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.

Always check your nearside mirror before opening the door to allow passengers to alight. When you've stopped away from the kerb, it's important to warn the passengers to look out for cyclists and to expect a long step down onto the road. Be ready to offer help if they need it.

If exhaust fumes are getting into the vehicle, this could be a danger to your passengers. Stop as soon as it's safe to do so and have the fault put right before continuing.

Listen to the weather forecast and plan your route to avoid exposed or high-level roads if windy weather is expected.

Codes are shown on the wall of the tyre. These refer to the maximum load and speed capability of the tyre.

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.

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.

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

Passengers who are hard of hearing may want to lip read. Make sure that they're able to see your face clearly when you speak to them.

When the red lights are flashing, don't go beyond this signal. This sign shows that all lanes ahead are closed and you mustn't enter the motorway. Motorway signals are located on the central reservation, to the left of the hard shoulder, on overhead gantries and at the entrance to the motorway.

Where the road surface has been made slippery (for example, by spilt diesel fuel), motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to skidding.

Whenever you brake, the brakes convert the moving energy of your vehicle into heat. Continuous use of the brakes, particularly from high speed or on long steep descents, can cause the shoes and drums to overheat. This will make them less effective and, in some cases, they may not work at all.

If you overfill the engine with oil, you could cause the engine to build up too much pressure when it's running. This could cause damage to oil seals and gaskets.

Cold water will cool the burning tissue and help prevent further damage. It will also reduce swelling, minimise shock and alleviate pain. Use water, or any other liquid, that's clean and non-toxic.

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.

It's very important to know the correct fire extinguisher to use. They'll carry a coloured label or badge telling you their contents. Make sure you learn which extinguisher is which, as using the wrong one could be dangerous and may spread the fire further. For example, you should never use a water extinguisher on burning oil.

The horn shouldn't be used between 11.30 pm and 7.00 am in a built-up area. The only exception is when another road user is unaware of you and poses a danger.

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.

When refitting a wheel, the nuts should be tightened to the correct torque. They should be rechecked after about 30 minutes if the vehicle hasn't moved, or after 40 to 80 km (25 to 50 miles) of driving.

In good dry conditions, you should leave a two-second gap between your vehicle and the one ahead. When the weather is bad, you'll have to keep a greater distance, because it will take you longer to stop. In wet weather it will take up to twice the distance; in icy weather this could increase to ten times as far.

Before entering a tunnel, you should switch on your dipped headlights; these help you to see and be seen. In many tunnels, using headlights is a legal requirement. You should also remove your sunglasses before you drive into a tunnel.

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.

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.

The kickdown facility on automatic transmission allows a lower gear to be engaged to allow faster acceleration (for example, when overtaking). This is achieved by firmly pressing the accelerator to the floor.

Drivers passing incidents often end up having collisions themselves when they're distracted by the scene. You need to keep your concentration in a situation like this and ignore what's happening on the other carriageway.

The flashing amber light allows pedestrians already on the crossing to get to the other side before a green light shows to the traffic. Be aware that some pedestrians, such as elderly people and young children, need longer to cross. Let them do this at their own pace.

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 flashing amber lights are switched on to warn you that children may be crossing near a school. Slow down and take extra care as you may have to stop.