Driving - Chapter 11 - Overtaking PDF

Always be ready to abaiuion overtaking if a new hazard comes into view. Don’t overtake in situations where you might come into conflict with other road users. Chapter 11...

Always be ready to abaiuion overtaking if a new hazard comes into view. Don’t overtake in situations where you might come into conflict with other road users. Chapter 11 When possible, avoid overlukiiig llirce abreast to leave yourself a margin of safety. Overtaking Never overtake on the nearside on mnlli-lanc carriageways except in slow-moving qiiciios of Irallic where o) queues are moving more slowly. Never use the hard shoulder for overtaking, even where an active traffic management (ATM) scheme is in fo the hard shoulder is available as a running lane. Overtaking is potentially d.ingci ovis and you need good judgement if it is to be safe. Ihis comes with experience a.earning outcomes practice but even experienced drivers need to be extremely cautious. Always be patient and leave n margin of safe allow for errors. Before you overt.ike. asse.ss whether yoiir vehicle is capable of the overtaking manoeuvre vou’rc Tlic learning in this chapter, along with driver training, sliould enable yon to: planning. c.xplain llic risks of overtaking slrow how to use lire following and overtaking position safely Is your vehicle capable of overtaking? show how 10 assess and overtake different types ofhazards safely in a wide range of circumstances Are you familiar with the vehicle’s capabilities and characteristics? Are you driving a high performance or large explain how to help other drivers to overtake you. vehicle, for example? Are you sure that Uie vehicle will give you enough acceleration? Developing your competence at overtaking safely Can you achieve the necessary speed? Overtaking is haz.u dous beaiuse it may bring you into the palli of other vehicles. It is a complex manoeuvre in wl Have you assessed your vehicle’s capability in rolntion to the road user you’re overtaking? For example, overtakii: need to con.sider the primary hazard of the vchicle(s) you want to overtake, as well as a number of secondary haz; long vehicle will require more capability than a cyclist. the primary hazard moves amongst them, it require.s yon to negotiate dynamic hazards (moving vehicles) as well Have you taken account of the load yoti’re carrying? Have you got passengers or a fitll boot? ones (e g. road layout). Ihis section describes the general principles of using the system of car control to do tliis manoeuvre safely. Tramit hirthci develop your ability to apply the system to dynamic hazards in practice. Remember that overtaking is sour decision and you can reconsider it at any point. But be aware if you start to os and then in the liglit of new information s'oii abort, the vcljicle bcliinci could move into yoitr space, leaving yon marooned. If in doubt, hold back. Ihe luiziircis of overtaking Overtaking is a iiigh-risk manoeuvre because you are potentially putting your vehicle into the path of oncoming Stationary vehicles traflk. II you are travelling at high speed and collide with an oncoming veliicle, the speed of impact will be ihe cotiibined speed of both veliicles. When passing stationary vehicles, use the system to approach and assess the hazard and to pa.ss it safely. Take iicct the position and speed of oncoming Ir.ilHc, the position and speed of following traffic and the presence of pcdesir Around 1 in 20 of all car occupants killed in a crash are killed when (he car is overtaking. other roadside hazards, especially on llie nearside (see Chapter 9, Positioning). If the situation allows, leave at leas Matty overtaking dcatlts are due to liead on collisions on rural roads. door’s width when passing a stationary vehicle. ’Ihe ri.sk of deailt in a head on collision at aarTAccelwaBlw. I'i^... ' ccn'i et v.-iiti yoo'5 '"m-n; Inrirrmatiw' Informalion Observe the road ahead for other actual and potential dangers physical fcature.s, position and movement ol olh< users and wcalhcr/rnad condilioiis. Identify; »a safe stretch of road along which you have adequate vision what is happening beiiind a gap into wiiich you can safely return the relative speed of your own vehicle and the vchicle(s) you intend to overtake. Consider the need to give information to any other road users. Hovv^ to overtake A vehicle to be overtaken is a hacaid, so use the system of car control to deal with it safely. You need to observe ai: carefully, judge speed and distance accurately, and be alert to possible secondary hazards. 'IlKHighlless overtaking daiigeioiis. Tlie following j'ages describe two overtaking situations: ivlicrc you arc able to overtake iininedialely (approaching, oi’ertaking and returning to your own side ot tlie ro one continuous manoeuvre. where other hazards require you to take up a foliosving position before you can safely overtake. Overtaking usually involves multiple hazards. Any overtaking situation caji change rapidly and become complical further hazards (for example, new oncoming vehicles, or slower vehide.s further ahead on your side of the road).' vou rc learning to negotiate these complex hazards, you may have to consider and apply the.system more than one overtaking maimeuvre. As you gain practice and confidence, you’ll learn to view the number of hazards as one co picture, and to use fewer applications. Although the same general rules apply tvhen overtaking hazards other titan a vehicle, altvays assess the specific circumstances. Speed or the sound of a horn can startle horses. Cyciists, especially children, can be erratic so allot  Does the road layout present a hazard? Is there enough road width for me to overtake? Accoieratioo What is the speed of the vehicle(s) to be overtaken? Apply an appropriate degree ot acceteratioo lo Is/are the driver(s) ahead likely to overtake? overiaAe safely. Have 1 taken into account the speed and performance of my otvii vehicle? What is the likely response of the driver and occupants of the vehicle in front? W'hat is the speed of oncoming vehicles? Oenr Is there a possibility of as yet unseen vehicles approaching at high speed? Make sure you ha\e an What is happening behind? Are any of the following vehicles likely to overtake me?. appropriate gear ar>o trial It is responsive Wltal distance do I need to overtake and regain a nearside gap safely? - oneugntortherweria-ing.1. manoeuvre What is an appropriate speed to complete the overtake, taking account of the hazards beyond the vehicle I’m overtaking? Consider your speed or approach. Is il Your priorities will change as you go through the manoeuvre. Continue to observe, plan and process information apprornata? you can adjust your hazard priorilies as the overtake develops. Observe what is happening in the far dislance, the distance, the immediate foreground and behind. Do this repeatedly. Remember that good observation alone is no enough. Your safely depends on correctly interpreting what you see. See page 200 for examples of situations when r drivers do not correctly interpret what the>' see. A! If-.