Bahamas Highway Code Review

150 question-and-answer flashcards summarising essential rules, definitions and safety advice from The Highway Code of The Bahamas.

What is the primary aim of The Highway Code for The Bahamas?

To help all road users travel safely and efficiently by providing rules and advice.

Which word in the Code indicates a legal requirement that can result in penalties if ignored?

MUST or MUST NOT.

Who is considered a road user under the Code?

Anyone travelling or present on a road, including pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, passengers and drivers.

According to the Code, what should all adults do even if they are not drivers?

Become familiar with the Highway Code to set good examples and improve community safety.

What are the three listed emergency phone numbers in The Bahamas for police, ambulance, and hospital?

Police 919, Ambulance 322-2221, Hospital 322-2861.

What number should you dial for the police in an emergency in The Bahamas?

919.

What phone number reaches ambulance services in Nassau?

322-2221.

What number reaches the main hospital in an emergency?

322-2861.

According to the Code, how is a “driver” defined?

Any person who drives a motor vehicle or other vehicle, including a cycle.

What does “give way” mean in Bahamian traffic rules?

A driver must not proceed if doing so would force other drivers to change speed or direction quickly.

What is a “lane” as described by the Highway Code?

A part of the road marked out for use by one moving line of vehicles.

How does the Code define a pedestrian crossing?

A section of road painted with white stripes, also called a zebra crossing.

What term describes a raised area vehicles may not cross, often at junctions or between lanes?

Traffic island.

What does the Code say a ‘motor vehicle’ is?

Any vehicle driven solely or partly by mechanical means.

When using the road, why must you be ‘fit and well’?

Illness, fatigue, alcohol or drugs can impair judgement and control, making road use unsafe.

What should drivers do if prescribed medicine that may affect alertness?

Consult a doctor and avoid driving if the medication reduces alertness.

Why is concentration vital for road safety?

Distractions like mobile phones, eating, or tuning radios reduce reaction time and awareness.

Why should you remain calm and patient in traffic?

Aggressive driving saves little time, increases stress, pollutes more, and raises crash risk.

How can drivers ‘protect the vulnerable’?

By taking extra care around pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, the elderly and disabled.

Name two ways you should NOT damage roads and sidewalks.

Removing road signs or overloading a vehicle (any two from the Code’s list are correct).

Give one example of blocking the road that the Code forbids.

Leaving rubbish or building materials on the road (many correct examples possible).

What is the first step of the Crossing Code for pedestrians?

Find a safe place to cross where you can see clearly in all directions.

When should pedestrians walk on the right edge of the road?

When there is no sidewalk available, so they face oncoming traffic.

At night, what should pedestrians wear to increase visibility?

White or bright clothing, reflective belts/armbands, or carry a flashlight.

What must pedestrians do at a steady green ‘walking man’ signal?

Check traffic has stopped, then cross with care.

What does a flashing green pedestrian signal mean?

Do NOT start to cross because the amber signal is about to appear.

Why are children under 10 at special risk near roads?

They cannot judge speed and distance well and might act unpredictably.

What is recommended for adults when walking with young children near traffic?

Hold the child’s hand firmly and walk between the child and traffic.

Give one behaviour passengers on jitneys should always follow.

Wait for the vehicle to stop completely before boarding or alighting (any correct point accepted).

Name one thing passengers on jitneys should never do.

Distract the driver or encourage speeding (any listed ‘never’ action is correct).

Before driving, what three legal documents must you have?

A valid driving licence, insurance, and (for the vehicle) registration plus valid inspection certificate.

What blood-alcohol limit makes it illegal to drive in The Bahamas?

More than 80 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood or 35 mcg per 100 ml breath.

Who is responsible for ensuring passengers 16 and under wear seat belts?

The driver.

When must motorcyclists wear a helmet?

At all times while riding, with the chin strap fastened (applies to passengers too).

List two items a driver should check during a regular safety check.

Tyre pressure/tread and working lights (any two of the checklist items score).

Why are crashes rarely just “accidents,” according to the Code?

They usually result from human error or rule violations, not chance.

What is the safe following distance guideline?

Never get closer than the overall stopping distance for your speed and conditions.

What should you do before starting off from the roadside?

Check mirrors, look over your shoulder, signal, and move only when safe.

On Bahamian roads, which side must you normally drive on?

The left side.

Who has right-of-way if an obstruction is on your side of the road?

Oncoming traffic; you must give way.

Name one situation in which you MUST NOT use a mobile phone while driving.

Any time the vehicle is moving; using a phone distracts attention (full stop).

What is defensive driving?

Constantly scanning ahead for hazards and being prepared to act to avoid a crash.

State the mirror-signal-manoeuvre sequence.

Check mirrors, signal intentions clearly, then perform the manoeuvre when safe.

What should you do when an emergency vehicle approaches with lights or siren?

Move to the side of the road, stop, and remain until it has passed.

When is it dangerous to start a long journey?

When you are tired; avoid driving between midnight and 6 a.m. if possible.

What is the general rule for horn use while moving?

Only to warn others of danger, not to greet people or show anger.

Why should drivers ‘Think Bike’?

Motorcyclists and cyclists are less visible and need extra space and awareness.

What speed limit applies inside Nassau city limits?

25 mph (approximately 40 km/h).

Outside settlements on Family Islands (where posted), what speed limit often applies?

