PCV - Free Test #4

The faster the traffic is moving, the greater the distance that needs to be kept between vehicles to maintain safety margins. If you find another vehicle driving too close behind you, gradually reduce your speed to increase your distance from the vehicle in front. You'll then be able to brake more gently when you need to, reducing the likelihood of the lorry behind running into the back of your vehicle.

On smart motorways, the hard shoulder can be used as a running lane when a speed limit is shown above it. However, a red cross above the hard shoulder means that this lane shouldn't be used, except for emergencies and breakdowns.

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 must take extra care when your vehicle is carrying a load. When cornering, weight will be transferred away from the direction in which you're turning. Also, when you're braking, weight can be transferred in several different directions.

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.

Approaching a junction at the correct speed will allow you enough time to observe and react. Pedestrians crossing here have priority and you must give way to them.

A poor diet can increase your risk of ill health. It may cause obesity, diabetes or heart disease, which can increase your risk of sudden incapacity at the wheel. There's a greater risk of developing a serious illness - and ultimately an early death. Smoking and a lack of exercise will increase the risks.

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.

Kneeling buses are equipped with air or hydraulic systems that allow the vehicle body to be lowered. This improves access for disabled and elderly passengers. Remember to return the mechanism to its travelling position before moving off.

The spray-suppression equipment helps to prevent water from being thrown up and causing reduced visibility, for you and other drivers. Driving at a reduced speed in wet conditions will also help to reduce the amount of water thrown up by your vehicle's tyres.

Make sure you or someone else has called the emergency services. Check the casualties and, if you feel able to give first aid, do so. Alternatively, ask any bystanders if they can help.

Always make sure your vehicle is secure and level before a wheel is changed. Apply the parking brake and use chocks if they're available. When the replacement wheel is fitted, all wheel nuts/studs should be retightened to the correct torque. On a motorway, never attempt to change a wheel yourself. Use the emergency telephones to call for assistance.

When approaching hazards or bus stops, you should always be aware of how your passengers will be affected by the change in speed. Late, harsh braking as passengers leave their seats can take them by surprise and cause them to fall towards the front of the bus, possibly injuring themselves or others. Wherever possible, avoid harsh braking by planning ahead, giving yourself time to reduce speed smoothly.

When the amber light is flashing, you must give way to any pedestrians on the crossing. Don't be impatient or encourage pedestrians to cross by waving or flashing your headlights; they or other road users may misunderstand your signal.

Drinking alcohol will reduce your ability to drive safely. One drink is too many if you're going to drive.

Vehicle designers and bus drivers have a duty to help reduce the effects of pollution on the environment. The most environmentally friendly way to allow air pressure to build up is with the engine running at tick-over.

When approaching a long hill, you should take note of any early warning signs. Reduce your speed and select the appropriate gear in good time. Using an endurance brake (retarder), if fitted, will help control your speed.

The endurance brake (retarder) slows the vehicle without the use of the wheel-mounted brakes. However, care should be taken in slippery conditions, when the retarder's effect can be powerful enough to cause a skid.

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.

If your suspension is damaged, all the weight of the vehicle compresses the road and anything located below it. The vibrations travel through the ground and can also damage surrounding buildings.

If you check the engine oil level when your vehicle is standing on a slope, the reading on the dipstick won't be accurate. Park it on flat ground, so the dipstick shows the true level.

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.

Telephone calls can distract you, meaning that you're not in proper control of your vehicle. If you need to use a telephone when driving, find a safe place to stop first. Better still, use a phone answering service and listen to your messages at the end of your journey.

In strong wind, motorcyclists can be blown off course. Allow them plenty of room when you're overtaking, in case they're blown into your path.

Most large vehicles have a rev counter (tachometer) that's divided into coloured bands. This helps you to drive in the most fuel-efficient way and avoid damage to the engine. The green band is the one that gives adequate torque and power with optimum fuel economy.

You may be driving in the rush hour, when traffic is heavy, so when you stop you're permitted to show your hazard warning lights. This will tell other road users that children are getting on and off the bus. Look out for passing traffic and make sure that all your passengers get on and off 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.

Bus-lane signs show the vehicles allowed to use the lane and its times of operation. Where no times are shown, the bus lane is in operation 24 hours a day.