Because of the threat to national security, coaches may be searched at ports and the Channel Tunnel. If the authorities aren't satisfied, they may refuse to let you continue.

If you have to wait for long periods of time, you should turn your engine off. Noise and exhaust fumes can cause annoyance as well as pollution.

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.

Always plan well ahead before overtaking. Take into consideration the size of your vehicle and whether there's a gradient ahead. The load on your vehicle will slow you down on an uphill gradient. It may be better to wait until you're on the level before trying to overtake.

Passengers may have left their seats early and may be standing up, waiting to get off. Don't brake harshly or open the doors until the vehicle has stopped.

It's essential that the tyres on your vehicle are in good condition. You must never forget that you have passengers on board. Their safety must be your priority. At no time should the depth of the tread be less than 1 mm over three-quarters of the width of the tyre.

Always indicate your intentions in good time; this will allow others time to alter their speed and course if necessary. Always check your blind spots before changing lanes.

Prepare to slow down and stop, as you would for a person without a disability. Don't wave them across, as other traffic may not stop.

In extremely cold weather, you'll have to use diesel fuel with anti-waxing additives to stop the fuel lines from freezing up. During the winter months, these additives are usually put in by the fuel companies.

Look out for restrictions on long vehicles. Length restrictions are found where there isn't much room to turn (for example, in a tunnel) or where there's a risk of grounding.

When you drive too close to the kerb, there's a risk that your nearside mirror could strike the head of a pedestrian. Be aware of this hazard and, if you see pedestrians close to the road, make sure you leave them enough room.

Try to wait until your passengers have sat down before you move off. This is even more important if they're elderly or have difficulty walking. Offer help when you think it might be needed - and remember, a smile goes a long way.

Applying a firm, continuous brake pressure will enable the anti-lock braking system (ABS) to function properly. However, ABS is becoming increasingly sophisticated, so you should read the vehicle manufacturer's handbook for its advice about using the system.

The driver of a passenger-carrying vehicle needs to know the vehicle's limits. These include its weight, height, width and length, and its seating and standing capacity. The unladen weight should be displayed on the nearside of the vehicle.

It's a legal requirement that information about a vehicle's height can be seen by the driver from their seat. It's important to know the height of your vehicle so that you can avoid any height restrictions on your route.

If you're involved in an incident in a tunnel, be aware of the danger this can cause to other traffic. You should immediately switch on your hazard warning lights and switch off your engine.

The motorcyclist might be turning right, changing direction or unsure of their destination. Stay behind until the rider has made a move or you're sure you can pass safely. Don't intimidate them by moving too close.

A toucan crossing is signal-controlled, but unlike a pelican crossing it doesn't have a flashing amber light in the sequence. Cyclists and pedestrians cross together, and cyclists are allowed to ride their bicycles over the crossing.

All new buses and coaches must be easily accessible for disabled passengers. They must have ramps, priority seating and colour-contrasted fittings.

When the lights turn to green, you may drive on, but only if the crossing is clear. You should wait for any pedestrians to finish crossing, regardless of their age. Allow them to cross the road at their own pace; don't try to hurry them in any way.

After an incident, passengers who aren't obviously injured may be suffering from shock. Reassure them and keep them warm. Don't give them anything to eat or drink. Call the emergency services and keep yourself and any injured passengers calm until professional help arrives.

Codes are shown on the wall of the tyre. These refer to the maximum load and speed capability of the tyre.

Always allow plenty of time for your journey, in case of unforeseen problems such as punctures, breakdowns, road closures or diversions. You'll feel less stressed and less inclined to take risks if you're not under time pressure.

Always be aware of the height of the vehicle you're driving, particularly if you drive different vehicles. If you use a sat-nav, it may show you the height and weight limits on UK roads.

The red studs on your left indicate the edge of the hard shoulder, while the white studs are used between the lanes. Using more than one reference point will help you to be certain of your position.

You should always check all your spray-suppression equipment before a journey. Don't ignore it just because it's dry when you set out. The weather can change on the way.

Driving with the rev counter in the red band will cause the engine to wear prematurely and can lead to expensive repairs. This could result in the vehicle being off the road for some time.

It's essential that you're constantly aware of other road users and pedestrians around you. A routine of effective mirror checking should be established. You must also know when it's essential to make checks in the blind spots; for example, just below the nearside front of the vehicle, where a pedestrian or a cyclist could be out of sight when you move off.