Hazard Perception and Defensive Riding
Scanning and anticipation
Defensive riding means constantly scanning far ahead, checking mirrors and anticipating what other road users might do. Look for clues: a driver's head turning, brake lights, indicators, a ball rolling into the road, parked cars with occupants. The exam often presents a described scene and asks what the greatest hazard is.
Vulnerable road users
Pedestrians, cyclists, children and the elderly are unpredictable. Near schools, crossings and parked cars, slow down and cover the brakes. Watch for cyclists swerving around drains and for doors opening from parked cars.
Junctions and visibility
Approach junctions ready to stop, especially where your view is blocked. Assume a vehicle may emerge from a side road even if it should give way. On bends, keep a margin for oncoming traffic crossing the centre line.
Weather and surface hazards
Rain, leaves, ice, gravel and roadworks all reduce grip and visibility. Increase following distance, use smooth inputs and avoid sudden braking. In fog, use dipped headlights and reduce speed.
Traps and rule of thumb
Traps include choosing the most dramatic hazard rather than the most likely one, and forgetting that a hazard behind you also matters. Rule of thumb: if you cannot predict what a road user will do next, assume the worst and create space. Worked example: a parked van hides a pedestrian about to cross - slow down, cover the brakes and be ready to stop.