Comprehensive Guide to Road Positioning in Great Britain

1. Fundamental Principles of Road Positioning

Key Objectives of Correct Positioning

• Maximising safety for all road users
• Maintaining good visibility
• Communicating your intentions
• Complying with Highway Code rules
• Preparing for hazards and junctions

Basic Lane Discipline

• Drive on the left (Rule 160 of the Highway Code)
• On multi-lane roads, use the leftmost lane suitable for your direction
• Only move right when overtaking or turning right

2. Positioning on Different Road Types

A. Single Carriageways

• Normal driving position: About 1 metre from the kerb or roadside
• Approaching bends:
  • Right-hand bend: Position slightly left for better visibility
  • Left-hand bend: Maintain normal position
• Passing parked vehicles:
  • Move towards centre line if safe
  • Reduce speed
  • Watch for doors opening or pedestrians

B. Dual Carriageways & Motorways

• Lane hierarchy:
  • Lane 1 (left): Normal driving lane
  • Lane 2 (middle/right): Overtaking only
• Rule 264: Return to left lane after overtaking
• Smart motorways:
  • Obey variable speed limits
  • Red X means lane closed - move out immediately

C. Urban Roads

• Position about 0.5-1m from kerb
• Be mindful of:
  • Cyclists in cycle lanes
  • Pedestrians near crossings
  • Buses pulling out
• Approaching traffic lights:
  • Get in correct lane early
  • Don't change lanes at last moment

3. Positioning for Manoeuvres

A. Turning Left

1. Early observation (mirrors and blind spot)
2. Signal left in good time
3. Position close to the left (about 30cm from kerb)
4. Slow down gradually using brake then gears
5. Complete turn into nearest available lane

B. Turning Right

1. Early observation (mirrors and right blind spot)
2. Signal right in good time
3. Position just left of centre line
4. Stop opposite junction if waiting to turn
5. Turn into rightmost lane of new road (unless markings indicate otherwise)

C. Going Straight at Roundabouts

• Approach in left lane (unless signs/markings indicate otherwise)
• Maintain lane position through roundabout
• Signal left after passing exit before yours

4. Special Positioning Situations

A. Meeting Large Vehicles

• Allow extra space - they may need to swing wide
• Don't position in their blind spots (especially nearside)
• At junctions, don't stop alongside them

B. Cycling Awareness

• Give 1.5m clearance when passing (Rule 163)
• Don't crowd cyclists at junctions
• Be extra cautious near cycle lanes

C. Adverse Weather Conditions

• Increase following distance
• Avoid standing water where possible
• In fog, use left verge as guide but don't get too close

5. Common Positioning Faults to Avoid

6. Advanced Positioning Techniques

A. Defensive Positioning

• Adjust position to maximise visibility of hazards
• Create safety space around your vehicle
• Anticipate others' mistakes by positioning defensively

B. Observation Links

• Mirror checks should dictate positioning changes
• Peripheral vision helps maintain lane discipline
• Regular scanning prevents "tunnel vision"

7. Legal Requirements & Penalties

Offence	Penalty
Middle lane hogging	£100 fine and 3 penalty points
Incorrect positioning leading to an accident	Could lead to fault and insurance implications
Dangerous positioning	Careless or dangerous driving charge (more severe penalties)

8. Practical Exercises for Improvement

9. Key Highway Code Rules to Remember

• Rule 160: Keep to the left
• Rule 162: Overtaking position
• Rule 177: Roundabout positioning
• Rule 183: Turning right position

Correct road positioning is fundamental to safe, efficient driving. By mastering these techniques, you'll significantly reduce risks and communicate your intentions clearly to other road users.

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