(pryopnate pou'l. '.(*'1'.1 ooiJWo lo overtake In some cases, you might plan to lake the following position but then find as you close up on the vehicle in front t have a clear view of the road ahead and there arc no additional hazards. In this case, you could go straight to the ihe.sh«rl« in front. This 1. iii'» fiositioo that gives overtaking position. ir-*l>e5t view and CSTK-rlunrty I© OVOflalW. Where other hazards require you to follow before you ca; safely overtake Following position Wliereyou are gaining on a vehicle in front but can see it isn’t po.ssible lo overtake immediately, reduce your speei th:U you can follow at a safe distance. Observe and assess the road and traffic conditions ahead for an opportunity to overtake safely and when you see i I Overtaking position move into an overtaking position. Ask yourself the questions below. (Acceleration) Following position  How fast is the Will the lorry try to Whal might be round lorry going? overtake anyone? that bend? I ifv- % that yellow car approaching? Hcav fauMUll 10 ' With large vehicles and where it helps, take a view along both sides of if M Pend, fiui'ii ts s^eoaching the don't attempt to apei ol a nght-hiind ! Lend wHh ateslrvltd orviake untwyoo 1 hav«jWI? nfwside ol tno belort itraacheetha ' your visibility. : vehicle as >1 passes siwi so mai you gain inrcv^ the bend m« earnest possCM : i i. thv.M rety on the 2M view ^tiong Its oftSKle n#8's«>* «ew fteme Overtaking on a single carriageway Tliis is perhaps the most hazardous form of overtaking because you put your vehicle in the path of any oncoming ‘ k: s''"- - so plan tills manoeuvre with great care. Remember you can always reconsider your decision and hold back. I You need to be able to judge the speed and distance of oncoming I'eliicies accurately to assess whether you can re; return gap before they do. This can be extremely difficult, especially on long straight roads. The size and type of ih CT.^rlaK* i| in« road OvertalM i> me road oncoming vehicle can give you clues about its possible speed. Is clear and >I is ute clear M it a «M 10 do SC' Keoorttioro to do sc. It eowwions /Vs well as looking for veliicles, train yourself to look specifically for motorcyclists, cyclists, pedestrians and horses re not lavcx/rsbi*. s'* not iSvCwatM you overtake. Drivers often fail to spot the unexpected. otoptae* drag back I Srf (If.JT'rtr J. Infoivuitinn. cbicrvirTiori a/id unlio/vU/o//, f>tigeS4. LooUng but nolsefing. Overtaking on bends Single carriageway road.s marked with three lanes good clear view of the road on the otlier side of the bend before yoi In certain circumstance.s. it is possible to gel a Single carriageway roads marked rvith three lanes are potentially very dangerous as traffic in both directions shart it. If you’re sure there are no other hazards, position yourself to overtake before the road straighten.sout. But overi centre lane for overtaking. Never try to overtake if there U the possibility of an oncoming vehicle ntovmg into the on bends Is potentially dangerous and you should always ensure that you have the available view to do this safely. lane. Avoid overtaking when you would make a third line of moving vehicles unless you are sure it is absolutely sa SO,  Don't be tempted to follow another vehicle through an apparently safe gap on a three-lane single carriageway. Always identify a safe return gap of your own. The vehicle in front may slip safely into a small return gap leaving you in the middle lane facing oncoming vehicles. Where a large vehicle such as a lorry or coach is blocking your view of lane 1, hold your position until you can see that lane 1 is clear ahead. Then continue with the overtaking manoeuvre. When you are planning to overtake, always look out for the 'lurker' who closes right up unseen behind other Helping other road users to overtake vehicles and then sv/eeps out Helping other road users to overtake ease.s tensions and contributes to a cooperative driving culture that increase* to o\'Srtake. Never assume Use your mirrors and be alert to the intentions of drivers behind you. If another driver or rider is overtaking you. that the drivers of vehicles make it easier by leaving enough distance between you and the vehicle in front to give them a safe return gap, but behind an oncoming lorry will.suddenly reduce speed to achieve this. stay put. They could well pull Be av,-are that other drivers may try to overtake you when you keep to the legal speed limit. This is quite likely whi out lust when you do. slow down to enter or as you arc about to leave a lower speed limit area. Overtaking safely Overtaking on multi-lane carriageways What human factor risks should you consider? Ask yourself: On multi-lane carriageways it can be more difficult to judge the speed of traffic approaching from behind. What human efctors might affect my ability to accurately perceive hazards before overtaking? Before overtaking check the intentions of drivers in the nearside lanes. If a vehicle is closing up on the one in fion How miglit human factors intertcre with my ability to overtake safely (for example, 'red mist’, 'noble cause irsk- driver may pull out without signalling or only signal after the vehicle starts to move out. Watch the distance betw« taking. thrill-seeking tendencies)? w heels of the vehicle and the lane markings. If the gap narrows, the vehicle could be mos'ing out. Follow the key Does the specific purpose of the journey affect my decisions to overtake? Should it? principles: Only overtake on the nearside if traffic in all lanes is moving in queues. Never use the hard shoulder for overtaking even where an ATM scheme is in force and the hard shoulder is avai Check your understanding a running lane. You should now be able to apply learning from this chapter in your driver training so that you can: Take particular care when planning to overtake large vehicles at roundabout exits and on left-hand bends. explain the risks of overtaking Oiapitr 12, Driving - molQrhvyi anJ muUi~Uuic atrrMgcway$. show how to use the following and overtaking position safely - show how to assess and overtake different types of hazards safely in a wide range of circumstances - explain how to help other drivers to overtake