THE OVERTAKING LANE

During your Module Two motorcycle training and test, you will probably spend some time on a dual carriageway. It is inevitable that you will be required to overtake as you gain skills and knowledge. You will be advised to ride in the driving lane which is the left-hand lane. Most of your riding will be in this lane and you should only move into the right hand lane to overtake. This is often referred to as the overtaking lane. When overtaking large vehicles, you may experience buffeting from downdrafts and if it is raining, a lack of forward vision caused by road spray. As you approach the overtake, ensure that you do not leave it too late to move out and get closer than the 2 second rule. When overtaking large vehicles, such as lorries, buses, coaches and large vans, you can move to the right of centre to give yourself more room for error. This all depends on the circumstances during the overtake for your safety.

LIFESAVER TO MOVE OUT

Before you get ready to overtake large vehicles, ensure it is safe behind with regular mirror checks to gather information. Indicate early and let it flash at least 5-6 times to give other vehicles warning of your intention to overtake.  When it is safe, carry out a right hand lifesaver to move out, cancel the signal and complete the overtake. Once the overtake is complete and once you are clear of the slower moving vehicle, take a mirror check and left lifesaver to move back into the driving lane.

KEY POINTS TO REMEMBER - Overtaking large vehicles

• Signal early and let it flash at least 5-6 times
• Effective mirror checks on approach
• Carry out a right hand lifesaver to move out
• You may move further away in the overtaking lane
• Once clear carry out a left lifesaver to move lanes