Rules of the Road

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1. Speed Limits

  1. Built-up areas: 30 mph (unless otherwise stated)
  2. Single carriageways: 60 mph
  3. Dual carriageways & motorways: 70 mph
  4. Special speed limits: Some residential areas may have 20 mph zones
  5. Always follow temporary speed limits in roadworks national-speed-limit

2. Overtaking Rules

  1. Only overtake when it is safe and legal
  2. Do not overtake on bends, junctions, pedestrian crossings, or when there is oncoming traffic
  3. Use mirrors and signal before overtaking
  4. Overtake on the right unless in a one-way street

3. Stopping Distances (At 70 mph: 96m total)

  1. Thinking distance + Braking distance
    1. 20 mph: 6m + 6m = 12m
    2. 30 mph: 9m + 14m = 23m
    3. 50 mph: 15m + 38m = 53m
    4. 70 mph: 21m + 75m = 96m
  2. Increase distances in wet or icy conditions

4. Traffic Signs and Signals

  1. Red Circle = Mandatory (e.g., speed limits, no entry)
  2. Blue Circle = Positive instruction (e.g., turn left, keep left)
  3. Triangles = Warnings (e.g., sharp bends, pedestrian crossings)
  4. Rectangles = Information (e.g., directions, parking)
  5. Flashing amber at crossings = Proceed if safe to do so

5. Right of Way

  1. Give way to traffic from the right at roundabouts
  2. Pedestrians have priority at zebra crossings
  3. Emergency vehicles always have right of way
  4. At unmarked junctions, reduce speed and be prepared to stop

6. Motorway Rules

  1. No pedestrians, cyclists, or horse riders
  2. Use left lane unless overtaking
  3. Hard shoulder: Only for breakdowns or emergencies
  4. Smart Motorways: Red X means lane closure; variable speed limits apply
  5. Use hazard lights if stopping unexpectedly

7. Pedestrian and Cyclist Awareness

  1. Give cyclists at least 1.5m clearance when overtaking
  2. Check blind spots before turning
  3. Pedestrian crossings: Slow down and be prepared to stop
  4. School zones: Observe reduced speed limits and warning signs

8. Alcohol & Drug Limits

  1. England & Wales: 35 micrograms alcohol per 100ml breath
  2. Scotland: 22 micrograms alcohol per 100ml breath
  3. Zero tolerance on illegal drugs
  4. Medication warning: Some prescribed drugs impair driving

9. Night & Weather Driving

  1. Fog: Use fog lights when visibility is below 100m
  2. Heavy Rain: Increase stopping distance, use dipped headlights
  3. Icy Roads: Drive at lower speeds, avoid sudden movements
  4. Night Driving: Use full beams when appropriate but dip for oncoming traffic

10. Penalty Points & Fines

  1. Speeding: 3-6 points, possible fine & disqualification
  2. Using a phone: 6 points & up to £1,000 fine
  3. No insurance: Minimum 6 points & fine
  4. Drink driving: Driving ban, unlimited fine & possible imprisonment

11. Emergency Situations

  1. If involved in an accident, stop and exchange details
  2. If injury occurs, report to the police within 24 hours
  3. If a vehicle breaks down:
    1. Use hazard lights
    2. Move to a safe place (hard shoulder if on a motorway)
    3. Do not attempt repairs on a live motorway lane

12. Parking Rules

  1. No parking near junctions, pedestrian crossings, or double yellow lines
  2. Red Routes: No stopping at any time unless signs allow
  3. Use designated parking bays where possible
  4. Do not park on pavements unless permitted