Possibly the part of the test that causes the most stress, yet rarely gets marked!
Firstly, I think this manoeuvre should be removed from the test itself (not lessons), but that’s for another article. 😊 But for now, you have to do it, so lets give you some tips for it.
- Know the instruction! Generally the tester will say: “Up ahead, I want you to drive past the next junction on the left, park on the left, then reverse into the road behind you”. This should alert you to the fact that the Left Reverse is coming up. Remember, do not signal left til you pass halfway of the above road on the left, and I advise parking 12-18 inches from the kerb and go at least 5 metres past the junction.
- Before starting the manoeuvre, PAUSE and BREATHE. Also, you may lower your left mirror for the manoeuvre, but ensure to re-align it after.
- Then look all around, engage Reverse gear, no need for a signal (there is a reverse light).
- Break the manoeuvre into 3 parts (especially when learning to do it). Going straight back to the turn, the turn itself and finally straight back up the road you are driving into.
- As you reverse, maintain good all round observation (Not just your left mirror).
- DO THIS MANOEUVRE SLOWLY. This is self explanatory, but if it’s a part of the test causing you worry, trust me, then simply do it slowly.
- When to turn? This is hard to show in a paper article, but in general, I use 2 visual tips. (a) Once the kerb disappears in your left mirror, and (b) once you can see 20-30m up the road you are reversing into (by looking out Left rear passenger window), it’s time to turn.
- It’s ok to go wide (within reason) on the turn. Many people try to stay near the kerb. Remember, just keep the car 12-18 inches near the kerb for part 1 and 3 (as described above). Even if you go a little wide, just ensure you finish the manoeuvre near kerb and straight.
- If you go wrong and are about to hit the kerb, STOP! Tell the tester, you’ve gone a little wrong and need to adjust. Do some observation checks, signal right, and if the road is clear, move a few feet forward to straighten the car again. Then engage reverse and continue.
- Once you finish the manoeuvre, park up and await the next instruction, but please do not forget to do the full moving off routine before moving off.
- Look at the junction ahead and beware it could have a STOP sign/line. Listen carefully to the testers instruction (ie. Go left or right)
Brendan Tierney is a Brand Ambassador of KennCo Insurance.
KennCo Insurance understands that getting car insurance for your first car can be challenging. That’s why they offer affordable and reliable young driver car insurance. KennCo Underwriting Ltd T/A KennCo Insurance is regulated by The Central Bank of Ireland.
Recent Comments