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Difficulty: MediumReversing and Turning

You are reversing into a side road on the left to turn your vehicle around. While steering, why is it essential to check the front of your vehicle as well as looking through the rear window?

  1. A
    To focus exclusively on any stationary vehicles parked on the opposite footpath
  2. B
    To assume passing cyclists will stop and give way to your turning manoeuvre
  3. Because the front of your vehicle will swing out across the main carriagewayAnswer
  4. D
    To avoid checking blind spots by relying entirely on front parking sensors and door mirrors

Answer

Because the front of your vehicle will swing out across the main carriageway
According to the Highway Code (Rule 202), when you reverse and steer into a side opening or round a corner, the front of your vehicle swings out into the road. Continuous all-round scanning is necessary to ensure the swinging front end does not strike passing traffic, cyclists, or pedestrians.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the physical mechanics of steering while in reverse gear
When turning the steering wheel to reverse towards the left, the pivot point forces the front right corner (front offside) of the car to swing outward in an arc.
Vehicle steering geometry causes the front wheels to sweep wider than the rear track during tight cornering.
2
Apply UK Highway Code Rule 202 for reversing observations
Drivers must look all around before moving and maintain continuous all-round observation while reversing, being mindful of the front vehicle swing.
The front swing can obstruct or collide with oncoming vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians on the main road.

Key Concept

Vehicle front swing and all-round observation during reversing manoeuvres
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Reversing and Turning

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