LGV - Theory Test 7

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.

Don't frustrate other road users by driving for long distances with a queue of traffic behind you. This could cause them to lose concentration and overtake in an unsafe way. Stop where it's safe and let them pass.

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

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 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.

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.

Closed curtains on large empty vehicles can hold the wind. Strong side wind can blow a semi-trailer off course and, in severe cases, can blow the whole vehicle over onto its side. To reduce the risk of this happening, you should tie the curtains open.

Learners might take longer to react to traffic situations. Don't unnerve and intimidate them by driving up close behind.

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.

The vehicle handbook will clearly explain what maintenance may be carried out by the driver. Always refer to it and comply with the safety guidance that it contains. However, you need to be aware of your employer's policy on making any minor repairs.

If you're taking medicine or drugs prescribed by your doctor, check that they won't affect your driving. If you forget to ask when you visit the surgery, check with your pharmacist.

If you're disqualified from driving because you were two-and-a-half times over the legal limit, you'll be classified as a high-risk offender. Before you can regain your licence, you'll have to satisfy the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) that you don't have an alcohol problem.

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.

As you turn a corner, the hanging meat carcasses will all swing to one side of your vehicle, adding extra pulling force towards the outside of the curve. The faster you turn a corner, the greater this force will be. After the corner, the carcasses will continue to swing back and forth, like pendulums, making the vehicle unstable.

If you're following cyclists onto a roundabout, be aware that they might not take the exit you expect. Cyclists approaching in the left-hand lane could be turning right but may not have been able to get into the right-hand lane. Give them plenty of room.

You should tell telephone companies about your intended route when planning the movement of loads over 5.25 metres [17 feet 6 inches] high. You should tell them in plenty of time before making the journey.

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.

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.

On motorways, be especially careful when driving over bridges and viaducts. The road here is exposed and in windy weather there's a risk of strong side wind, which may blow you off course or even blow your vehicle over. In severe windy weather, these routes are often closed to drivers of high-sided vehicles.

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.

Heavy rain and the resulting spray from large vehicles travelling at speed can seriously affect visibility on the motorway. Reduce your speed and use your headlights. Don't use high-intensity rear lights unless visibility is reduced to 100 metres (328 feet) or less.

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.

By using a bypass, rather than joining the stop/start traffic in a town centre, you're less likely to be held up and can travel at a constant speed. Keeping to a constant speed will reduce the amount of pollution produced by your vehicle.

Drivers of buses and coaches with more than 16 passenger seats require a category D licence. Make sure your licence has the correct entitlement for the vehicle you plan to drive.

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.

Spilt diesel creates a serious risk to other road users, especially motorcyclists. Take care when refuelling and make sure that all filler caps and tank hatches are properly closed and secure.

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

You should always check your nearside mirror before any change of direction. Be alert for cyclists and motorcyclists who don't realise the potential danger involved in trying to squeeze through on your nearside when you're waiting at a junction.

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.

In England and Wales, the national speed limit for lorries over 7.5 tonnes maximum authorised mass on a single carriageway road is 50 mph. In Scotland, the limit is 40 mph.

While you're using a phone, your attention will be divided between the call and the road. This means you're unable to take in all that's happening around your vehicle. You need to be concentrating on your driving all of the time, and especially when dealing with a hazard.

A driver's week is defined as a period from 00.00 hours on Monday to 24.00 hours the following Sunday.

When your steering wheels are locked - as can happen in a skid - you can't steer the vehicle. Anti-lock brakes help you to keep steering control while you're braking heavily, but they aren't a substitute for good forward planning. Anticipation and planning ahead will minimise the risk of skidding more effectively than relying on your braking system.

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.

Warning lights show when there's danger ahead. This includes

• lane closures
• incidents
• fog
• icy roads.

This sign is found where a shallow stream crosses the road. Heavy rainfall could increase the flow of water. If the water looks too deep or the stream has swelled over a large distance, stop and find another route.

Vehicles carrying dangerous goods and other materials that may pose a hazard are subject to detailed emergency procedures. These procedures must be followed. Appropriate fire-fighting equipment must be available and the driver must be trained in its use.

As well as your driving licence, you'll need to carry the insurance certificate and vehicle registration document. Other documentation may also be needed for some countries. Check this before starting your journey.

When a vehicle changes direction, forces are applied to the vehicle and its load. Braking at the same time can result in additional forces being introduced, and this can lead to a loss of control. For this reason, braking should be carried out while driving in a straight line, so preventing these forces from acting together.

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.

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.

It's more difficult to judge speed and distance accurately in the dark. Darkness can also hide bends and dips in the road. Plan ahead, and be sure that you have time and space to complete your overtaking safely.

Before leaving the cab, it's very important to secure the vehicle by applying the parking brake. After leaving the cab, apply the trailer parking brake.

At hump bridges, there's a risk of long vehicles grounding. If you aren't sure whether the floor of your vehicle will clear the bridge, find another route.

Continuous high speeds on the motorway can cause the tyres to become hot and to shred. If you notice this happening, you must stop on the hard shoulder as soon as it's safe to do so. It's dangerous to drive a defective vehicle.

Moisture in the air condenses as the air pressure increases. This moisture can be transmitted around the braking system and is especially dangerous in cold weather. It can lead to ice forming and blocking the valves and pipes.

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.

As you pass pedestrians or vehicles on your left, you should use your nearside mirror and check that you've passed them safely. You need to allow a good safety margin before you move back to the left.

When emerging, if you can't see, don't go. Be aware that there could be an approaching cyclist or motorcyclist hidden by parked vehicles. Edge out very slowly, checking in all directions, and be ready to stop.

Use your air conditioning only when it's absolutely necessary. Running it continuously increases overall fuel consumption by up to 15%.

Many learners aren't confident when they first start to drive. Allow them plenty of room and don't react impatiently when they take their time. Remember that new drivers are inexperienced in dealing with traffic situations, so be patient.

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.

If your vehicle is likely to be used by another person while you're away from it, you should take your tachograph chart with you. Your break from driving should be entered on the reverse of the chart.

The term 'crawler lane' doesn't mean the lane is only for extremely slow vehicles. It's advising you of an extra lane on the left. Crawler lanes are usually built on sections of road where the length of the gradient is such that some large vehicles will be slowed to the point where they become a hazard for other road users.

Be aware of, and obey, all speed limits. On a motorway, any lorry that's articulated, towing a trailer, or over 7.5 tonnes mustn't exceed 60 mph (96 km/h).

Vehicles that are used to carry children to and from school will be travelling at busy times of the day. Be prepared for a vehicle with this sign to make frequent stops. It might pick up or set down passengers in places other than normal bus stops.

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

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.

It's illegal to drive a vehicle that's emitting excessive exhaust smoke, so you should get the problem fixed as soon as you're aware of it. Excessive exhaust smoke increases pollution and creates a hazard for other road users.

When you have to straddle the lanes at small roundabouts or junctions, always signal in good time. Be alert for inexperienced road users who may, without realising, put themselves into a dangerous position.

Some vehicles are fitted with an audible warning that sounds when the vehicle is reversing. This is an effective way to warn pedestrians and other road users of a reversing vehicle, but it doesn't take away the need to use effective observation all around your vehicle before and while you're reversing. Don't use the device in built-up areas between 11.30 pm and 7.00 am. Have consideration for the residents and don't disturb them with excessive noise.

It's vital that you give yourself enough separation distance when driving on icy roads - ten times as much as in normal conditions. You should brake gently to reduce the risk of losing control.

If the steering becomes heavy, the power-assisted steering may have failed. It's also possible that your vehicle has a puncture or the load might have shifted. You should stop safely, investigate the cause and call for help if necessary.

