Gap selection
These are my how-to tips for safe and efficient gap selection. For detailed information on New Zealand's driving rules please refer to the Official New Zealand Road Code and drive.govt.nz.
Why it matters
Drivers use gap selection all the time, for example, when changing lanes, pulling out into traffic, or entering a roundabout. Judging the movement of other traffic requires skill and practice, and if you misjudge a gap, there can be serious consequences.
How to select a gap
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Estimate closing speed: At 50 km/h, vehicles cover about 14 m per second. If you need 2 seconds to enter and another 2 to reach speed, you want the nearest vehicle at least 6 seconds away.
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Keep rolling: Where possible, keep a slow roll (5–10 km/h) toward the line so you need less time to reach speed once a gap appears.
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Watch vehicle type: Large trucks accelerate slower, so you can enter smaller gaps behind them. Motorbikes and performance cars close gaps much faster than they appear.
Extra tips and tricks
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Before reaching intersections, reduce your speed and scan the area in advance. This allows you to identify gaps more effectively. Maintaining momentum helps you pass through intersections at a quicker pace, which makes gaps close more gradually. Slowing down too much at roundabouts can make it harder to find suitable gaps.
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Pay attention to the ‘body language’ of other vehicles, as it can sometimes convey intentions that differ from their indicators. This is particularly important at roundabouts; focus on the speed and wheels of other vehicles, as they reveal the driver's true intentions.
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Be cautious when selecting a gap—don’t rush or choose one that is too small. Creeping over the lines while waiting can lead to critical errors or immediate failures, depending on the severity. Always yield to vehicles with the right of way, even if another driver hesitates or signals for you to proceed. In the test, this will be classed as 'failing to give way' which is an immediate fail.
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When accelerating into a gap, apply the 2- and 4-second following rules for vehicles approaching you. This ensures a safe distance and reaction time.
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Avoid changing lanes or driving through intersections too slowly, as this can be dangerous. Gaps will close quickly, increasing the risk of accidents.
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Don’t be overly generous to other motorists when you have the right of way. Slowing down or giving way unnecessarily can cause confusion and frustration with other drivers. It also disrupts traffic flow and can cause accidents.
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Remember that you never have the right of way when your lane is ending. Quickly find a gap and adjust your speed to merge safely. If congestion prevents a safe merge, stop in the merging or feeder lane until a gap appears.