Obstructions

The way to deal with any obstruction is to look and plan well ahead, and to use the MSM/PSL routine.

The decision to wait or to go around the obstruction will depend on

• the type and width of the road
• whether the obstruction is on
  • your side of the road
  • the other side of the road
  • both sides of the road
• whether there’s approaching traffic
• the behaviour of following drivers
• the room available.

As a general rule, if the obstruction is on your side of the road, approaching traffic will have priority.

Don’t assume that you have priority if the obstruction is on the other side of the road. Always be prepared to give way and remember that the obstruction could conceal something such as a pedestrian.

Driving around an obstruction

Look well ahead to identify the obstruction in good time before using the routine.

M – Check your mirrors to assess the speed and position of following traffic.

S – Signal if necessary.

P – Decide on your position. Avoid keeping so far to the left that you have to steer past the obstruction at the last minute; a gradual change of course is required. If you have to stop and wait, keep well back from the obstruction in a position that allows you to see ahead clearly without blocking the approaching traffic.

S – Adjust your speed as necessary. This will depend on the situation, but aim to regulate your speed so that you can steer a steady course.

L – Finally, look and assess the situation before you decide whether it’s

• necessary to wait
• safe to proceed.

Obstructions on hills

These need special care. Give yourself the time and space you need, remembering that you may need to brake earlier than normal.

If you’re travelling downhill and the obstruction is on the other side of the road, don’t take your priority for granted. If it’s safe, be prepared to give way to traffic coming uphill, especially heavy vehicles. Your consideration will be appreciated.

Roadworks

These areas make the usable width of the road much narrower. They can be controlled either by temporary traffic lights or by workers with ‘stop/go’ boards.

Obey all lights and signs, slow down and look out for workers who may be walking on or near the road.

More information on negotiating roadworks areas and contraflow systems can be found in section 11.

Large, slow-moving vehicles

These vehicles include

• machines working along the verge, such as mowers or hedge cutters
• agricultural vehicles
• vintage vehicles
• plant and machinery used for road maintenance
• escorted wide, long or heavy loads
• refuse collection vehicles.

You may see a temporary sign alerting you to slow vehicles operating in the area. There may also be clues, such as bins awaiting collection, freshly cut Section seven | On the road

grass or hedge cuttings in the road. If you come across a large, slow vehicle, be patient and hold back so that you have a good view past it. If you’re in a queue and the vehicle in front overtakes, don’t blindly follow it. Look out for workmen in the road and only pass when you can see it’s safe to do so.

Drive so that you can respond safely should you unexpectedly come across a large, slow vehicle. Remember – the drivers of these vehicles can’t move out of the way quickly.

Defensive driving

Don’t follow through behind the vehicle in front without being able to see for yourself that the way ahead is clear.

Keep a safe distance from the obstruction and the approaching traffic. Where space is limited, reduce your speed and take extra care. The smaller the gap, the lower your speed needs to be.