Be especially careful about moving casualties at the scene of an incident. Inexperienced handling of a casualty could cause more injury, or even prove to be fatal. Only move casualties if they're in danger; for example, from fire.

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.

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.

Be courteous and prepare to stop. Don't wave people across, as this could be dangerous if another vehicle is approaching the crossing.

Air deflectors reduce wind resistance by streamlining the vehicle. They're most effective when there's a headwind. The streamlining also reduces the vehicle's fuel consumption.

Sometimes, drivers or riders use arm signals as well as direction indicators and brake lights; for example, in bright sunshine or when approaching a zebra crossing. Using the arm signals shown in The Highway Code can help other road users to understand your intentions.

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.

At a pelican crossing, the green light means you may go, but you must give way to anyone still crossing. If someone hasn't finished crossing, be patient. People with mobility difficulties can struggle to cross in the time allowed by the lights.

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.

If you change vehicles during the working day, you should take your chart with you and use it in the next vehicle. This isn't always possible, however, as charts produced by different manufacturers may not be interchangeable. In this case, you should use another chart, making sure that all the information for the day is recorded.

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.

You should check your tyres as part of your routine check of the vehicle. A damaged tyre - such as one with exposed ply - can have a major effect on your vehicle's handling and will make it a danger to you and other road users.

All tyres must be properly inflated and in good condition. Tyre failure on a motorway can have serious consequences. This can be avoided by checking your tyres at the start of each journey.

Make allowances for cyclists. Allow them plenty of room, and be aware that they also have to deal with hazards. They might swerve or change direction suddenly to avoid uneven road surfaces.

When connecting a three-line tractor unit to a two-line trailer, the blue line is the one that shouldn't be connected to the trailer. This is the auxiliary line. Always follow the manufacturer's advice: it may be necessary to reconnect the extra line to the tractor unit.

You'll need to identify the sign in time, so that you can select an appropriate gear.

Drivers of vehicles carrying dangerous goods are required to hold an ADR driver training certificate. This certificate is valid for five years and is issued by DVLA when you've attended an approved course and successfully completed the examination.

Research shows that approximately 40% of SRVIs involve commercial vehicles. The consequences are usually very serious because of the size of the vehicle and the fact that there is no braking before the impact.

Motorcyclists can often pass slow or stationary traffic because of the relatively small size of their vehicle. Take a last look in your right-hand mirror to check for motorcyclists and so avoid turning across their path.

Motorcyclists and cyclists are smaller and usually more difficult to see than other vehicles. Look out for them at junctions; failing to see them can lead to a collision.

You have a responsibility to be aware of the dimensions of your vehicle, including ground clearance. When planning your route, you'll have to consider whether the roads you intend to use have any limits that would apply to your vehicle, such as

• weight
• length
• height
• ground clearance.

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.

When a wheel is refitted, the wheel nuts/studs should be tightened gradually and diagonally across the wheel. You should tighten the nuts to the specified torque setting, using a calibrated torque wrench.

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.

The usual advice is to leave a minimum time gap of two seconds, but on wet roads you should leave at least double that time. Always take the road and weather conditions into account when you're driving.

When you're stationary for any length of time (for example, in a traffic jam), switch off your engine. This will cut exhaust emissions and so help to protect the environment.

If you stop for pedestrians and they don't start to cross, be patient. Don't wave them across or sound your horn. This could be dangerous if the driver of an approaching vehicle isn't aware of them. The driver may not have seen or heard your signal, making it very dangerous for the pedestrians to start to cross.

The forces acting on a lorry will try to move it in a straight line as it enters a bend. The greater the weight, the greater the force. If you're going too fast, there's a danger that you could lose your load or tip over.

The reverse warning bleeper is fitted to your vehicle to warn others near the vehicle that it's reversing. However, it's no substitute for good all-round observation. Get someone to guide you if you can't see clearly where you're reversing.