45 mph (about 70 km/h) unless signs indicate otherwise.

If a car strikes a pedestrian at 25 mph, what is the pedestrian’s survival chance?

About 95 percent.

What is the meaning of a solid double white centre line?

No crossing or overtaking is permitted.

Name one place where overtaking is prohibited.

At pedestrian crossings (any listed unsafe place acceptable).

What is the first question to ask yourself before overtaking?

Do I really need to overtake?

When overtaking, where must you normally pass the other vehicle?

On the right side.

If a driver you are overtaking speeds up, what should you do?

Abort the overtaking manoeuvre and fall back safely.

At a STOP sign, what must you do every time?

Come to a complete stop and proceed only when the way is clear.

When turning right, where should you position your vehicle?

Just right of the centre line, leaving space for non-turning traffic.

What must you do before turning left if cyclists might be beside you?

Check mirrors, let cyclists pass, and ensure the side is clear before turning.

On a roundabout, to whom must you always give way?

Traffic already circulating from your right.

Which signal should you display when preparing to leave a roundabout to the left?

Left indicator signal.

Why should you never stop or park within a roundabout?

It obstructs traffic flow and increases collision risk.

When driving at night, why must you dip headlights for oncoming vehicles?

To avoid dazzling other drivers and maintain safety.

Name one condition in which you should automatically use full headlights.

Between sunset and sunrise or during poor visibility such as heavy rain or fog.

If blinded by oncoming headlights, what should you do?

Slow down and be prepared to stop.

Before reversing, what must you ensure regarding pedestrians?

That no pedestrians, especially children, are behind the vehicle.

Why is reversing out onto a main road discouraged?

It is dangerous; visibility is limited and traffic may not expect your manoeuvre.

Give two locations where parking is prohibited.

Near a pedestrian crossing or on a sidewalk (many correct answers possible).

How far should you park from a curb in towns where curbs exist?

Within 18 inches (approx. 45 cm).

What lighting must be on if you park on a busy road at night?

Your parking lights.

Why is holding a child on your lap in a moving car dangerous?

In a collision, the child’s forward force exceeds what arms can restrain, risking serious injury.

Which restraint is recommended for children under 20 lbs (≈9 kg)?

Rear-facing infant seat secured with a seat belt.

At what child weight range is a forward-facing toddler seat used?

From about 20 lbs to 40 lbs (9-18 kg).

Why should child door locks be engaged when transporting young passengers?

To prevent children from accidentally opening doors while the vehicle is moving.

List one professional expectation for public service vehicle drivers.

Remain courteous to customers at all times.

What must jitney drivers never do while on duty regarding alcohol?

Consume ANY alcohol.

Why should jitney drivers avoid racing other buses?

It endangers passengers and other road users and violates safety rules.

State one daily safety check item for large bus or truck drivers.

Tyre condition and pressure (any listed item suffices).

What is the maximum recommended continuous driving time for large-vehicle drivers before a break?

Four hours, followed by at least a 30-minute break.

When transporting hazardous materials, what additional item should the driver carry?

An appropriate fire extinguisher and knowledge of emergency procedures.

Motorcyclists should wear what colour clothing to enhance visibility?

Bright or high-visibility yellow with reflective strips.

Name one manoeuvre motorcyclists must never perform.

Overtake on the left of a vehicle turning left (or pop wheelies, etc.).

Why are sandals or slippers unsafe for motorcyclists?

They offer little foot protection and can slip off pedals, reducing control.

Give one essential piece of cycle equipment required at night.

A working front white light and rear red light/reflector.

When cycling, in which direction must hand signals be given before turning?

Give a clear hand signal in the direction of the intended turn.

What is one action cyclists must never take on sidewalks?

Ride their bicycle; sidewalks are for pedestrians unless otherwise indicated.

Why should tourists receive extra patience from local drivers?

They might be unfamiliar with local traffic rules and are important to the economy.

What is the legal breath-alcohol limit for drivers (micrograms per 100 ml of breath)?

30 micrograms.

How does alcohol affect reaction time?

It slows reactions and impairs judgement, even in small amounts.

If your vehicle breaks down on the road, where should you place a warning triangle?

At least 50 yards (≈45 m) behind the vehicle to alert other drivers.

After a crash, what is the very first safety step?

Warn other traffic, using hazard lights or signals, to prevent further collisions.

In first aid, what does Dr A.B.C. stand for?

Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, Circulation.

When must you report a traffic accident involving injury to police?

Within 24 hours.

Name the four stages to obtain a full Bahamian driving licence.

Get provisional licence, pass knowledge test, pass practical test, apply for full licence.

At what age can you apply for a provisional (learner’s) licence in The Bahamas?

17 years old.

How long is a provisional licence valid from date of issue?

Six months.

What eye-sight requirement must learner drivers meet?

Be able to read a number plate at 25 yards in good daylight (with glasses if worn).

During the practical driving test, what emergency manoeuvre must candidates demonstrate?

An emergency stop bringing the vehicle to a controlled halt.

State one important ‘Do’ of driving from the Code.

Always STOP completely at stop signs (any listed ‘Do’ accepted).

State one important ‘Don’t’ of driving from the Code.

Don’t drive when tired or ill (any listed ‘Don’t’ accepted).

Why should a driver plan routes to combine trips?

To save fuel, reduce pollution, and minimise traffic congestion.