you.  tiredness or boredom on long journeys, resulting in poor concentration frustration arising out of stop-start progress in dense traffic Chapter 12 coi nplacency in low-density traffic making drivers less alert to possible hazards Driving on motorways and multi-lane carriageways the beltaviour of drivers leaving or joining the motorway from service stations or slip roads. Stop at the earliest opportunity if you find yourself unable to maintain the high level of concentration needed to d safely at high speed. ’ Ask yourself whether your physical.sfateand degree of altrtriBss is opttrtwf fjrmrtorway driving before you set. Learning outcomes Have you e'’er found your concentration flagging on a motorway journey? VVhaldoyxm do to Increase your alcr The learning in this chapter, along with driver training, should enable you to: Is your approach alivays effective? Hotv could you manage your fatigue better? explain the human factor risks in motorway driving and show how you manage these deal with thedistrr How do feelings of stress affect your motorway driving? TTiink about whether your brain can show that you can join and leave a motorway or multi-lane carriageway correctly from stress as well as drive safely. show that you can use the appropriate lane for traffic conditions How might dealing with difficult or demanding motorway situations increase your mental workload? show that you can safely adapt your position and speed for overtaking, motorway junctions and oilier hazards, Wliat can you do to reduce the risk of errors and increase your safely in these silualions? including weather conditions Siv Ompirr I, Baoiiiws «iKtlcrilrmr. and Oupier.1, iMoiw-Uioii. ol'ieniilion amttmlnipolwir demonstrate correct use ofthc hard shoulder. Joining the motorway Driving on multi-lane carriageways Safe driving on motorways and other fast-moilng multi-lane carriageways depends on developing your awarenet extra hazards that arise on these roads and rigorously applying tlie driving competences and methods explained ii Layout of the carriageway Roadcnifi to them. to refer to the lanes on moloi Here we use the numbering system used by the police and other emergency services and other multi-lane carriageways. Despite tlic high speed and volume of motorway traffic, there are fewer crashes on motorways for each mile travel than on other roads. But motorway crashes are more likely to be fatal because of the liigh speeds involved. I in 50 t motorway crashes arc fatal, compared to around 1 in 70 collisions on other ro.ids. Verge i Hard shoulder Central reservation \ However, other fast-moving multi-lane roads such as dual carriageways combine traffic moving at equally high sp I with additional hazards such as junctions to the irght.and left, roundabouts, slow-moving vehicles and the absenc hard shoulder (see page 229). Much of tliis chapter applies to all multi-lane carriageways, but motorways have sijccific features that you’ll need 1 into account: slip roads for entering and leaving the motorway (not always present on other multi-lane carriageways) dangers created by the presence of the hard shoulder legal restrictions on which types of vehicle can use motorways, and the lane restrictions and speed limits for cac The nearside lands lane I, the next is lane 2 and so on. On a three-lane motorway, lane 1 is thdane next to the h; shoulder and lane 3 is the lane next to the central reservation. The hard shoulder is not counted as a carriageway 1 It takes lime to develop accuracy in assessing speeds and stopping distances in a fast-moving driving environmen page 222). Always drive well within your own competence and aim to steadily develop your experience so that you are comf< and confident within your existing speed range before moving on to higher speeds. Plan how you are going toadc Joining the motorway at a slip road or where motorwaj's merge is potentially hazardous and you should use the s) fast-moving traffic conditions before you start your journey. Always take into account the size and limitations of > car control to approach and join. Slip roads are designed to give drivers the time and space to merge smoothly wil vehicle. on the main carriageway without causing other drivers to alter position or speed They are often raised, so take ad of the high viewpoint to observe the traffic flow and to plan your approach. Drivers on the motorway have priority and may not be able to move over to allow you to enter lane l.but looking m Remember higher speeds on fast-moving roads burn more fuel. Speeds of 50-60 mph and smooth acceleration : hrakini. reduce fuel coasLunotion. planning and asing your acceleration sense will assist you in merging safely. Only poor planning or exceptionally jt^fl^^t^fl^^^l_gaase_yqu_to_stopjnjhejlip road Slip roads have one or more lanes. If you’re travelling In the outside lane of the slip rtiad, coMider-how-you i.> Hiimrin in mntnrwnir Hrivina  Adapting to higher speeds At 70inph you travel 31 metres (about three coach lengths) per second. To give yourself as much time to react as possible: extend your observations in all directions and to the road horizons anticipate early and maintain a safe foQowing distance - in good weather the two-second rule is a good guide bu weather you must allow a much greater distance use all controls smoothly, particular!)' steering, when travelling at high speed give other drivers enough time to see your signals before making a manoeuvre only use a headlight flash if it’s necessary to alert other road users to your presence. Do not overtake a vehicle that is on Lane discipline the inside lane of the slip road if you Yon need good lane discipline for safe motonvay driving. There are no slow or fast lanes. Overtake only to the rig) will block its path on to the motorway. except when traffic is mos’ing in queues and the queue on your right is moving more slowly than you are. Do not overtake by using a lane to your left. Use the system As you enter the motorwa)', process information about the traffic on the slip road and motorway so that you are it correct position, at the correct speed and in the correct gear to accelerate onto the motorway smoothly and safely. Overtaking Before you overtake watch out for; Signalling slower vehicles moving out in front of you Well before you enter lane I, decide whether you need to signal to let motorists on the motorway know that you ii join the traffic flow. faster vehicles coming up behind you. Before you join the motorway, check over your shoulder to make sure there is nothing in your blind spot. Apply tlic system of car control to overtake wfely on motorways and otiier multi-lane carriageways, paying specia attention to taking, using and giving information. Acceleration Taking information Allow yourself time to adjust to the higher motorway speed and to gauge the speeds of other vehicles. Scan regularly so that you arc continually aware of what the surrounding traffic is doing. You should knotv which are closing up on other vehicles in front, and which vehicles arc moving up behind. Constantly monitor opportun Observation overtake and match your speed of approach to coincide with an opportunity. Make allowances for the additional 1 Because of the speeds involved, it is vital to extend your observation: presented by lane closures and motorway junctions. look ahead and behind you right up to the road hori/.nn.s Look for early warnings that other drivers intend to overtake: scan ahead, to the sides and to the rear frequently and thoroughly ♦relative speeds use your mirrors regularly - you should always know what is happening behind you head movements be aware of your own and other drivers' blind spots and be prepared to move your body and alter vehicle posiiic body movements observe what is happening in those areas ♦ vehicle movement from the centre of the lane towards the white lane markers. monitor what is happening to your vehicle - regularly check that the instruments are giving normal readings an^ to the sound of your engine and to the noise of the lyres on the road surface You’re likely to see all these before the driver signals; many drivers only signal as they start to change lanes. cfieck your speed regularly - it is very easy to increase speed without realising. Over a motonvay journey of reasonable length (say 20 miles), practise spotting these warning signs to predict w other drivers are about to change lanes. Use ims anticipahon to help your planning. © Make a point of scanning as far as the road horizon, front and back. Use your mirrors frequently. Regularly scan sides as well. 'Ihink carefully before overtaking on left-hand bends where there arc mainly hea\7 or large goods vehicles in lane 7 A rnr mav he hiddi between the heaw onods vehicles and be nbnut fo lit Into I; 3. Make s  standstill, consider extending your dista If you are travelling in lane 2 and traffic in your lane ahead has come to a from the stationary vehicle ahead. If traffic is flowing freely in lane 1 there i.s a particular danger from Icft-hand-d lorries approaching from behind and pulling into lane 2 to overtake the lorry ahead. The driver of ihe blue car is about to move out to oveitake. The driver checks ttre mfTTor bat eertnot eeo - , the fasl-closincj white car in lane 3. The driver of the cat in lane 3 cannot see the blue car about to pull out. Just before you overtake, carefully check the position and speed of the vehicles behind. For example, before you n- inlolane2to overtake a vehicle in lane 1, clteck there are no fast-do.singvehicles moving back into lane 2 from la Tho sight line from the left-hand- drive lorry means the driver will not see your vehicle until almost As you move from lane totally out into your lane. 1 to lane 2. beware of vehicles moving up behind you into lane 2 from lane 3. Being overtaken Anticipate what the drivers behind you intend to do by tlieir lane position and their speed ol approach. Ilns will I to avoid potentially dangerous situations. As the other vehicle overtakes you. be aware that you are in the overtald driver’s blind spot. Be aware of the blind spots of other vehicles as weil own There are some Move your head to increase your view either side of your blind spot. Re-check the position and speed of vehicles t front and then consider the information that you need to give to the surrounding traffic. which you cannot be Giving information Avoid sitting in the Wind spot of a vehicle you are trying to overtake. If you find that you are unable to overtake, d back slightly so that you are visible to the driver. Consider alerting other drivers to your presence especially if you are traveQing at speed. If you decide a headlight would be helpful, give it in plenty of time for the other driver to react. Give a single flash: decide on the length of I according to your speed and the response of other drivers. Take care not to appear aggressive to other drivers, anc dazzling oncoming drivers. Be aware that (lashing headliglits could be misinterpreted by other drivers as an invita Motorway junctions At junctions and service areas, you're likely to meet variations in traffic speed and more vehicles changing lanes. \ move out in front of you. for drivers who only change lanes for an exit at the last minute. When you see a motorway exit, anticipate a slip rc Indicator signals ahead and the possibility of traffic joining the motorway. Con.sider indicating before changing lanes. Let the indicator flash long enough for other drivers to see and react ti If you're on the main carriageway, check your mirrors early and allow traffic to join the motorway by making sligf orbehicTesThfflntCTWlWr TfW*ppWpl f life adjusimcnls i;ustii to your speed or changing lane. Vehicles on the motorway have right of way so don’t do this if it woti ot neT3 rivers to change ineirspe^ flfpOslUUII. ~ don't keep weaving in and out.  1 Watch for drivers changing ianes ' for an exit road at the last minute and watch for traffic Joining the There is usually a i motorway at the slip road ahead. route directioriSign at the point where the exit road splitsfrom the main carri^way. \ A52 llie North 5h*t(IaU> Leeds * Athird- directions UvSing the hard shoulder NottlnsNm ' sigh at the There are. beginning of Ihe hard shoulder forms pari of a motorway and is Inlended for emergency use only. It musl only be used in acco marker posts i theexidpad with the Highway Code and for police drivers, Practice Advice on ihe Polking of Roads (ACPO/NPIA, 2007). Stopp adds principal at 300. 