This publication is the official DVSA Theory Test book for Approved Driving Instructors. It will prepare you to pass the multiple choice section of your ADI theory test first time. It contains multiple choice questions from the whole theory test question bank, with answers and explanations.
The Driving Instructor's Handbook covers every aspect of being a driving instructor including ADI exam preparation.
- Until someone has called the emergency services
- Until you feel there's no hope of them recovering
- Until the colour of their skin becomes pink
- Until they can breathe unaided or until medical help arrives
Explanation: When giving cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), continue until the casualty is breathing unaided or until medical help arrives. Don't give up. Look for signs of recovery and check the casualty's pulse. Avoid moving them unless it's necessary for their safety.
- Make sure the casualty is kept warm
- Warn other traffic
- Treat the casualty for shock
- Place the casualty in the recovery position
Explanation: At the scene of a crash, your first priority is to warn approaching traffic of the obstruction ahead. You can do this by displaying an advance warning triangle (but not on a motorway), switching on hazard warning lights or any other means that doesn't put you or anyone else at risk.
- Make full use of the mirrors
- Keep further to the left than normal
- Give signals earlier
- Keep closer to the kerb than normal
Explanation: Emphasise that it's important to get into the habit of using all the mirrors before making any manoeuvre. It's particularly important to check the appropriate exterior mirror before overtaking.
- It helps them to be seen more easily
- It helps to reduce the bleeding
- It helps them to breathe more easily
- It helps to ease the pain
Explanation: If a casualty is bleeding heavily from a limb, raise it to a higher position - so long as it isn't broken. This will help to reduce the blood flow and so reduce the bleeding.
- Signal right and drive straight back onto the motorway
- Build up speed on the hard shoulder and join the left-hand lane when there's a suitable gap
- Wait until the motorway is clear, then get into the left-hand lane
- Follow the breakdown recovery vehicle onto the motorway
Explanation: Use the hard shoulder like an acceleration lane. Build up your speed and wait for a suitable gap before merging into the left-hand lane of the motorway.
- Cut in front of them
- Keep close to them
- Stay well back
- Proceed as normal
Explanation: At a roundabout, a horse rider wanting to turn right may feel safer keeping to the left all the way around the roundabout. Stay well back. Driving close behind or alongside could frighten the horse.
- Keep their head tilted forwards as far as possible
- Ensure their airway is clear and kept open
- Raise their legs to help with circulation
- Try to give them something to drink
Explanation: When someone has stopped breathing, their airway should be checked and unblocked if necessary. Gently tilting their head back will ensure it's kept open.
- Keep them calm but don't move them
- Ask for their name and address
- Offer them a drink but no food
- Raise their legs and make them comfortable
Explanation: If you suspect a casualty has back injuries, talk to them and keep them calm. Don't attempt to move them, as this could cause further injury. Call an ambulance at the first opportunity.
- Apply firm pressure to the wound
- Roll the person into the recovery position
- Keep both legs flat on the ground
- Remove their shoes and socks
Explanation: Check there are no objects in the wound and then apply a firm pressure with a pad of clean material, such as a bandage or a length of cloth. Raising the leg will lessen the flow of blood. Avoid tying anything tightly round the leg, as any restriction to blood circulation for more than a short period of time can result in long-term injury.
- Keep them warm and reassure them confidently
- Keep them warm and give them a hot drink if available
- Encourage them to continue with the lesson to regain confidence
- Tell the medical branch of the appropriate licensing authority
Explanation: People who appear uninjured may be in shock and need professional treatment. Avoid unnecessary movement, reassure them, and keep them comfortable and warm. Don't leave them on their own and don't give them anything to eat or drink. Make sure the emergency services are called if necessary.
- Hide it with a blanket
- Park near a busy junction
- Install a security-coded radio
- Park in an unlit area
Explanation: A security-coded radio can deter thieves, as it's likely to be of little use when removed from the vehicle.
- In a one-way street, you can overtake on the right or the left
- In a one-way street, you can only overtake on the left-hand side
- In a one-way street, overtaking isn't allowed
- In a one-way street, you can only overtake on the right-hand side
Explanation: You can overtake other traffic on either side when travelling in a one-way street. Make full use of your mirrors and ensure that it's clear all around before you attempt to overtake. Look for signs and road markings and use the most suitable lane for your destination.
- As one complete crossing
- As two crossings during darkness
- As one crossing in daylight only
- As two separate crossings
Explanation: The lights that control the crossing show to both directions of traffic. If a pedestrian from either side is still crossing when the amber light is flashing, you must wait.
- Accelerate so that you're travelling slightly faster than the traffic in the left-hand lane
- Try to match the speed of the traffic in the left-hand lane
- Make sure you reach the maximum speed allowed for the slip road
- Drive at a slower speed than the traffic in the left-hand lane
Explanation: Give way to traffic already on the motorway. If you've matched the speed of traffic in the left-hand lane, you should be able to join where there's a suitable gap in the traffic. Try to avoid stopping at the end of the slip road - but you might have to do so if the motorway is very busy and there isn't a safe gap in the traffic.
- At a reduced speed
- In third gear
- At the speed limit
- In the centre of the road
Explanation: Traffic-calming measures, such as road humps, chicanes and narrowing's, are intended to slow traffic down and to protect vulnerable road users. Maintain a reduced speed until you reach the end of the traffic-calming zone.
- Slowly, and in the lowest gear possible
- Slowly, and in the highest gear possible
- Slowly, and with your left foot on the brake
- Slowly, and with the parking brake partly on
Explanation: When there's reduced grip (for example, when there's wet mud, snow or ice on the road), drive in a high gear. The engine then drives the wheels with less torque than if you were using a low gear, and this reduces the likelihood of wheel-spin.
- Drive up close behind, then pull out slowly
- Pull out wide while revving the engine
- Pass them slowly, leaving plenty of room
- Sound your horn once to warn them you're approaching
Explanation: If a horse is frightened, it may bolt or shy unpredictably, and the rider may lose control. To reduce the risk of frightening the horse, you should not make any unnecessary noise. Pass it slowly and give it plenty of room.
- Overtake them as soon as possible
- Sound your horn to warn them of your presence
- Flash your headlights to indicate that it's safe for them to proceed
- Be patient and prepare for them to react more slowly
Explanation: Learners might not have confidence when they first start to drive. Allow them plenty of room and make allowances for their hesitation. We all learn from experience, but new drivers will have had less practice in dealing with all the situations that they meet.
- Don't indicate at any time
- Indicate right when you're approaching the roundabout
- Indicate left just after you've passed the first exit
- Indicate left when you're approaching the roundabout
Explanation: When you approach a roundabout, look across it and identify the exit if you can. If you wish to go straight ahead, don't signal as you approach. You should then indicate left just after you pass the exit before the one you wish to take.
- As a traffic-calming measure
- As one crossing
- As two (2) crossings
- As any part of the road
Explanation: Some zebra crossings are divided by a central island. Each half is a separate crossing.
- Drive over the central markings
- Take the most direct route
- Take the shortest route
- Drive around the central markings
Explanation: You should approach mini-roundabouts in the same way as normal roundabouts. All vehicles must pass around the central markings except vehicles that are physically incapable of doing so, such as long vehicles or vehicles towing trailers.
- When conditions are damp
- When conditions are good
- When conditions are wet
- When conditions are foggy
Explanation: In good, dry conditions, an alert driver who's driving a vehicle with tyres and brakes in good condition needs to keep a gap of at least two seconds from the car in front. When the road surface is wet, the gap needs to be increased to four seconds - and if it's icy, then the gap needs to increase to as much as 20 seconds.
- It's only necessary when there's traffic behind
- It's only necessary when there's oncoming traffic
- It's always necessary
- It might not be necessary
Explanation: A signal might not be necessary where there's no-one to benefit from it, or where the signal could confuse other road users. Forward planning and taking an early and steady course will remove the need to routinely signal to pass parked vehicles or obstructions.
- Leave the car's parking lights on
- Leave the car's headlights on
- Leave the car's fog lights on
- Leave the car's hazard warning lights on
Explanation: It's especially dangerous to park on the road in fog. If it's unavoidable, then leave your parking lights switched on.
- To prevent the motorcycle from sliding on the metal drain cover
- To avoid puncturing the tyres on the edge of the drain cover
- To avoid splashing pedestrians on the pavement
- To help judge the bend, using the drain cover as a marker point
Explanation: Motorcyclists will be checking the road ahead for uneven or slippery surfaces, especially in wet weather. They may need to move across their lane to avoid road-surface hazards such as potholes and slippery metal drain covers.
- Overtake the motorcyclist immediately
- Stay level with the motorcyclist
- Keep close to the motorcyclist
- Keep well back
Explanation: Motorcyclists, drivers of high-sided vehicles and those towing caravans are likely to have difficulty in windy weather. You should keep well back, as the motorcyclist could be blown off course - especially as they emerge from the shelter of the large vehicle.
- 2 miles
- 1 mile
- 3 miles
- Half a mile
Explanation: Emergency telephones on the motorway are connected to control centres, where the operator can identify your location from the telephone you're using. To help you locate an emergency telephone, marker posts are situated at 100 metre intervals. These marker posts have arrows directing you to the nearest telephone. Emergency telephones are spaced at 1 mile intervals.
- Cycles
- Lorries
- Cars
- Buses
Explanation: The wheels of a bicycle can become stuck in tram rails, causing the cyclist to stop suddenly, wobble or fall off. Tram rails also offer less grip than the road surface. This could cause a cyclist to skid, especially when it's wet.
- Traffic in both directions can use the middle lane to overtake
- Traffic can travel faster in poor weather conditions
- Traffic using the middle lane has priority
- Traffic can overtake on the left
Explanation: If you intend to overtake on a two-way road that has three lanes, you must consider that approaching traffic could be planning the same manoeuvre. When you've considered the situation and have decided it's safe, indicate your intentions early. This will show the approaching traffic that you intend to pull out. Some of these roads have solid white lines marked to allow for overtaking in one direction only, usually for uphill traffic.
- Pass on the left
- Stay behind
- Pass on the right
- Move closer
Explanation: When a vehicle is travelling slowly, the driver or rider is probably looking for a turning or entrance. Be patient and stay behind them. They're quite likely to change direction or stop, suddenly and without signaling.
- They may not want it removed
- They'll lose body heat if you remove their helmet
- Removing it could cause a more serious injury
- You'll damage the helmet if you remove it incorrectly
Explanation: When someone is injured, any movement that isn't absolutely necessary should be avoided, as it could make injuries worse. Unless it's essential to remove it, it's generally safer to leave a motorcyclist's helmet in place.
- Reassure them confidently
- Ask who caused the incident
- Offer them a cigarette
- Give them a drink
Explanation: The effects of shock may not be immediately obvious. Keep checking on casualties and talk to them to reassure them. Signs to look for include
- rapid pulse
- pale grey skin
- sweating rapid, shallow breathing.
- Don't reverse into a driveway after dark
- Reverse into the driveway, so that you can drive forwards onto the road
- Only use the driveway if the road is clear of traffic
- Drive forwards into the driveway, so that you can reverse onto the road
Explanation: You shouldn't reverse from a driveway into a main road, because your view will be restricted. When using a driveway, you should reverse in, so that you can drive out forwards.
- Always do it when you're driving at high speeds
- It's always necessary when you're about to change lanes
- It's unnecessary and potentially dangerous
- Do it regularly when you're driving in heavy traffic
Explanation: Although there will be times when it's necessary to check blind spots on the move, turning right around is unnecessary and could be dangerous. Regular and sensible use of the mirrors, with a quick sideways glance as necessary, will keep a driver up to date with what's happening all round.
- Choosing an expensive vehicle
- Making a lot of short journeys
- Having your vehicle serviced regularly
- Driving in the highest gear possible
Explanation: Engines are least efficient when they're cold; they take a few minutes to reach their operating temperature. Similarly, the catalytic converter needs to heat up before it operates efficiently. So, on short journeys, the vehicle will use more fuel and release more harmful exhaust gases into the environment. It may be quicker - and better for your health - to walk or use a bicycle.
- You could save money on your insurance
- You could use less fuel
- You could reduce your journey time
- You could dazzle approaching drivers
Explanation: Fog lights are brighter than normal dipped headlights. If the weather has improved, turn them off to avoid dazzling other road users.
- Never enter the area until the broken lines become continuous
- The area should be used to create an extra lane when traffic is very heavy
- The area should be used to overtake vehicles that are turning left
- Don't enter the area unless it's necessary and you can see it's safe
Explanation: Diagonal stripes or chevrons are painted on the road to help separate traffic lanes or vehicles turning right. When bordered by a solid white line, you shouldn't enter the area except in an emergency. If the line is broken, you shouldn't enter the area unless it's necessary and you can see that it's safe.
- Following another vehicle too closely
- Driving with rear fog lights on
- Using the rear door of a hatchback car
- Reversing into a parking space
Explanation: Following the vehicle in front too closely is called 'tailgating'. It's very dangerous because it restricts your view of the road ahead. Also, it leaves you no safety margin if the vehicle in front slows down or stops suddenly.
