Lane Changing.
Driving in Lanes
Driving on a multi-lane road requires forethought in the selection of a suitable
lane, as the kerb-side lane is predominantly for parking and/or turning left, the
second lane for proceeding ahead while the median lane may be used for those turning
right.
The regulations require traffic to stays wholly within one lane, an exception may
arise where you need to overtake a parked car and little lateral movement is required.
Plan your route to avoid incessant and abrupt lane-changing without reason, there
is nothing against changing lanes, provided it doesn't disturb other traffic.
When travelling on multi-lane roads, another vehicle may move along side in an adjacent
lane without your knowledge, prior to any lane change manoeuvre check over your
shoulder in the blind spot, this is called a head check. Whenever you change lanes
or move from the kerb, make a head check, but don't take your eyes of the road ahead
for more than a second.
Signalling
The indicator is not the only form of communication with other road users. Hand
signals are still required by the Traffic Regulations where the vehicle is not equipped
with a suitable signalling devices. Nevertheless, some drivers still give approved
hand signals on occasions, such as approaching school and/or pedestrian crossings,
this commendable action will undoubtedly be appreciated by pedestrians.
Good drivers will communicate every intention to other road users as clearly and
as early as possible, both by signalling and by vehicle positioning. It must also
be remembered that signals are a warning of intent, they give you no rights.
Mirror Judgment
When using mirrors the speed of other vehicles and the distance they seem from you
can be misleading, especially at night where your perception of depth can be obscured
by the lights of following vehicles. Assessment of the environment immediately preceding
the vehicle should allow you to judge the distance between the following vehicle
and yours. To determine if a following vehicle is catching, check the mirrors a
couple of times this should establish if it is safe to proceed with an intended
changing of lane.