Other Types of Vehicle

What is the main hazard when driving near or behind a large goods vehicle (HGV)?

• AIt's slow
• BIt has large blind spots where it cannot see cars, and spray from tyres reduces visibility✓
• CIt should not be on the road
• DNothing—it's just slow

Answer: HGVs have extensive blind spots (especially on the nearside) and spray water/debris. You should never linger beside them and avoid driving in their blind spots.

What should you do if an HGV is reversing?

• AHelp guide the driver
• BStay well back and do not attempt to pass✓
• CSound your horn
• DProceed as normal

Answer: Reversing HGVs are extremely hazardous—they have very poor visibility and are unstable when reversing. You must stay well clear and not attempt to pass.

What does a red warning light on the rear of a vehicle indicate?

• AThe car is cold
• BBrake lights or a problem—reduce speed and be prepared to stop✓
• CThe driver is lost
• DNothing important

Answer: A red warning light usually indicates brake lights are working or a problem exists. You should slow down and maintain a safe distance in case the vehicle stops suddenly.

What is special about a breakdown recovery vehicle (tow truck)?

• AIt can go anywhere
• BIt has flashing lights and is being driven specially—reduce speed and give it space✓
• CIt has priority everywhere
• DNothing—treat it like normal traffic

Answer: Breakdown vehicles with flashing lights are attending emergencies and may make sudden movements. You should slow down and allow them to proceed safely.

What is the hazard when a motorcycle overtakes you quickly?

• ANo hazard—motorbikes are small
• BThey are lighter and unstable, and may slip back into your path✓
• CThey are faster and more skilled
• DNothing unusual

Answer: Motorcycles are unstable in bad weather and may slip or lose grip during aggressive overtaking. You must maintain your line and not swerve towards them.

What should you do when an emergency vehicle (ambulance/fire engine) is behind you with lights and sirens on?

• ASpeed up and let it follow
• BStop immediately in the middle of the road
• CSlow down, pull over safely when possible, and let it pass✓
• DFlash your lights to warn others

Answer: Emergency vehicles need to pass quickly. You should slow down, look for a safe place to pull over, and allow them to pass. Do not stop abruptly as this creates hazards.

What is the blind spot area on a large articulated lorry (artic)?

• AThere are no blind spots
• BOnly at the very front
• CLarge areas along the sides and rear due to the extreme length✓
• DNo larger than a car's blind spots

Answer: Articulated lorries have huge blind spots along both sides and at the rear. A car can be completely invisible to the driver, making it extremely dangerous to linger beside or behind artics.

What should you be aware of when following a lorry carrying loose cargo?

• ANothing unusual
• BCargo may fall or shift, and you could be hit✓
• CIt will stop suddenly
• DIt will turn without signalling

Answer: Loose cargo can fall from height unexpectedly, creating serious hazards. You should maintain extra distance and be prepared to stop or swerve.

What does a flashing amber light on a vehicle indicate?

• AExtreme emergency
• BThe vehicle is slow-moving, broken down, or being towed✓
• CIt's turning
• DSchool bus collecting children

Answer: Flashing amber lights indicate a slow-moving or broken-down vehicle. You should reduce speed and give it plenty of space as it may stop unexpectedly.

What hazard do you need to be aware of when passing a bus at a bus stop?

• AThe bus will move suddenly
• BPassengers may open doors or step into the road✓
• CIt will sound its horn
• DNothing—buses always wait at stops

Answer: Passengers alighting from buses often step into the road without checking for traffic. You must slow down and be prepared to stop when approaching a bus stop.