Lane Discipline
- 1/31On a multi-lane highway, the lane generally used for normal driving is
Unless overtaking or preparing to turn right, you should typically drive in the leftmost lane(s) available for your direction of travel.
You should use the right-hand lane on a multi-lane highway for
The right lane is generally reserved for passing. Once you have safely overtaken, you should return to the left-hand lane when it’s safe to do so.
Even if you’re driving at the speed limit and there is no one to overtake, staying in the right-hand lane is
Remaining in the right lane when not overtaking can impede the flow of traffic and is often considered poor driving etiquette, and sometimes illegal.
When preparing to exit a highway to the right, the correct lane to move into is
Position your vehicle in the right lane early to ensure a smooth and safe exit. Avoid last-minute lane changes near the exit.
When approaching a roundabout and intending to take the first exit, you should typically be in
Using the left lane signals your intention to take the first exit (which is to the left) and helps maintain a smooth flow of traffic within the roundabout.
When going straight at a roundabout, the lane you should typically use is
Check the lane markings as you approach. Often, the left lane is for the first exit and going straight, while the center lane might also be for straight ahead or further exits.
If you’re approaching a roundabout and intending to turn left or take a later exit, the correct lane is
Using the left lane signals your intention to go further around the roundabout.
Changing lanes within a roundabout is
Just like on any other road, you can change lanes within a roundabout to position yourself for your exit, but ensure it’s safe and signal clearly.
If you find yourself in the wrong lane for your intended turn at an intersection
It’s better to go straight and reroute than to make a dangerous last-minute lane change that could disrupt traffic or cause a collision.
On a two-lane road with a broken white line in the center, using the left lane to overtake is
A broken white line indicates that overtaking is permitted when conditions allow. Always check your mirrors, signal, and ensure there is enough space and visibility.
A continuous white line separating lanes of traffic going in the same direction
You should typically stay within your lane when it is marked by a continuous white line, unless there is a specific reason and it is safe to do so (e.g., avoiding an obstruction).
Double continuous white lines separating lanes going in the same direction
These lines are used to provide a greater degree of separation between lanes and should not be crossed.
If you are in a lane marked with a mandatory turn arrow
Mandatory lane markings indicate that you must turn in the direction shown if you are in that lane.
A lane marked with a "Bus Lane" sign may not be used by
Bus lanes are reserved for buses to improve public transport efficiency. Unauthorized use can result in penalties.
If you’re driving slower than the general flow of traffic on a multi-lane road
Driving significantly slower in the right lane can be dangerous and impede other drivers.
If you miss your exit on a highway, should you try to reverse in the lane you are in?
If you miss your exit on a highway, you should never reverse in the lane you are in. It is illegal and extremely dangerous to you and other vehicles on the road.
When driving in a lane that is about to end
Be aware of lane closure signs and markings and merge smoothly and safely. Merge safely into the adjacent lane when it is safe to do so, using your indicator and checking your mirrors.
On a three-lane highway, heavy goods vehicles should use
Regulations often restrict heavy vehicles to the slower lanes to improve overall traffic flow and safety. They are often restricted from using the far left lane.
When approaching a pedestrian crossing in your lane
Pedestrian crossings require extra caution. Maintain your lane and be ready to stop if a pedestrian appears or indicates they want to cross.
If your lane is blocked by an obstruction or stationary vehicle, and there is a continuous white line
While continuous white lines discourage lane changes, an unavoidable obstruction may necessitate a temporary move, provided it’s done cautiously and you return to your lane as soon as it’s safe.
If you are towing a trailer, the specific lane restrictions you need to be aware of are
Regulations can vary, but it’s common for slower or larger vehicles to be limited to the leftmost lanes to help with traffic flow. Check local rules.
When approaching roadworks with lane closures indicated
Plan ahead and change lanes gradually when directed to ensure safety and maintain traffic flow through the roadwork area. Avoid last-minute merges.
On a two-way road with a solid white line to your left and a broken white line to your right:
The broken line indicates that overtaking is permitted for traffic on that side of the road, while the solid line on the other side means overtaking is not allowed for them.
A driver changing lanes must
Drivers must always provide sufficient warning and use proper indicators before changing lanes. This helps other motorists anticipate the movement and reduces the chances of accidents.
Why should sudden lane changes be avoided?
Sudden lane changes are hazardous because they can disrupt the flow of traffic and cause collisions. Other drivers may not have enough time to react, especially in heavy traffic.
In traffic, “jumping the queue” refers to...
Jumping the queue means attempting to move ahead of others in traffic by overtaking in an unsafe and impatient manner. This usually involves squeezing between lanes or cutting off other vehicles, which can lead to accidents.
The correct behavior during traffic hold-ups
In traffic jams, it’s important to remain calm and courteous rather than trying to force your way ahead. Reckless behavior in such situations only increases the risk of collisions and delays.
Making a turn
Drivers should always plan ahead and enter the correct lane early to prepare for a turn. Last-minute lane changes near junctions are dangerous and can disrupt traffic flow.
On a two-lane carriageway, vehicles should usually stay in
On a two-lane carriageway, the standard rule is to keep to the left lane unless overtaking. This helps maintain a steady flow of traffic and allows faster vehicles to pass safely.
On a three-lane carriageway, if the left lane has slow-moving vehicles
If the left lane is occupied by slow-moving vehicles, drivers may use the centre lane to maintain a steady pace. This ensures that traffic continues to flow smoothly without forcing drivers into unnecessary overtaking.
The outer (right-hand) lane on a three-lane carriageway is used for...
The outer lane on a three-lane carriageway is designated for overtaking and use by emergency vehicles. It should not be used for regular driving or cruising.