How to safely pull up on the right-hand side of the road, reverse for two car lengths, and rejoin traffic. Added to the driving test in December 2017.
6
Steps
Medium
Difficulty
High
Test Chance
2017
Added to Test
Key safety point:The most critical moment is rejoining traffic. You'll be crossing the oncoming lane. always check thoroughly and wait until completely clear before moving off.
See exactly how this manoeuvre is done, with expert commentary.
The examiner will say: "I'd like you to pull up on the right-hand side of the road when it's safe to do so." Choose a safe, legal place. not near a junction, bend, or school.
Check your interior mirror, right mirror, and right blind spot. When safe, signal right and move to the right side of the road. Pull up close to the right-hand kerb.
Once stopped by the kerb, apply the handbrake and select neutral. The examiner will then ask you to reverse for about two car lengths.
Select reverse gear. Check all mirrors. especially the right mirror and right blind spot for oncoming traffic, and the left mirror for vehicles passing on your side.
Reverse slowly for about two car lengths (approximately 10 metres). Keep close to the kerb, maintain good all-round observation. Keep the car straight.
The examiner will tell you to rejoin the traffic when you're ready. Check all mirrors and blind spots. especially for oncoming traffic from behind. Signal right, move to the left side of the road when completely safe.
Always check your right mirror, right blind spot, and look well ahead before crossing to the right. Oncoming traffic has priority.
Keep glancing at your right mirror to maintain a consistent distance from the kerb. Make small steering corrections.
The examiner says "about two car lengths". this is roughly 10 metres. Don't overthink the exact distance, just aim for approximately right.
This is where most faults happen. You're crossing into the path of oncoming traffic. check thoroughly and only move when you're certain it's safe.
Look through the rear window as your main view. Don't just rely on mirrors. turn and look.
Choose a spot on a straight road with good visibility in both directions. Avoid curves, junctions, and driveways.
The main skill here is reversing in a straight line. Use your right mirror to track the kerb and make micro-adjustments.
This manoeuvre involves being on the "wrong" side of the road. The examiner will be watching your observations very carefully.
"About two car lengths" is approximate. Focus on control and observation rather than counting metres precisely.
Our instructors know the perfect roads to practise this manoeuvre safely.