- The distance a vehicle travels from the moment the driver recognises the need to brake, until they begin braking
- The distance a vehicle travels from the moment the driver begins to brake, until the vehicle stops
- The distance a vehicle travels from the moment the driver thinks about stopping, until the vehicle stops
- The distance a vehicle travels from the moment the driver recognises the need to brake, until the vehicle stops
Explanation: The thinking distance is the distance that the vehicle travels from the moment the driver realises there's a need to brake, until they actually begin to apply the brakes. This reaction time can increase if a driver is tired or unwell.
- An area covered by your right-hand mirror
- An area not lit by your headlights
- An area not visible to the driver
- An area covered by your left-hand mirror
Explanation: Modern vehicles provide the driver with a good view of the road both ahead and behind, using well-positioned mirrors. However, the mirrors can't see every angle of the scene behind and to the sides of the vehicle. This is why it's essential that you know when and how to check your blind spots, so that you're aware of any hidden hazards.
- The measure of the sharpness of a bend
- The way the road surface slopes to help drainage
- The measure of the steepness of a hill
- The anti-slip road surface used near some hazards
Explanation: Usually, a road is constructed with a camber: the road surface slopes to assist with drainage. Some bends have an 'adverse camber'. This is where the road slopes towards the outside of the bend. When going around a bend that has adverse camber, you need to take extra care. The forces acting on your vehicle could cause it to leave the road more easily than normal.
- Following their car and flashing your headlights aggressively
- Stopping and taking a break
- Shouting abusive language
- Gesturing to them with your hand
Explanation: Sooner or later, another driver will do something that affects you. This can result in a range of feelings such as anger or fear, and you may struggle to concentrate on your driving. If you find yourself in this situation, it's best to look for a safe place to stop and give yourself time to recover. Any form of retaliation will lead to increased risk.
- Stop beyond the line at a point where you can see clearly
- Only stop if you're turning to the right
- Only stop if there's traffic on the main road
- Stop behind the line, then edge forward to see clearly
Explanation: At blind junctions, there's often a 'stop' sign. The 'stop' sign has been put there because the view into the main road is poor. You must stop because it won't be possible to assess the situation on the move, however slowly you're travelling.
- Give a signal
- Engage first gear
- Look around
- Use the mirrors
Explanation: When moving off from the side of the road, you shouldn't drive out into the path of an approaching vehicle, either behind or ahead. To make sure there's no vehicle in the blind area, drivers need to look around just before moving off.
- To get used to the speed of traffic on the motorway
- To select which lane you're going to use once you've joined the motorway
- To adjust your speed to match that of the traffic in the left-hand lane of the motorway
- To increase your speed to match that of the fastest vehicles on the motorway
Explanation: Use a slip road to adjust your speed to match that of the traffic in the left-hand lane of the motorway. This will allow you to merge into a safe gap in the traffic. Give priority to traffic already on the motorway.
- Driving at more than 70 mph
- Overtaking other vehicles
- Turning right
- Keeping out of the way of lorries
Explanation: The right-hand lane of the motorway isn't the 'fast lane'; it should be used only for overtaking. Sometimes you may be directed into a right-hand lane as a result of road works or an incident. Be guided by the signs or officers directing the traffic.
- The engine temperature
- The time
- The brakes
- The speedometer
Explanation: After leaving a motorway or when using a link road between motorways, your speed may be higher than you realise: 50 mph may feel like 30 mph. Check the speedometer and adjust your speed accordingly. Some slip roads and link roads have sharp bends, so you'll need to slow down.
- Drive on unless the pedestrians step out
- Stop and wave the pedestrians across
- Prepare to slow down and stop
- Speed up and pass by quickly
Explanation: Zebra crossings have
- flashing amber beacons on both sides of the road
- black-and-white stripes on the crossing
- white zigzag markings on both sides of the crossing.
Where you can see pedestrians are waiting to cross, slow down and prepare to stop.
- Sound the horn
- Flash your headlights
- Use the mirrors
- Select a higher gear
Explanation: Before stopping, check the mirrors to see what's happening behind you. Also assess what's ahead and make sure you give the correct signal if it will help other road users. If you have to stop in an emergency, you may not always have time to use the mirrors.
- Always select first gear on approach
- Move out to the right to make the turn easier
- Sound your horn to pedestrians who are in the road
- Look out for vehicles in front that may be stopping
Explanation: When preparing to turn left into a side road, you should be prepared for obstructions or vehicles that may wish to stop and park. This could be before or after the turning.
- Select a higher gear than normal
- Check all around for any possible hazards
- Give an arm signal as well as using your indicators
- Signal so that other drivers can slow down for you
Explanation: If you want to make a U-turn, slow down or stop in a legal place. Make sure that the road is wide enough to carry out the manoeuvre safely. Check all around to ensure that the road is clear in both directions and that you're not going to endanger anyone as you turn.
- Sound your horn to show your annoyance
- Overtake as soon as possible
- Flash your headlights to show your annoyance
- Ignore the error and stay calm
Explanation: If a driver makes a mistake and emerges from a side road into your path, you should show tolerance and not react aggressively. If you're shaken or upset by the experience, slow down and - if necessary - stop in a convenient place. Take a break until you can safely continue on your journey.
- Try not to react
- Sound your horn
- Let them know how you feel
- Flash your headlights several times
Explanation: On occasions, other road users may make a mistake or lack judgement. When this happens, try not to let it annoy you. Don't react by showing anger, sounding your horn, flashing your headlights or shouting. A safe driver remains calm and makes allowances for others.
- Swerve past the vehicle and sound your horn
- Slow down and be ready to stop
- Drive up close behind the vehicle and flash your headlights
- Accelerate and overtake immediately
Explanation: Watch out for emerging vehicles, as the driver's view may be obscured at some junctions. If a vehicle pulls out and you're not sure whether the driver has seen you, slow down and be prepared to stop. Be tolerant and don't sound the horn in anger.
- Stop and switch off your engine
- Ignore them, as they have no authority
- Continue on but drive slowly
- Try to get past quickly
Explanation: If you can assist someone moving sheep along the road by stopping and turning off your engine, then do so. This will help to reduce the time it takes to move the sheep and clear the road.
- Remove their safety helmet
- Remove their leather jacket
- Move the person off the road
- Seek medical assistance
Explanation: If someone's been injured, the sooner proper medical attention is given, the better. Either ask someone to phone for help or do so yourself. Only move an injured person if there's a risk of further danger. Don't remove an injured motorcyclist's helmet unless it's essential.
- Give a long blast on the horn
- Flash your headlights several times
- Drop back to leave the correct separation distance
- Accelerate to get closer to the vehicle
Explanation: There are times when other drivers make incorrect or ill-judged decisions. Stay calm and don't retaliate or react aggressively. Always consider the safety of other road users, your passengers and yourself.
- Continue at a constant speed
- Accelerate to allow sufficient room for it to move back to the left
- Ignore the other vehicle
- Slow down and let it pass
Explanation: If a vehicle is taking a long time to overtake, you should try to help the situation by slowing down. our safety and the safety of other road users could be at risk if you maintain speed and prolong the time it takes for the overtaking manoeuvre to be completed.
- Walk back up the motorway to pick it up
- Stop on the motorway and switch on hazard warning lights while you pick it up
- Stop at the next emergency telephone and contact the authorities
- Pull up on the hard shoulder and wave traffic down
Explanation: Drivers shouldn't try to retrieve anything from a motorway. The danger from, and to, passing traffic caused by someone on the carriageway shouldn't be underestimated. The recommended course of action is to go to the next emergency telephone and report the incident to the control centre.
- Watch out for pedestrians walking in the road
- Speed up to get past the roadworks more quickly
- Use your right-hand mirror more often
- Position your vehicle close to the left-hand kerb
Explanation: Where street repairs have closed off pavements, proceed carefully and slowly, as pedestrians might have to walk in the road
- Ask someone to guide you
- Open your window to look behind
- Open the door and look behind
- Look in the nearside mirror
Explanation: A pupil should be advised to seek assistance if they can't see clearly behind when they're reversing. During the driving test, however, the examiner will select a corner where this won't be necessary.
- Stop and get some rest as soon as possible
- Close the car windows to help you concentrate
- Continue with your journey, but drive more slowly
- Turn the heater up to keep yourself warm and comfortable
Explanation: You'll be putting yourself and other road users at risk if you continue to drive when you're drowsy. Pull over and stop in a safe place. If you're driving a long distance, think about finding somewhere you can sleep before continuing your journey.
- Slow down and let other drivers overtake
- Stop on the hard shoulder for a sleep
- Leave the motorway and find a safe place to park
- Speed up to arrive at your destination sooner
Explanation: If you feel drowsy while driving on a motorway, find a safe and legal place to park as soon as you can. This will mean either leaving the motorway at the next exit or pulling in at the next service area.
- Cool them down as soon as possible
- Reassure them confidently
- Walk them around to calm them down
- Give them something cold to drink
Explanation: Stay with the casualty and talk to them confidently to reassure them. Avoid moving them unnecessarily, in case they're injured. Keep them warm, but don't give them anything to eat or drink.
- Find a less busy route
- Reduce your speed slightly
- Increase your speed slightly
- Stop at a safe place to rest
Explanation: If you start to feel tired, stop at a safe place for a rest break. Every year, many serious incidents are caused by drivers falling asleep at the wheel.
- Reverse out of the road
- Turn around in a side road
- Continue to the end of the road
- Reverse into a driveway
Explanation: If you realise you've taken a wrong turn when you're driving in a one-way street, don't reverse or turn your vehicle around. Drive on and find another route.
- Flash your headlights to alert the driver
- Stay behind and don't overtake
- Sound your horn before overtaking
- Overtake on the left if there's room
Explanation: Signals should be cancelled soon after use. If a driver is unsure of the location of a junction or destination, they may signal earlier than normal while looking for their turn. Don't attempt to overtake, as they may turn suddenly.
- Follow another overtaking vehicle
- Flash your headlights to oncoming traffic and then overtake
- Sound your horn to signal the tractor driver to pull over
- Wait if you're in any doubt
Explanation: Never overtake unless you're absolutely sure that it's safe. Ask yourself, 'Can I see far enough down the road to complete the manoeuvre safely? Are there junctions ahead? Is it legal to overtake here?' If you have any doubt, then wait until you can overtake safely and legally.
- Follow it closely and keep moving out to see the road ahead
- Flash your headlights for the oncoming traffic to give way
- Keep well back until you can see that it's clear
- Stay behind until the driver waves you past
Explanation: If you wish to overtake a long vehicle, stay well back so that you can see the road ahead. Don't :-
- get too close to the vehicle, as this will restrict your view of the road ahead
- get impatient; overtaking on a busy road calls for sound judgement
- take a gamble; only overtake when you can see that you can safely complete the manoeuvre.
- Slow down and let other drivers overtake
- Speed up to arrive at your destination sooner
- Open a window and drive to the next exit
- Stop on the hard shoulder for a sleep
Explanation: Don't ignore feelings of drowsiness while driving. You'll need to find somewhere safe to stop and rest until you feel alert enough to continue your journey. On a motorway, you can either stop at a service area or leave the motorway and then find a safe place to stop. Until you reach a safe place to stop, make sure the vehicle is well ventilated. Don't stop on the hard shoulder to rest.
- Drive along the hard shoulder to reach the next service area
- Change the wheel yourself
- Use the motorway telephone and then try to change the wheel
- Use the motorway telephone and call for assistance
Explanation: Any vehicle stopped on the hard shoulder of a motorway is at risk from passing traffic. For this reason, don't attempt to make repairs to your vehicle while it's on the hard shoulder. Make your way to the nearest emergency telephone to call for assistance.
- Only drive if you have experience of driving in snow
- Only drive if it's essential
- Only drive if your journey is short
- Only drive if you have a mobile phone
Explanation: In winter, check the local weather forecast for warnings of icy or snowy weather. Don't drive in these conditions unless your journey is essential. If it is essential, take great care. Carry a spade, warm clothing, a warm drink and emergency food, in case your vehicle breaks down or becomes stuck in snow or traffic.
- Be prepared to stop
- Sound your horn as a warning
- Treat them like any other vehicle
- Accelerate past as quickly as possible
Explanation: Horse riders often keep to the outside of the roundabout even if they're turning right. Give them plenty of room and remember that they may have to cross lanes of traffic.
- Pull over onto the hard shoulder when it's convenient
- Open a window and leave the motorway by the next exit
- Increase your speed to reduce your journey time
- Switch on your heater to circulate warm air
Explanation: When you start to feel tired, it's vital to stop in a safe place as soon as you can. If there's no service area for several miles, leave the motorway at the next exit and find somewhere to rest. While finding somewhere to stop, keep the car well ventilated with fresh air. Don't stop on the hard shoulder to rest.
- Switch on your hazard warning lights
- Stop immediately
- Stop at a passing place
- Flash your headlights
Explanation: On single-track roads, high hedges, fences or bends may restrict your view. Keep your speed low, proceed with caution and be prepared to stop. If you meet oncoming vehicles, pull into or stop opposite a passing place.
- Slow down and be prepared to stop for the cyclist
- Slow down and wave the cyclist across
- Brake sharply and flash your headlights
- Accelerate past quickly and sound your horn
Explanation: If you scan the road as you drive, you should see hazards developing. Once you've seen the danger, reduce speed and be prepared to stop if necessary.
- Stay very close behind but be careful
- Flash your headlights and overtake
- Expect the driver to drive badly
- Be aware that the driver's reactions may not be as fast as yours
Explanation: You must show consideration to other road users. The reactions of elderly drivers may be slower and they might need more time to deal with a situation. Be tolerant and don't lose patience or show your annoyance.
- Rev your engine
- Get out and check
- Use your horn
- Reverse slowly
Explanation: If you can't see all around your vehicle, get out and have a look. You could also ask someone reliable outside the vehicle to guide you. A small child could easily be hidden directly behind you.
- Flash your headlights
- Open up a safe gap
- Maintain your speed
- Sound the horn
Explanation: Always drive defensively. If a vehicle cuts in after overtaking, it's important to re-establish a safe separation gap. Check the mirrors and drop back to maintain your safe gap.
- Adjust your mirrors
- Position your vehicle in the centre lane
- Try to overtake
- Keep in the left-hand lane
Explanation: Once you've joined a motorway, you need to stay in the left-hand lane for long enough to give yourself time to judge, and adjust to, the speed of motorway traffic.
- Adjust your mirrors
- Position your vehicle in the centre lane
- Try to overtake
- Keep in the left-hand lane
Explanation: Once you've joined a motorway, you need to stay in the left-hand lane for long enough to give yourself time to judge, and adjust to, the speed of motorway traffic.
- Adjust your mirrors
- Position your vehicle in the centre lane
- Try to overtake
- Keep in the left-hand lane
Explanation: Once you've joined a motorway, you need to stay in the left-hand lane for long enough to give yourself time to judge, and adjust to, the speed of motorway traffic.
- Check for traffic overtaking on your right
- Stop and apply the parking brake
- Select first gear
- Cancel your right turn signal
Explanation: Motorcyclists often filter through slow-moving traffic. If you intend to turn right, your signal may be obscured by other vehicles. A check into your blind area before turning is necessary to avoid making a turn at the moment an overtaking vehicle is alongside.
- Allow extra room
- Overtake slowly
- Pass close to shield the rider
- Sound your horn
Explanation: You need to allow extra room in case the side wind blows the rider across the lane and into your path. Additionally, the draught from your vehicle could further buffet and unbalance the rider.
- Increase speed to pass through quickly
- Follow other motorists closely to avoid long queues
- Choose an appropriate lane in good time
- Switch lanes at any time to make progress
Explanation: In a contraflow system, you'll be travelling close to oncoming traffic and sometimes in narrow lanes. You should
- obey the temporary signs governing speed limits
- get into the correct lane in good time
- keep a safe separation distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Be patient and allow them to cross in their own time
- Tap the horn in case they're hard of hearing
- Wave them across so they know that you've seen them
- Rev the engine to let them know that you're waiting
Explanation: Be aware that elderly people might take a long time to cross the road. They might also be hard of hearing and not hear you approaching. Don't hurry elderly people across the road by getting too close to them or revving your engine.
- Use the hard shoulder
- Stay very close to the vehicle in front
- Speed up to clear the area quickly
- Obey reduced speed limits
Explanation: Compulsory reduced speed limits are often in force throughout roadworks on the motorway. This safety measure is to protect drivers and workers in the road. Be aware of reduced speed limits and slow down in good time.
- Go past slowly and carefully
- Go past as quickly as possible
- Sound your horn as a warning
- Flash your headlights as a warning
Explanation: Horses can be startled by the sound of a car engine or the rush of air caused by a vehicle passing too closely. Keep well back and only pass when it's safe. Leave them plenty of room. You may have to use the other side of the road to go past. If you do, first make sure there's no oncoming traffic.
- Turn the front wheels towards the kerb
- Park close to the bumper of another car
- Turn the front wheels away from the kerb
- Park with two wheels on the kerb
Explanation: When parking on a hill, there's a risk of the car rolling if the parking brake fails. To reduce this risk, turn the front wheels towards the kerb. This will allow the kerb to act as a chock, preventing any forward movement of the vehicle.
- Turn the front wheels towards the kerb
- Park close to the bumper of another car
- Turn the front wheels away from the kerb
- Park with two wheels on the kerb
Explanation: When parking on a hill, there's a risk of the car rolling if the parking brake fails. To reduce this risk, turn the front wheels towards the kerb. This will allow the kerb to act as a chock, preventing any forward movement of the vehicle.
- Stay close to the carriageway
- Keep your back to the traffic
- Stand on the hard shoulder
- Face the oncoming traffic
Explanation: Serious incidents have occurred when vehicles or people on the hard shoulder have been struck by vehicles using the left-hand lane of the motorway. While using the emergency telephone, be alert and watch for approaching traffic.
- Give priority to the right
- Maintain a steady speed
- Never assume priority
- Give priority to the left
Explanation: Treat an unmarked crossroads with great caution, since neither road has priority. Never assume priority if there are no road markings - other drivers may do the same and a collision could result. Look, assess, decide and only proceed when you're sure it's safe.
- Continue to drive on full beam
- Drive faster past the oncoming car
- Slow down or stop
- Flash your headlights
Explanation: If your view of the road ahead is restricted because you're being dazzled by approaching headlights, slow down and, if you need to, stop.
- Slow down
- Stop and check both pavements
- Wait for any pedestrians to cross
- Move across to the left-hand side of the road
Explanation: Many towns have speed humps to slow traffic. They're often found where there are pedestrians. Slow down when driving over them and look out for pedestrians. If you drive too fast over a speed hump, you risk damaging your vehicle.
- Use sidelights only
- Be ready to steer sharply
- Brake firmly and quickly
- Brake gently and in plenty of time
Explanation: When driving on snow or frozen surfaces, your tyres will have very little grip. To avoid losing that grip, you'll need to accelerate, steer and brake very gently.
- Leave plenty of time for your journey
- Avoid using dipped headlights
- Keep two seconds behind other vehicles
- Follow other vehicles' tail lights closely
Explanation: If you're planning to make a journey when it's foggy, listen to the weather reports on the radio or television. Don't travel if visibility is very poor or your trip isn't necessary. If you do travel, leave plenty of time for your journey.
- Allow more time for your journey
- Use sidelights only
- Keep close to the car in front
- Use headlights on full beam
Explanation: If you have to travel when it's foggy, allow more time for your journey. If someone is expecting you at the other end, let them know that you'll be taking longer than usual for your journey. This will take the pressure off you, so you don't feel you have to rush.
- Use the tail lights of other vehicles as a guide
- Make sure you can stop within the distance you can see to be clear
- Make sure you can stop within your thinking distance
- Use your vehicle's sidelights to reduce the glare for other drivers
Explanation: It's more difficult to judge speed and distance in conditions of poor visibility, when shapes or outlines can become less distinct and potentially more confusing. You must always be able to stop in the distance that you can see to be clear.
- Keep above 50 mph to prevent congestion
- Use the lane that has the least traffic
- Use the left-hand lane unless you're overtaking
- Overtake using the lane that has the least traffic
Explanation: You should normally drive in the left-hand lane unless you're overtaking a slower-moving vehicle. When you've passed it, move back to the left-hand lane as soon as it's safe. Don't move back too soon or you'll cut across in front of the vehicle that you've overtaken.
- Make a U-turn at the next gap in the central reservation
- Carry on to the next exit
- Carefully reverse on the hard shoulder
- Carefully reverse in the left-hand lane
Explanation: It's against the law to reverse, cross the central reservation or drive against the traffic flow on a motorway. If you've missed your exit, leave the motorway at the next exit. You can either rejoin the motorway in the opposite direction or find another route to your destination.
- Switch lanes to keep the traffic flowing
- Ensure that you don't exceed 30 mph
- Keep a good distance from the vehicle ahead
- Stay close to the vehicle ahead to reduce queues
Explanation: Obey any speed restriction in force and don't switch lanes or get too close to traffic in front of you. Be aware that there will be no permanent barrier between you and the oncoming traffic.
- Allow the same room as normal because road surfaces do not affect motorcyclists
- Allow extra room in case they swerve to avoid potholes
- Overtake them immediately
- Drive closer to them so you can be seen in their mirrors
Explanation: Potholes and bumps in the road can unbalance a motorcyclist. For this reason, a rider may swerve to avoid an uneven road surface. Knowing what motorcyclists may do will help you to make allowances for them.
- Give priority to traffic already on the motorway
- Use the hard shoulder
- Come to a stop before joining the motorway
- Stop at the end of the acceleration lane
Explanation: You normally join a motorway from a slip road on the left. Join where there's a suitable gap in the traffic travelling in the left-hand lane. You should adjust your speed to fit in with the traffic flow in the left-hand lane, but you must give way to the traffic already on the motorway. Don't try to force your way into the traffic stream.
Look around after moving off
Use the exterior mirrors only
Look around before you move off
Give a signal after moving off
Explanation: Before moving off from behind a parked car, you should use all the mirrors to check that the road is clear. Look around to check the blind spots and give a signal if it's necessary to warn other road users of your intentions.
- Wait until you've overtaken before switching your headlights to full beam
- Leave your headlights on dipped beam after you've overtaken
- Flash your headlights before overtaking
- Switch your headlights to full beam before overtaking
Explanation: To prevent your headlights from dazzling the driver of the car in front, wait until you've overtaken before switching to full beam.
- Use the lowest gear you can
- Use the handbrake and footbrake together
- Use the highest gear you can
- Use a high engine speed
Explanation: Your tyres will have reduced grip on snow. This makes it easier for them to lose all grip, and spin. The engine will deliver the most turning force (torque) to the driven wheels when first gear is selected; in snow this may be too much for the available grip. Using the highest gear you can will reduce the torque and so help the tyres keep their grip.
- Look left, then right
- Look left only
- Take effective observation
- Look right only
Explanation: An instructor needs to explain that taking effective observation means not only looking but assessing the situation and using sound judgement. These are skills that develop over time. To emerge safely, a learner driver may need a much larger gap in the traffic than an experienced driver.
- Get in the right gear
- Look in the mirrors
- Reduce speed
- Flash your headlights
Explanation: You can't deal safely with a hazard by looking solely ahead. You'll also need to consider how your actions will affect any drivers behind. As soon as you recognise a hazard, use the mirrors to assess how other road users will affect your planning.
- Wider lanes than normal
- Temporary traffic lights
- Lower speed limits
- Speed humps
Explanation: When approaching a contraflow system, slow down in good time and obey reduced speed limits. You may be travelling in a narrower lane than normal, with no permanent barrier between you and the oncoming traffic. Be aware that the hard shoulder may be used for traffic, and the road ahead could be obstructed by slow-moving or broken-down vehicles.
- Keep well to the left to allow traffic behind to overtake
- Get used to the speed of the traffic flow
- Check your mirrors to assess the speed and position of traffic behind
- Drive away slowly and cancel the signal
Explanation: Immediately after joining a new road, you should check to see what's happening behind you. This will help you to judge how briskly you need to accelerate to avoid causing any inconvenience to traffic behind.
- Push the car clear of the crossing
- Telephone the signal operator
- Get everyone out of the car
- Wait to be towed off the crossing
Explanation: If your vehicle breaks down on a level crossing, your priority is to get everyone out of the vehicle and clear of the crossing. If there's a railway telephone, use it to tell the signal operator what's happened. If you have time before a train arrives, move the vehicle clear of the crossing, but don't attempt this if the crossing alarm sounds.
- Get everyone out of the vehicle and clear of the crossing
- Walk along the track to give warning to any approaching trains
- Phone the signal operator so that trains can be stopped
- Try to push the vehicle clear of the crossing
Explanation: If you're driving a vehicle that breaks down on an automatic level crossing, don't delay in getting everyone out of the vehicle and well clear of the crossing. You should then use the emergency telephone to tell the signal operator of the obstruction.
- The driver
- The weather
- The vehicle
- The road
Explanation: A skid happens when the driver changes the speed or direction of their vehicle so suddenly that the tyres can't keep their grip on the road. The risk of skidding is much greater on wet or icy roads than in dry conditions. It's the driver's responsibility to recognise the conditions and drive in a manner that takes the conditions into account.
- You should drive at a speed that doesn't impede other road users
- You should keep up with the traffic in front
- You should be able to stop within the distance you can see to be clear
- You should drive at the speed limit wherever possible
Explanation: You must always remain within the speed limit, but how fast you drive will depend on many other factors. Above all, you should never drive so fast that you can't stop within the distance you can see to be clear.
- Vehicles towing trailers
- Emergency vehicles only
- Overtaking
- Coaches only
Explanation: You should keep to the left and only use the centre or right-hand lanes if you're passing slower-moving traffic.
- Engage a high gear; ride the clutch until the correct speed has been reached
- Engage the appropriate gear; release the footbrake and parking brake together
- Engage the appropriate gear; apply the footbrake; release the parking brake, keeping the footbrake applied
- Engage first gear; press the accelerator slightly; release the parking brake
Explanation: When a vehicle is facing downhill, it will try to roll forward when the parking brake is released. Applying the footbrake before releasing the parking brake ensures control is maintained.
- 30 mph
- 50 mph
- 60 mph
- 40 mph
Explanation: A 30 mph limit usually applies where there are street lights but no speed-limit signs.
- 50 mph
- 30 mph
- 40 mph
- 70 mph
Explanation: If there are no speed-limit signs, street lights usually indicate a 30 mph speed limit.
- When the right-hand lane is closed
- Never
- If the traffic queue on your right is moving more slowly than you
- At any time
Explanation: Normally, an overtaking manoeuvre is carried out by passing the slower vehicle on its right. However, on a congested motorway where traffic on your right is moving more slowly than you are, it's acceptable to continue in the same lane and pass vehicles on their left.
- To load and unload
- When you're stopping outside retail premises
- When parking signs allow it
- To pick up passengers
Explanation: Generally, vehicles shouldn't park partially or fully on verges, footpaths or pavements. However, it's becoming more common for this to be allowed on some narrow streets. Special parking signs will show where it's allowed.
- Windscreen pillars
- Windscreen wipers
- Interior mirror
- Steering wheel
Explanation: Windscreen pillars can block your view, particularly at junctions. Those road users who are most at risk of not being seen are cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians. Never rely on just a quick glance.
- Maintain your speed until you get close to the junction at the end of the slip road
- Always use the gears to assist in the reduction of speed when leaving the motorway
- As you enter the slip road, check your speed by glancing down at the speedometer
- When you leave the motorway, check that your speed is below that of vehicles in the left-hand lane
Explanation: When leaving a motorway, your judgement of speed may be affected: 40 mph may seem more like 20 mph. Check your speedometer: it will give you an accurate speed. Motorway slip roads and link roads often have sharp curves that require accurate judgement of speed.
- To get into a property
- When the pavement is very wide
- If no pedestrians are near
- To overtake slow-moving traffic
Explanation: It's against the law to drive on or over a footpath, except to gain access to a property. If you need to cross a pavement, watch for pedestrians in both directions.
- When you're starting off uphill
- When you're in slow queuing traffic
- When you're carrying out a manoeuvre that involves reversing
- When you're making a journey of less than 1 mile
Explanation: Seat belts should be worn at all times, unless you're carrying out a manoeuvre that involves reversing. The seat belt should be put back on when you've finished the manoeuvre.
- On a two-way road when traffic is moving slowly
- On a dual carriageway or motorway when the traffic is moving slowly in queues
- On a two-way road when the car in front is signalling to turn left
- On a free-flowing dual carriageway or motorway
Explanation: You should normally overtake on the right, but there are some occasions when you may overtake on the left. These include when you're driving on a dual carriageway or motorway and the traffic is moving slowly in queues, or when a vehicle ahead is positioned to turn right and there's room to pass on the left. On dual carriageways or motorways, don't overtake on the left if traffic is flowing freely.
- If you feel tired and need to rest
- In an emergency
- To pick up a hitchhiker
- If you miss the exit you wanted to take
Explanation: You mustn't stop on the hard shoulder, except in an emergency. Never use it to have a rest or a picnic, to pick up hitchhikers, to answer a mobile phone or to check a road map. You mustn't drive back along the hard shoulder if you go past the exit you wanted.
- To greet other road users
- To alert others to your presence
- To signal your annoyance
- To allow you right of way
Explanation: You mustn't use a vehicle's horn between 11.30 pm and 07.00 am in a built-up area or when the vehicle is stationary, unless another moving vehicle poses a danger. The horn should be used to alert other road users to your presence.
- When overtaking vehicles in the right-hand lane
- When driving at a speed between 60 mph and 70 mph
- When driving at a constant speed of 60 mph or less
- When overtaking slower-moving vehicles in the left-hand lane
Explanation: On a motorway, drivers should keep to the left-hand lane unless they're passing slower vehicles ahead. If there are many slower vehicles in the left-hand lane, it may be safer to remain in the centre lane until the manoeuvre is completed.
- For normal driving
- For overtaking slower traffic in the other lanes
- For breakdowns and emergencies only
- For driving slowly
Explanation: On a motorway, you should keep to the left-hand lane whenever possible. Only use the other lanes for overtaking or when directed by signals. Using other lanes when the left-hand lane is empty can frustrate drivers behind you.
- For turning right
- For driving fast
- For passing slip roads joining on the left
- For overtaking
Explanation: You should stay in the left-hand lane of a motorway unless overtaking. The right-hand lane of a motorway is an overtaking lane and not a 'fast lane'. After overtaking, move back to the left when it's safe to do so.
- On a one-way street
- Just after changing gear
- On a dual carriageway
- Just before turning left
Explanation: Don't overtake any vehicle just before you turn left. If there's a cyclist in front, be patient: let the cyclist pass the turning and then turn left behind them.
- When you stop on double yellow lines
- When you park in a restricted area
- When you park your vehicle on the pavement
- When your vehicle is stationary and temporarily obstructing traffic
Explanation: Hazard warning lights are an important safety feature. Use them if your vehicle has broken down and is causing an obstruction. You can also use them to warn traffic behind of danger ahead when you're driving on a motorway or unrestricted dual carriageway.
- When emerging on wet roads
- To keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front
- Before using the 'Mirrors-Signal-Manoeuvre' routine
- Before restarting the engine after it has stalled
Explanation: To check whether you've left a safe gap between your vehicle and the one ahead, choose a fixed reference point such as a bridge, sign or tree. When the vehicle in front passes the object, say to yourself, 'Only a fool breaks the two-second rule'. If you reach the object before you finish saying this, you're too close.
- To give you right of way
- To attract a friend's attention
- To warn others of your presence
- To make slower drivers move over
Explanation: All motor vehicles are fitted with a horn; its purpose is to warn other road users of the vehicle's presence. You mustn't sound the horn between 11.30 pm and 7.00 am in a built-up area or when you're stationary, except when another road user poses a danger.
- When you're driving in the rain
- When you're driving uphill
- When you're driving at night
- When you're driving in strong winds
Explanation: Tyres won't grip the road surface so well in wet weather or on loose road surfaces. On wet roads, it's recommended that you allow at least double the stopping distance you would leave in dry conditions.
- When you're overtaking or turning right
- Only when you're turning right
- When you're driving fast
- Only when you're overtaking
Explanation: You should normally use the left-hand lane on any dual carriageway, unless you're overtaking or turning right. When overtaking on a dual carriageway, look for vehicles ahead that are turning right. They're likely to be slowing or stopped. You need to see them in good time so that you can take appropriate action.
- On an exposed stretch of road
- On a narrow country lane
- On a long, straight road
- On a busy stretch of road
Explanation: In windy conditions, care must be taken on open, exposed roads. A strong gust of wind can blow you off course. Watch out for other road users who may be worse affected. These include cyclists, motorcyclists, and drivers of high-sided lorries or vehicles towing trailers.
- On a one-way street
- On a dual carriageway
- On a single-track road
- On a motorway
Explanation: If your vehicle breaks down, be aware of the danger to, and from, other traffic. Get your vehicle off the road if possible. Use a warning triangle to alert other road users to the obstruction, unless you're on a motorway.
- Well to the left of the road
- They should swing out to the right before the turn
- With the offside wheels close to the centre line
- Slightly over the centre line
Explanation: As you approach a left turn, maintain your normal driving position on the left. Don't swing out before you turn, and make sure that you've reduced your speed and are in the correct gear. Look into the road before you turn and give way to any pedestrians who are crossing.
- Just after a bend
- In a one-way street
- On a 30 mph road
- Approaching a dip in the road
Explanation: Before you move out to overtake, you must be sure that it's safe to complete the manoeuvre - and in order to be sure, you must be able to see far enough ahead. If anything is obstructing or restricting your view, you can't know whether the road ahead is clear and, therefore, you shouldn't overtake.
- Well to the left of the lane
- In the centre of the lane
- Well to the right of the lane
- Anywhere within the lane
Explanation: When driving in traffic, keep within your lane. Driving in the centre of your lane ensures there's as much space as possible between you and the traffic on either side. You should always follow the lane markings, which are there for two reasons: they make the best possible use of road space and they guide the traffic.
- Close to the centre line
- Close to the vehicle in front
- In the centre of your lane
- Well to the left
Explanation: As you approach a left-hand bend, control your speed so that you can deal with any hazard safely. Don't move out to the centre of the road to improve your view. This could put you too close to oncoming traffic. A vehicle coming the other way might be positioned on the crown of the road.
- Well to the left of the lane
- In the centre of the lane
- Slightly to the right of the lane
- Wherever you feel comfortable
Explanation: Always stay in the middle of your lane until you need to change course. This is even more important when in narrow lanes; for example, at roadworks. Be aware of large vehicles that may have to straddle more than one lane.
- Towards the right of your lane
- In the centre of your lane
- Towards the centre of the road
- Where you get the best view
Explanation: As you approach left-hand bends, keep to the middle of your lane. Don't move to the centre of the road to improve your view. This could put you too close to oncoming traffic. A vehicle coming the other way might be running close to or over the centre of the road as it comes around the bend.
- At junctions
- On one-way streets
- On dual carriageways
- At zebra crossings
Explanation: It's not easy to see cyclists and motorcyclists, due to their small size when compared with other vehicles. At junctions, it's important that you look for these small vehicles; they're easy to overlook and riders are very vulnerable to injury in a collision.
- As far as the next bend or junction
- Short of the rear of the vehicle in front
- 100 metres (328 feet) ahead
- Beyond the vehicle in front
Explanation: Following too closely behind another vehicle at night may dazzle the driver. If you drop back, your headlight beam will fall short of the vehicle and so avoid dazzle.
- On an uphill gradient
- Before a junction
- Across an exposed bridge
- Before a service area
Explanation: Where a motorway has a steep uphill gradient, slow-moving, large vehicles might get in the way of other traffic. An extra lane on the left may be provided for these slow-moving vehicles. It allows faster-moving traffic to flow more easily.
- One mile before the exit
- Half a mile before the exit
- At the first countdown marker
- At the beginning of the slip road
Explanation: On motorways, the higher speed of traffic requires direction signs to be placed well before junctions. The first sign will usually be found one mile before the exit, then another sign half a mile before the exit. Where junctions are close together, this distance may be reduced to two-thirds and one-third of a mile.
- Either the right or centre
- Centre
- Right
- Left
Explanation: On a three-lane motorway, you should travel in the left-hand lane unless you're overtaking. This applies regardless of the speed at which you're travelling.
- The left-hand lane if it's clear, and keep to that lane on the roundabout
- The left-hand lane, and use the right-hand lane on the roundabout
- The right-hand lane, and stay in that lane
- The right-hand lane, and change to the left-hand lane on the roundabout
Explanation: Pupils should be advised to look for information signs and road markings in order to select the appropriate lane on approach to roundabouts. They should get in the correct lane in good time and avoid straddling or changing lanes at the last moment.
- Dipped headlights and fog lights
- Parking lights
- Main-beam headlights
- Dipped headlights
Explanation: If you have to park your vehicle in foggy conditions, it's important that it can be seen by other road users. Try to find a place to park off the road. If this isn't possible, leave it facing in the same direction as the traffic. Make sure that your lights are clean and that you leave your parking lights switched on.
- Rear fog lights
- Dipped headlights
- Sidelights
- Hazard warning lights
Explanation: In wet weather, visibility on the motorway is made worse by the spray thrown up from vehicles' tyres. Using dipped headlights will help other drivers to see you more easily.
- Daytime running lights
- Main-beam headlights
- Sidelights
- Dipped headlights
Explanation: Always use your headlights, even on motorways that are lit. Use dipped beam where necessary, to avoid dazzling other drivers.
Long vehicle
Milk float
Delivery van
Estate car
Explanation: Long vehicles might have to take a slightly different position when approaching the roundabout or going around it. This is to stop the rear of the vehicle cutting in and mounting the kerb. Horse riders and cyclists might stay in the left-hand lane although they're turning right. Be aware of this and allow them room.
- Sports car
- Van
- Estate car
- Long vehicle
Explanation: A long vehicle may have to straddle lanes on, or approaching, a roundabout. This is to prevent the rear wheels from going up onto the kerb. If you're following a long vehicle, stay well back and give it plenty of room.
- Emergency vehicles only
- Large vehicles only
- Any vehicle that isn't overtaking
- Slow vehicles only
Explanation: On a motorway, all traffic should use the left-hand lane unless they're overtaking. Use the centre or right-hand lanes if you need to overtake. Make sure that you move back to the left-hand lane when you've finished overtaking. Don't stay in the middle or right-hand lane if the left-hand lane is free.
- No-one
- Vehicles approaching from the right
- The vehicle travelling the fastest
- Oncoming vehicles turning right
Explanation: At a crossroads where there are no 'give way' signs or road markings, no-one has priority, even if the roads are of different sizes. Approach slowly and only cross when the junction is clear.
- To warn you of oncoming traffic
- To prevent you from changing lanes
- To restrict the flow of traffic
- To guide you into the correct lane
Explanation: The names of towns and cities may be painted on the road at busy junctions and complex road systems. Their purpose is to let you move into the correct lane in good time, and so help traffic to flow more freely.
