Quick Test #1

This crucial road sign warns drivers about upcoming traffic flow in both directions.

Don’t use the hard shoulder for stopping unless it is an emergency. If you want to stop for any other reason go to the next exit or service station.

Helping someone to drive is a responsible task. Before learning to drive you’re advised to find a qualified Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) to teach you. This will ensure that you’re taught the correct procedures from the start.

A toucan crossing is designed to allow pedestrians and cyclists to cross at the same time. Look out for cyclists approaching the crossing at speed.

Unlike someone in the car with you, the person on the other end of the line is unable to see the traffic situations you are dealing with. They will not stop speaking to you even if you are approaching a hazardous situation. You need to be concentrating on your driving all of the time, but especially so when dealing with a hazard.

Using a mobile phone distracts your attention away from driving. Distractions caused by mobile phones are known to be potentially dangerous. Avoid being distracted by your phone by turning it off before you start driving.

A tyre bursting can lead to a loss of control, especially if you’re travelling at high speed. Using the correct procedure should help you to stop the vehicle safely.

There are a number of things you can do to help, even without expert training. Be aware of further danger from other traffic and fire; make sure the area is safe. People may be in shock. Don’t give them anything to eat or drink. Keep them warm and comfortable and reassure them. Don’t move injured people unless there is a risk of further danger.

If a casualty is bleeding heavily, raise the limb to a higher position. This will help to reduce the blood flow. Before raising the limb you should make sure that it is not broken.

Only travel if you have to. Making unnecessary journeys in bad weather can increase the risk of having a collision. It’s important that you can see and be seen. Make sure any snow or ice is cleared from lights, mirrors, number plates and windows.

After the casualty has been placed in the recovery position, their airway should be checked to make sure it is clear. Don't leave them alone until medical help arrives. Where possible do NOT move a casualty unless there's further danger.

This sign indicates that there are waiting restrictions. It is normally accompanied by details of when restrictions are in force.
Details of most signs which are in common use are shown in The Highway Code and a more comprehensive selection is available in Know Your Traffic Signs.

Other traffic will have to pull out to pass you. They may have to use the other side of the road, and if you park near the brow of a hill, they may not be able to see oncoming traffic. It's important not to park at or near a bus stop as this could inconvenience passengers, and may put them at risk as they get on or off the bus. Parking near a junction could restrict the view for emerging vehicles.

Using your hazard lights, as well as brake lights, will give following traffic an extra warning of the problem ahead. Only use them for long enough to ensure that your warning has been seen.

When a long vehicle is going to turn right it may need to keep close to the left-hand kerb. This is to prevent the rear end of the trailer cutting the corner. You need to be aware of how long vehicles behave in such situations. Don’t overtake the lorry because it could turn as you’re alongside. Stay behind and wait for it to turn.

You must show consideration to other road users. The reactions of older drivers may be slower and they might need more time to deal with a situation. Be tolerant and don’t lose patience or show your annoyance.

If you’re following a cyclist who’s signalling to turn right at a roundabout leave plenty of room. Give them space and time to get into the correct lane.

If you see a bus ahead watch out for pedestrians. They may not be able to see you if they’re crossing from behind the bus.

You may have to pull forward slowly until you can see up and down the road. Be aware that the traffic approaching the junction can’t see you either. If you don’t know that it’s clear, don’t go.

When checking your tyres for cuts and bulges in the side walls, don’t forget the inner walls (ie. those facing each other under the vehicle).

The road ahead is at risk from falling rocks and you may also come across fallen rocks in the road

Look out for signs above your lane or on the central reservation. These will give you importantn information or warnings about the road ahead. To allow for the high speed of motorway traffic, these signs may light up some distance from any hazard. Don't ignore the signs just because the road looks clear to you.