Many UK drivers hold a valid licence yet overlook basic road rules, leading to unnecessary congestion at junctions. A frequent error occurs when turning right, where improper positioning blocks traffic and creates backups.
The Common Positioning Error
Drivers often position their vehicle too far left while waiting for oncoming traffic to clear. This mistake prevents vehicles behind from passing on the left, causing delays in the lane. Observations show this happens daily, resulting in avoidable hold-ups.
Correct Way to Position for Right Turns
To avoid delays, drivers should align just left of the centre line, assuming the road width allows. This setup lets other cars pass on the left safely while waiting for a gap in oncoming traffic.
Numerous road users note this issue regularly. One observer remarked, “I see lots of drivers make this mistake.” Another advised, “Position your car closer to the white line and it allows cars to get around you.” Some question modern training, stating, “I honestly don’t think they teach anyone this anymore! No one actually positions their car correctly anymore.”
While most agree on the approach, occasional risks arise. One driver shared, “I positioned closer to the white line once and someone came past on the inside and hit my wing mirror, so now I stay in the middle.” Others admit consequences, like, “I failed my test with the same mistake turning right.”
Highway Code Guidance on Right Turns
The Highway Code emphasizes caution at junctions, urging drivers to watch for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists. It instructs: “Well before you turn right you should use your mirrors to make sure you know the position and movement of traffic behind you, give a right-turn signal, take up a position just left of the middle of the road or in the space marked for traffic turning right, and leave room for other vehicles to pass on the left, if possible.”
Further steps include: “Wait until there is a safe gap between you and any oncoming vehicle. Watch out for cyclists, motorcyclists, pedestrians and other road users. Check your mirrors and blind spot again to make sure you are not being overtaken, then make the turn. Do not cut the corner. Take great care when turning into a main road; you will need to watch for traffic in both directions and wait for a safe gap.”
