Changing lanes is something we do regularly whilst driving on busy roads, often without consciously thinking about the steps we need to take to do so safely.
Although eventually the process and precautions that come along with it become automatic, at first the prospect of changing lanes can be understandably daunting.
In this handy guide, I’ll explain how to change lanes and offer up some simple and easy to remember tips to help you feel more confident and competent behind the wheel.
When might I need to change lanes?
There are a number of different scenarios where you might find you need to change lanes. Common situations when you might need to change lanes include:
- Overtaking: When you are travelling behind a vehicle that is moving more slowly you can overtake (changing lanes to the right) when it is safe and necessary to do so. Once you’ve overtaken the vehicle, you should change lanes again, moving back to the left.
- Approaching junctions: Most junctions have multiple lanes depending on the direction you want to go. Getting into the correct lane as early as possible is essential to avoid needing to change lanes.
- Using roundabouts: When navigating roundabouts you might need to change lanes in order to exit in the direction you want to go.
- Exiting motorways, bypasses and dual carriageways: When exiting a motorway or dual carriageway you may have to change lanes in order to reach the exit. It’s important to allow plenty of time for this lane change and be sure to carefully check your surroundings, as vehicles around you will be travelling at higher speeds.
- Driving in the wrong lane: Sometimes you might find yourself driving in the wrong lane – especially if you’re in an unfamiliar location. It’s especially common amongst learners and new drivers, as it’s not always clear which lane you need to be in.
Changing lanes, step by step
1/ Get ready
Preparation is key when changing lanes – whether it’s a decision you need to make as part of your onward journey, or a response to something happening in the road. Be sure to think ahead as you approach a roundabout, exit or junction, checking for any traffic signs and road markings with information that may be important to you. Keep calm, focus and consider your next steps with care.
2/ Check your mirrors
Once you’ve prepared to switch lanes, you’ll need to check your rearview (or interior) mirror and side mirror as you begin your Mirror, Signal, Manoeuvre routine. Check your rearview mirror, then your right-hand or left-hand mirror depending on which way you are moving to ensure there are no hazards or obstacles present.
Although checking your mirrors is an important step, it’s also crucial to glance over your shoulder after checking your mirrors to make sure there are no vehicles alongside you that could have moved into your blind spot. This is also an opportunity to double-check for cyclists and motorcyclists, as they can be more difficult to spot.
If another vehicle is too close or a hazard can be identified, stay back and wait before you change lanes. Safety should be your main concern when driving – you don’t want another driver to have to brake harshly or swerve to avoid hitting you if you move prematurely.
3/ Signal
Once mirrors and blind spots have been checked, it’s time to move on to the second stage of the MSM routine – signalling. Signalling lets other drivers know what your intentions are when changing lanes – so as soon as you’re ready, it’s important to turn on your right or left-hand indicator (depending on which way you’re going).
Signalling in good time also allows other road users to adjust in order to allow you to manoeuvre safely. If you have to abandon your manoeuvre, remember to your off your indicator until you’re ready to attempt the lane change again.
4/ Make your move
Now you’re sure it’s safe to move and have signalled your intentions, it’s time to perform the third and final step of the MSM routine – manoeuvre.
Make sure you have a strong grip on the steering wheel and maintain your speed as you move over. Take your time and calmly steer the vehicle into the other lane.
Once you’ve completed the manoeuvre and you’re correctly positioned in the new lane, remember to turn your indicator off.
My top tips when changing lanes include:
- Take your time. There’s no rush – it’s better to be safe than to speed.
- Always check your mirrors before moving off.
- Maintain your speed during and after changing lanes.
- Plan your route in advance – using a sat-nav or other type of map can help you to better prepare for junctions (although it shouldn’t be relied upon).
Common mistakes when changing lanes
Changing lanes is simple and safe when done correctly – but there are some pitfalls to be aware of, such as:
Misplaced mirrors: Your mirrors are vital but often overlooked. Be sure to check that they are all correctly adjusted for maximum visibility, as if not they won’t fully cover the area around you so that you can safely change lanes and carry out other important manoeuvres when driving.
Hasty manoeuvres: Moving across too early can be incredibly dangerous – never complete your manoeuvre if the vehicle behind you or in the other lane has changed speed or has started to overtake you.
Going too fast: Adjusting your speed is essential in order to change lanes safely. If you’re going too fast, you can’t safely respond to what’s going on around you or conduct proper checks. If you go too slowly or stop, you could cause a collision with traffic behind you. Maintain your speed, but don’t rush and slow down if you have to in order to complete your lane change safely.
Forgetting your indicators: Not using your indicators at all is incredibly dangerous – whilst forgetting to turn them off after you’ve completed your lane-change can be confusing for other road users.