Moving off and stopping safely

By the end of this topic you can

• You can complete the checks before moving off.
• You can move off on the level smoothly and safely.
• You can move off at an angle from behind a parked car.
• You can choose a safe, legal place to stop and pull up close to the left.

What you need to know and understand

• Before moving off from the kerb you must take all-round observations, check your mirrors and signal.
• Just before moving off, look over your right shoulder (or left, if moving to the left) for the blind spot the mirrors do not show.
• If you wait after checking, check again before you go.
• The RSA lists inadequate observation when moving off, such as skipping the blind spot check, among the most common reasons for failing the test.
• When stopping, check your mirrors and signal your intention to pull in, then stop close to the left-hand edge or in a lay-by.
• Signalling never gives you right of way. Wait until the way is clear.

Moving off on the level

1. Prepare: clutch down, first gear, find the biting point and keep the car still on the footbrake or handbrake.
2. Check the interior and right mirrors.
3. Signal your intention to move out.
4. Look over your right shoulder to check the blind spot.
5. If clear, release the handbrake, raise the clutch a little and add gentle accelerator.
6. Steer gently into your normal road position and build up speed.

Moving off at an angle

When a car is parked close in front, you need to move out more sharply. Do your checks, then move off slowly using clutch control and steer briskly to the right. Watch the front corner of the parked car and the road ahead, and look out for traffic coming towards you, because you will be further out than usual. Once past, return to your normal position.

Pulling up on the left

Do not leave your headlights on when parked. Use sidelights if lights are needed.

• Pick a safe, legal place: not on a bend, near a junction, at a bus stop or opposite another parked car on a narrow road.
• Check your interior and left mirrors.
• Signal left to show you are pulling in.
• Brake gently and steer to stop close and parallel to the kerb.
• Apply the handbrake, select neutral, then cancel the signal.

Common mistakes

• Skipping the blind spot check because the mirrors look clear.
• Moving off after a long wait without checking again.
• Stalling by lifting the clutch too fast. Hold at the biting point first.
• Stopping too far from the kerb or bumping into it.

Test yourself: Moving off and stopping safely

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Good Driving Practice in Ireland