Theory Test Flashcards
Vulnerable road users - introduction
pedestrians(children, older people, disabled people), cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders
Learners inexperienced and older drivers are most vulnerable types of drivers
Vulnerable road users - pedestrians
On country roads they are normally advised to walk in right hand side towards oncoming traffic (large groups may walk in left)
If pedestrians already crossing when turning into side road - they have priority
Be ready to slow down for -
- Zebra crossing
- Pelican (if in flashing amber stage they can cross and wait if still crossing on green)
- puffin(lights don’t change till crossing is clear)
- Toucan( no flashing amber stage)(cyclists can cross at same time as pedestrians)
Vulnerable road users - children
Don’t park on yellow zig zags near schools as clear view of crossing area is needed by drivers and pedestrians on pavement
Buses and coaches display special sign if carrying children as may stop more frequently
Vulnerable road users - older and disabled
Red and white stick (or dogs harness)- blind and deaf
If pedestrian has hearing difficulties may wear distinctive yellow or burgundy coat
Older people may misjudge speed.
Vulnerable road users - cyclists
Advanced stop lines for them at traffic lights
Leave room in case they need to swerve (e.g drain/ wind)
If they glance over shoulder may be about to turn so give them room
At roundabouts they may stay in left hand lane
Vulnerable road users - motorcyclists
When in queues of traffic they may-
- filter between lanes
- cut in front of you
- pass very closely
Look out for them as smaller vehicle
To improve visibility- they wear bright clothes, use dipped headlights
Vulnerable road users - animals
Drive slowly past horses
Leave plenty of room
Take particular care when approaching roundabouts(may stay in left lane)
Vulnerable road users - other drivers
Reactions of other drivers (inexperienced/older) may be slower
Incidents - breakdowns
If warning light comes on panel stop as soon as
If tyre burst, hold steering wheel firmly and slowly pull up to side
If break down on level crossing get out and call signal operator from phone provided
Incidents - safety in tunnels
Remove sunglasses and switch in dipped headlights
Keep safe distance away from cars
If break down or set on fire - stop turn engine off and call for help
(Try get car on fire out of tunnel and put it out if you can)
Incidents - warning others of an incident
Use hazard warning lights
If you have a warning triangle place it at least 45 metres away (don’t use one on motorway
Incidents - stopping at an incident
Put your hazard warning lights on
Make sure emergency services have been called - turn off all engines - move uninjured people away
Vehicle carrying dangerous goods has a orange label or hazard warning plate on back
Incidents - first aid
Keep them warm, comfortable and comfort them (keep them calm)
Don’t remove helmet unless essential
If unconscious check they’re breathing if not DR ABC
DANGER - RESPONSE- AIRWAY - BREATHING - CIRCULATION
People at Scene may suffer shock (rapid pulse,sweating,grey skin)
Reassure, keep warm and comfortable
Incidents - reporting
Must report if involved
If other vehicles involved-
Name address number insurance details
Safety and your vehicle - basic maintenance
Check (on regular basis) Lights Brakes Steering Exhaust system Seat belts Horn Speedometer Wipers/washers Oil and water levels Brake fluid Battery levels Windscreen Tyre pressure (once a week)(can affect steering, fuel consumption, braking) Tyre condition (tread must be at least 1.6mm)
Safety and your vehicle - defects
Warning lights on dashboard monitor performance of engine
ABS warning light should go out when travelling at 5–10 mph
To Check condition of shock absorbers, bounce the vehicle by pushing down hard on each corner – it shouldn’t continue to bounce unduly when released
Constant garage if steering vibrates or vehicle pulls to one side when you break
Safety and your vehicle - safety equipment
If Visibility is poor use dipped headlights
When you get into the car – adjust seat, where suitable shoes, Adjust mirrors, Adjust head restraint
When leaving car on 2 way road at night, park in the direction of traffic - if speed limit is over 30 switch on parking lights
Safety and your vehicle - security
To reduce break in’s- Engage steering lock Remove keys Lock away valuables Park in well lit/secure car park
Safety and your vehicle - considering other road users
Avoid parking where it would cause an obstruction e.g
Bus stop, near the brow of a hill, lowered kerb, on a bend
Safety and your vehicle - environment
To reduce pollution-
Reduce speed, use selective gear change(miss our gears), have vehicle serviced
Don’t - carry unnecessary weight, over-rev lower gears
DONT USE CAR HORN IN BUILT UO AREAS BETWEEN 11:30pm-7:00am
Safety and your vehicle - avoiding congestion
Plan your route
Avoid busy times
Allow plenty of time for journey
In some areas those using congested road space have to pay a congestion charge - those exempt from paying this are blue badge holders, riders of two-wheeled vehicles, drivers of electrically powers vehicles
Attitude - following safely
In dry conditions leave a TWO SECOND GAP
In wet conditions leave a FOUR SECOND GAP
Tailgating (driving too close to vehicle infront) is very dangerous and intimidating
Keep back from big lorries and animals
If road user behind is following too closely gradually slow down to increase gap between you and car infront - gives you a greater safety margin
If car cuts infront, drop back until you’ve restored safety margin
Attitude - courtesy
Only sound horn if there’s danger and you need to let people know your there
At night, don’t dazzle lights, dip lights when - you’re following or meeting another vehicle
If you’re queueing at night, use parking handbrake
Attitude - priority
Priority to emergency vehicles aswell as coastguard, bomb disposal, mountain rescue and blood transfusion
Doctors may use green lights when answering emergency calls
Give priority to buses pulling out
Watch out for pedestrians at pelican, puffin, toucan and zebra crossings
Other
Diamond signs - tram only
Alertness - observation
-Use mirrors to asses how your actions will affect traffic behind you-Look around for a final check
If you can’t see behind when reversing ask a reliable person
If you can’t when emerging from a junction move forward slowly and carefully until you get a proper view
When overtaking- have a clear view of road ahead, ensure you have enough time
Use horn at bridge or hump
Alertness - anticipation and awareness
When turning right onto a dual carriageway, first check that the central reservation is wide enough for your vehicle
When following a large vehicle stay well back as this will help the driver to see you in their mirrors
If you’re approaching traffic lights that have been green for some time, be prepared to stop
Try to anticipate other road users actions so your ready to slow down or change direction
Alertness - concentration
Always plan your journey so you know what route you need to take and have regular rest stops
Don’t drive continuously for more than 2 hours - ensure your have a supply of fresh air
If you feel tired leave at next exit and find safe place to stop have have a nap
Alertness - distraction and boredom
Don’t let passengers distract you
Loud music effects concentration
Arguing/joking takes mins off driving
If vehicle has navigation system stop in a safe place before programming the system
Documents - legal documents
Check vehicle tax has been paid
Hold a vial is driving license
Have valid insurance cover
Ensure vehicle has MOT certificate
Documents - licences
Vehicle registration certificate (V5C) contains details of vehicle and registered keeper