200 the hard shoulder is dangerous both for the occupants of the stationary vehicle and for other motorway users beci 'destinatibns and too there is a high risk of collision. If you need to travel on the hard shoulder, for example when an active traffic mans ahead.' (ATM) scheme is in place or in an cmet^ency, watch out for stationary vehicles or other liarjrds already on the h« yards before shoulder. Never use the hard shoulder for overtaking unk-ss assigned to an emergency incident. the start of the exit road. When you move onto the liard shoulder, be aware that the road surface may contain loose gravel and other debris could reduce the available grip for slopping. Nottinaha'n AS3 WTien you leave the hard shoulder, carefully observe the traffic approaching from behind. Depending ort the volu At half a orils from traffic, choose an appropriate moment to move off and build up vehicle speed on the hard shoulder before you m< the exit a direction 1251 to Jane 1 of the carriageway. Nottingfrtm. —' sign repeats the AS2 information. Leaving the motorway 25' 1m One mile from the exit, a direction sign gives Plan your exit. Make sure you know your exit junction well in advance. Assess the road and traffic conditions as y the junction number and approach the junction and use the information provided byroad signs and markings. - thefoacls leading off ttre exit with the town or The diagram.sliows a typical sequence of information given at motorway exits. Note tliat some newer motorways signs at 1/3 mile and 2/3 mile so always read distance marker signs carefully. destination names. As you approach your exit junction, look for the advance direction signs and use the system of car control to plan Avoid braking on the main carriageway if possible. Plan to lose unwanted speed in the exit road - which acts as a carryout your exit. If the motorway is busy, consider joining lane 1 earlier rather than later. If a sigjiai is necessan deceleration lane. Hut be aware that other road users may not do this and may start to slow down before reaching allow plenty of time for other drivers to react. Indicate at the 300 yard marker. road. On busy motorways w-atch out for vehicles leaving the motorway at the last minute from lanes 2 or 3 and cu across your path. Driving at high speed affects your perception of speed when you leave the motorway: check your speedometer regularly to help you adjust to theslowerspeedsof ordinary roads plart for the point at svhich you will meet two-way traffic be ready for acute bends at the end of motorway exit roads watch out for oil or other deposits which can make these areas exceptionally slippery. Bad weather conditions on fast-moving roads SfcClio/To 4. Anlicipaliiig liiiurJs in ih- ViXulIm wmlilimt. Snow, sleet and ice Had weather reduces visibility and tyre grip so is more dangerous at high speed because you need a much greater- Snow and sleet reduce visibUity and lyre grip- Al speed, spray thrown up by the wheels of the vehicle in front redu safe stopping distance. visibility further, and when ruts develop in the snow it may be difficult to steer. In heavy snow consider whether y journey is really necessary. You should always be able to stop safely in the distance you can see to be clear on your own side of the road. Reduce speed and increase following distances in icy conditions, especially if the road surface is not gnited. When you can’t see clearly, reduce your speed and consider using headlights and fog lights. You must use them if visibility drops below 100 metres. The gap bcnveeit motorway marker posU is about 100 metres so use these to as; High winds how Iv you can sec. Bear in mind iJial fog lights can mask your brake lighu and da22le the driver behind so switc off as soon a.s visibility improves. Sections of carriageway that arc raised above the surrounding countryside are affected by high winds. Be prcparcc particularly strong gusts of wind as you leave a cutting, enter or emerge front under a bridge, cross a valley or go i open country. Take particular care on viaducts and bridges. Fog Fog reduces your perception of speed due to the lack of visual reference points. In poor visibility, some drivers m; In windy conditions reduce their following distance in order to keep the vehicle lights ahead in view. Be aware also that not all vehicles high-sided vehicles can displaying the appropriate lights. ' suddenly veer. They also tend to act as wind breaks buffeting smaller vehicles as they draw past them. Keep a firm i grip on the steering wheel with both hands. High-sided vehicles create a slip stream which Fog reduces your perception of speed and irsk because you can't see. At tends to pull smaller the same time it encourages you to drive close enough to keep in sight the vehicles towards them vehicle lights ahead. during overtaking As the smaller vehicle moves in Adju.st your speed to ensure that you can stop within tlie range of visibility. The denser the tog, the slower your sp front, it breaks free of the Driving in fog can be very tiring and stressful. If you start to feel tired, take a break al the next available rest area. suction and tends to veer out. Correct this with a , firm grip and appropriate Rain pressure on the steering wneei. High speed increases the risk created by rain and standing water lying on the road surface. This is because your vt tyres have to di.splace water more quickly. If they are unable to do this, a wedge of water will form betsveen tlie tyr the road, resulting in aquaplaning. During such conditions, remain vigilant to the possibility of unexpected sectio deep water and adjust your speed on the approach. ^ After a long, hot, dry spell a deposit of tyre and other dust builds up on the road surfece. These deposits create a s surface especially during and after rain. Avoid heavy braking, steering or accelerating or you could lose tyre grip. Bright sun Bright sun low in the sky can cause serious dazzle, especially on east/west sections of road; use your visors to rede Check your understanding dazzle. If the sun is shining in your mirrors, adjust them to give you the best visibility with minimum glare. If you dazzled by bright sun. other drivers maybe too, so allow for this when overtaking. You should now be able to apply learning from this chapter in yourdrivtr training so that you can: explain the human factor risks in motorway driving and show how you manage these show that you can join and leave a motorway or multi-lane carriageway correcti)' Other hazards show that you can use the appropriate lane for traffic conditions show that you can safely adapt your position and speed for overtaking, motorway junctions and other haza weather conditions Debris demonstrate correct use of the hard shoulder. Regularly scan the road surface for debris which may liave fallen from vehicles. 