- To warn of a lower speed limit ahead
- To make space for emergency vehicles
- To separate traffic flowing in opposite directions
- To mark an area to be used by overtaking motorcyclists
Explanation: Hatch markings are painted at potentially dangerous areas to separate streams of traffic. For example, they can be seen at sharp bends and at junctions to protect traffic turning right.
- To help overtaking
- To slow traffic down
- To stop road rage
- To help parking
Explanation: Traffic-calming measures are used to make the roads safer for vulnerable road users, such as cyclists, pedestrians and children. They can be designed as chicanes, road humps or other obstacles that encourage drivers and riders to slow down.
- They need to check for traffic in their blind area
- Motorcycles don't have mirrors
- They need to listen for traffic behind
- Looking around helps them balance as they turn
Explanation: If you see a motorcyclist take a quick glance over their shoulder, this could mean they're about to change direction. Recognising a clue like this helps you to be prepared and take appropriate action, making you safer on the road.
- Lorries are fitted with speed limiters
- Lorries may suddenly pull up
- Lorries are longer than cars
- Lorry brakes aren't as good as car brakes
Explanation: It takes more time to overtake a long vehicle than a small one, such as a car. Before overtaking, you need to be able to see far enough ahead to know that you have the space and time to complete the manoeuvre safely. Hazards to watch for include oncoming traffic, junctions, bends or dips (which could restrict your view), and any signs or road markings prohibiting overtaking.
- They may be blown across in front of you
- They may turn off suddenly to get out of the wind
- They may have to stop suddenly
- They may be travelling faster than normal
Explanation: On a windy day, the blustery conditions will affect motorcyclists and they may be blown off course. If you wish to overtake a motorcyclist in these conditions, make allowances for them and give them extra room.
- To leave a gap in case the vehicle stops and rolls back
- To enable you to overtake quickly on blind bends
- To get the best view of the road ahead
- To offer other drivers a safe gap if they want to overtake you
Explanation: When following a large vehicle, keep well back. If you're too close, you won't be able to see the road ahead and the driver of the long vehicle might not be able to see you in their mirrors.
- To help you save fuel
- To help the driver see you in their mirrors
- To prevent diesel exhaust particles from being sucked into your engine
- To prevent radio or sat-nav interference
Explanation: If you're following a large vehicle but are so close to it that you can't see its exterior mirrors, the driver can't see you. Keeping well back will also allow you to see the road ahead by looking past either side of the large vehicle.
- Because they may want to turn into the side road
- Because they can be difficult to see
- Because they may slow down to let you turn
- Because they might not see you turn
Explanation: Cyclists and motorcyclists are smaller than other vehicles and so are more difficult to see. They can easily be hidden from your view by cars parked near a junction.
- The brakes don't work as well as they do on a clear day
- The engine runs colder and so uses more fuel than on a clear day
- You could be dazzled by other people's fog lights
- You won't be able to see as far ahead as you can on a clear day
Explanation: In fog, you won't be able to see as far ahead as you can on a clear day. You'll need to reduce your speed so that, if a hazard develops, you have the time and space to take avoiding action. If you can, try to delay your journey until the fog has cleared.
- So that the rider can see further ahead
- To stop the battery overcharging
- To intimidate other road users
- So that the rider can be seen more easily
Explanation: A motorcycle can be lost from sight behind another vehicle. The use of the headlight helps to make it more conspicuous and therefore more easily seen.
- Whether they're bleeding
- Whether they're breathing
- Whether they have any broken bones
- Whether they're comfortable
Explanation: At a road traffic incident, there's a real danger of further collisions and fire, so only approach if it's safe. Get someone to call the emergency services and, if there's an injured casualty, first check if they're breathing. If they're not breathing, you may need to give chest compressions until the ambulance arrives.
- Remove anything sticking to the burns
- Burst any blisters
- Pour cool liquid over the burns
- Apply lotions to the injury
Explanation: If someone is suffering from severe burns, you should douse the burns with a clean, cool, non-toxic liquid. If any clothing is stuck to the wound, don't try to remove it.
- Keep the arm low and allow the blood flow to stop naturally
- Get them to swing their arm briskly up and down
- Rub the wound in a circular motion
- Apply firm pressure to the area and raise the arm
Explanation: If possible, lay the casualty down. Once you're sure there are no objects in the wound, apply firm pressure using clean material. Raising the arm above the level of the heart will also help to stem the flow of blood.
- Keep the casualty warm and give them a warm drink
- Leave the casualty in the vehicle in case they're seriously injured
- Remove the casualty and place them in the recovery position
- Get the casualty out of the vehicle and off the road
Explanation: Even if you've had no first-aid training, you can help at a crash. Deal with any danger, make sure that the emergency services are called, and help those involved. If a casualty isn't in danger, then don't move them, as they may have injuries you can't see. Reassure them and wait for the emergency services to arrive.
- When the rider asks you to
- When it's essential
- Straight away
- Before you move the rider
Explanation: If a motorcyclist has been injured, it's important not to remove their helmet unless it's absolutely essential to keep them alive.
- Remove anything sticking to the burn
- Douse the burns thoroughly with clean, cool liquid
- Try to find out whether it was a petrol or diesel engine
- Check their pulse
Explanation: After ensuring the scene is safe, your priorities are to cool the burns with a clean, cool, non-toxic liquid and then to check the casualty for shock. Don't remove anything sticking to the burns, as this could cause further injury and infection.
- 150 metres (490 feet)
- 125 metres (408 feet)
- 90 metres (294 feet)
- 45 metres (147 feet)
Explanation: Always carry an advance warning triangle, or other permitted warning device, in your vehicle. Use it to warn other road users if your vehicle has broken down or there's been an incident. You're advised to place it about 45 metres (147 feet) behind the vehicle, on the same side of the road. You may need to place it further back if the vehicle is hidden by, for example, a bend, hill or dip in the road. Never attempt to place any warning device on a motorway.
- Mobile phones don't work on motorways
- Using a mobile phone will distract other drivers
- It allows easy location by the emergency services
- It connects you to a local garage
Explanation: On a motorway, it's best to use a roadside emergency telephone so that the emergency services are able to locate you easily. The nearest telephone is indicated by an arrow on marker posts, which are placed every 100 metres along the edge of the hard shoulder. If you do use a mobile phone, the emergency services will want to know your exact location. Before you call, find out the number on the nearest marker post; this will tell the emergency services your exact location.
- Wait until there's a chance to drive safely around the obstruction
- Carry on; the oncoming drivers can always make room
- Wave oncoming vehicles through
- Drive around the obstruction, flashing your headlights as a warning
Explanation: If you have to pass an obstruction, such as a parked vehicle on your side of the road, you'll need to cross, either partly or fully, to the other side of the road. This could put you at risk from approaching traffic. You should give way to oncoming traffic if there isn't enough room for you both to continue safely.
- Check your right-hand mirror
- Move closer to the vehicle in front
- Straddle the lanes
- Check for cyclists on your left
Explanation: In traffic, cyclists often filter past on the left of slow-moving queues or stationary vehicles. Before making a left turn, you should check your nearside and, if necessary, hold back until you can turn without cutting across a filtering cyclist.
- Position in the middle of the road
- Stay in your normal driving position
- Keep just left of the middle of the road
- Swing out wide just before turning
Explanation: Make sure that you don't swing out into the centre of the road just before turning left. Stay in your normal driving position, so that other road users don't misunderstand your intentions.
- In good time on approach to the roundabout
- After passing the exit before the one you want
- When entering the exit you wish to take
- Immediately on entering the roundabout
Explanation: Properly timed signals tell other road users what you intend to do. When you're turning right at a roundabout, signal left just after passing the exit before the one you wish to take. This helps drivers behind and also those waiting to join the roundabout.
- Drop further back
- Sound your horn
- Flash your headlights
- Start to overtake
Explanation: When following a large vehicle, you need to keep well back to help you to see around it. You can only judge whether it's safe to overtake when you have a clear view of the road ahead. If another vehicle comes past you and fills the gap, drop further back to keep a safe separation distance.
- Your judgement of speed is likely to be unaltered
- You're likely to drive more slowly than you realise
- You're likely to drive faster than you realise
- Your judgement of speed is likely to be improved
Explanation: After driving at motorway speeds for some time, a driver's judgement of speed may be affected. Having left a motorway, it's important that drivers frequently check their speedometer to avoid driving faster than they realise.
- One-and-a-half times the length of your car
- Twice the length of your car
- One-and-a-half times the length of the front car
- Twice the length of the rear car
Explanation: Reverse or parallel parking on the side of the road is a skill you need to learn as you prepare for your practical driving test. It will also help you to park safely and conveniently throughout your driving career. Once mastered, you should be able to park between two vehicles in a gap that would normally be about one-and-a-half times the length of your own vehicle.
- First
- Fourth
- Reverse
- Neutral
Explanation: By leaving the car in gear, the engine will help to prevent the vehicle from rolling. When parking facing uphill, select first gear. This will maximise the resistance from the engine if the parking brake should fail.
- Wave them to cross
- Be patient and wait
- Carry on
- Sound your horn
Explanation: If you stop for pedestrians and they don't start to cross, be patient and don't wave them across or sound your horn. This could be dangerous if another vehicle is approaching and hasn't seen or heard your signal.
- In the middle lane
- On the hard shoulder
- In the left-hand lane
- In any lane
Explanation: Look for the advance information on the direction signs and plan your exit in good time. Get into the left-hand lane in plenty of time and well before reaching your exit.
- Check the mirrors only
- Get out and check
- Look through the rear window only
- Carry on, assuming it's clear
Explanation: If there's any doubt as to whether it's safe to reverse, get out and have a look before you start reversing.
- Two-and-a-half car lengths
- Two car lengths
- One-and-a-half car lengths
- One car length
Explanation: Reverse or parallel parking between parked vehicles on the side of the road is a useful driving skill to master. How large the space needs to be depends on the driver's skill and the size of their car. A useful guide would be a minimum space of one-and-a-half times the length of their car.
- Overtake the cyclist briskly and turn in front of them
- Allow extra room when you overtake the cyclist, so that you can turn across them easily
- Sound your horn to warn the cyclist you want to turn
- Keep following the cyclist and turn behind them
Explanation: If you want to turn left and there's a cyclist in front of you, hold back. Wait until the cyclist has passed the junction and then turn left behind them.
- Stop, get out and look along the main road to check
- Sound your horn and pull out if there's no reply
- Stop, then move forward slowly until you have a clear view
- Move out quickly, but be prepared to stop
Explanation: If you want to turn right from a junction but your view is restricted, you'll need to stop, then ease forward until you can see whether it's safe to move out. Don't commit to emerging until you've seen that it's safe to do so. If you don't know, don't go.
- Emerge slightly to show your intentions
- Stop in the first lane, so that other vehicles give way
- Wait until the road is clear in both directions
- When it's safe, move to the centre of the road and wait
Explanation: When your vehicle is too big to fit into the central reservation, you should treat a dual carriageway as one road and wait until the road is clear in both directions before emerging to turn right. If you try to treat it as two separate roads and wait in the middle, your vehicle will overhang the central reservation and could cause a collision.
- To allow other drivers to pull out in front of you
- To help other road users know what you intend to do
- To allow drivers to pass you on the right
- To give a better view into the road that you're joining
Explanation: If you wish to turn right into a side road, take up your position in good time. When it's safe to do so, you should position just left of the centre of the road. This will allow following vehicles to pass you on the left. Early positioning will show other traffic what you intend to do.
- Behind the vehicle, on the offside of the road
- Behind the vehicle, on the nearside verge or footpath
- In front of the vehicle, on the offside verge or footpath
- In front of the vehicle, in the middle of the road
Explanation: Normally, you should place your warning triangle on the same side of the road as your vehicle, and at least 45 metres (147 feet) behind it. On a very narrow road, the triangle itself could be a hazard and is best placed off the road but in a clearly visible position. Don't place a warning triangle on a motorway.
- 25 metres (82 feet)
- 90 metres (294 feet)
- 125 metres (408 feet)
- 45 metres (147 feet)
Explanation: If your vehicle breaks down, use hazard warning lights as well as a warning triangle or other device to warn other drivers. It's even more important to do this in the dark. Warning triangles should be placed at least 45 metres (147 feet) from your vehicle and on the same side of the road. Don't use a warning triangle on a motorway.
- Only change the wheel if you have a passenger to help you
- Try to wave down another vehicle for help
- Change the wheel yourself
- Use the emergency telephone to call for assistance
Explanation: If you have to stop on the hard shoulder of a motorway, you should park as far to the left as you can and leave the vehicle by the nearside door. If you're on a smart motorway you should stop in an emergency refuge area. Don't attempt even simple repairs. Use the emergency telephone and phone for assistance. While waiting for assistance to arrive, wait near your car, keeping well away from the carriageway and hard shoulder.
- Walk in the direction you were travelling
- Walk so you're facing oncoming traffic
- Walk in the direction shown on the marker posts
- Walk in the direction of the nearest exit
Explanation: There are marker posts at 100 metre intervals along the hard shoulder of a motorway. The markers direct you to the nearest emergency telephone, so follow them if you've broken down.
