Move Off – Ensuring a Safe and Controlled Start
Moving off correctly is a crucial skill tested in the UK driving test. The examiner assesses whether you can start driving smoothly without causing danger or inconvenience to other road users.
The two key areas the examiner evaluates are - Safety and Control
Safety – Ensuring It's Safe to Move Off
1. Examiner Expectations
- Use Mirrors Properly – Check the interior mirror for a clear view of traffic behind and the side mirrors for approaching vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians.
- Blind Spot Check – Always turn your head to check the blind spot over your right shoulder before moving off.
- Use Signals Correctly – Signal only if necessary, such as when another road user may be affected. Avoid unnecessary signaling if the road is clear.
- Assess Gaps in Traffic – Judge whether it’s safe to enter the road, especially in busy areas.
- Avoid Hesitation – If it's safe, move off confidently without delaying, as excessive hesitation can disrupt traffic flow.
2. Common Mistakes Learners Make
- Not Checking Blind Spots – Failing to check over the right shoulder can result in missing a vehicle or cyclist in the blind spot.
- Moving Off Without Checking Mirrors – Relying only on a quick glance or forgetting to check the interior mirror before pulling away.
- Incorrect Use of Signals – Forgetting to signal when necessary or signaling unnecessarily, causing confusion for other drivers.
- Hesitation – Taking too long to move off when it's safe can frustrate other drivers and create unnecessary traffic delays.
3. Real-Life Learning from a Failed Test
A learner failed their test because they moved off from a parked position without checking their blind spot. A cyclist was approaching, and the examiner had to intervene to prevent an accident.
What could have helped?
- Making blind spot checks a habit before every move-off.
- Practicing in different traffic conditions to build confidence in judging when it’s safe to go.
Control – Moving Off Smoothly and Confidently
1. Examiner Expectations
- Smooth Clutch Control – Find the biting point before releasing the handbrake to avoid stalling.
- Use the Accelerator Gently – Apply light pressure on the gas pedal to move off gradually.
- Steering Accuracy – Keep the car straight and avoid drifting towards parked cars or the curb.
- Quickly Gain the Correct Speed – Accelerate appropriately for the road conditions to match traffic flow.
2. Common Mistakes Learners Make
- Stalling the Car – Releasing the clutch too quickly without enough gas can cause the engine to stall.
- Rolling Back on Hills – Failing to use the handbrake properly or not setting enough gas on an incline.
- Moving Off Too Slowly – Hesitating after releasing the handbrake can frustrate other road users.
- Drifting Towards the Curb – Not holding the steering wheel steady when moving off can cause the car to veer off course.
3. Real-Life Learning from a Failed Test
A learner failed because they released the clutch too quickly without enough gas, causing the car to stall repeatedly at a junction. This created a dangerous situation as vehicles were waiting behind.
What could have helped?
- Practicing clutch control in a quiet area to master smooth take-offs.
- Using the handbrake on inclines to prevent rolling back.
- Maintaining a steady hand on the steering wheel while moving off.