You are driving in town behind an articulated lorry. As it approaches a tight left turn, the driver signals left but moves out towards the right side of the road. In what chronological sequence should you respond to this moving hazard?
- 1Check your interior and door mirrors to assess the speed and distance of trailing traffic.
- 2Ease off the accelerator and increase your following distance well behind the lorry.
- 3Hold your lane position and resist entering the open space on the lorry's left-hand side.
- 4Wait for the lorry to fully clear the junction before continuing your journey.
Answer
Check your interior and door mirrors to assess trailing traffic, ease off the accelerator to increase your following distance, hold your lane position without moving into the left-hand space, and wait for the lorry to complete its turn before proceeding.
Long articulated vehicles require extra road space to negotiate tight corners and will often swing out to the right to prevent the rear wheels mounting the kerb on the left. The correct defensive driving sequence requires first checking mirrors to understand traffic behind, easing off the accelerator to maintain a safe distance and stay within the driver's mirrors, holding lane discipline without undertaking on the left, and waiting patiently until the lorry has completed its turn.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Anticipating Long Vehicle Off-Tracking and Turning Space
Estimated Time:1m 30s