Lines

[imbecile]

Is it acceptable to take an unorthodox line (I'm thinking paticuarly about the racing line, as in late apexing, to turn right at a roundabout) when your position could be misleading but your signaling is unambigious? Naturally one is looking out for drivers that misinterpret your intentions, standard disclaimer, etc...

Edited by imbecile on Monday 26th June 02:48

[Jungles]

You should ALWAYS stick to the appropriate lane when negotiating a roundabout. You can position your car for a late-apex turn, but only within the appropriate lane, and only when there are no vehicles which may be mislead or feel threatened by your positioning.

Crossing lanes or straddling lanes around a roundabout with traffic is definitely a no-no.

[7db]

Disagree. You can take whatever line you like through the roundabout providing you don't mislead other traffic. Noone else around - get out and use the line you want.

Only a no-no if there are specific lane directions saying you can't go in thoes directions

[Vaux]

7db said:

Only a no-no if there are specific lane directions saying you can't go in thoes directions

But even these aren't mandatory are they? (just the arrows, not if it says "Turn left" etc.)

[StressedDave]

Vaux said:

7db said:

Only a no-no if there are specific lane directions saying you can't go in thoes directions

But even these aren't mandatory are they? (just the arrows, not if it says "Turn left" etc.)

True, but you have to manage the expectations of other drivers...

[7db]

Vaux said:

7db said:

Only a no-no if there are specific lane directions saying you can't go in thoes directions

But even these aren't mandatory are they? (just the arrows, not if it says "Turn left" etc.)

Only mandatory if accompanied with an upright and the words are turn left, turn right or ahead only.

However, using the "wrong" lane to gain an advantage over other traffic is an example given by CPS as inconsiderate driving. It's also confusing to other drivers which - given that they are likely to be confused enough already at a roundabout - is not overall in your interests.

[Peat]

5am to 10pm - stay in lane

10pm to 5am - drive whereever the hell you like.

[Don]

Peat said:

5am to 10pm - stay in lane

10pm to 5am - drive whereever the hell you like.

Sort of!

When traffic is around then you must "manage their expectations" - as Dave puts it. Make sure they know where you are going, make sure you know where they are going. NEVER travel around a roundabout *with* another car - you never know what they will do. NEVER overtake on a roundabout - you don't know whether the car to your left will "straighten" the roundabout and sideswipe you.

An EMPTY roundabout? - I'll take the line of least resistance, provide a smoother ride, wear my tyres less. BUT ONLY if I can be certain this will inconvenience no-one.

A REALLY EMPTY roundabout?

[Don]

Peat said:

5am to 10pm - stay in lane

10pm to 5am - drive whereever the hell you like.

I remember about twenty years ago I first came across the "magic roundabout" in Swindon. It was the middle of the night and I was lost. I could see the exit where I needed to go and I could also a hige expanse of painted mini-roundabouts (no raised bits back then).

It was between 10pm and 5am so I aimed the car at the exit I needed and drove straight across.

So liberating!