclist or misjudges their relative position. But regardless of fault, it’s the cyclist who suffers most when this happens. 

As a driver, you can avoid the right hook by checking to make sure the bike lane is clear, and then moving into the bike lane before you make your turn. I know, it feels wrong to cross over that solid white line defining the bike lane. It’s okay though. In fact, it’s the law. Drivers are required to make right turns from “as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway.” 

Maybe you’re asking, “But isn’t the bike lane the edge of the roadway?” According to the RCW, the roadway is the portion of the highway that is “ordinarily used for vehicular travel.” A bicycle is considered a vehicle, and a bike lane is used for vehicular travel (but don’t drive in it continuously). 

You might notice that newer bike lanes are painted with dashed lines when approaching an intersection. That’s to let drivers know they’re allowed (actually, required) to move over before making that right turn. Once you’re in the bike lane, a bike approaching from behind can’t get between you and your right turn. Riders going straight would ride around on your left.

For the cyclists, you know that not every driver understands how to avoid the right hook. You can prevent it by taking the lane. 

The law requires cyclists to ride as far to the right as is safe. Sometimes, like when you’re approaching an intersection, that might mean the middle of the lane. First, scan over your left shoulder. That lets you know what’s coming and is a signal to an approaching driver that you’re looking for room. Even better, make eye contact if you can. Reach out your left arm to signal that you intend to take the lane and start moving left a little. Confirm that the driver is going to give you space, then pedal and go.

If, despite your best efforts, you find yourself stuck in the ‘right hook zone,’ be alert and anticipate making the turn with the driver. No, you weren’t planning on going that way, but a short detour is a much better outcome than the alternative.

Doug Dahl is a manager with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, Region 11 and publishes TheWiseDrive.com.