LGV Theory Test 4

Where a motorway has a long or steep gradient, slow-moving large vehicles might get in the way of other traffic. To help the traffic flow, an extra lane - called a crawler lane - is sometimes found on these gradients. This helps the traffic to flow by providing the slower heavy vehicles with a dedicated lane on the left.

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.

The long overhang at the front of a car transporter can cause problems where street furniture, such as lampposts and traffic signs, is sited close to junctions. Particular problems may be encountered when you're turning right and there are 'Keep left' bollards in the middle of the road you're turning into. Plan your route carefully to avoid such hazards.

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.

You should always plan your route. This will ensure you always drive on roads that are suitable for the size and weight of your vehicle. By planning to avoid peak travel times, you can also avoid congestion. This can save you fuel, as well as reducing your journey times.

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.

The symbols on the back or side of a lorry should show the type of material that the vehicle will normally be carrying.

When approaching a tunnel, switch on your dipped headlights. Be aware that your eyes might need to adjust to the sudden darkness. You may need to reduce your speed.

Take care if you're driving an empty high-sided vehicle when it's windy. Watch for places where the conditions could suddenly change, such as a gap between buildings or when passing under a bridge. Reduce your speed and stay alert for other road users who are also affected by these weather conditions.

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.

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.

Remember that the buffeting caused by large vehicles can affect other road users, including

• cars towing caravans
• motorcyclists.

Air suspension reduces the pounding of the vehicle on an uneven road surface. This, in turn, reduces the vibrations transmitted to buildings and underground services along the route.

Some medicines can have side-effects that affect your driving. Ask your doctor whether you'll be safe to drive while taking the medicine that's been prescribed.

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.

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

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.

The service brake is usually operated by the brake pedal. It's used to control the speed of the vehicle and to bring it to a halt safely. It may also incorporate an anti-lock braking system.

A warning-lights check is sometimes performed automatically when the ignition is switched on. However, you may need to do this manually by operating a separate check switch. Never start a journey without carrying out this check. If there's a problem, have it repaired before you set off.

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

High-sided vehicles such as box vans are affected by side wind, particularly when they're empty. Drivers should slow down and stay alert for other road users affected by the windy conditions.

Lift the pedestrian's leg so that the wound is higher than their heart. This should reduce the flow of blood. Check that the limb isn't broken and there's nothing in the wound before applying pressure over it.

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.

The maximum speed for lorries over 7.5 tonnes maximum authorised mass on a motorway is 60 mph. However, it may not always be appropriate or possible to drive at this speed, because of the weather, volume of traffic and other factors.

Power-assisted steering operates when the engine is running. If a fault develops, much greater effort is required to turn the steering wheel. Don't attempt to drive a vehicle if you're aware of a fault in the power-steering system.

Plan your journey and take breaks to keep in touch if necessary. When driving on motorways, you can't just stop to use your mobile phone. You'll need to turn off the motorway or wait until you reach the next service area. Avoid being distracted by switching your phone off while you're driving; use the message facility to listen to any calls when you've parked safely.

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.

If convicted, the current fine for each illegal immigrant brought into the UK is £2000. This fine can be imposed on each responsible person; this includes the vehicle driver, owner and hirer.

These markings are found on the road outside schools. Don't stop or park on them, even to set down or pick up children. The markings are to make sure that drivers, riders and children have a clear view.

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.

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.

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.

Most diesel engines use a high-pressure fuel-injector system that will deliver pressurised fuel directly into the combustion chamber of the engine. This system is known as a direct-injection engine.

If you feel the onset of tiredness, you need to take a break. This might be at a motorway service station, but if there isn't one nearby you'll need to leave at the next exit and find a safe place to stop and rest.

HMRC can check the type of fuel you're using, and the type and legality of your load. Red diesel is dyed gas oil with a lower tax than regular diesel. It can only be used in agricultural and construction vehicles (such as tractors). Red diesel mustn't be used in freight transport.

To achieve maximum stability, the load should be placed to keep the centre of gravity as low as possible. To do this, heavy items should be placed close to the centre line and spread over the full length of the vehicle. Lighter items should be placed along the sides.

Higher speeds will cause more spray to be thrown up by vehicles' tyres - particularly the tyres of larger vehicles and trailers. Always use dipped headlights in poor visibility caused by rain and spray.

The importation of illegal immigrants into the UK carries heavy penalties. A fine of up to £2000 can be imposed for each illegal immigrant. This fine can be imposed on each 'responsible person', which includes the vehicle owner, hirer and driver.

