On a multi-lane highway, the lane generally used for normal driving is
The right-hand lane. Unless overtaking or preparing to turn left, you should typically drive in the rightmost lane(s) available for your direction of travel.
You should use the left-hand lane on a multi-lane highway for
Primarily overtaking or when turning left. The left lane is generally reserved for passing. Once you have safely overtaken, you should return to the right-hand lane when it is safe to do so.
Even if you are driving at the speed limit and there is no one to overtake, staying in the left-hand lane is
Not acceptable. You should move back to the right-hand lane. Remaining in the left lane when not overtaking can impede the flow of traffic and is often considered poor driving etiquette, and sometimes illegal.
When preparing to exit a highway to the right, the correct lane to move into is
The right-hand lane. Position your vehicle in the right lane early to ensure a smooth and safe exit. Avoid last-minute lane changes near the exit.
When approaching a roundabout and intending to take the first exit, you should typically be in
The right-hand lane. Using the right lane signals your intention to take the first exit and helps maintain a smooth flow of traffic within the roundabout.
When going straight at a roundabout, the lane you should typically use is
Usually the right or center lane, depending on markings. Check the lane markings as you approach. Often, the right lane is for the first exit and straight ahead, while the center lane might also be for straight ahead or further exits.
If you are approaching a roundabout and intending to turn left or take a later exit, the correct lane is
The left-hand lane. Using the left lane signals your intention to go further around the roundabout.
Changing lanes within a roundabout is
Permitted, but only when it is safe to do so. Just like on any other road, you can change lanes within a roundabout to position yourself for your exit, but ensure it is safe and signal clearly.
If you find yourself in the wrong lane for your intended turn at an intersection
Continue straight ahead and find a suitable place to turn. It is better to go straight and reroute than to make a dangerous last-minute lane change that could disrupt traffic or cause a collision.
On a two-lane road with a broken white line in the center, using the left lane to overtake is
Allowed when it is safe and the road ahead is clear. A broken white line indicates that overtaking is permitted when conditions allow. Always check your mirrors, signal, and ensure there is enough space and visibility.
A continuous white line separating lanes of traffic going in the same direction
Discourages or prohibits lane changing. You should typically stay within your lane when it is marked by a continuous white line, unless there is a specific reason and it is safe to do so (e.g., avoiding an obstruction).
Double continuous white lines separating lanes going in the same direction
Strictly prohibit lane changing. These lines are used to provide a greater degree of separation between lanes and should not be crossed.
If you are in a lane marked with a mandatory turn arrow
You must follow the direction indicated by the arrow. Mandatory lane markings indicate that you must turn in the direction shown if you are in that lane.
A lane marked with a Bus Lane sign may not be used by
Regular vehicles unless specific exceptions are indicated. Bus lanes are reserved for buses to improve public transport efficiency. Unauthorized use can result in penalties.
If you are driving slower than the general flow of traffic on a multi-lane road
Keep to the right-hand lane(s) to allow faster traffic to pass. Driving significantly slower in the left lane can be dangerous and impede other drivers.
When merging onto a highway from a slip road (on-ramp)
Merge into the rightmost lane, then move left. Merging into the closest lane minimizes disruption to the main flow of traffic. Merge into the rightmost lane, then move left if needed, once it is safe and you have matched the speed of traffic.
If you miss your exit on a highway, should you try to reverse in the lane you are in?
Continue to the next exit and find a safe place to turn. If you miss your exit on a highway, you should never reverse in the lane you are in. It is illegal and extremely dangerous to you and other vehicles on the road.
When driving in a lane that is about to end
Merge safely into the adjacent lane in the direction of travel. Be aware of lane closure signs and markings and merge smoothly and safely. Merge safely into the adjacent lane when it is safe to do so, using your indicator and checking your mirrors.
On a three-lane highway, heavy goods vehicles should use
Usually the right-hand and sometimes the center lane. Regulations often restrict heavy vehicles to the slower lanes to improve overall traffic flow and safety. They are often restricted from using the far-left lane.
When approaching a pedestrian crossing in your lane
Be prepared to stop within your lane. Avoid changing lanes suddenly. Pedestrian crossings require extra caution. Maintain your lane and be ready to stop if a pedestrian appears or indicates they want to cross.
If your lane is blocked by an obstruction or stationary vehicle, and there is a continuous white line
You may cross a continuous white line only if it is safe. While continuous white lines discourage lane changes, an unavoidable obstruction may necessitate a temporary move, provided it is done cautiously and you return to your lane as soon as it is safe.
If you are towing a trailer, the specific lane restrictions you need to be aware of are
Heavy vehicles and those towing trailers are restricted from using the far-left lane. Regulations can vary, but it is common for slower or larger vehicles to be limited to the rightmost lanes to help with traffic flow. Check local rules.
When approaching roadworks with lane closures indicated
Move into the indicated lane smoothly and early. Plan ahead and change lanes gradually when directed to ensure safety and maintain traffic flow through the roadwork area. Avoid last-minute merges.
On a two-way road with a solid white line to your right and a broken white line to your left
You can overtake if it is safe. The broken line indicates that overtaking is permitted for traffic on that side of the road, while the solid line on the other side means overtaking is not allowed for them.