Applying the theory

You have to take care how you perceive things when you are learning to drive.

Take this for example, have a look at what the white paint means at a mini roundabout according to the Highway Code

http://www.direct.gov.uk/prod_consum_dg/groups/dg_digitalassets/@dg/@en/documents/digitalasset/dg_070563.pdf

It’s the 2^nd row down, furthest to right.  It says ‘give way to traffic from the right at a mini roundabout”.  Does it mean traffic from the right ON the roundabout, or does it mean traffic from the right approaching the roundabout?  Do all vehicles drive round the white spots of a mini roundabout as they should anyway – don’t many drive ‘over’ the white spot, if so, is that going to be from your right still? 

And anyway, when you consider the size of mini roundabouts, and consider how close the entry points from ANY direction is in relation to your car, do you not need to be mindful of anyone coming from any direction in case they suddenly sweep round across you?

Another example might be the position workmen put the red sign “If red light shows, wait HERE”.  Very often they put them much too close to the traffic light concerned, so that if you were to stop where it suggests you could be blocking oncoming traffic, or reducing your vision ahead of the roadworks and sometimes even the traffic light itself.

The right green filter arrow is a good one for a different reason.  With this, when it comes on we often see it and think, go, go, go!  Look what the Highway Code says:

http://www.direct.gov.uk/prod_consum_dg/groups/dg_digitalassets/@dg/@en/documents/digitalasset/dg_070561.pdf

“If the way is clear”...... 5 measly little words but absolutely massive when on the road.

My last example will be a friendly member of public.  The ones who are being kind and considerate and very understanding, so they start telling you to go as they are going to wait for you.  Take care!  They may be willing to wait for you, but look all around, it doesn’t mean everyone else around THEM feels the same way!

Getting used to making correct decisions when driving takes time, assessing what is right/wrong; as in life there are many shades of grey, and driving is much the same.  For sure, knowledge is power, it certainly does help to know your theory knowledge, but it is just that.... theoretical knowledge.  When we drive around, we need to appropriately apply that theoretical knowledge and remember that it is perfectly possible that there may be others on the road who either do not have that knowledge or choose to ignore it!