Navigating Road Works Safely : A Guide to Rule 290

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Highway Code Rule 290

📖 Rule 290 Full Regulations & Explanation

Rule 290 ↗
Road works may contain features that require extra care.

Narrow lanes. Lanes may be narrower than normal and will be marked by studs or temporary road markings. Keep a safe distance (see Rule 126 ↗) from the vehicle in front and make sure you can clearly see the edges of the lane ahead.
Contraflow systems. These mean that you may be travelling in a narrower lane than normal and with no permanent barrier between you and oncoming traffic. At the start and finish of contraflows, you should slow down and increase the distance to the vehicle in front because changes in the camber of the road may affect vehicle stability.
Breakdown advice. If your vehicle breaks down in road works, follow Rules 275, 277 and 278 but be aware that areas marked off by cones contain significant hazards. Where available, you should move your vehicle into a signed road works refuge location. Signs indicate where dedicated recovery services are provided.

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Navigating Road Works Safely : A Guide to Rule 290

NAVIGATING NARROW LANES

Identify Temporary Markings

Narrow lanes are often marked by temporary studs or road markings rather than standard permanent lines .

Maintain Safe Following Distances Drivers must keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front ( referencing Rule 126 ) to allow for sudden stops .

Monitor Lane Edges

Ensure you have a clear view of the lane edges ahead to maintain proper positioning within the restricted space .

MASTERING CONTRAFLOW SYSTEMS

The Contraflow Hazard The Contraflow Hazard These systems involve driving in narrow lanes with no permanent barrier between your vehicle and oncoming traffic .

BREAKDOWN PROCEDURES

Use Signed Refuge Locations

If a vehicle breaks down , it should be moved into a dedicated road works refuge location marked by official signs .

Slow Down at Start and Finish Reduce speed and increase following distance when entering or exiting a contraflow system .

Beware of Road Camber Changes in the road's camber at transition points can negatively affect vehicle stability .

Avoid Coned - Off Areas Areas marked off by cones are not safe zones ; they contain significant hazards for drivers and vehicles .

Look for Dedicated Recovery

Specialized recovery services are often provided in road works ; look for signs indicating their availability .