What is the definition of undertaking
Discussion
Now, i am aware that if i were in the outside lane of a motorway, and pulled left to get passed someone in front of me on the motorway, then this would be classed as undertaking.
However, if i were pulling up to a set of traffic lights on red, and the outside two lanes were 5 deep, and the left hand bus lane (but outside of bus lane hours) was empty, then would this be undertaking?
However, if i were pulling up to a set of traffic lights on red, and the outside two lanes were 5 deep, and the left hand bus lane (but outside of bus lane hours) was empty, then would this be undertaking?
Highway Code said:This is a rule I make full use of as nowhere is the phrase "moving slowly in queues" defined.
139: Overtake only when it is safe to do so. You should... stay in your lane if traffic is moving slowly in queues. If the queue on your right is moving more slowly than you are, you may pass on the left.
Some might same that a queue is moving slowly if it is moving significantly slower than they wish to.
Others might claim that it is possible to have a queue of one vehicle.
Crippo said:
Absolutely
This is an example of good driving. I have done it for 17 years.
It is for me too - I have given up on pulling right across the motorway just to overtake some numpty who can't be bothered moving to the inside lane. I actually undertook a MLM the other day and they proceeded to pull into the totally empty OUTSIDE lane! Unbelievable

7db said:What you mean is that it is not an offence in itself but that the BiB tend to take a dim view of it. Careless driving is the only thing they can get you on, but if you get the wrong BiB they will.
The offence as charged is careless driving.
The best advice is not to take the p
s when BiB are about. >> Edited by V8 Archie on Tuesday 23 May 23:41
Nic Jones said:
So in theory I'm in the inside lane oding a steady 70mph, middle lane numpties/impatient 3rd lane numpties decide to slow to 65mph, I'm within my rights to undertake in lane 1 (obviously paying serious attention to middle lane clubas I go).
Is that right? Bloody hope so
This is only my understanding, but yes and I do it often too (M1 queues). If ever questioned on it, that would be the argument I'd put forward. But it should go without saying that you should be ready every moment to jam the anchors on if some muppet decides to pull back in on you .. so keep your speed differential down .... and if you're moving at less than 50mph, watch the mirrors for suicidal bikers too.
They would struggle to make a careless charge stick unless it was clear that you pulled in a lane, passed someone and pulled back out again, as I understand the case law. I could be wrong, and a charge of careless is always open to interpretation on consideration of *all* the conditions.
Using the incorrect lane (for example at lights) to gain an advantage over other motorists is an example of careless driving, however.
Using the incorrect lane (for example at lights) to gain an advantage over other motorists is an example of careless driving, however.
Forums | Speed, Plod & the Law | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff




