Theory Test #8

Lorries are larger and longer than other vehicles and this can affect their position when approaching junctions. When turning left they may move out to the right so that they don’t cut in and mount the kerb with the rear wheels.

There are times when other drivers make incorrect or ill-judged decisions. Be tolerant and try not to retaliate or react aggressively. Always consider the safety of other road users, your passengers and yourself.

You should move to another lane if it is safe to do so. This can greatly assist the flow of traffic joining the motorway, especially at peak times.

Be extra-cautious, especially when your view is restricted by hedges, bushes, walls and large vehicles etc. In the summer months these junctions can become more difficult to deal with when growing foliage may obscure your view.

The narrow wheels of a bicycle can become stuck in the tram rails, causing the cyclist to stop suddenly, wobble or even lose balance altogether. The tram lines are also slippery which could cause a cyclist to slide or fall off.

There is a swing bridge or one that can open for boats at a river crossing ahead. Category: Warning signs.

If a casualty isn't breathing normally, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) may be needed to maintain circulation. Place two hands on the centre of the chest and press down hard and fast – around 5–6 centimetres and about twice a second.

Coasting is when you allow the vehicle to freewheel in neutral or with the clutch pedal depressed. Doing this gives you less control over the vehicle. It's especially not to let your vehicle coast when approaching hazards such as junctions and bends and when travelling downhill.

The vehicle excise licence (road tax) can be renewed at post offices, vehicle registration offices, online or by phone. When applying make sure you have all the relevant valid documents, including a valid MOT test certificate where applicable.

At some junctions the layout may make it difficult to turn offside to offside. If this is the case, be prepared to pass nearside to nearside, but take extra care as your view ahead will be obscured by the vehicle turning in front of you.

A last check in the offside mirror and blind spot will allow you sight of any cyclist or motorcyclist overtaking as you wait to turn.

Some bus lanes only operate during peak hours and other vehicles may use them outside these hours. Make sure you check the sign for the hours of operation before driving in a bus lane.

The draught caused by other vehicles could be strong enough to push you out of your lane. Keep both hands on the steering wheel to maintain full control.

Take notice of any instructions given on variable message signs or by tunnel officials. They will warn you of any incidents or congestion ahead and advise you what to do.

Plate used with level crossing warning signs: advance warning of light signals at a level crossing with or without a gate or barrier.

You should be slowing down and selecting the correct gear in case you have to stop at the level crossing. Look for the signals and be prepared to stop if necessary.

You must ensure that you can be seen by others on the road, but you don't want to dazzle them. Use your dipped headlights during the day if the visibility is bad. If appropriate, use your rear fog lights but don’t forget to turn them off when the visibility improves.

Before you start your journey make sure that your vehicle can cope with the demands of high-speed driving. You should check a number of things, the main ones being oil, water and tyres. You also need to plan rest stops if you’re going a long way.

Once the airway is open, check breathing. Listen and feel for breath. Do this by placing your cheek over their mouth and nose, and look to see if the chest rises. This should be done for up to 10 seconds.

You should slow down and be cautious. The bridge is narrow and there may not be enough room for you to pass an oncoming vehicle at this point. There is also no footpath, so there may be pedestrians in the road.

In this situation motorcyclists could be passing you on either side. Always check before you change lanes or change direction.

It’s easy to lose your way in an unfamiliar area. If you need to check a map or ask for directions, first find a safe place to stop.

The minimum insurance required by law is third party cover. This covers others involved in a collision but not damage to your vehicle. Basic third party insurance won’t cover theft or fire damage. Check with your insurance company for advice on the best cover for you and make sure that you read the policy carefully.

Make sure that the vehicle you’re driving is well ventilated. A warm, stuffy atmosphere will make you feel drowsy. Opening a window and turning down the heating can help you to remain alert on a long journey.

Competitive driving increases the risks to everyone and is the opposite of responsible, considerate and defensive driving. Defensive driving is about questioning the actions of other road users and being prepared for the unexpected. Don’t be taken by surprise

The driver may be unsure of the location of a junction and turn suddenly. Be cautious and don’t attempt to overtake.

Large, long vehicles need extra room when making turns at junctions. They may move out to the right in order to make a left turn. Keep well back and don’t attempt to pass on the left.

Warning signs are there to make you aware of potential hazards on the road ahead. Act on the signs so you are prepared and can take whatever action is necessary.

Hazard warning lights are fitted to all modern cars and some motorcycles. They should be used to warn
• other road users when your vehicle is causing a temporary obstruction, for example after a collision or when it’s broken down
• following drivers on a motorway of a hazard or obstruction ahead.
They should not be used as an excuse for dangerous or illegal parking.

On a motorway it is best to use a roadside emergency telephone so that the emergency services are able to locate you easily. The nearest telephone is shown by an arrow on marker posts at the edge of the hard shoulder. If you use a mobile, they will need to know your exact location.
Before you call, find out the number on the nearest marker post. This number will identify your exact location.

Every vehicle used on the road has a registration document. It shows vehicle details including date of first registration, registration number, previous keeper, registered keeper, make of vehicle, engine size, chassis number, year of manufacture and colour.

Windscreen pillars can obstruct your view, particularly at bends and junctions. Look out for other road users, particularly cyclists and pedestrians, as they can be hard to see.

You should always stop at the first white line. Avoid going into the marked area which is reserved for cyclists only. However if you have crossed the first white line at the time the signal changes to red you must stop at the second line even if you are in the marked area.

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.

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.

If you feel tired stop at the nearest service area. If it’s too far away leave the motorway at the next exit and find a safe place to stop. You must not stop on the carriageway or hard shoulder of a motorway except in an emergency, in a traffic queue, when signalled to do so by a police or enforcement officer, or by traffic signals. Plan your journey so that you have regular rest stops.

The crossroads sign indicates an intersection ahead. You should prepare to give way to other vehicles. The sign warns of potential traffic from different directions. It helps you anticipate the need to stop or slow down.