Once you have a secure hold on the object, keep your head up and bend your knees.

It's essential that all wheel nuts are tightened to the specified torque with a calibrated torque wrench. The wheel nuts, fixings and markers should be checked every day before you start your journey.

If a load is being secured with ropes, you must make sure it's tied securely to the body of the unit. The most effective method of tying is with 'dolly knots'. These are non-slip knots that hold firmly.

When passing through immigration control, you should have a list of all your passengers. They must all be accounted for.

It's not always possible for drivers in the left-hand lane to change lanes to let joining traffic merge. However, you should be ready to adjust your speed to help the joining driver merge safely.

Don't hurry elderly people across the road by getting too close to them or revving the engine. Be aware that they might take longer to cross. They might also have hearing difficulties and not hear you approaching.

Good forward planning will allow you to deal safely with this situation. You need to assess how your actions will affect other road users. Acting on impulse can have disastrous consequences.

Some highly dangerous chemicals have to be transported at prescribed temperatures. Drivers must be fully trained in the use of these specially designed, temperature-controlled vehicles.

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.

The priority when dealing with an unconscious person is to make sure they have a clear airway and can breathe. Stay with the casualty and make sure someone rings for an ambulance.

Keep a check in your mirrors as you're driving to make sure that the sheets are secure. Air can force itself under the sheets and work them loose.

A person who's hysterical may do things that you wouldn't expect. Try to keep the distressed person calm and safe until the emergency services arrive.

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.

If you notice any missing wheel nuts, park and phone for assistance. It's essential that all wheel fixings are in place and tightened to the torque specified by the manufacturer. Checks should be made before you start any journey, but make a visual check every time you start up again after a rest stop.

Side-wind warning signs are often found on roads that are frequently affected by strong wind. High-sided vehicles, caravans and motorcycles are more susceptible to windy weather, and you should be aware of the difficulties they may be having.

A red cross above the hard shoulder means that it's closed as a running lane and should only be used for emergencies or breakdowns. At busy times, the hard shoulder may be used as a running lane; the red cross will then be replaced by a mandatory speed-limit sign.

Some bus lanes operate only during peak hours and other vehicles may use them outside these hours. Make sure you check the sign for the hours of operation before driving in a bus lane.

Learners might not have confidence when they first start to drive. Allow them plenty of room and don’t react adversely to their hesitation. We all learn from experience, but new drivers will have had less practice in dealing with all the situations that might occur.

Use your hazard warning lights on a motorway or unrestricted dual carriageway to warn following drivers of an obstruction or hazard ahead. This will alert drivers who may not be able to see the hazard due to the size of your vehicle.

A tyre may burst or shred if it overheats. This could result in serious loss of control. Stop on the hard shoulder as soon as it's safe to do so and call for help.

When an analogue tachograph is installed and calibrated, an installation plaque is fixed near the tachograph. This shows the date of the most recent tachograph calibration. Under EU rules, this must take place every six years.

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.

Any medical condition that could affect your ability to drive a lorry or a bus safely may prevent you from holding a licence. These conditions include serious visual impairment, heart disease and some mental disorders. For more information about medical standards, you should contact the Drivers Medical Branch, DVLA, Swansea.

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

Check your mirrors to make sure that it's safe to overtake. Remember that traffic coming up behind will be travelling at a faster speed.

Keeping the height of the load as low as possible will reduce the wind resistance of the vehicle. This will help to save fuel. It's particularly relevant when using a flat-bodied lorry or trailer.

When visibility is poor or the road is wet, leave a greater separation distance - at least a four-second time gap from the vehicle in front. You should also reduce speed and use dipped headlights.

Fuel spilled on the road is a serious danger to other road users, especially motorcyclists. To prevent this from happening, make sure the filler cap is secure after refuelling.

When turning at a mini-roundabout, it's unlikely that you'll be able to avoid going over the marked area. You should, however, avoid going over the roundabout where possible.

When you're being overtaken, the other driver has to decide when it's safe to complete the manoeuvre. Don't give an unofficial signal, however well intended. There may be a hazard you're unable to see from your position.

In very wet conditions, tyres may be unable to clear all the water from their path. This can result in a layer of water building up between the road and the tyre - a situation known as aquaplaning. To regain control, ease off the accelerator and, as the vehicle slows, the tyres should regain their grip. It's safer to reduce the risk of aquaplaning occurring by driving more slowly in very wet weather.

When your vehicle has anti-lock brakes and you need to stop in an emergency, you should keep your foot firmly on the brake pedal until the vehicle stops; this will allow the system to work. Although anti-lock brakes contribute to safety, they don't reduce your stopping distance or take away the need to drive with good planning and anticipation.

Wind deflectors reduce a vehicle's wind resistance and so help reduce fuel consumption.

Only overtake when it's safe to do so, and don't use the size of your vehicle to intimidate approaching traffic. When overtaking a cyclist, leave plenty of room and, before returning to the left, check in your nearside mirror to make sure you've passed them safely.

Road-friendly suspension reduces the vibration caused by the impact of the wheels on the road surface.

