16. Clearance / Obstructions (NS 3.1.1)

The minimum safe gap to give as you pass parked vehicles and other obstructions on the left is
1 metre. It may be necessary to reduce the safe gap still further in order to proceed ahead. If this is the case, your speed must be further reduced to allow more time to judge the gap and react to unexpected occurrences such as a car door being opened suddenly.

“Shaving” parked cars by driving too close to them for no apparent reason is a driver fault and, in some circumstances, could be dangerous.

Give at least 2m clearance to cyclists, horse riders etc and allow for them having to move over to avoid pot holes or pass obstructions.

Allow pedestrians a wide clearance especially if there is no pavement or if children are near the edge of the pavement. Avoid splashing pedestrians who are close to puddles.