What is the 12 o'clock rule in the Highway Code?

The "12 o'clock rule" is a commonly taught, unofficial guideline for navigating roundabouts in the UK. It suggests using the left-hand lane for exits at 12 o'clock (straight ahead) or earlier, and the right-hand lane for exits after 12 o'clock, assuming an approach at 6 o'clock.

What is the 12 o'clock rule in driving?

Generally speaking, if the exit you need to take is at 12 o'clock (straight ahead) or before, you would choose the left hand lane on approach to and on the roundabout. If your exit is at 1 o'clock or after, you would choose the right hand lane.

What lane is 12 o clock on a roundabout?

As a general rule of thumb: If the exit is positioned before '12 o'clock' on the roundabout sign, you'll need the left-hand lane. This is usually for turning left or going straight on — but not always. If the exit is positioned after '12 o'clock' on the roundabout sign, you'll need the right-hand lane.

What are the new rules in the highway code?

There is new guidance in the code about routes and spaces which are shared by people walking, cycling and riding horses. People cycling, riding a horse or driving a horse-drawn vehicle should respect the safety of people walking in these spaces, but people walking should also take care not to obstruct or endanger them.

What is rule 92 of the highway code?

Rule 92. Vision. You MUST be able to read a vehicle number plate, in good daylight, from a distance of 20 metres (or 20.5 metres where the old style number plate is used). If you need to wear glasses (or contact lenses) to do this, you MUST wear them at all times while driving.

Know how to read roundabout signs. Know when and when not to give way at roundabouts

What is rule 1 of The Highway Code?

Highway Code Rule 1

If you have to step into the road, look both ways first. Always remain aware of your environment and avoid unnecessary distractions. Always show due care and consideration for others.

Can I touch my sat nav while driving?

It's illegal to hold and use a phone, sat nav, tablet, or any device that can send or receive data, while driving or riding a motorcycle. This means you must not use a device in your hand for any reason, whether online or offline.

What is the golden rule at roundabouts?

The golden rule at roundabouts is to give way to traffic already on the roundabout, which means prioritizing vehicles coming from your right, unless signs or road markings (like traffic lights or filter lanes) say otherwise. Always check for clear gaps, watch for other road users (including cyclists!), and never assume others follow the rules, keeping a steady pace to maintain flow.

Which lane to use when turning left?

Here are some tips for choosing a lane:

1. Use the left lane to pass or turn left.
2. Use the right lane to enter or exit traffic or when you enter the road from a curb or shoulder.

Which lane for the 3rd exit on a roundabout?

For the 3rd exit at a roundabout, you generally use the right-hand lane on approach, signal right, stay to the right on the roundabout until past the exit before yours, then signal left and move to the left lane to exit, but always check signs and road markings first as layouts can vary.
 

What are the most common roundabout mistakes?

Here are the top 10 mistakes you should avoid on roundabouts:

• Failing to give way:
• Entering a roundabout too fast:
• Not checking your mirrors:
• Not signalling:
• Cutting across traffic:
• Failing to yield to pedestrians:
• Driving in the wrong lane:
• Not using your indicator:

Can you drive 3 hours without stopping?

You should not drive for more than 4.5 hours without an uninterrupted break of at least 45 minutes. During a break a driver may not drive or do any other work and must use this time only to rest. You may take a break in a moving vehicle, provided that you do no other work.

How can police prove I was on my phone?

How can the police prove that I was on my phone? Of course, the first evidence that the police will use is an eyewitness account. If a police officer sees you holding or using a mobile phone, this can be enough evidence to bring a case against you.

Can you fail a driving test for not following sat nav?

If you go the wrong way or miss an instruction from the sat nav, it will not affect your test; you will not receive a major or a minor. As long as you can stay calm and do not panic then run into an issue, the examiner will not take it into account.

What are the 7 new driving rules?

The New Driving Laws & Rules Coming In 2026

• Digital driving licences. ...
• Big practical driving test changes learners. ...
• Additional theory test question topics. ...
• A crackdown on booking driving tests. ...
• New electric vehicle taxes. ...
• Fuel duty will rise. ...
• Company car tax rates are going up. ...
• ANPR usage set to increase.

Am I allowed to wait on a single yellow line?

Can I park on a single yellow lines? Single yellow lines mean no waiting or parking during the times shown on nearby signs or at the entrance to a controlled parking zone. There are no standard times or rules so you must always check the signs before waiting or parking.

What are the 10 golden rules for road safety?

10 Golden Rules for Road Safety Stop or Slow Down, Buckle Up, Never use Mobile while Driving, Wear Helmet, Obey Traffic Rules and signs, speed limits Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India #MORTHRoadSafety Delhi Traffic Police.

Can police stop your car for loud music?

The police also have powers to deal with cars playing loud music (whilst driving and stationary) although the officers would have to be present and hear the noise before they could take any action. If it is a one-off occurrence then neither the police nor the local authority will be likely to take any action.

What is a train horn called?

A train whistle or air whistle (originally referred to as a train trumpet or air trumpet) is an audible signaling device on a railway locomotive, used to warn that the train is approaching, and to communicate with rail workers.

What is "road rage"?

What is Road Rage? Road Rage is driving a vehicle in an aggressive manner that could endanger the safety or property of another driver, motorcyclist, bicyclist, or pedestrian.