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.

The headroom under bridges in the UK is at least 5 metres [16 feet 6 inches], unless otherwise stated. Where the overhead clearance is arched, this headroom is normally only between the limits marked.

Look out for variable-message warning signs telling you about

• lane closures
• speed limits
• hazards.

When you're clear of the restriction, you'll see a sign telling you that it has ended.

This sign is shown where slow-moving vehicles would block the flow of traffic. However, if you need to slow down to avoid an incident, you should do so.

An unladen vehicle that also has high sides will be vulnerable to the effects of strong side wind. An evenly distributed load will help to keep the vehicle more stable, but the higher the vehicle is, the more it will be affected. Be aware that such a vehicle may become unstable or difficult to control in windy conditions.

Drinking black coffee or waiting a few hours won't make any difference. Alcohol takes time to leave the body, so you should find a way to get home without using your vehicle; for example, by public transport. Depending on how much you've had to drink, you may even be unfit to drive the following morning.

Cycling in today's heavy traffic can be hazardous. Some cyclists might not feel happy about crossing the path of traffic to take up a position in an outside lane. Be aware of this and understand that, although they're in the left-hand lane, the cyclist might be turning right.

ISO (International Standards Organization) cargo containers should only be carried on lorries or trailers with the appropriate securing points. These are designed to lock into the container body.

You should be aware that motorcyclists are likely to be affected by side wind and can be blown into your path. Adjust your speed so that you can stop or take avoiding action safely if necessary.

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.

You can help someone suffering from shock by talking to them and reassuring them confidently. Don't leave them alone or give them anything to eat or drink.

It's a serious offence to drive without insurance. As well as an unlimited fine, you may be disqualified or given penalty points.

When you need to drive close to the kerb, be aware of the dangers.

• Pedestrians may step off the kerb.
• The nearside mirror may be at a pedestrian's head height.
• Cyclists may be tempted to pass you on your left if you're driving slowly in congested conditions.

Good forward planning can help you keep other road users out of trouble. Information to help you do this is available if you look for it. Watch for clues: for example, a motorcyclist taking a 'lifesaver' look over their shoulder could be about to change direction.

If your vehicle hits a bridge, you must report it to the police. If a railway bridge is involved, you must also report it to the railway authority. The phone number is usually shown on or near the bridge.

Rain, combined with oil, rubber particles, dirt and debris on the road surface, reduces the tyres' grip on the road. It can be especially slippery when it rains after a long dry spell.

If you're the first to arrive at an incident, further collisions and fire are the immediate concerns. Switch on your hazard warning lights to warn other traffic. Stop any running vehicle engines to reduce the risk of fire. Don't assume that someone else has called the emergency services - do it yourself. Don't move casualties trapped in vehicles unless they're in danger.

Goods vehicles with a maximum authorised mass of more than 7.5 tonnes (including any trailer) mustn't be parked on a verge without police permission. The only exception is when this is essential for loading and unloading. In these cases, the vehicle mustn't be left unattended.

Workshop manuals give detailed technical advice about the servicing, maintenance and repair of your vehicle. They're essential for anyone who wants to service or repair their own vehicle.

If the load is sheeted incorrectly, the wind may get underneath a sheet, making it flap about. This is dangerous, as it can catch unsuspecting pedestrians or cyclists, and it can also seriously reduce the driver's view of what's happening behind.

When starting an engine fitted with an engine management system, you don't need to press the accelerator, because the engine management system automatically regulates the fuel/air supply. Using the accelerator at start-up wastes fuel, causes increased engine noise and is harmful to the environment.

The marker boards should be red and white. They must be kept clean and independently lit at night and in poor visibility, so that other road users can see them.

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.

Horses and their riders will move more slowly than other road users. They might not have time to cut across heavy traffic to take up a position in the offside lane when they're turning right; it could also be hazardous for them to do so. Therefore, a horse and rider may approach a roundabout in the left-hand lane, even though they're turning right.

It's illegal to use a hand-held phone while driving. When you've stopped in a safe place, you can concentrate on your call or message. Using a phone while driving means you won't have full control of your vehicle. This could result in a collision, with serious or even fatal consequences.

If your vehicle is involved in a traffic incident, you must stop. Follow the guidance set out in The Highway Code if there's injury or damage to any other person, vehicle or property.

A bus equipped with a speed limiter must also be fitted with a plate showing the speed setting. This must be fitted in an obvious position, where it can be clearly seen.

Pedestrians and cyclists are shown the green light together. The signals are push-button-operated and there's no flashing amber phase.

Always look out for road signs, but be especially aware of those that refer to large or heavy vehicles. Get into the habit of checking for signs at junctions. There might be an indication on the junction layout sign. Before you turn, make sure that the road you're using doesn't have any restrictions for the vehicle you're driving.

Make sure that you signal in good time, so that the motorcyclist behind you knows your intention. You may have to position yourself wide in order to negotiate the junction. Be aware that the motorcyclist may see this as an opportunity to filter through on your nearside. Check your left-hand mirror carefully before you start to turn.

