Most driving journeys are routine – until something unexpected happens. It’s often these moments, rather than everyday road rules, that test a driver’s judgement. Even situations that seem straightforward can quickly become awkward or risky if handled badly.
Below are several common but challenging scenarios faced on UK roads. Take a moment to consider what you’d do – then see what the safest response looks like.
1. You’re waiting to turn right and the traffic lights change
You’ve moved into the middle of a junction to turn right. The lights change from green to amber, but oncoming traffic is still passing.
What’s the correct response?
If you entered the junction while the light was green, you should complete the turn once it’s safe – even if the lights change to red. This is expected and legal.
What you shouldn’t do is reverse back behind the stop line or hesitate once the way is clear. Keep checking for pedestrians and cyclists as you complete the turn and clear the junction promptly.
2. A driver is tailgating you on a narrow road
You’re driving at an appropriate speed, but the vehicle behind is following very closely and clearly wants to get past.
How should you handle it?
Stay calm and maintain a steady and safe, legal speed. Do not react emotionally as this will only increase the risk to yourself and any other drivers.
If conditions allow, increase the distance between you and the vehicle ahead, giving yourself more time to brake gently. Where it’s safe and suitable, pulling over briefly to let the other driver pass can reduce pressure and help everyone move on safely.
3. You realise you’re in the wrong lane at a roundabout
As you approach a busy roundabout, you suddenly realise you’re not in the correct lane for your intended exit.
What should you do?
If it’s not safe to change lanes, continue in the lane you’re already in and follow it around – even if that means taking a different exit. You can always re-route afterwards.
Cutting across lanes at the last second is one of the most common causes of collisions on roundabouts. Missing an exit is inconvenient; making a sudden manoeuvre is dangerous.
4. A cyclist is riding in the centre of the lane
You’re driving behind a cyclist who’s positioned centrally in the lane, even though the road might appear wide enough to overtake.
Is this allowed – and what’s the safest response?
Cyclists are permitted to ride in the centre of the lane, particularly on narrow roads or where there are hazards ahead, such as parked cars or junctions.
The safest option is to stay behind them until you can overtake with plenty of space. When you do pass, leave at least 1.5 metres at speeds up to 30mph – more at higher speeds – and don’t try to squeeze through if the space isn’t there.
5. Heavy rain suddenly reduces visibility on a motorway
You’re driving on the motorway when rain becomes much heavier, making it harder to see other vehicles clearly.
What changes should you make?
Reduce your speed and increase your following distance. In wet conditions, the Highway Code recommends leaving at least a four-second gap.
Make sure your headlights are on (but not full beam), avoid sudden steering or braking, and be alert for surface water. If visibility becomes very poor, it may be safest to leave the motorway at the next exit or pull into services until conditions improve.
6. An emergency vehicle approaches from behind in slow traffic
Traffic is crawling when you hear a siren approaching from behind.
What’s the right thing to do?
Stay calm and look for a safe way to create space. Avoid stopping suddenly or mounting pavements. Unless directed to by a police or traffic officer, do not move through a red light or enter a bus lane to make way.
Wait until the lights change or until there is a safe, legal gap to pull into. Emergency drivers are trained to wait behind you or find an alternative route if you are blocked at a junction.
Final thoughts
Driving isn’t just about knowing the rules – it’s about applying them calmly under pressure. The safest drivers aren’t those who react quickest, but those who think clearly, anticipate problems and avoid making situations worse.
Being prepared for these everyday challenges can make a real difference, helping journeys feel smoother, safer and far less stressful – whatever the road throws at you.