- Try to repair your vehicle quickly
- Stop traffic behind and ask for help
- Switch on your hazard warning lights
- Stand behind your vehicle to warn others
Explanation: If your vehicle breaks down, switch on your hazard warning lights. The lights will draw attention to the position of your vehicle, so other road users can avoid it. Only leave the vehicle when you can safely get clear of the carriageway.
- Check your location from the marker posts on the left
- Get out of the driver's seat before making the call
- Stand at the rear of the vehicle while making the call
- Have your insurance policy number to hand
Explanation: If you're on the motorway and have to call the emergency services, the operator will need to know your exact location. Look for a number on the nearest marker post beside the hard shoulder. Give this number to the operator and be ready to describe where you are. For example, tell the operator the last junction or service area you passed. This will help the emergency services to reach you as quickly as possible.
- Stop until the area has cleared
- Use clear arm signals to get into the lane you want
- Continue in that lane
- Force your way into the lane you want
Explanation: Sometimes road markings can be obscured by queuing traffic, or you may be unsure which lane you need to be in. If you realise too late that you're in the wrong lane, don't cut across lanes or bully other drivers to let you in. Follow the lane you're in and find somewhere safe to turn around if you need to.
- Accelerate hard
- Be ready to stop
- Brake hard
- Maintain your speed
Explanation: The longer traffic lights have been on green, the greater the chance of them changing. Always allow for this as you approach the lights and be prepared to stop.
- Get them out of the vehicle
- Keep them in the vehicle
- Give them a drink
- Give them something to eat
Explanation: At the scene of a crash, don't move a casualty from their vehicle unless they're in danger; for example, from fire.
- To check for overtaking vehicles
- To look for pedestrians about to cross
- To make sure the side road is clear
- To check for emerging traffic
Explanation: In queuing traffic, motorcyclists and cyclists often filter past the stationary vehicles. Before you turn right in a traffic queue, check your mirrors for passing vehicles. Motorcyclists and cyclists are smaller than other vehicles and can be difficult to see, so look for them before turning.
- Because an ambulance is on its way
- Because it will clear the road
- Because there's further danger
- Because bystanders advise you to
Explanation: Provided they're breathing, unconscious casualties shouldn't usually be moved. The exception to this is when there's further danger; for example, from other traffic or from fire. Moving a person unnecessarily could cause further injury.
- Change direction
- Match their speed
- Be prepared to slow down
- Maintain your speed
Explanation: Large, long and heavy vehicles will need more time to pass you than a car, especially uphill. If necessary, be prepared to slow down to let them pass.
- When the other vehicle flashes its headlights
- Well after the vehicle passes you
- Well before the vehicle passes you
- As soon as the vehicle passes you
Explanation: If a driver overtakes you, dip your headlights as soon as they pass you and drop back to ensure that your dipped beam falls short of their vehicle. When following another vehicle at night, you should drive with your headlights on dipped beam. The main beam would shine in the mirrors of the car ahead and could dazzle the driver.
- When there are lane closures
- When you want to maintain a high speed
- When there's slow-moving traffic
- When slower vehicles are in the left and centre lanes
Explanation: If you're towing a caravan or trailer, you mustn't use the right-hand lane on a motorway with three or more lanes, except in certain circumstances, such as when there are lane closures.
- Drive slowly past
- Increase your speed
- Flash your headlights
- Sound your horn
Explanation: Animals can be unpredictable, and horses can be startled by passing traffic. Reducing your speed and leaving as much space as possible will help to minimise the risk.
- The lorries will block your view of road signs
- Objects falling from the lorries
- Spray thrown up by the lorries can reduce your vision
- Keeping a two-second gap
Explanation: Many large goods vehicles are fitted with spray-suppression equipment, but in heavy rain their tyres will still throw up a lot of spray. This spray can severely reduce your view ahead, even with your windscreen wipers on their high-speed setting. If you stay further back than normal, you'll be out of the spray thrown up by the lorry tyres and give yourself more time to stop if you have to.
- When you can see well ahead that the hard shoulder is clear
- When you warn drivers behind by signalling left
- When the traffic in the right-hand lane is signalling right
- When there's queuing traffic and traffic in your lane is moving faster than traffic in the lane on your right
Explanation: In normal driving, you'll overtake on the right. However, you may overtake on the left if traffic is moving slowly in queues and the traffic on your right is moving more slowly than the traffic in your lane.
- Sound your horn and be prepared to stop
- Move to the opposite side of the road
- Speed up and drive past quickly
- Drive on, as you have priority
Explanation: White lights at the rear of a car show that the driver has selected reverse gear. When reversing, the driver's view of the road is likely to be reduced. Sound your horn to warn of your presence and be ready to stop if necessary.
- If the driver ahead is hogging the right-hand lane
- If you're driving in a slow-moving traffic queue
- If you're in stationary traffic but the hard shoulder is clear
- If you're within 1 mile of your exit
Explanation: If traffic is moving slowly in queues on a motorway, stay in your lane. If the queue on your right is moving more slowly than the queue you're in, you may pass on the left.
- Sound your horn and continue
- Squeeze through the gap
- Report the driver to the police
- Slow down and give way
Explanation: Sometimes, large vehicles may need more space than other road users. If a vehicle needs more time and space to turn, be prepared to stop and wait.
- Pace the other vehicles
- Maintain a steady speed
- Switch on your hazard warning lights
- Move to another lane
Explanation: If you're driving along the motorway in the left-hand lane and you see traffic joining from a slip road ahead, you should move to another lane if it's safe to do so. This can greatly assist the flow of traffic joining the motorway, especially at peak times.
- Switch on your hazard warning lights
- Sound your horn
- Flash your headlights
- Switch on your headlights
Explanation: Using your hazard warning lights in addition to your brake lights will give the traffic behind you an extra warning of the hazard ahead. Only use them for long enough to ensure that your warning has been seen.
- Sidelights
- Main beam
- Dipped beam, then main beam
- Dipped beam
Explanation: At night, you should dip your headlights to avoid dazzling oncoming drivers or those ahead of you. If you're being overtaken, dip your headlights as the other vehicle comes past. Look ahead for hazards before you switch to dipped beam, because your view of the road ahead will suddenly be reduced.
- Move over when it's safe and let the other vehicle overtake
- Maintain your speed and position
- Flash your brake lights to alert the other driver
- Increase your speed to avoid holding up the other vehicle
Explanation: When you're overtaking on a motorway, you'll sometimes find faster vehicles approaching from behind. When it's safe to do so, you should move over and let them pass. Don't try to enforce the legal speed limit.
- Sidelights only
- Headlights
- Front spotlights
- Fog lights
Explanation: You must use headlights at night, except on a road that's lit by street lighting. These roads are generally restricted to a 30 mph (48 km/h) speed limit. However, it's advisable to use headlights at all times when driving at night or in poor visibility, to help other road users to see you.
- Switch off your headlights
- Use dipped headlights
- Flash your headlights
- Use full-beam headlights
Explanation: If you follow another vehicle with your headlights on full beam, they could dazzle the driver. Leave a safe distance and ensure that the light from your dipped beam falls short of the vehicle in front.
- Brake sharply to a stop
- Set your mirror to anti-dazzle
- Adjust your mirror to dazzle the other driver
- Switch your high-intensity rear fog lights on and off
Explanation: The interior mirror of most vehicles can be set to the anti-dazzle position. You'll still be able to see the lights of the traffic behind you, but the dazzle will be greatly reduced.
- Switch on your main-beam headlights
- Keep driving as you were
- Pull down your sun visor
- Slow down or stop
Explanation: If you're driving at night, there will be extra hazards to deal with. Visibility may be very limited and the lights of oncoming vehicles can often dazzle you. If this happens, slow down or even stop if necessary. There may be hazards in the road and, if you're dazzled, you may not see them until it's too late to avoid them.
- When you're approaching a left-hand bend
- When you're approaching a bend on a downhill slope
- When you're approaching a right-hand bend
- When you're driving uphill
Explanation: You need to understand how your headlights are designed to operate. The main beam is aimed far ahead and to the left, while the dipped beam is aimed a short distance ahead and to the left. On the road, this means that on left-hand bends your headlights are aimed directly at the approaching driver, so you need to dip early to avoid dazzling them. Similarly, if you stop on the offside at night, even your dipped beam will dazzle oncoming drivers, as it's now aimed directly at them; using parking lights will avoid any dazzle.
- When the other driver dips their headlights
- As soon as the vehicle passes you
- Some time after the vehicle has passed you
- Before the vehicle starts to pass you
Explanation: On main beam, your headlights are liable to dazzle a driver who's overtaken you. For this reason, you should dip your headlights as soon as the overtaking vehicle passes you. When following another vehicle at night, make sure that your headlights are on dipped beam and the light beam falls short of the vehicle in front.
- Accelerate to open a gap behind you
- Maintain your speed to prevent the vehicle from overtaking
- Allow the vehicle to overtake
- Touch the brakes sharply to show your brake lights
Explanation: Don't enforce the speed limit by blocking another vehicle's progress. This will only lead to the other driver becoming more frustrated. Allow the other vehicle to pass when you can do so safely.
- Feather the footbrake to warn them off
- Slow down and indicate left
- Remain in the right-hand lane
- Move over when it's safe
Explanation: If another driver wishes to travel faster than you, it isn't your role to try and stop them. Move to the left when it's safe and let them pass, even if they appear to be breaking the speed limit.
- Slow down and let the vehicle turn
- Drive on, keeping to the left
- Overtake it on the right
- Hold your speed and sound your horn
Explanation: Large, long vehicles need extra room when making turns at junctions. They may move out to the right in order to make a left turn. Keep well back and don't attempt to pass on the left.
- Your view ahead will be reduced
- Your view ahead will be increased
- Your vehicle's brakes will overheat
- Your vehicle's engine will overheat
Explanation: Keeping a safe distance behind a large vehicle will increase your view of the road ahead and allow the other driver to see you in their mirrors. This will help you both to see, and act safely on, any hazards that might occur.
- Any direction
- Straight ahead
- Right
- Left
Explanation: Cyclists approaching a roundabout in the left-hand lane may be turning right, but may not have been able to get into the correct lane due to heavy traffic. They may feel safer by keeping to the left all the way around the roundabout. Give them plenty of room and be prepared for them to take a different course to other traffic.
- Consider slowing down and giving way
- Pull over on the right behind the parked car
- Keep going, because you have the priority
- Speed up and get past quickly
Explanation: Large vehicles take time to get moving, especially on an uphill gradient. You should keep this in mind and give way, if you can do so safely, so that they can maintain momentum up the hill.
- In the right-hand lane
- In the left-hand lane
- In either lane, depending on the traffic
- Just left of the centre line
Explanation: If you're travelling in a one-way street and wish to turn right, you should take up a position in the right-hand lane. This will enable other road users not wishing to turn to keep going on the left. Indicate your intention and take up your position in good time.
- Flash your brake lights and slow down
- Increase the distance between your vehicle and the one in front
- Nothing; keep driving the same way you have been
- Increase the distance between your vehicle and the one behind you
Explanation: It's dangerous for vehicles to travel too close together. Visibility is reduced and there's a higher risk of collision if a vehicle brakes suddenly to avoid a hazard. By increasing the separation distance between you and the vehicle in front, you have a greater safety margin. If necessary, this will allow you to reduce speed gradually and so avoid the vehicle behind being unable to stop within the space it has allowed.
- Give way to them
- Stop and wave at them to cross
- Drive on, giving them plenty of room
- Sound your horn and proceed
Explanation: If you're turning into a side road, pedestrians already crossing the road have priority and you should give way to them. Don't
-wave them across the road
-sound your horn
-flash your headlights
-give any other misleading signal - other road users may misinterpret your signal and you might lead the pedestrian into a dangerous situation.
If a pedestrian is slow or indecisive, be patient and wait. Don't hurry them across by revving your engine.
- Be prepared to clear the windscreen by hand
- Set the windscreen demister to cool
- Use the windscreen washers
- Partly open the front windows
Explanation: Before you set off, you should make sure that you can see clearly through all the windows. Don't just rely on the wipers to clear the front and rear, as this will leave dangerous blind spots. If you need to, pull up safely and clear the windows by hand.
- Use them with main-beam headlights
- Switch them off when visibility improves
- Switch them off if you drive into a built-up area
- Switch off your headlights while your fog lights are on
Explanation: It's an offence to cause undue dazzle or discomfort to other road users by using fog lights when they're not needed. Remember to switch them off when visibility improves.
- Gently apply your parking brake
- Steer smoothly and gently
- Firmly use your footbrake
- Coast into the bend
Explanation: In icy conditions, it's very important that you take appropriate action in plenty of time. On slippery surfaces, harsh use of the accelerator, brakes or steering is likely to lead to skidding.
- Tap your foot on the brake pedal sharply
- Switch on your hazard warning lights
- Move onto the hard shoulder
- Increase your distance from the vehicle in front
Explanation: On a busy motorway, traffic may travel at high speeds despite the vehicles being close together. Don't follow too close to the vehicle in front. If a driver directly behind seems to be too close to you, increase your distance from the vehicle in front by slowing down gently. If the traffic in front slows, you'll be able to spread your braking over a longer distance. This will reduce the risk of the driver behind being unable to stop in the room they've allowed.
