Quick Test #1

Towing a large trailer or caravan can greatly reduce your view of the road behind. You need to use the correct equipment to make sure you can see clearly behind and down both sides of the caravan or trailer.

The controller will ask you
• the make and colour of your vehicle
• whether you are a member of an emergency breakdown service
• the number shown on the emergency telephone casing
• whether you are travelling alone.

The vehicle you drive must be roadworthy and in good condition. If it's over three years old, it must pass an MOT test to remain in use on the road (unless it's exempt from the MOT test - see GOV.UK).

These signs only apply to trams. They are directed at tram drivers but you should know their meaning so that you’re aware of the priorities and are able to anticipate the actions of the driver.

If you are using diesel, or are at a pump which has a diesel facility, be aware that there may be spilt fuel on the ground. Fuel contamination on the soles of your shoes may cause them to slip when using the foot pedals.

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.

The most immediate danger is further collisions and fire. You could warn other traffic by displaying an advance warning triangle or sign (but not on a motorway), switching on hazard warning lights or by any other means that does not put you or others at risk.

You must know how to load your trailer or caravan so that the hitch exerts a downward force onto the tow ball. This information can be found in your vehicle handbook or from your vehicle manufacturer’s agent.

The effects of shock may not be immediately obvious. Warning signs are rapid pulse, sweating, pale grey skin and rapid shallow breathing.

Long vehicles might have to take a slightly different position when approaching the roundabout or going around it. This is to stop the rear of the vehicle cutting in and mounting the kerb. Horse riders and cyclists might stay in the left-hand lane although they are turning right. Be aware of this and allow them room.

The colours of the reflective studs on the motorway and their locations are
• red – between the hard shoulder and the carriageway
• white – lane markings
• amber – between the edge of the carriageway and the central reservation
• green – along slip road exits and entrances
• bright green/yellow – roadworks and contraflow systems.

With people's concern today for the environment, cycle routes are being created in our towns and cities. These are usually defined by road markings and signs.

Take extra care as the pedestrian may not be aware of vehicles approaching.

A flashing amber light is shown at pelican crossings, but puffin crossings are different. They are controlled electronically and automatically detect when pedestrians are on the crossing. The phase is shortened or lengthened according to the position of the pedestrians.

Horses can become startled by the sound of a car engine or the rush of air caused by passing too closely. Keep well back and only pass when it is safe; leave them plenty of room. You may have to use the other side of the road to go past: if you do, first make sure there is no oncoming traffic.

If you’re following a large vehicle but are so close to it that you can’t see the exterior mirrors, the driver can’t see you. Keeping well back will also allow you to see the road ahead by looking past either side of the large vehicle.

While driving your concentration is required all the time. Even using a hands-free kit can still distract your attention from the road. Any distraction, however brief, is potentially dangerous and could cause you to lose control. Except in a genuine emergency, it is an offence to use a hand-held phone while driving.

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.