Question

Difficulty: MediumLeaving the Motorway

You are driving on a motorway and plan to exit at the upcoming junction. In what chronological order should you carry out the following actions to leave the motorway safely?

  1. 1Check your mirrors and move into the left-hand lane well before the junction.
  2. 2Indicate left at or near the 300-yard countdown marker.
  3. 3Steer smoothly into the deceleration lane without braking sharply on the main carriageway.
  4. 4Brake progressively on the slip road to adjust your speed for the junction ahead.

Answer

The correct sequence is: (1) Check your mirrors and move into the left-hand lane well before the junction, (2) Indicate left at or near the 300-yard countdown marker, (3) Steer smoothly into the deceleration lane without braking sharply on the main carriageway, and (4) Brake progressively on the slip road to adjust your speed for the junction ahead.
According to Highway Code Rules 272 and 273, the correct sequence begins by moving into the left-hand lane well before the junction. A left signal is then given at or near the 300-yard marker. The driver transitions into the deceleration slip road while maintaining normal motorway speed, and only then applies progressive braking on the slip road itself.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Plan ahead and establish lane positioning early
Vehicle is established safely in the left-hand lane in plenty of time
Highway Code Rule 272 requires drivers to move into the left-hand lane well before reaching their exit to avoid cutting across lanes.
2
Signal your intention to exit using the countdown markers
Surrounding traffic receives clear, timely notice of your departure
The 300-yard marker provides a standard distance reference to apply your left turn signal.
3
Transition onto the deceleration lane (slip road)
Vehicle exits the main carriageway smoothly at cruising speed
Highway Code Rule 273 instructs drivers not to slow down on the motorway itself, but to wait until on the deceleration lane.
4
Decelerate on the slip road
Speed is brought down safely to match the slip road and junction conditions
Braking on the dedicated slip road protects high-speed traffic on the main carriageway while preparing for the upcoming junction.

Key Concept

Standard sequential routine for leaving a motorway safely (Highway Code Rules 272 and 273)
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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