Driving Test Manoeuvres

During your driving test you will be asked to complete one reverse manoeuvre, which is not too bad really. The DVSA examiner will however, be able to choose your one manoeuvre from a batch of four potential set pieces, so it is no use just learning the one, you have to be able to do all four, as you will not know which one the examiner will choose.
The four potential manoeuvres are:

• Reversing into a side road on the left.
• Turning in the road.
• Reverse parking.
• Reverse into a parking bay.

In this post, I will explain the main points to be aware of, starting with the first manoeuvre on the list, reversing into a side road, often called" reversing round a corner." I will cover the other set pieces in subsequent blogs.

Reversing Into A Side Road On The Left.

If you are asked to perform this manoeuvre on your driving test, the examiner will ask you to pull up just before the side road on the left. He will then explain that he wants you to drive slowly past the end of the road, position the car and then reverse around the corner, keeping reasonably close to the kerb.

So, you should carry out these instructions, using the MSM and POM routines at all times.(Your instructor will have briefed you fully on these routines already.)

As you drive slowly past the end of the road, you should be checking what shape the corner is, square or round, uphill or downhill, any potholes etc., that might surprise you.

Start the manoeuvre using the POM routine.( Prepare, Observe and Move)

Turn slightly in your seat, set the gas, ease the clutch to biting point, check all around, release the handbrake and if its perfectly safe, start reversing. Use clutch control to keep the vehicle moving very slowly backwards until you reach the point of turn. That is the beginning of the corner. Start to steer left at this point, about 2/3rds of a turn for a round corner, and often to full lock on a square corner. Remember the front of your car will swing out as you turn, so full observation is essential. Remember to check all blind spots before you start to steer and if you are likely to affect any road user, you should pause until it is safe.

When you can see into the new road through the rear window, be ready to straighten the steering. Using a sticker or something similar as a focal point can be very helpful to line up with the kerb. Your driving instructor will have a reliable method to help you get used to the final position of the car.

Remember

Keep on the lookout for other road users, particularly:

• Pedestrians about to cross behind you.
• Vehicles approaching from any direction.

Thanks, John