As soon as you identify a hazard ahead, you
must check your mirrors to see what is happening behind you. Just looking is not
enough; you must ask yourself the question: 'Is it safe to carry out my
manoeuvre?'
Signal
When you are sure it is safe to proceed, ask yourself if there are any
other road users who will benefit from a signal. If the answer is yes,
give the appropriate signal (by indicator, arm or brake lights). After
signalling, check your mirrors again to find out how drivers behind are
reacting.
Position
Just as you are about to move in to position check your mirrors again to make sure it is safe to move into the correct
position for the manoeuvre.
Speed
Adjust your speed for the hazard by firstly releasing the brake and if it's not slow enough then by applying progressive pressure on the brake.Ensure you have plenty of time to change gear before
the hazard. If things seem rushed, you're going too fast. Make a final
observation check all around and then complete your manoeuvre.
Look
While carrying out the hazard routine you must keep a constant look-out for
other road users. Doing this will help to ensure that you have all the
information you need to make the correct decisions about your intended actions.
Note that mirrors have been mentioned at least three times
in the routine above - there is no set number of times to check your mirrors;
the important thing is that you MUST always know how your actions will affect
following drivers and how their actions will affect your plans. Use your
mirrors as often as necessary during the routine.
When do you use it?
The MSM/PSL routine should always be used when:
- Moving
off
- Signalling
- Changing
direction
- Turning
left or right
- Overtaking
- Changing
lanes
- Slowing down or stopping
Other Driving Routines are:
