More and more female scooter riders are emerging in Pakistan, and chances are you’ll spot at least 2–3 women on scooters during your daily commute, particularly in urban areas like Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi.
Many female scooter riders seem to lack knowledge of road rules, leading to issues and frustration for other drivers and motorcycle riders on the road. We’re not suggesting that all female riders fit this description, but many seem to lack awareness of fundamental road rules. This is primarily because they are new riders, and it will take some time for them to become accustomed to the road rules. Driving against the rules is pretty common on Pakistani roads, so we consider it a widespread issue.
Here’s a straightforward guide to the essential road rules, ensuring you don’t create any hassle or annoyance for others on the road.
If you’re a female rider, we strongly recommend checking out this guide, or feel free to share it with any female riders you know. Thank you!
Understand the lanes.
On city roads, you’ll typically find three main lanes:
1)The first lane is the slow lane.
2)We designate the second lane as a fast lane.
3)We designate the third lane for overtaking.
You can’t just park your electric scooter wherever you want in the lane; there are guidelines to follow.
If you’re cruising at a slower pace, under 50 km/h, you’ll find yourself in the first lane, where you’ll typically encounter other slow-moving vehicles such as Chingchis, rickshaws, and loader rickshaws.
while if you’re cruising at a regular speed, say around 60 km/h, you’ll be in the second lane.
If you’re cruising at a high speed, around 70–100 km/h, you’ll want to stick to the third lane, which is the overtaking lane. However, we believe that female riders may not reach those speeds, and their EV scooters likely can’t match that pace, so that might not be your area.
Some female riders are unfamiliar with lanes since they are new drivers, which can be frustrating for other drivers who have to slow down to accommodate them.
So, moving forward, just keep your focus on your own path. Yield to the drivers behind you in the third lane. If the car behind you flashes its headlights, it’s the driver’s way of asking you to let them pass. Switching lanes to allow the car behind you to pass is a common practice on the road. This is the standard procedure, especially when you’re in the designated third lane for overtaking.
Utilize Indicators
Whenever you decide to change lanes, it’s important to signal with your indicators. On the left side of the handle, near the headlight and horn buttons, lies the indicator switch. Make sure to use it whenever you’re about to change lanes or turn.
This lets the driver behind you know you’re changing lanes or directions and adjust as needed. Using your arm to signal instead of the indicator isn’t the right approach. Most bike riders lack indicators, but it’s crucial to always use the indicator.
Utilize mirrors and inspect your blind spot.
Make sure to check your mirrors for any cars in your blind spot before you switch lanes. Mirrors provide a quick look at the traffic surrounding you. Which allows you to notice any cars or motorcycles that could be coming up from behind. While mirrors are helpful, they don’t show you everything. It’s a beneficial idea to pair mirror checks with a quick look over your shoulder to make sure the lane is clear before you make a move.
A blind spot is a zone around a vehicle that the driver can’t see using the mirrors. You may not see another motorcycle coming up on your left in the mirror because it’s in your blind spot. If you’re looking to make a sharp turn, it’s a beneficial idea to turn your head for a quick look.
This practice helps avoid accidents and ensures that lane changes are more seamless and secure.
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