When more than one sheet is used to cover and protect a load, the rear sheet should be positioned first. This is so that the overlaps face backwards, rather than forwards, preventing wind and rain from getting between the sheets.

It's illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone while you're driving. Park in a suitable place before receiving or making a call or text.

The effects of shock may not be immediately obvious. Try to recognise the warning signs early; prompt treatment can help to deal with it. Symptoms include a rapid pulse, pale grey skin, sweating and rapid shallow breathing.

During very cold weather, it's tempting to have the heating in the cab turned on full. Be aware that this may help to make you feel drowsy, especially after you've eaten a meal. Open the window slightly to let in some fresh air until it's safe for you to stop and rest.

When securing a load, the driver must use the most suitable type of restraint. Scrap metal is likely to have sharp edges that could wear through straps or ropes. Security of the load is the driver's responsibility; a load that has been correctly secured shouldn't move if an emergency arises.

When traffic is heavy, plan well ahead so that you don't block crossings. Leave them clear so that pedestrians can cross safely.

Never attempt to change direction to the right without checking your right-hand mirror. A motorcyclist might not have seen your signal and could have decided to overtake. This action should be a matter of routine.

You must be aware of the position of other road users, so that you know how they may be affected by your actions. Before opening your door, it's important to check the mirrors, as well as looking around for passing or approaching vehicles and pedestrians.

An engine fitted with a turbocharger should be allowed to idle for about a minute before it's switched off. This prevents the turbocharger bearings from being starved of oil.

Both your load and your vehicle can be a target for thieves. Taking simple precautions, such as securing the windows and doors, can deter thieves and help ensure your own safety.

You should allow the faster-moving vehicle to overtake safely. If you pull out to overtake at this time, you'll cause the car behind to brake sharply. Don't use the size of your vehicle to intimidate. Be professional and show consideration to other road users.

The lighter the vehicle, the more likely it is to be affected by the buffeting from your vehicle in windy weather. Give motorcyclists and cyclists extra room when you overtake them, as your vehicle's draught can easily upset their control and balance.

The speed limits imposed on vehicles carrying abnormal loads can be frustrating for other drivers, but you mustn't be tempted to exceed them. Remember, the more weight you're carrying, the longer it will take you to stop safely.

In poor conditions, all braking should be controlled, in good time and when travelling in a straight line. Try to avoid braking and turning at the same time. Look well ahead to assess and plan your actions.

Pedestrians use push-button controls to activate the signals. Pelican crossings have no red-and-amber stage before green. Instead, they have a flashing amber light. This means you must give way to pedestrians on the crossing, but you may proceed if the crossing is clear.

Slow down and be ready to stop if you see animals in the road ahead. Animals are easily frightened by noise and by vehicles passing too close to them. Stop if signalled to do so by the person in charge of the animals.

Check all medicines for their side-effects, such as drowsiness. If you're unsure, ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain how you might be affected by the medication.

Plan well ahead to enable you to brake normally. Don't rely on anti-lock brakes to compensate for deficiencies in your driving.

A kingpin or drawbar lock is a visible and effective deterrent to thieves wishing to steal an unattended trailer.

When deciding which type of restraint to use, consider what may happen if you have to brake sharply. Tubular loads may move forward with some force if you have to brake sharply in an emergency. This could cause serious damage to the vehicle's headboard.

Motorways often have exposed sections of road, placing high-sided vehicles at risk in side wind. When there are extremes of weather, listen to and watch out for weather forecasts. That way, you can plan your journey for the safest time, or make a decision on whether you should travel at all.

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.

A short-wheelbase empty vehicle will bounce more noticeably than some long-wheelbase vehicles. This can affect braking efficiency and all-round control. Don't be tempted to push this type of vehicle into bends or corners simply because the vehicle appears to be easier to drive.

The ventilation and temperature-monitoring equipment must have a system to alert the driver when limits are exceeded. The welfare and condition of the animals you're transporting is very important: they must arrive at their destination in good health.

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.

There are times when other road users make incorrect or ill-judged decisions. Try to stay calm and don't retaliate or react aggressively, especially as your vehicle is likely to be larger and more intimidating than the other person's. Always put safety first.

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.

Oil is vital for lubrication of the engine. It should be checked regularly and topped up as necessary. You should always check your engine's oil level when the engine is cold and your vehicle is parked on the level.

Current legislation requires all operators to set up an 'effective system' to help prevent the carriage of illegal immigrants. This should include vehicle security and checking using a checklist. Failure to do this will incur penalties.

Give way to buses whenever you can do so safely, especially when they signal to pull away from bus stops. Look out for people who have left the bus and wish to cross the road. Also look for people rushing to catch a bus: they may be more concerned about catching the bus than watching for traffic.

Moisture in the braking system can cause serious problems, especially in cold weather, when it could freeze and stop the brakes from working. Most modern vehicles have a system that drains automatically, but make sure you know which system is fitted to any vehicle that you drive.

A lorry loaded like this will be top-heavy and more likely to overturn in high winds or when cornering. If you're only carrying half a load, you should try to carry it on the lower deck.