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DRIVING ON COUNTRY ROADS
Navigate rural roads safely and with confidence.
Country roads account for more fatal collisions than any other road type in the UK. Our guide covers the unique hazards of rural driving — from blind bends and narrow lanes to animals and agricultural vehicles.
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Country road driving — the risks
More fatal collisions occur on rural roads than on any other road type in the UK. Country roads present unique hazards: narrow lanes, blind bends, concealed junctions, unexpected animals, agricultural vehicles and fast cyclists. Many have no footpath, meaning pedestrians walk in the road. The national speed limit of 60 mph on a single carriageway rural road is a maximum — not a target — and must only be driven at in safe, clear conditions.
Speed on country roads
The national speed limit of 60 mph applies to many country roads, but this is almost always too fast for the conditions. Blind bends, narrow lanes and unexpected hazards mean that a speed safe enough to stop within your visible distance is often much lower than 60 mph. Drive at a speed from which you can stop safely if something appears around the next bend.
Blind Bends
Slow down before blind bends — you do not know what is on the other side. Keep to your side of the road and be prepared to stop.
Narrow Lanes
In narrow lanes, pass oncoming vehicles carefully. Use passing places where provided. Slow down and be prepared to reverse to a passing place.
Animals on the Road
Watch for animals wandering onto country roads — horses, sheep, cattle and deer are common hazards. Slow down and pass wide and slowly.
Agricultural Vehicles
Tractors and farm vehicles are slow-moving and wide. Do not overtake on a bend or when your view ahead is not completely clear.
Pedestrians
Pedestrians and cyclists on country roads often have no pavement and share your road. Give them plenty of room when passing.
Mud on the Road
Mud deposited by farm vehicles is extremely slippery. Reduce speed if you see it ahead and brake gently. Report significant mud deposits to the local council.
Overtaking on country roads
Only overtake on a country road when you have a completely clear view of the road ahead and can complete the overtake without forcing an oncoming vehicle to brake or swerve. Never overtake approaching a bend, a junction, a brow of a hill, or where there are road markings prohibiting overtaking (solid white lines). The rewards of overtaking a slow vehicle are rarely worth the risk in rural areas.
Gain rural driving experience with RED
Our instructors will take you on country roads as part of your lessons to build real-world confidence.
Country Road Driving FAQs
What is the speed limit on a country road?
What should I do if I meet another car on a narrow lane?
Are country roads more dangerous than motorways?
How should I pass a horse on a country road?
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