Watch as drivers use controversial slingshot method to bypass dozens of cars – leaving patient queuers fuming
THIS is the moment drivers used the controversial slingshot method to bypass dozens of motorists waiting patiently at a roundabout.
Patient queuers were left fuming as cars zipped past them by taking advantage of the hotly-debated hack.
The method involves using the right-hand lane to approach the roundabout with the intention of leaving at the first exit.
Under the rules of the road, drivers in the left-hand lane can use any exit up to the one straight ahead, after which the right-hand lane must be used.
Likewise, those in the right-hand lane can only use the exits after the one straight ahead.
However, the slingshot method makes use of an apparent loophole, where drivers in the right-hand lane can go all the way around the roundabout and then leave at what, on their initial approach, was the first exit.
Footage of motorists using the sneaky hack has generated fierce argument on social media about its legality.
Some argue that it is a completely legitimate, and even ingenious, tactic, while others claim it is against the spirit of the law even if not explicitly illegal.
The debate has come to a head at a roundabout on the A4119 in Llantrissant, Wales, which has found itself becoming a slingshot hotspot.
One furious driver told Wales Online: “People who cheat the queue on the roundabout…in Llantrisant make me want to actually scrap them.”
However, one road user in favour of the slingshot snapped back: “Why do people get so aggy [sic] on the roundabout in Llantrisant when you actually use the merge lane?”
The situation has only been made worse after the filter lane was closed by roadworks, leading to long queues on the left-hand side.
A spokesperson for Rhondda Cynon Taf Council said that
They added: “We understand the frustrations of motorists that witness other vehicles using the right lane to loop around the roundabout and attempt to ‘cut the queue’ of traffic waiting to proceed north on the A4119.
“While there are limited options to prevent this driving behaviour, the Council strongly urges all motorists to comply with the intended traffic routes that are clearly signposted.
“Upon completion of the dualling scheme, this issue will be resolved.”
It comes after dash cam footage of a driver using the slingshot left viewers divided on whether it’s fair.
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Is the slingshot method legal?
There is nothing in the Highway Code that specifically prohibits using the slingshot method.
However, it could still result in a penalty.
Guidelines from the Crown Prosecution Service state that “misusing lanes to gain advantage over other drivers” can be considered “careless and inconsiderate” driving.
This can attract a £100 fine and up to three points on your licence, though more serious cases could result in a prosecution and a larger penalty.
Graham Conway from Select Car Leasing said: “It all boils down to whether your driving ‘falls below the standard expected of a competent and careful driver’.
“Slingshotting a roundabout… could easily fall into this category.
“And while you might think you’re being clever with your roundabout ‘hack’, you run the risk of a police officer failing to be impressed at your driving skills.”