PCV - Free Test #5

Traffic commissioners are responsible for administering the regulations governing a PCV operator's licence. They can take disciplinary action against an operator who falls foul of the legal requirements.

High-sided coaches can create extra blind spots; you should be aware of these. You'll need to make additional checks on this type of vehicle, but don't forget your usual observations and mirror checks to make sure it's safe before moving off.

Tyre care is especially important. You should routinely check tyre pressures and general tyre condition. An unroadworthy vehicle will endanger the lives of your passengers.

The greatest risk to a stationary bus is being hit from behind. Moving your passengers forward could reduce the risk of injury if such a collision occurred.

Make certain that your filler caps are properly closed, so that you don't spill fuel as you drive along the road.

Driving in heavy traffic needs 100% concentration. If you become lost, find a safe place to stop before checking a map or asking for directions. Don't risk losing concentration by glancing at a map while driving, even if you're in traffic that keeps stopping.

If you attempt to move a casualty who has a spinal injury, it could cause further damage. Make sure an ambulance has been called for and talk to the casualty to keep them calm.

The brushes are part of a spray-suppression system. They reduce the amount of water thrown up at the sides and rear of the vehicle. Check them regularly for security. If they become worn, make sure they're replaced.

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.

Using a hand-held mobile phone while driving is illegal. It will distract you from your driving, because your attention is split between the phone call and your driving.

A significant number of sleep-related vehicle incidents involve commercial vehicles. There's a particular risk when driving between 2.00 am and 7.00 am, because this is when the body clock craves sleep. It's important to take proper rest before, during and between driving duties.

If you know which light is going to show next, you can plan your approach. This will help prevent excessive braking or hesitation at the junction.

It's unfortunate, but machinery will sometimes break down despite the best efforts to service it. Don't risk the health and safety of a person with a disability, or other passengers, by struggling to get them on without the proper equipment.

By using a retarder, the life of the brake linings is extended. This is because a retarder works by slowing the vehicle without using the wheel-mounted brakes.

In very cold weather, moisture in the storage tanks can freeze. Ice can form in the pipes and this will result in loss of pressure, which could cause brake failure. Make sure that you drain the tanks daily as part of a routine. Most modern vehicles are fitted with automatic bleed valves. Check that they're working properly and that air-drying systems are effective.

When passing other road users - especially motorcyclists and cyclists - in wet weather, the spray from your vehicle could affect their control. Leave plenty of room as you pass, and look in your left-hand mirror to check that they're still in control.

This is the sign for a tram. These vehicles are powered by electricity and reduce the emissions released into the environment. As they can carry many people, they can help to reduce the number of other vehicles on the road.

This sign gives you advance warning of a junction where the permanent sign is obscured by roadworks.

The ignition light should go out when the engine has started. If it fails to go out or comes on while you're driving, it means that there's an electrical fault of some kind.

Every year, there are hundreds of incidents in the UK where vehicles hit railway or motorway bridges. Most involve buses, coaches and lorries. Make sure your route doesn't take you under a bridge that's too low for your vehicle. If you hit a bridge, you'll be putting yourself and any passengers at risk, and you could cause a major disruption to road and rail transport.

You should also make allowances for any luggage your passengers may bring on board. An average of two cases per passenger on a 50-seat coach will add about 1.5 tonnes to the overall weight of your bus or coach.

This shared route is for pedestrians and cyclists only. Be aware that, when it ends, the cyclists will be rejoining the main road.

Passenger safety is your main responsibility. Before you allow them to step down from the bus, you should always check your mirrors to make sure there's nothing approaching that could endanger them.

Drivers are required to take 35 hours of training every five years to maintain their Driver CPC. This can be split into shorter sessions of at least seven hours each. These can be spread over the five years, so effectively one day's training is taken each year. The penalties for non-compliance are the same as those for driving without a licence.

Warning buzzers are linked to many systems on modern vehicles, including the air brakes. A warning light on the dashboard may help you identify the system that's caused the problem. Stop in a safe place until the fault has been identified and put right. Get professional help if necessary.

These lights warn that children are likely to be crossing the road on their way to and from school. Slow down and watch out for them.

Misuse of drugs and/or alcohol may lead to the withdrawal of your driving licence. Future insurance premiums will probably increase as well.

Passing the moped and then turning into the junction could mean that you cut across in front of the rider. This might cause them to slow down, stop or even lose control.

You must show consideration to other road users. Elderly drivers may have slower reactions and they might need more time to deal with a situation. Be tolerant and don't lose patience or show your annoyance.