Other Types of Vehicle

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

• AIt has large blind spots where it cannot see cars, and spray from tyres reduces visibility✓
• BNothing at all, because a lorry driver sits high up and can see every vehicle around the trailer
• CIt should not be on the road
• DIt's 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?

• AGet out and help guide the driver back using hand signals
• BSound your horn
• CProceed as normal
• DStay well back and do not attempt to pass✓

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
• BThe driver is lost
• CSomething minor
• DBrake lights or a problem—reduce speed and be prepared to stop✓

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 has flashing lights and is being driven specially—reduce speed and give it space✓
• BNothing special, because a recovery vehicle has the same status on the road as any other lorry
• CIt has priority everywhere
• DIt can go anywhere

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?

• AThey are faster and more skilled, so you can rely on them to keep clear of you
• BNo hazard at all, because a motorcycle takes up far less road space than a car
• CThey are lighter and unstable, and may slip back into your path✓
• DThat you must brake sharply to open a gap for the rider to pull into

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?

• AStop immediately where you are, even in the middle of the road, and wait
• BFlash your headlights at the traffic ahead to warn them to move over
• CSlow down, pull over safely when possible, and let it pass✓
• DSpeed up and let it follow

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)?

• AOnly directly in front of the cab, where the bonnet blocks the view
• BNo larger than a car's blind spots, because the mirrors are much bigger
• CThere are none, since a modern artic has cameras covering every angle
• DLarge areas along the sides and rear due to the extreme length✓

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?

• AIt will stop suddenly
• BA routine situation
• CCargo may fall or shift, and you could be hit✓
• 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?

• AThat the vehicle is carrying an abnormal load and has a police escort
• BIt's turning
• CThe vehicle is slow-moving, broken down, or being towed✓
• DAn extreme emergency requiring all other traffic to stop at once

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?

• AIt will sound its horn
• BPassengers may open doors or step into the road✓
• CNothing, because a bus always waits at the stop until the road is completely clear
• DThe bus will move suddenly

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.