alertness

what should you do before carrying out a manoeuvre (4)

• use mirrors to assess how your actions will affect traffic behind you

• look around for final check

• windscreen pillars can obstruct view

• signal if necessary

what to do if you cant see behind when reversing

ask someone to guide you

what should you do if you cannot see when emerging form a junction bc your view is obscured by parked cars

move forward slowly and carefully until you can get a proper view

what should you make sure when overtaking (2)

• ensure you have a clear view of the road ahead- no bend or dips

• you have enough time to safely complete the manoeuvre

how to make others know youre there (2)

• when dark, always switch your lights on even if street lights are not on

• when you can’t be seen (e.g. on a hump bridge, consider using your horn)

road signs + markings (2)

• follow their advice

• slow down if necessary

other road users

watch other road users. try to anticipate their actions so you’re ready if you need to slow down/ change direction

turning onto dual carriageways

check that the central reservation is wide enough for your vehicle

following large vehicles

• stay well back → if you cannot see the vehicle’s mirrors, the driver may not be able to see you.

• staying back will also help you to see the road ahead much more clearly

vulnerable road users- pedestrians

• pedestrians approaching a crossing (especially young, older or disabled people who may need more time to cross the road)

vulnerable road users - cyclists

• leave at least 1.5 metres of space when overtaking at speeds of up to 30mph, and give them more space when overtaking at higher speeds

vulnerable road users- motorcyclists

• motorcyclists, who may be difficult to see

vulnerable road users- horses

• may be startled by the noise of your vehicle

• pass horse riders + horse drawn vehicles at speeds under 10mph and allow at least 2 m of space

tiredness on a motorway (3)

• do not drive continuously for more that 2 hrs

• keep fresh air circulating in the car

• if you feel drowsy, leave at the next exit, find a safe and legal place to take a break

potential hazards to be distracted by (4)

• objects hanging in the car

• starting or adjusting any music/ radio

• looking at a map

• talking into a microphone

phones (5)

• using a phone whilst driving is illegal

• wait to be in a safe place before you retrieve any messages

• make any calls

• send/ receive texts

• go online

hands free phone

• still distracting

• safer to not use one at all

• find a safe place to stop

yellow lines painted at intervals across the road

• encourage drivers to reduce their speed

• may be red

• often seen on the approach to a hazard/ reduced speed limit