Unit 3: Task 15 - Vehicle road positioning

Learning Outcome

1. The learner will safely and competently position the vehicle correctly on laned and unlaned roads in accordance with the law and 'System of Car Control';
2. The learner will maintain safe following distances from other vehicles and safety margins when passing stationary objects or bicycle riders; and
3. The learner will correctly position the vehicle when turning left or right.

Assessment Standard

The learner will demonstrate compliance with road craft concepts at least 80% of the time (The Driving Section) and compliance with the law during the assessment without assistance.

Requirements

Vehicle positioning on laned and unlaned roads

1. Keep the vehicle as near as practicable to the left on unlaned roads without unnecessarily obstructing other traffic;
2. Keep the vehicle wholly within the marked lane when travelling straight or in bends; and
3. Use the space within the lane to maintain safety margins.

Maintain safe following distances and safety margins

1. Maintain a minimum of three (3) seconds following interval (see page 21) from the vehicle in front;
2. Allow a safety margin of at least 1.2 m (where practicable) when passing objects, vehicles or obstructions;
3. Allow a minimum safety margin of 1 metre when passing a bicycle rider where the speed limit is 60 km/h or less, and 1.5 metres where the speed limit is over 60 km/h; and
4. Stop in a position behind other vehicles allowing sufficient space to turn away from the vehicle in front if necessary.

Positioning for turns

1. Correctly position the vehicle at 'Stop' lines (associated with 'Stop' signs, crossings and traffic lights etc.);
2. Adopt correct road position at intersections when the view is obstructed; and
3. Demonstrate the correct approach and turn positions for turning left and right at intersections in accordance with the law.