Alertness

Question 1

Before moving off you should :

Answer 1

• Always use your mirrors to check on traffic behind you, and how your actions will affect them
• Do a final check around your car, including the blind spots
• If necessary, use a signal

Question 2

When overtaking, you should be careful of :

Answer 2

• Oncoming vehicles
• Vehicles exiting junctions ahead
• Narrowing of the road, reducing the space available to overtake
• Changes which make it more difficult to see oncoming traffic such as bends or dips in the road
• Road signs which state that you must not overtake
• enough time to safely overtake

Question 3

To be seen by other road users, you should :

Answer 3

• In dark conditions, turn on your headlights – even if the streetlights are on
• In situations where it is difficult for others to see you (e.g. a hump bridge), it may be appropriate to sound your horn

Question 4

What should you do with street signs?

Answer 4

• Do as they advise
• Slow down if instructed to do so

Question 5

When turning right on a dual carriage way, you should :

Answer 5

• check that there is space in the central reservation for your vehicle to stop in
• If the central reservation isn’t wide enough, only emerge when both the right and left are clear.

Question 6

What vulnerable road users must you be aware of?

Answer 6

• Pedestrians approaching a crossing – especially those who may need more time to cross the road, such as the elderly, disabled or children
• Cyclists – always pass slowly, leaving ample space for them. Take extra care with younger cyclists who may not be confident in dealing with traffic yet
• Motorcyclists – these may be difficult for you to see
• Horses – pass slowly and leave plenty of space as they may become frightened by your vehicle’s noise

Question 7

How should you plan your journey?

Answer 7

• Be familiar with the route you’re taking, as well as alternative routes if needed
• Plan to stop regularly so that you do not get too tired

Question 8

How should you avoid tiredness whilst driving?

Answer 8

• Avoid continuous driving for more than two hours
• Circulate fresh air throughout the car
• If you begin to notice feelings of drowsiness, leave the motorway at the next exit. Find a safe and legal place to stop and have a rest.

Question 9

What should you do if you can’t get a clear rear view when reversing?

Answer 9

• If, when reversing, you find that you cannot see behind you, it is a good idea to ask someone to guide you.
• If parked cars block your view as you’re exiting a junction, creep forward slowly and cautiously until you can see clearly.

Question 10

What should you do when driving behind a large vehicle?

Answer 10

keep your distance and stay well back.

Question 11

How should you safely use a Mobile phone in the car?

Answer 11

Using a mobile phone whilst driving is illegal, you should pull over before making any calls / texts