While the title might sound funny, the scenario is not. In the following video, a motorcycle rider is driving in the HOV (high occupancy vehicle) lane, which is exclusive to cars with two or more people (in Vancouver) and motorcycles. Without doing a shoulder check, a vehicle swerves from the regular passing lane into the commuter lane, crossing a double solid line and (apparently) not doing a shoulder check.

The outcome is unbelievable.

If you are travelling anywhere with HOV lanes, it’s probably best that you review the rules.

And, if you are ever planning a lane change, ever, always do a shoulder check no matter the direction. Even if you are turning right along a curb, a shoulder check to the right will ensure your path is free of cyclists and crazy pedestrians.

The Vancouver Island motorcycle training school teaches the following on all lane changes and turns:

• Mirror check then shoulder check (to assess the situation)
• Signal (to indicate your intentions)
• Mirror check then shoulder check (to make sure nothing has changed)
• Turn.

If you incorporate that into your regular driving behaviour, the above scenario won’t happen to you (as the car driver, for motorcyclists there are no guarantees).