LGV - Free Test #6

The main causes of lorries shedding their loads are driver errors, such as sudden changes of speed or direction, driving too fast for the conditions, and harsh braking.

You should always be aware of the amount of room your trailer needs when it's going around bends and corners. If you need to go onto the other side of the road, make sure there's no oncoming traffic before you move out.

At the scene of an incident, you should tell your passengers what has happened, while reassuring them that they're not in danger. Explain to them that the emergency services are dealing with it and they should remain on the coach.

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.

Motor vehicles over 7500 kg maximum authorised mass (MAM) and trailers over 3500 kg MAM should have these markings fitted to the rear of the vehicle/trailer.

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.

DVSA or the police can order an immediate prohibition. The vehicle may be immobilised and you won't be able to drive it until the faults have been rectified. Details are notified to the traffic commissioner. Never use a vehicle that you know is faulty.

The formula used to calculate the payload of a vehicle is the maximum authorised mass (MAM) minus the tare weight. The tare weight is the total weight of the vehicle, including the crew and extra equipment.

You must take 35 hours of training every five years to maintain your Driver CPC. This can be done at any time during the five years: all at once or split into sessions of at least seven hours each. The penalties for non-compliance are the same as those for driving without a licence.

Understanding other road users' behaviour can help you anticipate their next action. On this occasion it could prevent a serious incident. This type of assessment is part of the forward planning of a professional driver.

Your tyres must be in good condition and properly inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure. Research has shown that the tyres most likely to fail are those that have been over-inflated.

You should take account of the weather forecast when you plan your route. You're most likely to be subjected to side wind on exposed routes; for example, on long bridges, open roads and exposed stretches of motorway.

The red emergency line is common to both two-line and three-line braking systems. Always set the parking brake before disconnecting any brake line.

All drivers should play their part to protect the environment against traffic pollution. Make sure the vehicle you drive is properly maintained. Report any defects, such as excessive exhaust smoke, as soon as you can.

Motorcyclists and cyclists may be more difficult to see, especially at junctions. They can be easily hidden by obstructions such as other vehicles, and the small size of an approaching motorcycle may make it difficult to judge its speed and distance. It's vital that you don't emerge until you're sure it's safe.

When seat belts are fitted to your vehicle, they must be worn unless you hold a valid medical exemption certificate. People making deliveries or collections in goods vehicles are also exempt, when they're travelling less than 50 metres (162 feet).

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.

If the brake pedal is hard to press, this could mean a loss of vacuum or a fault in the vacuum pump. You shouldn't drive the vehicle until the fault has been repaired.

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.

Lack of oil could cause the engine to seize, and this could cause sudden and unexpected loss of control. You could break down in a dangerous position and put yourself and other road users at risk.

When air is compressed, moisture condenses and collects in the air tanks. This can find its way along the network of pipes connected to the brakes. In frosty weather, the moisture can freeze in the pipes, blocking them completely. On modern vehicles, the air is dried before it's compressed and the air tanks drain automatically to shed any moisture. On older vehicles, the air tanks need draining manually.

Articulated lorries aren't allowed to drive in the right-hand lane of motorways with three or more lanes. The only exceptions are when an escort vehicle gives you a signal, when road signs indicate, or when directed by a police officer.

Immediate treatment can help to reduce the effects of shock. Reassure the casualty and try to keep them warm and comfortable. Only move a casualty if it's necessary for their safety.

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.

If you can't return to base within a week of the tachograph becoming defective, it must be repaired during the journey. While it's broken, you must keep a manual record.

Normally, you should avoid having to stop before joining a motorway. Use the slip road to build up your speed so that you can emerge safely. If it's extremely busy, there may be rare occasions when you have to stop and then filter into the traffic. This is most likely to happen where traffic is queuing; for example, at roadworks.

Continually using the brakes could cause them to overheat. When that happens, they become less effective. This is called brake fade, and it occurs most often when the driver has to control the vehicle's speed on a long downhill gradient. To help prevent brake fade, use the endurance brake (retarder) and a lower gear to keep the vehicle's speed in check, rather than the wheel-mounted brakes.

All your concentration should be on your driving; any pain you feel will distract you. Be safe and wait until you're fit before starting your journey.

If you need to park and leave a semi-trailer, find a safe place. Don't park it in a lay-by or anywhere it could be an obstruction or a danger. Leave lay-bys for drivers who wish to stop and rest. Find a place off the road - preferably a lorry park or somewhere safe that will also reduce the risk of theft.

Before driving a vehicle fitted with anti-lock brakes, refer to the handbook. This will give you details of the manufacturer's recommended method of use. Remember, anti-lock brakes will enhance your skills, but they can't replace them.