Six great ways to share space

TO align with our ‘Thumbs Up For Great Driving and Riding’ month, our head of driving and riding standards, Richard Gladman, has put together six tips on how to share the road with other road users.

Look ahead and predict what other road users may be doing.

Be ready to react and change your speed if necessary.

For example, if a pedestrian is standing between two busy lanes of traffic you may be thinking: “You shouldn’t have crossed there.” Or you could be sympathetic of the fact they’re stranded and allow them to cross if you can do it safely.

Whatever the reason, they’re vulnerable and you have the power to help them.

Try to see the world through the eyes of others and help them, without them even realising it.

If we all did this, it might even catch on.

Giving a little more space or a bit of extra time will make a difference. Give way. A large vehicle, such as an HGV or a bus, will need extra room when turning. Give them the room they need to make them feel safe and comfortable when they manoeuvre their vehicle Allow extra room. Motorcyclists can sometimes been seen filtering through traffic.

Why not aid them by moving over slightly to allow them to pass you with ease.

Know when to overtake.

The sun is out, which means more cyclists will be on the road.

Be patient and overtake when the time is right, if you have to follow for a while then leave a sensible space.

Make sure your vision ahead is clear and will remain so for enough time to complete the pass.

Taking those extra few seconds to overtake carefully rather than rushing could be the difference between getting to your destination safely and being involved in a collision.

Be respectful when passing horses.

Make sure you give the rider enough space when passing them. We recommend at least a car’s width and make sure this is done slowly. A startled horse may be unpredictable – remember always pass ‘slow and wide’.

Richard says: “Our behaviour towards others often changes when driving.

“Polite individuals can become territorial monsters fighting for a small space that may take seconds off a journey. This competitive attitude can ramp up stress levels.

“Remember, until you walk – or in this case drive – a mile in another man’s shoes, you won’t appreciate that driving is much better if we share nicely.

“A big ‘Thumbs Up’ to enjoying the sunshine and appreciating the polite waves and smiles you can now collect on your journey.”