Lane Discipline, Signalling and Positioning
Core concepts
Correct positioning keeps you predictable. On multi-lane roads, keep to the rightmost lane appropriate for your direction unless overtaking or preparing to turn left. Position before junctions, not at them: move into the correct lane early and hold it. Signals should be timely - early enough to inform, late enough not to mislead - and cancelled once the manoeuvre is complete.
What examiners watch
- Lane changes made with mirrors, blind spot, signal, and a smooth, decisive movement.
- Cancelling indicators after turning; a forgotten signal is a fault.
- Correct lane on approach to a turn or roundabout, without last-minute swerving.
- Adequate following position within the lane, not straddling markings.
Traps in questions
A frequent trap is signalling too early, for example indicating before a side road you do not intend to take, which confuses following drivers. Another is believing a signal gives you priority - it does not; you must still check and give way. Questions may also test when not to signal, such as when no one would benefit, and the correct response to a lane that is ending: plan ahead and merge early rather than racing to the end.
Rule of thumb
Position early, signal once, cancel promptly. If your signal would make another driver wait unnecessarily, it is probably too early. Keep lane changes to one at a time, with a check between each.
Worked example
Approaching a left turn on a dual carriageway: check mirrors, signal left, move into the left lane when clear (mirror, blind spot, signal), reduce speed, position near the left of your lane, then turn and cancel the signal as you straighten.