IAM Release Tips To Sharing With Other Road Users

We often preach to our children about how to share nicely with others, however, do we apply this wisdom when it comes to driving with other motorists on the road? Richard Gladman, head of driving and riding standards, has accumulated five top tips to ensure you know how to share the road with other users.
 

1. Pre-empt what another road user might do and be ready to react if necessary. For example, if a pedestrian is standing between two busy lanes of traffic, you may be thinking: “You shouldn’t have crossed there.” Or you could be sympathetic to the fact they’re stranded and allow them to cross if you can do so safely. Whatever the reason, they’re vulnerable, therefore you should help them.
2. Try to see things from other people’s perspectives and help them, without them even realising it. If we were to all do this, it could impact our road system for the better. Giving a little more space or a bit of extra time can make all the difference.
3. Giving way to a large vehicle – bus or HGV. They need extra room when turning, therefore you should give them the room to make them feel safe and comfortable when manoeuvring their vehicle.
4. Allowing extra space - motorcyclists can sometimes be seen darting through traffic, why not aid them by moving over slightly to allow them to pass you with ease.
5. Know when the best time is to overtake. Be patient and overtake when the time is right if you must follow for a while then leave a sensible space. Make sure your vision ahead is clear and will remain so for enough time to complete the pass. Just by taking those extra few seconds to overtake carefully, rather than rushing could be the difference between getting to your destination safely or having a car crash.

Richard says: “Our behaviour towards others changes when driving. Polite individuals can become territorial monsters fighting for a small space that may take seconds off a journey; this competitive attitude can ramp up stress levels. Remember, until you walk – or in this case drive – a mile in another man’s shoes, you won’t appreciate that driving is much better if we share nicely. Enjoy the sunshine and appreciate the polite waves and smiles you can now collect on your journey.”

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