'Ihis can damage tyres and cause i vehicles to suddenly alter position. Lane closures Roadworks are a regular feature of motorwa)'journeys. Contrallow systems are not dangerous in themselves but t dangerous svlien drivers ignore ads’ance warnings. Ail roadworks are signed on approach and you should know tf sequence of signs. Keep to the mandatory speed limits through roadworks, even when conditions seem to be suit; a higher.speed. Merging with other traffic requires judgement and courtesy. It is.sensible for vehicles from each lane to merge alte But these situations often create conflict and result in collisions. Allow a reasonable following gap and never dose prevent other vehicles merging. Matri.x signs and signals warn of lane closures or other changes in driving conditions ahead. You may not immedi able to see the need to.slow down or change lanes but don’t a.ssume the sign is a mistake. The incident may be son- distance further along the motorway. Additional hazards on fast-moving multi-lane carriagew; On multi-lane carriageways you need to watch out for a range of additional hazards that are not present on motor slow-moving traffic traffic lights ruu udabouts right-hand junctions crossroads traffic moving into the right-hand lane lo turn right traffic entering the carriageway from tlic central reservation traffic crossing the carriageway ♦pedestrians crossing the carriageway entrances and exits other than road junctions (to services, petrol stations, restaurants, pubs) left-hand junctions with only a short (or no) slip road public footpath crossing the carriageway - indicated by an overlap in the central reseA’ation safety barrier.  Does the situation necessitate an emergency response? Chapter 13 WTiat human factors might increase my risk on response (e.g. stress, operational distractions, peer pressure)? H< I manage these effectively? Emergency response Is my veiiicle suitable? Am I justified in making use of traffic law exemptions? How far will I have to travel? Learning outcomes Are other units closer? Do I need to use lights and sirens? The learning in this chapter, along with driver training, should enable you to: \Vhat speed is safe and proportionate for the circumstances, including traffic, time of day, lighting and weather? list the exemptions in law available to emergency response drivers and explain their implications for your drivin explain the imporUnce of going through a process of risk assessment before and during an emcigency call An emergency call is an ever-changing environment so continue with this process of risk assessment throughout demonstrate the correct use of your vehicle's emergency warning equipment response. demonstrate good practice in emergency response driving across a range of traffic situations. While incidenls are graded in line with national requirements, as set out in the National Call Handling Standards, ired. You must decide if the use of legal exempti responding to calls are responsible for assessing the response requi.... and )-ou may be called upon to justify your actions at a lat What is an emergency response? and/or the vehicle's emergency equipment is warranted For the purpose.s of this manual, police officers are deemed to be in ‘emergency response when they are using any exemptions afforded to them by the relevant legislation, and/or using emergency warning equipment to facilitate Responding to an emergency progress. There are Uiree exemptions in law available to drivers of emergency response vehicles. In appropriate circumsianc drivers may: Use of emergency warning equipment I.exceed a speed limit The emergency warning equipment is primarily used to: ’.contravene a red traffic li tffit, including at pedestrian crossings provide advance warning to other road users 3.contravene a keep lefi/right sign. help your progress through traffic Use of any of these exemptions must be safe and proportionate to the prevailing circumstances, lie aware that son protect officers at the scene of incidents motorists over-react when they encounter emergency response vehicles - for example, by stopping their vehicle ii unsuitable place sue It as next to traffic islands, on blind hiU crests, on the apex of bends or opposite an oncoming help in stopping motorists, by identifying your vehicle as a police vehicle. that has also stopped. Most drivers seeing or hearing the warning of an approaching emergency service vehicle will try to give way to yc the use of warning equipment does not give you protection or right of way. You may take advantage if other road Risk assessment and pedestrians give way to you - but only if it is safe to do so. Bear in mind that unwarranted use of emergency \ equipment can undermine its value. Before you begin OTur response to an emergency call, you should go through a process of risk assessment. Never assume that your warning will be seen or heard by other road users. Here are some of the questions you need to ask yourself: Sirens Assess when and where to activate your emergency equipment. In normal circumstances you should activate youi emergency lights before using your sirens. close to other road users, particularly cyclists, pedestnans oi Think carefully before activating your sirens if you’re animals. If in the light of your risk assessment you decide not to use your emergency warning equipment (silent approach- extra care because other road users may be less aw-are of your vehicle’s presence. When using sirens it is often raot noise but a change in noise that gets a reacnon. ns appiopi.-.^ - t—b between hazards. But changing to a short tone on the approach to a hazard is likely to maximise the benefit of the  Use i different tone to other emergency vehicles when driving in convoy or following another emergency vehicle, public may see one vehicle but they may not expect a second or third. Consider switching off the sound system in stationary traffic. This often takes the tension out of the situation and others lime to consider wlial they might do to help. Headlamp flashers The automatic headlamp flashers on most emergency vehicles use an alternating (lash pattern. This makes it more that the vehicle will be seen but also increases the possibility of dazzling other orad users. Automatic headlamp flashers must not be used during the hours of darkness. Blue lights Some veliides liave botlj rotating and strobe lights In the roof light bar. Strobe lights are particularly effective on r lane roads.such as motorways, but only show to the front or rear. If you’re re.spondiiig on roads with junction.s, yourself morcconspicuou.s by using the rotating blue lights and/or intcr.seclion lights. Speed limits Police drivers can use statutory exemptions from.speed limits but you must be able U> stsjp.safely within the distar can see to bo clear on your own side of tlie road. During an emergency response, never compromise safety in ord< save time. It i.s far better to arrive later than not at all. Keep in mind that members of the public will observe you if ^xju exceed the speed limit or use an inappropriate sj Inappropriate speed or misuse of exemptions is likely to result in negative public perceptions of response driv’ing. The following scenario shows why you always need to correctly assess tJie appropriate.speed. The police vehicle