Left-edge line: what it means
Sign RM4.1, RM4.2
What it means
The left-edge line shows where the left edge of the road is.
What you must do
Avoid driving to the left of the line. You may move left of it only while another vehicle is overtaking you, and only if every condition below is met.
Where you see it
On the left-hand edge of the road.
Remember
Left of the line: only while being overtaken, in daytime, with 150 metres of clear view, endangering nobody.
You may drive to the left of the left-edge line only if all of these are true:
- another vehicle is overtaking you
- you can do so without endangering yourself, other traffic, pedestrians or property
- it is daytime
- persons and vehicles on the road are clearly discernible (can be clearly seen) at a distance of at least 150 metres
The rules of the road add one more condition for driving on the shoulder. The road must be designated for one lane of traffic in each direction.
It is not compulsory to move left of the line when you are being overtaken. If you do, keep in mind that you have very little space there.
If your vehicle breaks down, stop as far left of the line as possible and switch on your emergency lights.
The right-edge line (RM4.2) shows the right edge of the road. It has its own entry.
Test yourself
Question 1
Which road marking indicates where the left edge of the road is?
A B C Show answer
Answer: Picture C
The left-edge line shows you where the left edge of the road is.
Question 2
A driver should avoid driving to the left of which of these road markings?
A B C Show answer
Answer: Picture A
You should avoid driving to the left of the left-edge line.
Question 3
Which ONE of the following is NOT a condition for driving to the left of the left-edge line?
Show answer
Answer: B: You are driving a heavy vehicle
Driving a heavy vehicle is not a reason; you may drive there only whilst being overtaken.
Part of the chapter Regulatory road markings: lines you must obey
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