True or False: A driver making eye contact with a motorcyclist guarantees that they have seen them.

The statement is false because making eye contact does not guarantee that a driver has actually seen the motorcyclist or is aware of their presence. Numerous factors can influence a driver's perception and acknowledgment of a motorcyclist. For instance, a driver might make eye contact while still being distracted or preoccupied with other tasks, such as adjusting the radio or conversing with passengers. Additionally, they may not be fully focusing on their surroundings or may misinterpret the situation, thinking they have seen the motorcycle when they have not fully registered its presence.

Motorcycles can be harder to see due to their smaller profile compared to cars and other larger vehicles, which means that even if eye contact occurs, there is still a risk of misjudgment or oversight regarding the motorcyclist’s position on the road. Therefore, while eye contact can be an encouraging sign, it should not be relied upon as definitive confirmation that a driver is aware and attentive to the motorcyclist’s presence. It is essential for motorcyclists to always operate under the assumption that they might not be seen and to take appropriate precautions for their safety.