is approaching at 30 mph the rear of a parked lorry which is 9 metres long. As the police car passes the rear of the lo pedestrian steps out from in front of the lorry directly into thcpatli of the police whicle. By the tinte the driver starts leaking, the vehicle will have struck the pedestrian \ Approaching traffic light-controlled junctions When you pa.ss red signals, you should treat them a.s STOP and/or GIVE WAY signs. Do not proceed until you ar that the way is clear, that no other road user will be endangered and that no other driver will be forced to change; course to avoid a collision. When you approach traffic lights, gather information about the road layout and consider the movements of other users - both those you can see and those you can’t. Your risk assessment must include not only the red phase but also the green phase. This is important. Your speed approach mast enable you to stop if necessary - for example, if the traffic light signals change from green to red. c another emergency vehicle going to the same incident is using their exemption and entering the junction through IwtlL On the approach lo traffic lights, take a position lo ensure the best view. Select the least obstructed path, with due (o safety and making yourselt'as visible as possible to other road users.  if'" Roadcraft - The Police Driver's Handbook Where a pedestrian has moved onto the crossing, hold back so as not to intimidate them. Contravening keep left/right signs If you exercise the exemption to contravene keep left/right signs, you’ll be in an unexpected position so you need to be aware of additional hazards. For example, where there’s a central refuge for pedestrians, they may be looking in the other direction as they cross the road and may step into the path of the emergency response vehicle. Positioning to see and be seen During daylight, the best visual warning equipment to use on the approach to other road users is the flashing headlamp/white light-emitting diode (LED) units. To get the greatest advantage, position your vehicle to make the most of these lights. Where it’s safe to do so, position your vehicle early towards the offside. This can help you to get early views and it also allows oncoming drivers and drivers ahead of you to spot you earlier. Be prepared to surrender this position if an oncoming driver doesn’t react appropriately.  'n?Tg '. ’.4. r '. V> t : Chapter 13 - Emergency response 261 The position shown below also gives a better view of the road and other dangers ahead. The driver of the vehicle directly ahead of the emergency response vehicle will be aware that it’s attempting to overtake rather than requiring them to stop. Always ensure that a safe gap Is available on the nearside should oncoming drivers not react appropriately. r ( CJI a bn k-:'. Mi This position results in a restricted view for both the police driver and the oncoming driver. Approaching and passing vehicles Vehicles ahead When approaching traffic travelling in the same direction, travel at a speed and following position that allows you to respond to heavy or sudden braking by the vehicles ahead. Seek evidence that the drivers ahead are aware of your presence before you attempt to pass them. Look for the nearside indicator operating or vehicle movement into the nearside or offside. Observe the driver’s head and body movements. Never assume that other drivers have seen and/or heard your vehicle. I  262 Roadcraft - The Police Driver's Handbook ' Ai A The drivers of the two lead vehicles have slowed down in response to the police vehicle’s presence. The driver of the red vehicle is unaware of the police vehicle and moves to overtake them, pulling out into the path of the police vehicle. Oncoming vehicles When the driver of an oncoming vehicle has given way to your approaching vehicle, always remain vigilant for other oncoming vehicles suddenly pulling out from behind the lead vehicle. Your speed should allow you time to stop should an oncoming vehicle suddenly present itself in your vehicle’s path. This is especially important if the lead vehicle is large - for example, a large goods vehicle, van or bus. Vehicles behind the lead oncoming vehicle may be unaware of your presence and attempt to overtake the lead vehicle into your path. Overtaking slow-moving vehicles across junctions When moving past slow-moving or stationary vehicles, be aware of the additional hazards presented by road junctions and adjust your speed accordingly...L* ' a Chapter 13 - Emergency response ' 263 N i- i-. Nearside junctions Be vigilant for vehicles emerging from the junction. Offside junctions Any driver turning left from an offside junction will emerge into the path of the police vehicle. On the approach to offside junctions with limited or no view, take up a position that allows you to stop or regain the correct side of the road. Never assume that the driver of the vehicle waiting to emerge will look to the left before entering the road. I On the approach to an offside junction, adopt a position that allows you to stop or regain the correct side of the road should a driver turning left fail to spot you.  7 S 262 Roadcraft - The Police Driver’s Handbook ' -'i ,:1 / The drivers of the two lead vehicles have slowed down in response to the police vehicle’s presence. The driver of the red vehicle is unaware of the police vehicle and moves to overtake them, pulling out into the path of the police vehicle. Oncoming vehicles When the driver of an oncoming vehicle has given way to your approaching vehicle, always remain vigilant for other oncoming vehicles suddenly pulling out from behind the lead vehicle. Your speed should allow you time to stop should an oncoming vehicle suddenly present itself in your vehicle’s path. This is especially important if the lead vehicle is large - for example, a large goods vehicle, van or bus. Js Vehicles behind the lead oncoming vehicle may be unaware of your presence and attempt to overtake the lead vehicle into your path. Overtaking slow-moving vehicles across junctions When moving past slow-moving or stationary vehicles, be aware of the additional hazards presented by road junctions and adjust your speed accordingly.  