In the context of driving, "pulling up on the right" refers to a specific manoeuvre performed during a driving test, where a driver positions their vehicle on the opposite side of the road, facing oncoming traffic, before reversing and rejoining the flow of traffic.
This manoeuvre was first incorporated into the UK driving test in December 2017. It's designed to assess a driver's ability to safely handle their vehicle in an unconventional parking scenario, demonstrating observation skills, control, and awareness of other road users.
The Three Key Parts of the Manoeuvre
The "pull up on the right" manoeuvre, though straightforward in concept, involves a sequence of precise actions. It consists of three main stages:
- Pulling up on the Right-Hand Side of the Road: The driver is instructed to pull over and stop safely on the right-hand side of the road. This means parking against the flow of traffic, which requires careful observation for oncoming vehicles and judging a safe space.
- Reversing for 2 Car Lengths: Once stopped, the driver must then reverse the vehicle for approximately two car lengths. This part of the manoeuvre tests the driver's ability to control the vehicle while reversing in a straight line, maintaining excellent all-around observation to ensure safety.
- Rejoining Traffic: Finally, the driver must safely move off from the right-hand side and rejoin the normal flow of traffic. This involves checking mirrors, signaling appropriately, and waiting for a safe gap in traffic without causing an obstruction or inconvenience to other road users.
Why is This Manoeuvre Important?
This manoeuvre tests several critical driving skills and safety principles:
- Observation: Crucial for identifying safe gaps, oncoming traffic, and potential hazards before pulling up, reversing, and rejoining traffic.
- Vehicle Control: Demonstrates the ability to steer, use pedals, and manage the clutch (for manual cars) smoothly and accurately, especially when reversing.
- Awareness: Shows an understanding of road positioning, the implications of parking against traffic flow, and how to safely integrate back into traffic.
- Decision-Making: The ability to decide when it's safe to perform each step of the manoeuvre, reacting appropriately to changing road conditions and other drivers.
Performing the Manoeuvre Safely
To execute the "pull up on the right" manoeuvre successfully and safely, consider the following practical insights:
- Approach: Signal your intention early if you need to cross a lane of traffic to get to the right. Use your mirrors and check your blind spots.
- Stopping Position: Choose a safe spot that doesn't obstruct driveways, junctions, or cause a hazard. Ensure there's sufficient space on both sides of your vehicle.
- Reversing: Look over your left shoulder and use all mirrors to monitor your surroundings. Control your speed, typically at a walking pace.
- Rejoining: Before moving off, perform thorough all-around checks. Signal right, and when safe, steer smoothly into the correct lane without cutting off other vehicles.
Here's a quick overview of key steps and safety checks:
| Step | Key Actions | Safety Checks |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Pulling Up on the Right | Signal intention, steer across the road, stop parallel to the curb. | All-around observation, check for oncoming traffic, pedestrians, obstacles. |
| 2. Reversing (2 Car Lengths) | Engage reverse gear, control clutch/accelerator, steer gently. | Continuous observation (all mirrors, over shoulders), check for hazards. |
| 3. Rejoining Traffic | Select first gear, signal right, look for a safe gap. | All-around checks, observation for oncoming traffic, check blind spots. |
For more detailed guidance, official driving resources, like those from the UK government, offer comprehensive advice on all driving test manoeuvres. A useful resource for learning about driving test standards can be found on sites like the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) website.
