The roads around Skye and the Highlands of Scotland do get busy during the summer. To enjoy your journey when driving, the following tips will help both you and other road users.
These are just ‘tips’ you should be familiar with the UK Highway Code, which details best practices and UK driving laws.
Speed Limits
Speed limits are in Miles Per Hour (mph), this often catches out European drivers.
- Restricted Road – 30mph (towns and villages)
- Single Track Road – 60mph (for cars)
- Single Carriageway – 60mph (for cars)
- Dual Carriageway and Motorway – 70mph (for cars)
Pull Over
If you are driving below the speed limit at a relaxed holiday pace (to enjoy the views), then please consider others, especially locals who are using their vehicles for work or school runs. If other cars catch up with you, then do pull over at the next safe parking spot to let others get past you. This will allow you to enjoy your drive without slowing others down.
Parking
Always use designated parking areas. Don’t park on the verge, in passing places or in front of gates.
In towns or villages again use the designated parking places and do check if there are any time restrictions (these should be signposted).
Animals on road
Much of Skye’s land is inhabited by domestic sheep and cattle over unfenced pasture land. It is very common to meet sheep, and even the odd cow, on the road during your travels. Please bear this in mind and always be conscious that these animals are unpredictable.
Deer on the road is also a common occurrence, especially during the autumn rutting season and in the winter when the animals come down from the higher slopes in search of better grazing. Collisions with deer are unfortunately a real hazard to road users, particularly at night time. Drivers should always be aware that a deer may jump out in front of your vehicle at any time and with no warning. Take the necessary precautions by reducing speed and being extra vigilant.
Single Track Roads
There are many single track roads around Skye and other parts of the Highlands. If you are not used to this type of smaller road then follow these tips.
Keep Left
Keep to the left. When passing other cars use the marked passing places and keep to the left. Which ever car gets to the passing place first must wait on the left hand side. If a car waits for you then a small wave as you pass is expected, this is a polite way to say thank you to the other driver.
Never Cross Right
Never cross to the right-hand side of the road, even if you get to the passing place first. This is dangerous.
Never Leave the Road
Never leave the road to try and squeeze past other cars. The verges are often very soft and you may get stuck.
Reverse
If you meet another car you may need to reverse back to the nearest passing place. Which ever car is nearer to a passing place should reverse. If a car reverses for you then remember to thank the other driver with a small wave as you pass.
Overtaking
Allow other cars to overtake you. If a car catches up with you then pull over at the next safe passing place on your left. Choose a passing place with good visibility (not on a corner). Use your left-hand indicator to tell the car behind you that you are letting them past.
