Some vehicles are fitted with an audible warning that sounds when the vehicle is reversing. This is an effective way to warn pedestrians and other road users of a reversing vehicle, but it doesn't take away the need to use effective observation all around your vehicle before and while you're reversing. Don't use the device in built-up areas between 11.30 pm and 7.00 am. Have consideration for the residents and don't disturb them with excessive noise.

Traffic behind that's returning from the right-hand lane is a hazard to be aware of before you move into the middle lane to overtake. Checking your blind spot can help you see these vehicles before you commit to changing lanes.

The horn shouldn't be used between 11.30 pm and 7.00 am in a built-up area. The only exception is when another road user is unaware of you and poses a danger.

After overtaking, check your nearside mirror carefully before moving back to the left. Don't rely on the other driver flashing their headlights, because only you can make the decision that it's safe.

You must always be aware of anyone using the stairs. Be particularly careful to avoid any sudden movement, such as when braking or cornering, as this could cause passengers to stumble.

On a poor road surface, the rider may need to move out to avoid potholes. You may not get much warning. A look to the right or a 'lifesaver' check may warn you that they're about to move out. Stay well back and allow the rider plenty of room until you can pass safely.

Before changing direction, you should check your mirrors for any vehicles that may be overtaking. An overtaking driver or rider might not have seen the narrowing road ahead. You should let them get past before you move across to the right.

Brake fade occurs when the brakes overheat. Good forward planning and correct use of the gears when descending hills, together with proper use of the endurance brake (retarder), can help to prevent brake fade.

If any animal you pass on the road becomes unsettled, you should brake gently and come to a stop. A nervous animal is unpredictable, so you should wait until it has settled or passed by. Other road users behind you may have a limited view of the hazard, so use your mirrors and give clear signals if necessary.

Before driving into a tunnel, you should take off your sunglasses. If you don't, you'll find that your vision is restricted - even in a tunnel that appears to be well lit.

Leaking fuel can make the road extremely slippery. Look out for this, particularly on roundabouts.

You should make yourself clearly visible when you're working outside your vehicle and close to moving traffic.

If you're travelling on a long journey, plan your route before you leave. This will help you to

• be decisive at intersections and junctions
• plan your rest stops
• know approximately how long the journey will take.

Make sure that the vehicle you're travelling in is well ventilated. A warm, stuffy atmosphere can make you drowsy, which will impair your judgement and perception.

There is a swing bridge or one that can open for boats at a river crossing ahead. Category: Warning signs.

Concentration and good judgement are needed to be a good, safe driver. You're strongly advised not to drink any alcohol before driving. Alcohol can stay in your system for 24-48 hours, so you should also consider your intake the day and night before driving.

Four amber lights flash in alternate horizontal pairs to provide a warning and to draw the driver's attention to the message displayed.

It can be dangerous for vehicles passing close by if you open the door carelessly. Always look properly to make sure that it's safe - checking the blind spots as well as using the mirrors - before you get out of the cab.

Select an appropriate gear in good time and, if your vehicle has a dashboard-mounted lever, apply the endurance brake (retarder) in stages. Braking too much, too soon may result in locking your drive wheels.

In good dry conditions, you should leave a two-second gap between your vehicle and the one ahead. When the weather is bad, you'll have to keep a greater distance, because it will take you longer to stop. In wet weather it will take up to twice the distance; in icy weather this could increase to ten times as far.

When you have to slow down or stop, you should always avoid harsh, late braking. This is particularly important on icy or slippery roads, where you need to brake gently and in good time to make sure you keep control of your vehicle.

Endurance brakes or 'retarders' help to control a vehicle's speed. They operate by applying resistance to slow the vehicle without using the wheel brakes, so avoiding brake fade. The methods used include: increased engine braking, exhaust braking and transmission-mounted devices.

Don't drive without a fuel filler cap in place, as fuel could spill onto the road, especially when you're cornering or turning at a roundabout. Diesel fuel will make the road surface extremely slippery. Any spillage should be reported, so that the emergency services can make the road safe.

Too much oil in an engine can be just as bad as too little. Overfilling an engine can create excess pressure, cause oil leakage through seals and result in expensive damage.

Learner drivers are often nervous. If you stay well back, this will reduce the risk of incidents occurring if they make a mistake, and you won't intimidate them. Remember, you were once in that situation yourself.

It's illegal for bus and coach operators to discriminate against people with disabilities. You must always make reasonable adjustments to the way that any service is provided. This means that you must allow wheelchair users access to the designated space - unless it's already been taken by another wheelchair user.

Elderly pedestrians may have impaired judgement, hearing and/or vision. Be aware that, if they do start to cross, they could take more time to do so.

The cyclist may not be able to get into a right-hand lane due to heavy traffic. Give them room, as they may not be taking the exit you expect.

If you have to drive through a flood, do so with caution. Once out of the flood, you need to test your brakes to make sure they're working properly. To do this, check what's behind you, then drive in a low gear with the brakes gently applied.