Obstructions

Dealing with Obstructions

The safest way to handle any obstruction is to look well ahead, plan early, and apply the MSM/PSL routine.

Your decision to wait or drive around the obstruction depends on:

  • The type and width of the road

  • Whether the obstruction is on your side, the other side, or both sides of the road

  • The presence of oncoming traffic

  • The behaviour of following drivers

  • The space available to pass safely

As a general rule, if the obstruction is on your side of the road, approaching traffic has priority.

Never assume you have priority when the obstruction is on the other side. Always be prepared to give way, and remember that the obstruction could conceal a pedestrian or hidden hazard.

Driving Around an Obstruction

Look well ahead to identify obstructions early, then follow the routine:

M – Mirrors: Check for following traffic and assess its speed and position.

S – Signal: Indicate if it helps other road users understand your intentions.

P – Position: Avoid staying too far left until the last moment. Move out smoothly and early so you can steer a steady course. If you must wait, stop far enough back to see ahead clearly without blocking oncoming traffic.

S – Speed: Adjust to match the situation and maintain control.

L – Look: Assess whether it’s safer to wait or proceed.

Obstructions on Hills

Extra care is needed on hills. Give yourself time and space to react, as braking distances can vary.

If you’re travelling downhill and the obstruction is on the other side, do not assume priority. If safe, give way to uphill traffic, especially heavy vehicles. Your courtesy will be appreciated.

Roadworks

Roadworks often reduce road width and may be controlled by temporary lights or ‘Stop/Go’ boards.
Always:

  • Obey all signals and signs

  • Slow down

  • Watch for workers on or near the road

Large, Slow-Moving Vehicles

These include:

  • Agricultural vehicles

  • Road maintenance or verge-cutting machinery

  • Vintage or slow-moving vehicles

  • Escorted heavy or wide loads

  • Refuse collection trucks

Temporary warning signs may alert you to slow vehicles ahead. Other clues include bins awaiting collection or fresh cuttings on the road.

When you encounter one:

  • Be patient and hold back to maintain a clear view ahead.

  • Never follow another vehicle blindly when overtaking.

  • Watch for workers or machinery that may move unpredictably.

  • Drive at a speed that allows you to respond safely — large vehicles cannot move aside quickly.

Defensive Driving

  • Do not follow through another driver’s overtaking manoeuvre unless you can see that it’s safe.

  • Keep a safe distance from both the obstruction and approaching traffic.

  • Reduce speed when space is tight — the smaller the gap, the slower you should go.

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