What is the best way to locate bumps in the road while riding in traffic at night?

Watching the taillights of the car ahead is an effective method for locating bumps in the road while riding in traffic at night because it allows you to gauge the behavior of the vehicle in front of you. If the bike or car you are following encounters a bump or pothole, you may notice its taillights reacting, such as with a brief upward movement as the vehicle travels over the obstacle. This can give you a visual cue that the road ahead has irregularities that you should be cautious of.

Moreover, following this technique enhances your ability to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, which is critical for responding to road conditions effectively. Observing taillights also keeps your attention focused on the road rather than diverting it elsewhere, which can help maintain overall situational awareness and safety.

While observing the headlights of oncoming cars can sometimes reflect the shape of the road, it is not as reliable for detecting bumps directly. The markings on the road might not provide adequate information about uneven surfaces, and relying solely on fog lights would not illuminate bumps effectively unless you are within very close proximity.