Lesson Plan 15 - Reverse around a Corner
Reversing into a road on the left
Why would you need to?
The road you are on may be blocked off or be a dead end (no through road). There may not be enough space to turn your vehicle around in the road, therefore you may need to reverse into a side road to be able to continue your journey.
Location
You must ensure it is safe, legal and convenient.
This will include checking up the side road that it is safe to reverse into – check it is clear of parked cars, pedestrians etc. Do not reverse onto a main road or where there is a no entry sign. Choose somewhere quiet for practising and avoid continuous attempts at the same location.
On the driving test
The examiner will ask you to stop before a side road on the left. You will be required to reverse into the road on your left doing so safely and under control, keeping reasonably close to the kerb. Carrying out the manoeuvre safely will include constant observation at each stage, particularly for oncoming traffic and pedestrians who will have priority over you.
Under full control will mainly be ensuring the speed is kept low and the steering is correct throughout. To keep the speed low try reversing with the clutch pedal just at or near the biting point. Take into account any slopes including the camber of the road so that the car does not run away from you. Avoid hitting the kerb.
Getting ready
Stop your vehicle reasonably close to the kerb – about a foot away. You may find it easier to turn slightly in your seat to make observations out of the rear window easier.
Carrying out the manoeuvre P.O.M.
Prepare – Select reverse gear, set the gas and bring clutch pedal to biting point.
Observations – Check all round for pedestrians and approaching traffic – including checking people’s driveways.
Move – Reverse slowly facing over your left shoulder out of the rear window.
Observations
At the point you start turning into the side road you create the greatest hazard – make sure you check over your right shoulder for anything approaching (if necessary stop your car and continue when safe).
Observations
As you continue reversing by checking over your left shoulder out of the rear window, you can have the occasional glance in your nearside (left) mirror to assess how close and parallel to the kerb you are, but try to maintain good observations all round out of the windows.