- Continue at the same speed and ignore the vehicle behind
- Move closer to the vehicle in front, to leave more space for the vehicle behind
- Brake to warn the vehicle behind to slow down
- Gradually increase the distance between your vehicle and the one in front
Explanation: When a driver is following you too closely, gradually increase the gap between your vehicle and the one in front. This will create a buffer, giving you more time to react if traffic suddenly slows down or stops.
- Give a 'slowing down' arm signal
- Look for motorcyclists filtering through the traffic
- Change down to first gear
- Sound the horn
Explanation: Before you change lane in a traffic queue, look for motorcyclists who may be filtering between the lanes of traffic. Make sure you look properly, as a motorcycle is small and easy to overlook.
- The bus may move off suddenly
- Pedestrians may step out from behind the bus
- The bus may remain stationary
- The bus may have broken down
Explanation: If you see a bus ahead, watch out for pedestrians. They may not be able to see you if they're crossing behind the bus.
- Keep a steady course and allow the driver behind to overtake
- Move closer to the car ahead, so the driver behind has no room to overtake
- Accelerate to get away from the driver behind
- Wave the driver behind to overtake when it's safe
Explanation: Never obstruct drivers who wish to pass. Speeding up or driving unpredictably while someone is overtaking you is dangerous. If someone overtakes and pulls into the gap in front of you, drop back to maintain a two-second gap.
- It will have no effect on the overall stopping distance
- It will be at least double the dry-weather stopping distance
- It will be up to ten times the dry-weather stopping distance
- It will be half the dry-weather stopping distance
Explanation: In heavy rain, the road will be wet and there may be pooling surface water. This will reduce the grip the tyres have on the road and will at least double the distance it takes to stop. Take this increased stopping distance into account while driving. Double the separation distance you'd leave in dry conditions.
- Turn into a side road on the right and reverse into the main road
- Turn around in a side road
- Drive on to the next mini-roundabout and make a U-turn
- Make a U-turn in the main road
Explanation: If you're driving along a main road and find you need to turn around and drive in the opposite direction, you'll have to find a safe place to turn. Don't attempt to turn around on the main road but find a quiet side road. Choose a place where you won't obstruct an entrance or exit. Look out for pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, as well as other traffic.
- Sidelights
- Dipped headlights
- Full-beam headlights
- Fog lights
Explanation: When driving at night, you should use your headlights to help you to see clearly. If the road ahead is clear, your full beam will light up the road some way ahead. If there's oncoming traffic, or you're following another vehicle, you should switch to dipped beam as this will reduce the risk of dazzling the other drivers.
- Motorcycles
- Horse riders
- Pedestrians
- Bicycles
Explanation: On a quiet country road, always be aware that there may be a hazard just around the next bend, such as a slow-moving vehicle or pedestrians. Pedestrians are advised to walk on the right-hand side of the road if there's no pavement, so they may be walking towards you on your side of the road.
- Pedestrians in the road
- Vehicles parked on the road
- Reduced visibility on bends
- Soft verges
Explanation: If there's no pavement, The Highway Code advises pedestrians to walk on the right-hand side of the road, which means they may be walking towards you on your side of the road. At night or in poor visibility, they may be very difficult to see, so where there are no pavements, be mindful that pedestrians may be in the road ahead.
- Look in your mirrors
- Reduce your speed
- Change to a lower gear
- Check for road signs
Explanation: The first thing you should do is check the mirrors to see what following vehicles are doing. This will help you to decide on a safe course of action.
- To improve your view of the road ahead
- To make the bulbs last longer
- To avoid dazzling drivers behind
- To avoid being distracted by the instrument warning light
Explanation: High-intensity rear fog lights are to be used when fog has seriously reduced visibility. Using them at any other time runs the risk of dazzling drivers behind. A warning light will show on the dashboard to indicate when your rear fog lights are on. You should know the meaning of all the lights on your dashboard and check them before you move off and as you drive.
- Steer over to the left
- Flash your headlights
- Adjust your interior mirror
- Check for overtaking traffic
Explanation: Always use the Mirrors - Signal - Manoeuvre routine before turning at junctions. Just before turning right, make a final check for any traffic that may be overtaking you on your right, as the driver or rider may not have seen your signal.
- Brake gently
- Brake firmly and move to a lane on your left
- Pump the footbrake
- Pull up on the hard shoulder
Explanation: Always use headlights on motorways, even if they're well lit. Dipped beam should be used to avoid dazzling drivers ahead or on the opposite carriageway. If you're dazzled, you may have to slow down, but it's important not to brake too hard or suddenly, as this may create a hazard for the vehicle behind you.
- Side and rear lights only
- Full-beam headlights
- Dipped headlights
- Hazard warning lights
Explanation: It's important to be seen as well as be able to see. In conditions of reduced daytime visibility, you should switch on your dipped headlights. This increases your visibility without the risk of dazzling approaching drivers.
- Use the nearest motorway telephone to inform the authorities
- Remove the object from the carriageway immediately
- Place a warning triangle behind your vehicle
- Wait in your vehicle for the emergency services
Explanation: Drivers are responsible for ensuring the security of any load they carry. However, if something does fall from your vehicle onto the motorway, you must inform the authorities as soon as possible by using an emergency telephone. Never try to retrieve the item yourself.
- When your vehicle breaks down
- To check a road atlas
- To answer a mobile phone
- For a short rest when you're tired
Explanation: The hard shoulder of a motorway that's not subject to smart motorway technology is only to be used in an emergency or if you break down. Roadside emergency telephones are placed about one mile apart and they connect directly to a control centre. The control centre will know your exact location from the telephone you're using and will inform the appropriate emergency services for you. Never cross the carriageway to use a telephone on the other side.
- Keep going and move your arms and legs to help your circulation
- Slow down until the feeling has passed
- Leave by the next exit
- Stop on the hard shoulder
Explanation: If you're making a long journey, plan a rest stop of 15 minutes for every two hours of driving. Motorway driving can be very tiring, especially for new drivers, and if you feel tired you'll need to find somewhere safe to stop. However, you mustn't stop on a motorway, hard shoulder or slip road except in an emergency or traffic queue. To find a safe place to stop, you'll need to leave the motorway at the next exit or stop at the next motorway service area.
- Stop close to the box until the police arrive
- Go to the next emergency telephone and tell the authorities
- Drive over to the hard shoulder, then remove the box
- Catch up with the lorry and try to get the driver's attention
Explanation: Lorry drivers may be unaware of objects falling from their vehicle. If you see this happen, and the lorry doesn't stop, drive safely onto the hard shoulder near an emergency telephone. Report the hazard to the authorities. Don't try to retrieve fallen items yourself.
- When you're towing a trailer
- When you're driving at high speed
- When you're overtaking
- When you're turning right
Explanation: The right-hand lane of the motorway is for overtaking. Once overtaking is completed, you should return to the lane on your left. Sometimes you may be directed into a right-hand lane as a result of roadworks or an incident. This will be indicated by signs or officers directing the traffic.
- Slow down and flash your headlights
- Maintain a steady speed and let the lorry driver decide what to do
- Slow down and let the lorry pass
- Increase speed slowly, so the lorry can move into the left-hand lane behind you
Explanation: Large goods vehicles are fitted with speed limiters. This means it can take them a long time to overtake if the vehicle they're passing is travelling close to their limited speed. If a lorry is struggling to overtake you, slow down to let it pass. This helps the lorry driver and also other drivers following behind who want to travel faster.
- When you're making a hill start
- When you're using the brakes
- When you're turning into a narrow road
- When you're passing cyclists
Explanation: You should always give cyclists plenty of room when you're overtaking them. When it's windy, you need to allow enough room in case a sudden gust blows them off course and into your path.
- Ten times the distance you would leave in good conditions
- Six times the distance you would leave in good conditions
- Four times the distance you would leave in good conditions
- Eight times the distance you would leave in good conditions
Explanation: Your vehicle's tyres have very little grip on icy roads. Stopping distances can easily be 10 times the normal distance on a dry, firm surface. Anti-lock brakes may prevent the wheels from skidding, but they can't increase the tyres' grip.
- Drive along the left-hand edge of your lane
- Increase your speed
- Prepare for a sudden gust as you pass
- Expect normal conditions
Explanation: Motorways are open and exposed to prevailing weather conditions. In windy conditions, a high-sided vehicle may shelter you from the wind as you pass. As you emerge past it, you may suddenly be buffeted by the wind.
- Continue driving at the same speed and flash your headlights
- Continue driving at the same speed and sound your horn
- Stop and move the ball onto the pavement
- Slow down and be prepared to stop
Explanation: If a ball bounces out from the pavement, slow down and be ready to stop. Don't encourage anyone to step into the road to retrieve it, as other road users might not have seen the situation and may be unable to stop if someone steps into the road.
- Pedestrians walking in the road
- Adverse camber
- No white lines showing the edge of the road
- No bend marker posts
Explanation: Pedestrians walking on a road with no pavement are advised to walk facing oncoming traffic. With this knowledge, you can anticipate their presence and so give yourself time to react, if necessary, as you negotiate the bend.
- To improve your view of the road
- To be positioned safely if you skid
- To overcome the effect of the road's slope
- To let faster traffic from behind overtake
Explanation: By taking a position well to the left as you enter a right-hand bend, you'll improve your view around the bend. This will help you to see any hazards as soon as possible. Positioning well to the left also reduces the risk of collision with an oncoming vehicle that may have drifted over the centre line.
- Stop before you reach the zigzag lines and let them cross
- Stop at the 'give way' line and wait patiently while they cross
- Carefully steer around them
- Go on quickly before they obstruct you
Explanation: Once a pedestrian has stepped onto the crossing, you must stop and let them cross. Don't forget to check your mirrors before slowing down. Wait until the pedestrian has finished crossing before you drive on.
Give the cyclist plenty of room
Overtake on the right
Signal the cyclist to move across
Sound your horn as a warning
Explanation: If you're following a cyclist who's signalling to turn right at a roundabout, leave plenty of room. Give them space and time to get into the correct lane.
- Left on approach and keep the signal on to leave the roundabout
- No signal as you enter and right to leave the roundabout
- No signal as you enter and left after you pass the first exit
- Right on approach and then left to leave the roundabout
Explanation: To go straight ahead at a roundabout, you should approach it in the appropriate lane. Where there are road markings, use the lane indicated. To help traffic on the roundabout and traffic waiting to join, you should give a left signal just after you pass the exit before the one you want. If you have to change lanes to reach your exit, do so with care and consideration.
- By keeping out towards the centre of the road
- By keeping close to the rear of the vehicle
- By keeping well back from the vehicle
- By keeping well over to the left-hand side of the road
Explanation: By keeping well back from the large vehicle, you'll increase your view past it. This will allow you to see further down the road and be prepared for any hazards.
- Report the driver to the police
- Overtake on the right-hand side
- Wait behind the long vehicle
- Warn the driver of the wrong signal
Explanation: When a long vehicle is going to turn right, it may need to keep close to the left-hand kerb. This is to prevent the rear wheels from cutting the corner as it turns. You need to be aware of how long vehicles behave in these situations. Don't try to overtake, as the vehicle could turn while you're alongside. Stay behind and wait for it to complete the turn.
- Overtake as the vehicle starts to slow down
- Stay well back and give the vehicle room
- Get closer, then pass the vehicle quickly
- Assume the vehicle is actually turning right
Explanation: A long vehicle, such as a lorry, a coach or a vehicle towing a trailer, may swing out to the right as it approaches a left turn. This allows the rear wheels to clear the kerb. Don't try to filter through if you see a gap on the nearside.
- Drop back until visibility improves
- Switch your headlights to full beam
- Position just over the centre line of the road
- Overtake quickly, keeping very close
Explanation: Large vehicles can throw up a lot of spray when the roads are wet. This will make it difficult for you to see ahead. Dropping back will move you out of the spray and let you see more of the road ahead.
- Pull alongside the moped and stay level until just before the junction
- Overtake the moped before you reach the junction
- Sound your horn as a warning and pull in front of the moped
- Stay behind until the moped has passed the junction
Explanation: Passing the moped and turning into the junction could mean that you cut across the front of the rider. This might force them to slow down, stop or even lose control. Slow down and stay behind the moped until it has passed the junction and you can then turn safely.
- Flash your headlights as a warning
- Drop back to regain a safe distance
- Try to overtake safely as soon as you can
- Stay close to the other vehicle until it moves on
Explanation: Wet weather will affect the time it takes for you to stop. If another vehicle pulls into the gap you've left, ease back until you've regained the stopping distance that's appropriate for the conditions.
- At least one second
- At least four seconds
- At least two seconds
- At least three seconds
Explanation: Wet roads will reduce your tyres' grip on the road. The safe separation gap of at least two seconds in dry conditions should be doubled in wet weather.
- Three seconds
- Ten seconds
- Two seconds
- Four seconds
Explanation: Always drive at a speed that will allow you to stop well within the distance you can see to be clear. Allow at least a two-second gap between you and the vehicle in front on roads carrying fast traffic. The gap should be at least doubled on wet roads and increased still further on icy roads.
