PAGE 25: The Road Test

Driving Procedures

Overtaking - to the left or Right of a hazard
A hazard is any stationary or slow moving obstruction that partially blocks your lane, such as a parked vehicle, broken-down vehicle, roadworks, debris, refuse collection vehicle, cyclist, or any other obstacle that requires you to adjust your position on the road.

When passing a hazard on its left or right hand side, the driver must maintain effective observation, position the vehicle correctly, and ensure a safe clearance between the vehicle and the hazard while complying with all traffic signs, signals, and road markings.

Drivers test road rules



Correct Driving Procedure

1. Establish a Safe Following Distance.
Maintain a safe following distance behind any vehicle ahead. This provides sufficient time and space to assess the hazard and plan your actions safely.

2. Observe Traffic Signs and Road Markings.
Check for any road signs, lane markings, traffic signals, or restrictions that may affect your ability to move left or pass the hazard safely
Always ensure that your intended path is legal and safe.

3. Check the Blind Spot
Before moving closer to the left or right side of the roadway, check the blind spot for:

  • Cyclists.
  • Motorcyclists.
  • Pedestrians.
  • Other vehicles that may be travelling alongside you.

    4. Position the Vehicle for Maximum Visibility.
    Steer smoothly towards the left side of your lane without moving further than necessary.
    Positioning the vehicle correctly improves your view of:.
  • The hazard ahead.
  • Oncoming traffic (if applicable).
  • Pedestrians and cyclists.

    5. Check Mirrors and Blind Spot
    Before changing your road position, check:
  • Rear-view mirror.
  • Left and Right side mirror.
  • Left and Right blind spot.

    6. Signal Your Intention
    Activate the appropriate indicator to inform other road users of your intention to move left or right and pass the hazard.
    Early signaling gives surrounding road users sufficient warning of your intended actions.

    7. Recheck the Rear-View Mirror
    Perform a final mirror check to monitor traffic behind you and identify any vehicles that may be overtaking or approaching rapidly.

    8. Reduce Speed if Necessary
    Reducing speed may be required when:
  • Space around the hazard is limited.
  • Visibility is restricted.
  • Traffic conditions are heavy.

    9. Select an Appropriate Gear
    If speed is reduced significantly, select a gear that provides good vehicle control and allows smooth acceleration after passing the hazard.

    10. Check the Blind Spot Again
    Before steering further left or Right, perform a final blind spot check to ensure that no road user has entered the area alongside your vehicle

    11. Pass the Hazard Safely
    When safe to do so:
  • Steer further left if necessary.
  • Maintain a safe lateral clearance between your vehicle and the hazard.
  • Pass the hazard smoothly without sudden steering movements.
  • Keep observing the road ahead and surrounding traffic.

    12.Cancel the Signal

    Once you have safely passed the hazard and no further lateral movement is required, cancel the indicator if it has not cancelled automatically.