PCV - Free Test #4

Modern large vehicles are fitted with power-assisted steering. If the steering feels heavy, then there's likely to be a fault, which should be investigated and repaired as soon as possible.

Traffic queues on the motorway are fairly common, often due to the volume of traffic at peak times or to incidents. If you see a queue of stationary traffic ahead, switch on your hazard warning lights for a short while to warn those behind you of a hazard ahead.

When you're in a warm cab, you may not notice the drop in outside temperature. One of the first signs of an icy road is a lack of 'feel' in the steering. If this happens, slow down and increase the distance between your vehicle and the one in front.

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.

Take extra care when you're driving on roads where trams operate. Look out for road markings and signs that tell you to expect them. Modern trams are very quiet and you might not hear them approaching.

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.

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.

If your vehicle is fitted with a seat belt, you must wear it unless you're exempt for medical reasons. You may also remove it before a reverse manoeuvre. If the fitting of the belt is uncomfortable and it prevents you from obtaining a safe driving position, report this to your employer.

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.

It's a legal requirement that your tyres have at least the minimum permitted depth of tread and are in good condition before you start any journey. Make sure that you inspect them before setting off, and at regular intervals.

Look well ahead and be ready to deal with any hazards you see coming up, such as animals in the road. Horses are easily scared by the noise of an engine and the size of your vehicle may also be intimidating. Approach them as slowly and quietly as you can.

If passengers have access to your coach, it must never be left unattended. In particular, they mustn't be able to get into the cab area of the vehicle. You or another responsible person must always be there to supervise the coach.

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.

Be cautious, especially if there's a bend in the road and you're unable to see well ahead. If you have to pass pedestrians, leave them plenty of room. You might have to use the right-hand side of the road, so look well ahead and in your mirrors before you pull out.

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.

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.

Turning off the engine is safer and emits less fumes into the environment. Leaving the engine idling unnecessarily will also waste fuel.

Caravans are relatively light but have a large surface area. This makes them vulnerable to the turbulence created by large vehicles travelling at speed. The blast of air can destabilise the caravan, causing it to snake, and in extreme cases they can be blown over.

A buffer lane is used when the wind begins to cause a risk to high-sided vehicles. At other times, it will be a normal lane. Don't use the buffer lane unless your vehicle has been blown off course into the lane, or you need to use it to avoid an incident or collision.

Allow the cyclist plenty of room. Give them space and be prepared for them to change direction. To stay safe, they may travel around the roundabout in the left-hand lane.

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.

If you're carrying children on your vehicle and it isn't on a scheduled route used by the general public, the bus must display this sign to the front and rear. When carrying children to and from school, it's likely that you'll have to make several stops in places other than recognised bus stops. Think carefully before you stop. Don't cause unnecessary inconvenience to other road users.

You must obey these signs even if there appear to be no problems ahead.

In slow-moving traffic, particularly on dual carriageways or motorways, always be on the lookout for motorcyclists who approach from behind and filter through narrow gaps between vehicles.

In icy or snowy weather, your stopping distance can increase by up to ten times. Because snowy weather increases the distance needed to stop, you must look further ahead and leave an increased safety margin.

Make sure that you're fully trained in the safe use of lifts, ramps and securing devices. If you drive a vehicle fitted with this equipment, never let untrained people operate it.

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.