In normal conditions, without reserved lanes or a manoeuvre requiring another lane, you travel on a motorway with three lanes in your direction and the right lane is free. Which lane must you normally use?

Correct answer

In the right-hand lane, as a general rule.

Use the right lane. Article 31 allows other lanes in the same direction when traffic or road circumstances warrant it, without obstructing following vehicles. On carriageways with three or more lanes, lorries and vans over 3,500 kg, special vehicles not required to use the shoulder and combinations over 7 m are normally limited to the right lane and its neighbour. Not all vans have that restriction merely by name. Article 33’s destination-based lane choice excludes motorways and dual carriageways; article 32 has specific congestion-with-emergency-vehicle and snow rules.