BiH Theory A key terms

The legal priority to proceed first in a traffic situation. It is determined by signs, signals, or general rules, and must be given without forcing the other driver to brake or swerve.

A road marked with a priority-road sign where traffic on it has right of way over vehicles joining from side roads. The sign is usually repeated after intersections to confirm continued priority.

An inverted triangle sign requiring you to slow down and give way to traffic on the road you are joining. You need not stop unless necessary, but you must not force others to change speed or direction.

An octagonal sign requiring a complete stop at the stop line or, if none, before entering the intersection. You must give way to all traffic and proceed only when safe.

The maximum legal speed allowed on a given road under normal conditions. It is shown by signs or set by general rules for built-up areas, rural roads, and motorways.

A road section within a settlement, marked by a place-name sign. Special lower speed limits and stricter rules apply there, and the limit ends at the sign showing the settlement name crossed out.

A speed that lets you stop within the distance you can see to be clear and react to unexpected hazards. It depends on visibility, road surface, traffic, and weather, and may be below the posted limit.

The gap you keep to the vehicle ahead so you can stop safely if it brakes suddenly. A common guide is at least two seconds in good conditions, increased in rain, darkness, or when following large vehicles.

The total distance a vehicle travels from the moment the driver notices a hazard until it comes to a complete stop. It equals reaction distance plus braking distance and grows with speed.

The distance covered while the driver perceives a hazard and moves the foot to the brake. It depends mainly on speed and reaction time, typically around one second for an alert driver.

The distance needed to stop once the brakes are applied. It increases with the square of speed and is longer on wet, icy, or loose surfaces where tyre grip is reduced.

Loss of tyre contact with the road because a layer of water builds between them. Steering and braking become ineffective, so you should ease off the accelerator and avoid sudden inputs until grip returns.

An area around the vehicle that cannot be seen in the mirrors. You must turn your head to check it before changing lanes or joining traffic, especially on the side away from the driver.

Looking in the interior and exterior mirrors to monitor traffic behind and beside you before manoeuvring. Mirrors do not show everything, so a shoulder check is also needed before changing direction.

Moving from one lane to another. Signal early, check mirrors and blind spot, and move only when there is a safe gap without forcing other drivers to change speed or direction.

The depth of the grooves on a tyre. Legal minimums apply, and adequate depth is essential for grip and water drainage; worn tyres increase braking distance and aquaplaning risk.

The air pressure inside a tyre, which should be checked cold and kept at the vehicle manufacturer's recommended level. Wrong pressure harms grip, fuel economy, and tyre life.

A hydraulic fluid that transmits pedal force to the brakes. It absorbs moisture over time, which lowers its boiling point, so it must be replaced at the interval specified by the manufacturer.

Lubricant that reduces friction and wear inside the engine and helps cooling. Its level and condition must be checked regularly, and the oil and filter changed at the manufacturer's specified intervals.

A mixture of water and antifreeze that carries heat away from the engine. It must be kept at the correct level and strength to prevent overheating in summer and freezing in winter.

A condition where engine temperature rises above normal, often shown by a warning light or gauge. Stop safely, let the engine cool, and check coolant level; never open a hot radiator cap.

A dashboard light indicating a fault or low fluid in the braking system, or that the parking brake is applied. If it stays on while driving, stop safely and seek assistance.

Immediate help given to an injured person before professional medical care arrives. It includes making the scene safe, checking responsiveness and breathing, calling emergency services, and providing basic care.

Contacting emergency services by phone to request help. Give your location, the number and condition of casualties, and any hazards, then follow the operator's instructions and stay on the line.

Making sure the accident site is safe before helping. Switch off engines, set warning triangles, wear a reflective vest, and keep yourself and others away from moving traffic and other dangers.

A reflective triangle placed on the road to warn approaching drivers of a stopped or broken-down vehicle. It is set at a suitable distance behind the vehicle, farther on fast roads or poor visibility.

A high-visibility garment that makes the wearer easier to see in traffic. It should be worn when exiting a vehicle on the road, especially at night or in poor visibility.

A stable side-lying position used for an unconscious person who is breathing normally. It keeps the airway open and allows fluids to drain, reducing the risk of choking while help is on the way.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation: chest compressions, often with rescue breaths, given to someone who is unresponsive and not breathing normally. It keeps blood and oxygen circulating until professional help arrives.

Points added to a driver's record for traffic offences. Accumulating a set number within a period can lead to a driving ban, and serious offences may carry more points or immediate disqualification.

A period during which a person is not allowed to drive. It may be imposed by a court or result from accumulating too many penalty points, and driving while banned is a serious offence.

An official document authorising a person to drive specified categories of vehicle. It must be valid, carried when required, and can be endorsed with penalty points or suspended for offences.

A breach of traffic law, such as speeding, running a red light, or driving under the influence. Offences can lead to fines, penalty points, licence suspension, or imprisonment.

A driving style that reduces fuel use and emissions. It includes smooth acceleration, early gear changes, anticipating traffic to avoid hard braking, and keeping the vehicle well maintained.

The amount of fuel a vehicle uses over a given distance. It rises with aggressive driving, low tyre pressure, unnecessary loads, and idling, and can be reduced by eco-driving techniques.

A class of vehicle defined by its design and use, such as moped, motorcycle, car, or lorry. Each category has its own licence requirements, age limits, and driving rules.

A person learning to drive under a provisional licence. They must display learner plates where required, be accompanied by a qualified driver, and follow any restrictions until they pass the test.