What characteristic of pedestrians and animals makes them hazards for riders?

• A. They are unpredictable, and make short, quick moves.
• B. They follow predictable paths.
• C. They are always visible from long distance.
• D. They move slowly.

Answer: (A)

Unpredictability is what makes pedestrians and animals hazards for riders. They can burst into the roadway, change direction, or stop suddenly without warning. Those short, quick moves leave you with very little time to react, brake, or steer away, especially at intersections, driveways, or in areas with limited visibility.

If someone or an animal followed a predictable path, you could anticipate where they’ll be and adjust accordingly. Being visible from far away would help, but visibility doesn’t guarantee safety—someone can still dart into your path even if you see them clearly. Moving slowly reduces risk, but the real danger comes from those sudden, unanticipated actions that can catch a rider off guard.