AF Light Vehicle Driving Theory key terms

The legal priority to proceed through a road space when other road users must wait. It is granted by law or signs, not taken by force, and must still be yielded to avoid a collision.

A downward-pointing triangular sign requiring a driver to slow down and give way to traffic on the intersecting road, stopping only if necessary before entering or crossing.

A solid white painted line across a lane marking where a vehicle must come to a complete halt at a stop sign, traffic signal, or pedestrian crossing before proceeding.

An intersection where all approaches have stop signs. Vehicles stop fully and proceed in the order they arrived, with ties resolved in favor of the vehicle on the right.

The sequence of red, amber and green lights controlling traffic. A steady amber means prepare to stop, and a green arrow grants priority only for the movement it indicates.

Painted lines on the roadway that separate lanes and indicate permitted movement. Solid lines generally discourage crossing, while broken lines permit a lane change when safe.

A line marking the outer boundary of a travel lane, separating the roadway from the shoulder. Crossing it is permitted only when entering, leaving, or stopping on the shoulder.

The strip of roadway beside the travel lanes, often used for emergencies or stopping. It is not a driving lane, and driving on it to pass other vehicles is generally prohibited.

Passing another vehicle travelling in the same direction. It is permitted only where markings and signs allow, when visibility is adequate, and when the maneuver can be completed safely.

The gap between your vehicle and the one ahead, commonly measured in seconds by counting from when the lead vehicle passes a fixed point until you reach it.

A guideline for maintaining a minimum following gap of at least two seconds in good conditions. The gap should be increased in rain, darkness, or when following large vehicles.

The distance a vehicle travels from the moment the brakes are applied until it stops. It increases with speed, poor road surface, and vehicle load or worn tires.

The total distance needed to halt, combining the distance travelled while reacting and the braking distance. It grows quickly as speed rises.

The delay between perceiving a hazard and beginning to act, typically around one second. Fatigue, alcohol, and distraction lengthen it and increase stopping distance.

The area around a vehicle that cannot be seen in the mirrors. Drivers must turn their head to check it before changing lanes or reversing.

Setting interior and exterior mirrors to maximize the visible area behind and beside the vehicle while minimizing overlap, reducing blind spots before every trip.

A driving approach that anticipates mistakes by others and manages risk proactively. It includes scanning ahead, keeping space cushions, and planning escape routes.

The skill of spotting developing risks early, such as pedestrians near the curb, brake lights ahead, or poor road conditions, so there is time to respond smoothly.

Operating a vehicle while attention is diverted by phones, navigation, passengers, or other tasks. It reduces hazard perception and lengthens reaction time significantly.

Physical and mental tiredness that impairs attention, judgment, and reaction time. Drivers should stop, rest, or swap drivers rather than push through drowsiness.

A quick inspection around the vehicle before driving to check for obstacles, children, animals, leaks, and damaged lights or tires.

The thickness of rubber remaining on a tire, which affects grip and water clearance. Legal minimums apply, and worn tread increases stopping distance on wet roads.

The air pressure inside a tire, measured in psi or bar. Correct pressure, checked when tires are cold, improves handling, fuel use, and tire life.

Flashing indicators on all four corners used to signal a stopped, slow, or disabled vehicle to warn other road users of a hazard.

A reflective triangle placed behind a broken-down vehicle to alert approaching drivers. It should be set out at a safe distance when it can be done without risk.

A situation where a vehicle becomes unable to continue safely. The driver should move off the road, switch on hazard lights, and get occupants to a safe place.

A restraint that holds occupants in place during sudden stops and impacts. It must be worn by the driver and passengers where fitted, and children need appropriate restraints.

A seat or booster designed for a child's size, used until the child fits an adult belt. Correct installation and age-appropriate type are essential for protection.

A cushion that inflates rapidly in a collision to reduce injury. It works together with the seat belt and can be dangerous to a child placed too close or rear-facing in front.

A system that rapidly releases and reapplies brake pressure to prevent wheel lockup, helping the driver keep steering control during hard braking on slippery surfaces.

A system that detects loss of traction or skidding and applies individual brakes or reduces power to help the driver regain control and stay on the intended path.

Loss of tire grip causing the vehicle to slide. The driver should ease off the accelerator, avoid sudden braking, and steer gently in the direction of travel.

When water on the road lifts the tires off the surface, causing loss of steering and braking. Easing off the accelerator and avoiding sudden inputs helps regain grip.

The written record of a crash, including time, location, parties, injuries, and damage. It is often required by law and supports insurance claims and investigations.

Immediate care given to injured people before emergency services arrive, such as controlling bleeding and keeping airways clear, while ensuring the scene is safe.

Contacting police, fire, or ambulance after a crash or hazard. Give the location, number of casualties, and hazards clearly, and follow the operator's instructions.

A restricted licence issued to a learner or new driver, usually with conditions such as supervision, passenger limits, or a zero alcohol limit until a full licence is earned.

An unrestricted driving licence granted after meeting testing and experience requirements. It may still carry conditions such as medical fitness and vehicle class restrictions.

Penalty points added to a driving record for traffic offences. Accumulating a set number within a period can lead to suspension or loss of licence.

A temporary removal of driving privileges by the licensing authority, often for excessive demerit points, serious offences, or medical unfitness. Driving while suspended is illegal.