Only use your horn to warn people of your presence when they may not have seen you. Don't use it to greet others, to show impatience, or to give or claim priority. Your horn mustn't be used between 11.30 pm and 7.00 am in a built-up area, or when your vehicle is stationary, unless another vehicle poses a danger.

At the scene of an incident, the first priority is to prevent any further collisions by warning traffic. You can warn other traffic by switching on hazard warning lights or displaying an advance warning triangle, or by any other appropriate means.

Blind spots can occur when bodywork - such as a door or window pillar - restricts your view. Different types of vehicle have different blind spots.

Spray reducers or spray-suppression equipment are attachments fitted around the wheel arches of large vehicles. They effectively trap spray thrown up from the wheels, which would otherwise reduce visibility for other road users.

As a local-service bus driver, you may use the bus lane at any time. The restrictions apply to other road users, to keep the lane clear for you at peak times. Don't be tempted to speed when driving up the inside of slow-moving or stationary traffic. Be alert for pedestrians who may be trying to cross the road.

While driving on a building site, bricks, mud or other debris can become lodged between a lorry's double rear wheels. When you leave the site and increase your road speed, anything lodged between the tyres could be thrown out. This flying debris can be a hazard for drivers of following vehicles and can create dangerous road conditions, especially for motorcyclists.

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.

You must take care when approaching any hazard where height is limited. Know the height of your vehicle and what you can drive under safely. If you aren't sure that it's safe, take another route.

You must stop in a safe place as soon as possible. The curtain might be the only support for a slipped load, so don't open it before checking. Check the load by carefully opening the rear door or opposite curtain, if it shows no sign of bulging.

A loose brake pedal would suggest a serious loss of fluid from the hydraulic system. Don't drive your vehicle until the fault has been checked and fixed by a qualified person.

In high winds, some exposed roads, bridges and viaducts are closed to high-sided vehicles. Plan your route with care and try to avoid these areas. Also plan an alternative route in case of road closure.

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.

Tailgating' is the term used when a driver or rider follows the vehicle in front too closely. It's dangerous because it restricts your view of the road ahead and leaves no safety margin if the vehicle in front needs to slow down or stop suddenly. Tailgating is often the underlying cause of rear-end collisions or multiple pile-ups.

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 you're carrying a steel ISO (International Standards Organization) cargo container, ropes or straps won't be strong enough to take the strain. This type of load requires a special type of restraint using twist locks.

Escape lanes are found on steep downhill sections of road. They're designed to give a 'run-off' area, usually straight ahead, to allow vehicles to stop in an emergency. This is usually when brakes have faded or failed on large vehicles.

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.

Check that the ground is firm and level before you uncouple the trailer. If you need to, place a heavy plank under the legs to distribute the weight and stop the legs sinking into the ground. Don't park illegally. Make sure that your unattended trailer isn't blocking access for others.

If your vehicle is over 17 metres (55 feet) long and you wish to cross a level crossing, you must stop before the crossing and telephone the signal operator.

If a warning buzzer or light alerts you to a loss of air pressure, you should stop on the side of the road immediately. You should have enough air in reserve to allow you to do this safely. Don't start or continue your journey until the fault has been repaired.

Air-brake systems rely on an engine-driven compressor to keep the reservoir tanks at their operating pressure. Coasting downhill and relying on the brakes to control your speed could result in the loss of sufficient air pressure to operate the brakes effectively.

Some loads need to be transported in special conditions. For example, chilled or frozen foods need to be transported in a refrigeration unit. To drive one of these units, you'll need to be trained in how to use it. You'll also need relevant training in hygiene procedures.

Never return to the left-hand lane until you're sure that you're well clear of the vehicle you've just overtaken. Don't cut in too soon and don't rely on the other driver flashing you in. Make your own judgement about when it's safe to move into the left-hand lane.

Major roadworks often cause complicated diversions for large vehicles. Drivers may be advised to follow a special symbol until the original road can be rejoined. Look for the yellow-and-black symbols in these shapes:

• square
• triangle
• diamond
• circle.

They'll often be shown with additional information and will help guide you around the diversion.

Wind deflectors lower a vehicle's wind resistance. The vehicle therefore requires less energy to drive it forward, and this reduces its fuel consumption. Ecosafe driving techniques, correct tyre pressures and proper maintenance also help to maximise fuel efficiency.

It's illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone while you're driving, other than to call 999 or 112 in a genuine emergency. Switch it off before you start driving and use the messaging facility. You can pick up messages when you stop for a rest break. If you must make a call, stop in a safe place before using the phone.

