Rule 264 : Master Your Lane Discipline & Road Safety

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Highway Code Rule 264

📖 Rule 264 Full Regulations & Explanation

Rule 264 ↗
Keep in the left lane unless overtaking.

If you are overtaking, you should return to the left lane when it is safe to do so (see also Rules 267 and 268).
Be aware of emergency services, traffic officers, recovery workers and other people or vehicles stopped on the hard shoulder or in an emergency area. If you are driving in the left lane, and it is safe to do so, you should move into the adjacent lane to create more space between your vehicle and the people and stopped vehicles.

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Rule 264 : Master Your Lane Discipline & Road Safety

Standard Lane Discipline

Keep to the Left Lane

Drivers must stay in the leftmost lane of the road unless they are actively performing an overtaking maneuver .

Reference Rules 267 & 268

Safe overtaking practices are further detailed in Rules 267 and 268 of the highway code to ensure maneuvers are executed without risk .

The " Move Over " Safety Protocol

Identify Roadside Hazards

Stay alert for emergency services , traffic officers , recovery workers , or any vehicles stopped on the hard shoulder or in designated emergency areas .

Complete the Overtake

Once you have successfully passed the slower vehicle , you should return to the left lane as soon as it is safe to do so .

Create a Safety Buffer

If you are currently in the left lane and see people or vehicles stopped on the shoulder , move into the adjacent lane to create more space .

Prioritize Safety Over Space

Only attempt to move into the adjacent lane to create space if the maneuver can be done safely without endangering other road users .