On A Mock Test Today
This is the first in a series of tales of issues that arose during mock driving tests, detailing what happened and why, and what the driver might have done differently.
Take The Third Exit
On a mock test today, on approach to a roundabout, I asked the candidate to take the third exit. I also mentioned this was the second of the two exits marked for Superstore. There was a roundabout graphic sign on approach to the roundabout. On this the exits were marked as follows;
- Superstore
- Ring Road
- Superstore
- York
- Industrial Estate
The roundabout in question is half way along Jockey Lane and is the main entrance to Monks Cross Shopping Park. We were approaching along Jockey Lane, coming from the south.
The first two exits were clearly left, the third just to the left of 12 o’clock. The York exit was just to the right of 12 o’clock and Industrial Estate was clearly right.
The candidate chose the left lane on approach, then. When it was safe to join, they proceeded onto the roundabout, immediately crossing into the right hand lane. As they passed the second exit, they observed and signalled left before cutting across the left hand lane to leave the roundabout for the third exit. Fortunately there were no vehicles to our right as we approached and joined the roundabout. Neither were there any vehicles to our left as we departed.
So, what did the candidate do wrong?
The obvious answer is they changed lanes as they joined the roundabout – a clear case of poor lane discipline. However, on further discussion there was more to it…
The candidate had not misread the sign, in fact they had not noticed the sign at all! On arriving at the roundabout, they (incorrectly) realised they were in the wrong lane for the third exit. They then attempted to correct this as they joined the roundabout, cutting across into the right hand lane.
What Might The Candidate Have Done Differently?
Firstly, use available information when making decisions. Actively look for signs giving information on the approach to rundabouts or junctions. Had they seen that the third exit was slightly left, they might have been happy with their initial lane choice. Then they hopefully would have stayed in the left position throughout.
Secondly, having decided they were in the incorrect lane, they should have stuck with it, perhaps taking the second exit. Whilst not the intended direction, this would have maintained lane discipline. If you go the wrong way safely, you can find somewhere to turn around and retrace your steps. This holds for driving tests too. You don’t get penalised on a driving test for going the wrong way, as long as it’s done safely. And when driving in general, it’s better maitain safety and go the wrong way than risk an incident.
Further reading
Highway Code
DVSA – National Standards For Driving
What examiners are looking for