Vehicles that carry dangerous goods have badges displayed on the side and rear. The badges are orange and show the type of material that's being carried. Make a note of this and report it to the emergency services when you contact them.

If you're involved in an incident that causes damage or injury to a person or property, you must stop. You must also give your details to anyone who has reasonable grounds to ask for them. If you don't do this, you must inform the police as soon as possible and in any case within 24 hours.

Leaving the filler cap off, or not properly securing it, could result in a spillage of diesel onto the road. Because diesel is slippery, this would be a major hazard, so make sure to correctly secure the filler cap after use.

If you plan your journey to avoid busy times, you can avoid congestion. That way, your overall journey time may be reduced, so cutting costs and making you a more efficient driver.

Under no circumstances should you attempt to move or drive a vehicle with an air leak in the braking system. Report the fault immediately, or arrange to have it repaired. Place a warning sign in the cab, telling other drivers not to drive the vehicle and why.

If you intend to turn right, check your right-hand (offside) mirror first. All of your mirrors should be properly adjusted to give a clear view around and behind your vehicle. They should be kept clean at all times and shouldn't be cracked or broken.

When you're driving a long vehicle, you'll often need to straddle lanes to turn into narrow side roads. When you do this, watch out for smaller vehicles - especially motorcycles and cycles - trying to squeeze past on your inside.

Traffic officers don't have enforcement powers, but they're able to stop and direct people on motorways and some 'A' class roads. They only operate in England and work in partnership with the police at incidents. Traffic officers can be recognised by their orange-and-yellow jackets and their vehicles, which have yellow-and-black markings.

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.

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 handling of a six-wheeled bus or coach is not much different from that of a two-axle vehicle, except that punctures can be more difficult to detect.

Air-brake systems are fitted with a warning device that operates if the air pressure in the tanks drops below a safe level. There may be a warning buzzer and/or pressure gauges. You must be aware of the function of all gauges on your vehicle, and check them as you drive.

You have a legal responsibility to make sure that your vehicle is fully roadworthy. Daily walk-round checks give you the chance to look for any defects with your vehicle.

When discharging a load from a tipper vehicle, the centre of gravity is raised as the tipper body rises. To avoid the vehicle rolling over, it's vital that it's positioned on a level, solid surface before the tipper mechanism is engaged.

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.

When using ropes, the ends should be spliced or otherwise treated to prevent fraying. The rope should be of at least three-strand construction, with a normal diameter of at least 10 mm.

The blue (auxiliary) line isn't used when connecting to a two-line system. Follow the manufacturer's instructions about what to do with this third line.

The closer you are to the vehicle in front, the less you'll be able to see of the road ahead. You must be aware at all times that you won't be able to see all around your vehicle. This is why you must have an excellent mirror routine and constantly update yourself on what's going on around you.

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.

If you try to overtake another vehicle and realise that you're unable to complete the manoeuvre, ease off the accelerator and drop back behind the vehicle. If the vehicle you're trying to overtake is large, then it will take a long time to pass. You should assess whether you have the time and power to complete the manoeuvre before you try to overtake.

Switch off your fog lights when fog starts to clear and visibility improves to more than 100 metres (328 feet). Don't leave your fog lights on when the fog has cleared, because they can cause unnecessary glare or distraction for other drivers.

Plan your overtaking carefully. The weight of your vehicle, combined with the restrictions imposed by a speed limiter, is likely to make your vehicle lose speed on uphill gradients. You should take this into consideration before attempting to overtake another moving vehicle.

Spray-suppression equipment reduces the amount of spray thrown up to other road users. Check the equipment regularly to make sure it's secure and undamaged.

You must check the nearside mirror during and after overtaking a motorcyclist. Make sure that the rider is still in control and that your vehicle's draught hasn't caused them to lose their balance.

Always be concerned for the safety of other road users. Be aware of the various factors and situations where you may have to take action to keep more vulnerable road users safe.

The transition from 'rear wheel lift' to 'roll-over' is more rapid on vehicles equipped with air suspension systems. Make sure you take advantage of any extra training that may be available to drivers of this type of vehicle.

Plan ahead and use your endurance brake (retarder) to help keep your speed in check on long downhill gradients. This can help to prevent your brakes from overheating and fading.

Use the two-second rule when conditions are good and you're driving on roads carrying faster-moving traffic. Choose a fixed reference point, and when the vehicle ahead passes that point say to yourself 'Only a fool breaks the two-second rule.' If you reach the object before you finish saying this, you're too close and you need to drop back and check again.