Dealing with congestion

When you meet congestion the safest option is to join the queue in the middle of the leftmost lane or - when approaching a junction - in the appropriate lane for the direction you are going (as in the illustration). This will stop other vehicles pulling alongside you and causing turning conflicts.

A second option is to get off and walk to the head of the queue on the pavement. If you want to avoid delay, and the opposite carriageway is clear, another choice is to overtake the queue on the right. Don't speed and be aware of refuge space on the left side of the centreline in case ncoming traffic appears. If you do cross into the other carriageway go far enough over to be visable and safe from vehicles leaving the queue with a sudden u-turn. When you reach the front you can use an advance stop line (ASL) if there is one, otherwise take care how you rejoin the waiting traffic. When 'jumping' the queue where there is no ASL it is often safest to integrate behind the first vehicle in the queue. Take a position where everyone can see you.

If you decide to move ahead on the inside of stationary motor traffic, either against the kerb or between files of vehicles, go slowly, and watch out for opening doors or pedestrians crossing. If congestion means you have to pass parked cars inthe zone where you might be hit by an opening door slow down to walking pace.

Long lorries pose a particular threat for cyclists. Never try to pass between a truck and the kerb. If a truck is behind you take the middle of the lane to prevent it from passing you without changing lanes. If a truck is waiting ahead of you don't try to overtake it unless you are certain you can get past it before it starts moving. When following a truck stay in a place where the driver can see you. Watch the wing mirrors - if you can't see the driver, then he or she can't see you.