Bus Lanes Edinburgh: Should You Use The Bus Lane on the Driving Test?

While driving in the UK we predominately drive on the left side of the road. All drivers should understand that when we encounter roads with two or more lanes, our normal road position should be on the left, and that driving in a different lane without good reason can obstruct traffic flow, which can lead to unnecessary queues, congestion and sometimes accidents.

Here are some examples of situations where you might not use the left lane:-

• the lane ahead is blocked by a hazard or slow moving vehicle

• the signs or road markings are obscured or worn

• you are allowing the emergence of vehicles from the left e.g. from bus stops or slip roads

• when you are turning right

• when road markings or signs advise of a lane closure or restriction e.g. Bus lane

For some reason when we stick a bus lane on the left lane of a road, all our basic understanding of road positioning, seems to go out the window. I have a couple of theories about why: drivers simply follow the vehicle in front, or they prioritise observing road markings over signs, unaware that there are times attached to its operation. Then there’s driver laziness because, at the end of the day, what’s the fine for not using it?

But should you use the bus lane on the driving test and how does your examiner evaluate your use or non-use of them? Obviously if you try and enter a bus lane during its time of operation the examiner will have to intervene (because if they don't the car owner may receive a fine) and you will have failed your driving test.

If the bus lane isn't in operation the road should be treated as you would any other with more than one lane. If you don't and just avoid it anyway, your examiner will be observing the situation and asking themselves if any of the examples mentioned above apply, if they don't you will receive at least one minor for road positioning. So what's a minor in the grand scale of things I here you say, well this can easily become a major, test failing fault if you...

1. Hold up vehicles behind when there is a clear and obvious opportunity to be in the left lane

2. Move (to ovoid the not operational bus lane) without due care and attention

3. Habitually not using bus lanes on several roads during the test

4. Try and move to the left late, without proper observations and signals.

Hopefully that clears some things up. I would add don't panic if you find yourself in the wrong lane. The most important thing is be safe, take a breath, be calm. Mirror Signal Manoeuvre.