Chapter 13 - Emergency response 263 Nearside junctions Be vigilant for vehicles emerging from the junction. Offside junctions Any driver turning left from an offside junction will emerge into the path of the police vehicle. On the approach to offside junctions with limited or no view, take up a position that allows you to stop or regain the correct side of the road. Never assume that the driver of the vehicle waiting to emerge will look to the left before entering the road. IE * V On the approach to an offside junction, adopt a position that allows you to stop or regain the correct side of the road should a driver turning left fait to spot you.  jV 264 Roadcraft - The Police Driver's Handbook Interpreting other drivers’ signals It’s common for motorists to flash their headlights to signal to others their intention to give way in all kinds of driving situations. in the scenario shown below, there are: three drivers who may perceive that the driver of the green car is signalling to them their intention to give way: of the red vehicle waiting to emerge from the minor road the driver the driver of the black vehicle waiting to turn right the police driver. In situations such as this, take extra care and reduce your speed until you’ve safely negotiated the hazard. If the driver of the green car flashes the headlights, what does the signal mean and who is it for? Stationary vehicles at or near an incident Police drivers approaching a scene may become distracted searching for the exact locationof the incident. This may mean that their attention is drawn away from the road immediately ahead so increasing risk.  I /A Chapter 13 - Emergency response 265 I t Drivers vyho have been stationary for some time may try to do a U-turn or leave their vehicle. Pedestrians may also be walking between the ' I stationary vehicles. Responding on multi-lane roads On multi-lane roads equipped with central reservations, such as dual carriageways and motorways, your positioning will vary according to the volume and speed of vehicles ahead. In very congested conditions where vehicles are either stationary or| travelling at low speed, it’s best practice for police drivers to straddle lane markings to allow the traffic ahead to spread left and right. This is often referred to as ‘parting of the waves’. ; Be aware that some of the drivers ahead may not react as expected. Your approach speed must enable you to react to any vehicle crossing your path. 9. Sji V ’QI I :s..4^'' ' ' (X) A' :ir ^'-2! I V; Parting of the waves’ Where traffic is free flowing, travel in the outer lane and allow vehicles ahead to move into the nearside lanes - but without placing drivers under undue pressure to do so. Look out for vehicles in lanes on the nearside I ahead suddenly moving into the outer lane. I I I  t: 'h/- 266 Roadcraft - The Police Driver's Handbook vl4SV, I > 'lJM. i-e *.. O-i- I T*.n/,. IS' \ -V ' 1 ) 3 lU) m Travel in the outer lane of a multi-lane carriageway if the traffic is flowing freely. Approaching roundabouts A roundabout is a one-way system for which there’s no exemption. Approach roundabouts in the same manner as you would red traffic lights. Choose a low approach and entry speed so as not to cause drivers on the roundabout to over-react or brake hard. If there are vehicles occupying all the approach lanes to the roundabout, use the same procedures as for a traffic light junction. Consider the following options to minimise the risk of drivers ahead entering the roundabout into the path of other vehicles. Options Turn off all the emergency equipment and hold back. Straddle the lane markings to cause a ’parting of the waves’. Subject to view and safety, use the opposing carriageway. Bear in mind that drivers exiting the roundabout may have a late view of your vehicle.  267 Chapter 13 - Emergency response A lower approach speed gives other motorists more time to help your progress. Drivers exiting the roundabout may have a late view of your vehicle. Ill, #:« Passing on the nearside of other vehicles Other drivers may find it hard to visually locate a police vehicle that is travelling along the nearside of stationary or moving vehicles. The natural response of a driver hearing a siren is to move to the nearside to help the emergency vehicle’s progress. Be aware of this as you formulate your driving plan. Drive at a speed that enables you to stop your vehicle safely if the vehicle ahead moves to the nearside. Anticipate by carefully observing other drivers. For example, watch for hand movements on the steering wheel, indicators, brake lights and movement of the wheels. These clues can provide early warning of potential movement to the nearside. 268 Roadcraft - The Police Driver's Handbook Detailed observation will help you anticipate sudden movements of vehicles to the nearside. Vehicles responding in convoy A convoy of two or more vehicles travelling together in response mode is more hazardous than a single vehicle. The public sometimes only react to the lead vehicle, and once it has passed may resume their journey into the path of the second vehicle. OO r: CK> 03 0> Ci3 Be aware that other drivers may not anticipate the presence of a second emergency vehicle. Depending on the circumstances, you may need to extend the reactionary - - gap between the two emergency vehicles, both to reduce the pressure on the emergency vehicle drivers and to allow members of the public time to realise that there’s more than one emergency vehicle approaching.  Chapter 13 - Emergency response 269 Alternatively, you may choose to close the gap to reduce the risk of traffic pulling out between the two emergency vehicles. If the vehicles have to remain together, for example when escorting an ambulance, make sure the vehicles are using a different siren sound. Even if you’re not driving in convoy, always be aware of the possible presence of other emergency vehicles attending the same incident or a different one. Vulnerable road users Cyclists Cyclists are very hard to see and may also react unexpectedly when a vehicle on an emergency call is approaching. The natural reaction of a cyclist on hearing the sirens is to look over their shoulder towards the emergency vehicle. This can cause wobbling and instability. Make sure you leave an appropriate safety margin when passing cyclists. Motorcyclists Look out for motorcyclists. Riders have restricted peripheral vision due to the wearing of crash helmets. Be aware that sudden heavy braking on a motorcycle is hazardous for the rider. It may cause the motorcyclist to lose control of their machine, especially on wet or slippery road surfaces. Also, be aware that cyclists and motorcyclists travel along both the nearside and offside of slow-moving or stationary traffic, and look out for them. Pedestrians Where pedestrians are present, drive at a speed that enables you to stop if a pedestrian steps into the road. Older people and children find it especially difficult to judge the speed and distance of approaching vehicles. 270 Roadcraft - The Police Driver's Handbook In bad weather, pedestrians tend to hurry, walking or runnin