Bahrain Driving Theory key terms

The priority one road user has to proceed while others wait. It is granted by signs, markings, signals or rules, and must still be given cautiously rather than assumed.

A broken white line across a lane marking where a driver must slow or stop and let traffic on the priority road pass before entering or crossing it.

A solid white line at a junction or signal where a vehicle must come to a complete halt when required, positioned so the front of the vehicle stays behind the line.

The rule that traffic already circulating on the roundabout has priority, so an entering driver gives way to the left and joins only when a safe gap exists.

Keeping to the correct lane for your direction and intended turn, maintaining position without drifting, and changing lanes only after checking mirrors, signalling and confirming the space is clear.

Passing another moving vehicle travelling in the same direction. It is permitted only where markings and signs allow, visibility is adequate, and the manoeuvre can be completed before any hazard.

A continuous line along the middle of the road that must not be crossed to overtake or turn across it, warning of restricted visibility or a hazard ahead.

A dashed line separating opposing traffic flows that may be crossed when it is safe to do so, for example to overtake or turn into a side road or property.

The maximum legal speed permitted on a given road, set by posted signs or by default rules for road type and area, and always subject to slower limits imposed by conditions.

Adjusting speed below the posted limit to suit visibility, traffic, weather, road surface and the presence of pedestrians or hazards, so the vehicle can stop within the distance seen to be clear.

The total distance travelled while a driver reacts plus the distance needed to brake to a halt, which grows with speed and is longer on wet, sandy or otherwise slippery surfaces.

A method of judging following distance by counting two seconds between the vehicle ahead passing a fixed point and your own vehicle reaching it, doubled in rain or poor visibility.

Following another vehicle too closely, leaving insufficient space to stop if it brakes suddenly. It is dangerous, intimidates the driver ahead and is a common cause of rear-end collisions.

The area around a vehicle that cannot be seen in the mirrors. Drivers must turn their head or use aids to check it before changing lanes, merging or opening a door.

A routine for any change of position: check mirrors, signal intention in good time, then act only after confirming the space is clear and other road users have responded.

A marked section of road where people on foot have priority over vehicles. Drivers must approach at a reduced speed and be ready to stop for anyone waiting or already crossing.

A pedestrian crossing marked by broad alternating dark and light stripes on the road surface, often with flashing amber beacons, where drivers must give way to pedestrians.

The sequence of red, amber and green displays controlling traffic. Amber means stop unless stopping safely is impossible, and a green light does not guarantee the junction is clear.

Looking in all relevant directions, checking mirrors and blind spots, and selecting the correct lane and speed before entering a junction so the manoeuvre is planned rather than rushed.

Anticipating the mistakes of others and planning an escape route, so that a driver avoids a collision even when the other road user is at fault.

The skill of scanning ahead and to the sides to spot developing dangers early, such as a child near parked cars or a vehicle slowing unexpectedly, and responding before they become emergencies.

The gap kept between your vehicle and the one ahead, measured in time rather than metres so it scales with speed and gives room to stop or steer around a problem.

The requirement that the driver and all passengers wear seat belts where fitted, with the driver responsible for ensuring children are correctly restrained in an approved child seat.

An approved child seat or booster appropriate to the child's age, weight and height, fitted according to the manufacturer's instructions and never placed where an active airbag could injure the child.

The condition required for legal road use, covering tyres, brakes, lights, steering, exhaust emissions and bodywork, checked regularly and before long journeys.

The minimum groove depth legally required across the tyre's central contact area, ensuring grip and water dispersal; worn tyres increase stopping distances and the risk of aquaplaning.

The official record linking a vehicle to its owner and plate number, which must be current for the vehicle to be used on public roads and transferred correctly on sale.

The minimum cover required by law, paying for injury or damage the policyholder causes to other people and their property, but not for the policyholder's own vehicle.

The classes of vehicle a licence holder is permitted to drive, such as car, light goods or motorcycle, each with its own entitlement rules and conditions.

Marks added to a driving record for traffic offences. Accumulating a set number within a period can lead to disqualification, higher insurance costs and licence review.

A court or authority decision removing a person's right to drive for a stated period, after which the licence must be reapplied for or restored under set conditions.

The maximum concentration of alcohol legally permitted in a driver's blood or breath. Even amounts below the limit impair judgement, reaction time and coordination.

Reduced ability to drive safely caused by alcohol, drugs, medication, illness or injury. A driver who feels affected must not drive and should arrange alternative transport.

Tiredness that slows reactions, reduces attention and can cause brief unintended sleep. The only reliable remedy is stopping to rest; fresh air, music and coffee are temporary at best.

The steps after a crash: stop safely, warn other traffic, check for injuries, call emergency services, exchange details and report the incident to police as required.

A police, ambulance or fire vehicle showing flashing lights or sounding a siren. Drivers should stay calm, signal, and pull over or clear a path without breaking the law dangerously.

Basic care given before professional help arrives, such as controlling bleeding, keeping an injured person warm and still, and not moving someone with suspected spinal injury unless there is immediate danger.