Navigating Lanes: Legal and Dangerous Practices in Road Traffic

When dealing with traffic congestion, drivers often seek alternative methods to reach their destination more efficiently. Common practices like passing a car by driving in between lanes can be tempting, especially when traffic is moving below the speed limit. However, while such practices might not be outright illegal, they can still pose significant risks to road safety. This article explores the legality and dangers of these actions, drawing on both common experiences and official guidelines.

Legal but Unsafe: Passing in Between Lanes

Passing a car by driving in between lanes is not explicitly illegal in the UK, but it goes against the highway code. It's a practice often known as 'undertaking'. The UK's Highway Code discourages this, warning of the risks involved. The rationale behind this guideline is clear: it can be extremely dangerous, especially when traffic is moving slowly or is stationary.

Take, for example, the situation where you're trying to exit the highway when the rest of the traffic is already moving. If you stop to undertake, you're at risk of being rear-ended or causing a traffic jam. Illegally undertaking can result in a fixed penalty of 3 points on your license for careless driving, which can lead to more severe consequences such as a driving ban, an unlimited fine, and even a jail sentence.

The Dangers of Splitting Lanes

'Lane splitting', another dangerous practice, refers to riding a motorcycle between lanes of stopped or slowly moving traffic. This act is EXTREMELY dangerous, especially for motorcycles and motorbikes. While legally impossible for cars due to size and maneuverability, it's a common (and risky) practice among motorcyclists.

Recalling a personal anecdote from over 65 years ago, during a traffic jam on a long journey just after an airshow in Ottawa, Ontario, I dared to squeeze between vehicles to gain a bit of speed. It was only later that I realized just how incredibly dangerous this was. My act was a lucky escape, and it serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved. Motorcyclists who repeatedly engage in this behavior significantly increase their chances of becoming casualties of their own actions.

Why Not Spar Decisively?

When faced with the need to pass a car between lanes, you might consider whether it's even safe or sensible. Even if the traffic is moving below the speed limit, there are significant risks involved. For one, the space between two occupied lanes might be too narrow to accommodate your vehicle, posing a risk of collision.

Additionally, squeezing between cars in slow-moving traffic can be risky, especially if you're already close to the speed limit. The inside lane should never be used solely for the purpose of overtaking. In fast-moving traffic, the risks escalate as the blind spot between vehicles becomes more pronounced.

It's essential to consider the potential consequences of your actions. Compounding slow-moving traffic can cause delays for other drivers and increase the risk of accidents. Instead of forcing your way between lanes, it's better to move to the inside lane if you're moving slower than the traffic. This increases your visibility and reduces the chances of a mistake causing a crash.

Remember, traffic laws exist for a reason. They're designed to keep you and other road users safe. While legal, practices like overtaking in between lanes carry inherent risks. It's crucial to prioritize road safety and respect the guidelines outlined in the Highway Code.

Conclusion

In conclusion, passing a car between lanes by driving in between lanes is not illegal, but it involves significant risks. Both the Highway Code and common sense advise against such actions, especially in slow or stationary traffic. Motorcyclists, in particular, should be cautious about practices like lane splitting, as it can be extremely dangerous.

Always prioritize road safety and respect the rules designed to keep everyone on the roads as safe as possible.