- Reduce your speed and keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front
- Speed up to get away from vehicles behind
- Keep close to the vehicle in front and use their lights to guide you
- Use your main beam instead of dipped beam
Explanation: When travelling in fog, use dipped headlights so that other road users can see you. When visibility is seriously reduced, you may also use fog lights. Drive at a reduced speed and make sure you can stop within the distance you can see to be clear.
- Ignore the following driver and continue to drive within the speed limit
- Slow down, gradually increasing the gap between your vehicle and the one in front
- Move over to a position just left of the centre line of the road
- Signal left and wave the following driver past
Explanation: It can be worrying if the driver behind hasn't left enough room to stop if you have to brake hard - for example, in an emergency. Driving defensively, you should give yourself a greater safety margin by easing back from the vehicle in front. If an emergency arises, you'll be able to slow down more gradually, giving the driver behind more time to respond.
- The middle lane
- The most appropriate lane
- Always the left-hand lane
- The right-hand lane
Explanation: In a one-way street, all the traffic will be travelling in the same direction. When going ahead, you should choose the most appropriate lane for your destination and move into it in good time. Remember that traffic may be passing you on either side.
- The view in your offside mirror will be blocked
- The approaching vehicle will block your view of oncoming vehicles
- The angle of turn will be tighter than if you turned behind each other
- The time it takes to turn will be increased
Explanation: Take care to understand what the approaching driver intends, as this may determine your approach. Turning behind the approaching vehicle, wherever possible, will ensure that your view of the road ahead isn't blocked. At some junctions, the layout may make it difficult to turn this way; if this is the case, be prepared to pass in front of the other vehicle. At some junctions, the lane markings direct you to turn this way.
- To give you immediate access to the hard shoulder
- To build up a speed similar to traffic already on the motorway
- To allow you direct access to the overtaking lanes
- To give yourself space to turn around if you need to
Explanation: The slip road should be used to allow you to accelerate until your speed matches that of the traffic already on the motorway. By doing this, you can join the motorway without affecting the progress of the traffic. At busy times, you may have to slow down to merge into slow-moving traffic. Always give way to traffic already on the motorway.
- Allow one car length
- Allow 2 metres (6 feet 6 inches)
- Allow two car lengths
- Allow a two-second time gap
Explanation: In good conditions, one useful method of checking that you've allowed enough room between you and the vehicle in front is the two-second rule. To check for a two-second time gap, choose a stationary object ahead, such as a bridge or road sign. When the car in front passes the object, say, 'Only a fool breaks the two-second rule'. If you reach the object before you finish saying this, you're too close.
- Overtake as soon as you can
- Flash your headlights
- Sound your horn
- Slow down and stay behind
Explanation: Speed humps are a traffic-calming measure designed to reduce the speed of traffic. You'll often find reduced speed limits in these areas. Reducing the speed of traffic helps to improve the safety of more vulnerable road users. If you feel the vehicle ahead is travelling too slowly, wait until you're clear of the calmed area before looking for an opportunity to overtake safely.
- Pull into a passing place on your left
- Force the other driver to reverse
- Pull into a passing place on your right
- Pull into a passing place if your vehicle is wider
Explanation: If you meet another vehicle on a narrow road, pull into the nearest passing place on the left. If the nearest passing place is on the right, wait opposite it.
- To stop when you're tired
- To leave the motorway
- To stop in an emergency
- To join the motorway
Explanation: During periods when ATM is in operation, the hard shoulder is used as an extra driving lane. When ATM isn't in operation, the hard shoulder resumes its normal role as a refuge for breakdowns or emergencies.
- When driving at a constant high speed
- When overtaking slower traffic
- When driving at the minimum allowed speed
- When making normal progress
Explanation: Normally, you should travel in the left-hand lane and use the right-hand lane only for overtaking or turning right. Move back into the left-hand lane as soon as it's safe, but don't cut across the path of the vehicle you've just overtaken.
- Move out onto the carriageway, using your hazard warning lights
- Gain speed on the hard shoulder before moving safely onto the carriageway
- Wait on the hard shoulder until someone flashes their headlights at you
- Move out onto the carriageway, then build up your speed
Explanation: Use the hard shoulder to gain speed and indicate your intention, but don't force your way into the traffic. Wait for a safe gap in the traffic in the left-hand lane before you rejoin the main carriageway.
- Make a U-turn on the main road
- Drive into a side road and reverse out onto the main road
- Get someone to stop the traffic
- Find a quiet side road where you can turn around
Explanation: Don't turn your vehicle around on a busy main road. It's safer to find a quiet side road where you can turn around and then rejoin the main road.
- On the right, with parking lights switched on
- On the left, with no lights switched on
- On the left, with parking lights switched on
- On the right, with dipped headlights switched on
Explanation: On a two-way road, you may only park at night without lights switched on if
- the road has a speed limit of 30 mph or less
- you're at least 10 metres (32 feet) away from a junction
- you're facing in the direction of the traffic flow.
- Leave the front wheels turned to the right, with the vehicle in first gear
- Leave the front wheels turned to the right, with the vehicle in reverse gear
- Leave the front wheels turned to the left, with the vehicle in first gear
- Leave the front wheels turned to the left, with the vehicle in reverse gear
Explanation: Should the parking brake fail, the use of first gear will help to prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards. By turning the front wheels to the right, they'll travel the shortest distance before running against the kerb. This will reduce the potential for the vehicle to move any further.
- Regular rest stops
- A detour to make the journey more interesting
- Loud music to play if you feel tired
- Taking food and drink to avoid unhealthy eating
Explanation: Try to plan your journey so that you can take rest stops. It's recommended that you take a break of at least 15 minutes after every two hours of driving. This should help to maintain your concentration.
- At a right angle to the stop or 'give way' lines
- Close to the left-hand side of the minor road
- Parallel to the centre line on the minor road
- Just left of the centre line on the minor road
Explanation: Y-junctions can be deceptive because they often call for little change in direction. However, turning right, your view to the left may be restricted. At the mouth of the junction, positioning your vehicle at right angles to the major road will improve your view. This is particularly important if your vehicle has restricted view to the side; for example, a van.
Continue reversing and steer round the pedestrian
Stop and give way
Slow down and direct the pedestrian to cross quickly
Continue reversing and sound your horn
Explanation: If you're reversing into a side road and see a pedestrian crossing the road behind your vehicle, wait until the pedestrian has passed before continuing. Don't forget that you may not be able to see a small child directly behind your vehicle. Be aware of the possibility of hidden dangers.
- Just before you actually begin to manoeuvre
- After you've entered the side road
- After you've completed the manoeuvre
- When the front of the car swings out
Explanation: Always check road and traffic conditions in all directions before reversing into a side road. Keep a good lookout throughout the manoeuvre. Remember that as you reverse in, the front of your vehicle will swing out and may create a hazard to passing traffic. Be aware of this danger. If you feel there's a risk, wait for the traffic to clear.
- A motorcyclist
- A child
- A car driver
- A cyclist
Explanation: As you look through the rear of your vehicle, you may not be able to see a child because of their height. Be aware of this before you reverse. If you're uncertain whether a child is behind but hidden from view, get out and check it's clear before reversing.
- By giving an arm signal
- By positioning over the centre line
- By flashing your headlights
- By sounding the horn
Explanation: In some situations, you may feel that your indicators can't be seen by other road users. If you think you need to make your intention more clearly seen, give the appropriate arm signal.
- The mirrors
- The wheel trims
- The aerial
- The bumpers
Explanation: Don't travel unless you really have to. Making unnecessary journeys will increase the risk of being involved in an incident. If you do decide to use your car, it's important that you can see and be seen. Make sure any snow or ice is cleared from lights, mirrors, number plates and windows.
- Clear the road of debris
- Warn other traffic
- Give the rider reassurance
- Move the rider out of the road
Explanation: The motorcyclist is in a vulnerable position, exposed to further danger from traffic. You need to warn approaching traffic without putting yourself or anyone else at risk. Use your hazard warning lights and, if you have one, a warning triangle to alert other road users.
- Wait for them to cross
- Switch on your hazard warning lights
- Wave them on
- Sound your horn
Explanation: Before you turn into a junction, make sure the way is clear. Pedestrians who have started crossing have priority and you must let them cross in their own time.
- Turn left onto the dual carriageway and turn around at the next roundabout
- Wait in the side road until you can turn across the dual carriageway in one movement
- Wait in the central reservation and complete the turn when it's safe
- Turn left onto the dual carriageway and perform a U-turn at the next gap in the central reservation
Explanation: When turning right from a side road across a dual carriageway, make sure that the central reservation is wide enough to contain your vehicle. If it isn't, you'll have to treat the dual carriageway as one road and only emerge when it's clear in both directions. Drivers of longer vehicles and vehicles towing trailers or caravans will need to assess this carefully. If any part of an emerging vehicle obstructs the right-hand lane of the dual carriageway, it could have serious consequences.
- You'll have a clearer view of any approaching traffic
- You'll be able to turn without stopping
- You'll use less fuel because you can stay in a high gear
- You'll have more time to turn
Explanation: When turning right at a crossroads where oncoming traffic is also turning right, it's generally safer to turn behind the approaching vehicle. This allows you a clear view of approaching traffic and is called turning offside to offside. However, some junctions - usually those controlled by traffic-light filters - are marked for vehicles to turn nearside to nearside.
- Stop, apply the handbrake and then select a low gear
- Position your vehicle well to the left of the side road
- Make sure that you leave enough room for a following vehicle
- Check that your vehicle will fit in the gap in the central reservation
Explanation: Before turning right onto a dual carriageway, make sure that the central reservation is wide enough to protect your vehicle. If it's not, you should treat the dual carriageway as one road and check that it's clear in both directions before pulling out. Otherwise, you could obstruct part of the carriageway and cause a hazard, both for yourself and for other road users.
- Pull out before the vehicle reaches the junction
- Wait until the vehicle starts to turn in
- Move out and accelerate hard
- Move out slowly
Explanation: Take care if a vehicle is approaching from the right and giving a left signal. The driver may have forgotten to cancel the signal or may wish to stop just past the junction. Don't emerge until you're sure of their intentions.
- Turn left onto the first carriageway, then drive to the next gap in the central reservation and turn right
- When the first carriageway is clear, drive into the gap in the central reservation and give way to traffic from the left
- Block the first carriageway and wait for someone from the left to give way to you
- Wait for both carriageways to be clear before driving straight across
Explanation: Be sure that the gap in the central reservation is wide enough to protect your vehicle before moving into it. Once you're within the central reservation, wait for a safe opportunity to complete the crossing. Where the central reservation is narrow, treat a dual carriageway as one road. Wait until it's clear in both directions before emerging, otherwise your vehicle will cause an obstruction to one or more lanes of traffic.
- Apply the parking brake only
- Apply the footbrake only
- Switch off your headlights
- Use both the parking brake and footbrake
Explanation: You should consider the driver behind, as brake lights can dazzle. Applying the parking brake will prevent your car from rolling, or creeping if you have automatic transmission, without activating your brake lights.
- Because motorcycles have right of way
- Because motorcycles are narrow and hard to see
- Because police patrols often use motorcycles
- Because motorcycles are usually faster than cars
Explanation: If you're waiting to emerge from a side road, watch out for motorcycles. They're narrower than cars and can be difficult to see. Be especially careful if there are parked vehicles restricting your view. A motorcycle might be approaching. If you don't know, don't go.
- Assume the vehicle is turning left and proceed
- Apply the parking brake, select neutral and wait
- Cancel your signal to avoid causing confusion
- Make sure the vehicle is turning left before proceeding
Explanation: If you're waiting at a junction and a vehicle is approaching from your right, signaling to turn left into your road, wait until you're sure it's turning before emerging. It may be that the driver intends to stop on the left beyond your road, or they may have forgotten to cancel the signal from a previous manoeuvre.
- When the vehicle starts to slow down
- Just before the vehicle starts to turn
- Straight away
- After the vehicle has begun to turn
Explanation: Wait until you're sure that the vehicle is turning and not pulling up on the left, beyond your junction. Also consider that the driver may have left the signal on after completing a previous manoeuvre. Be especially careful if there's another road junction to your left.
- Large vehicles are difficult to steer in a straight line
- Large vehicles have priority
- Large vehicles can hide an overtaking vehicle
- Large vehicles are unpredictable
Explanation: Large vehicles can hide other vehicles that are overtaking, especially motorcycles. You need to be aware of the possibility of hidden vehicles and not assume that it's safe to emerge.
- You'll think you're going faster than you are
- Your judgement of speed will be improved
- Your judgement of speed will be unaffected
- You'll think you're going more slowly than you are
Explanation: Driving at speed for long distances can give you a false impression of how fast you're going. Check your speedometer: it will give you the accurate speed. This is particularly important after leaving a motorway and returning to roads with lower speed limits.
- Get out and clear of the crossing
- Run down the track to warn the signal operator
- Push the vehicle clear of the crossing
- Carry on trying to restart the engine
Explanation: If you can't restart your engine before the warning bells ring, stay calm, especially if you have passengers on board. Leave the vehicle and get yourself and any passengers well clear of the crossing without delay.
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