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.

In an emergency, time can be of the essence. The emergency services need to know your exact location. Before you phone, get the post number from the nearest marker post on the edge of the hard shoulder. Give this to the emergency services, as it will help them to locate you.

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.

Make sure that you allow your passengers to get on or off the vehicle safely. If you're unable to stop close to the kerb, don't open the doors until you're sure it's safe. You must take care of your passengers at all times.

Allow horse riders to enter and exit the roundabout in their own time. Don't drive up close behind or alongside them; this could disturb the horse.

Following the vehicle manufacturer's guidelines for service intervals will enable worn components to be replaced before they fail. This will help prevent costly breakdowns.

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 smallest lapse in concentration can result in loss of control. Even when your tachograph would allow you to drive for longer, stop somewhere safe and rest if you feel your driving may be affected by your tiredness.

When there's no traffic ahead of you, you should always drive in the left-hand lane.

If you attempt to move a casualty who has a spinal injury, it could cause further damage. Make sure an ambulance has been called for and talk to the casualty to keep them calm.

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.

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.

There may be times when you have to take up part of another lane in order to make a turn or manoeuvre. Use your mirrors and check for other traffic that might try to move into the gap you've left to make your turn. Signal and take up your position in good time.

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.

Vehicles overtaking in the right-hand lane may return to the centre lane when they've finished their manoeuvre. You should look for this before starting to pull out. Don't rely on the size of your vehicle to claim right of way.

Operators must set up an 'effective system' to prevent the carriage of illegal immigrants. This should include documentation with advice on vehicle security and a list of checks to be made. These papers should be produced immediately if an immigration officer asks to see them.

When diesel fuel spills onto the road, it makes the road surface extremely slippery. This can cause danger for all types of vehicle, but particularly for those with two wheels, which rely on their tyres' grip to remain upright.

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.

Select an appropriate gear in good time and, if your vehicle has a dashboard-mounted lever, apply the endurance brake (retarder) in stages. Braking too much, too soon may result in locking your drive wheels.

No phone call is important enough to endanger someone's life. If you must be contactable when driving, plan your route to include breaks where you can catch up on telephone messages in safety. Always choose a safe place to take a break.

All your concentration should be on your driving; any pain you feel will distract you. Be safe and wait until you're fit before starting your journey.

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.

If you have to wait for long periods of time, you should turn your engine off. Noise and exhaust fumes can cause annoyance as well as pollution.

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.

Scan the road as you drive. Try to anticipate hazards by being aware of the places where they're likely to occur; for example, pedestrians and cyclists emerging between parked cars on a busy street. If you're prepared, you'll be able to slow down or stop in good time.