Final answer:
The motorcyclist has the right of way, as vehicles on the main road generally maintain priority over those entering the roadway. It is important for safety and traffic law adherence that the bus waits for a clear opportunity to merge.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a bus enters a road from a bus bay just as a motorcyclist is coming up to the bay, the vehicle which generally has the right-of-way depends on the specific traffic laws of the region. However, in most jurisdictions, the motorcyclist has the right-of-way, as vehicles merging into traffic must yield to those already on the main road. The bus would need to wait for a safe opening in the traffic. It's important for both drivers to be aware and cautious in such situations to ensure safety and adhere to traffic laws.
Ignoring hand signals for communication, which are not a standardized method for determining the right-of-way in traffic, and recognizing that vehicles on the main roadway typically maintain the right of passage can prevent accidents and ensure pedestrian safety and smooth traffic flow. Traffic signals and signage play an important role in making these rules clear to all drivers.