Brunei Highway Code Theory study materials
Brunei Highway Code Theory study resources

Brunei Highway Code Theory cheat sheet

Brunei Highway Code Theory · Keep the key ideas within reach.

Quick reference

Road Signs, Signals and Road Markings

  • Sign shape carries meaning: octagon = STOP (must stop fully); inverted triangle = GIVE WAY; circle = regulatory prohibition or mandatory instruction; rectangle = information or direction.

  • Sign colour carries meaning: red ring or red slash = prohibition; blue circle = mandatory instruction; yellow or amber background = warning; green = primary route direction; brown = tourist or facility information.

  • Warning signs are triangles with a red border and are placed in advance of the hazard; the distance to the hazard increases with the speed limit of the road.

  • Broken white centre line = overtaking permitted when safe; double solid white line = no crossing in either direction; a single solid line on your side = no crossing from your side.

  • A solid white line at the edge, or a yellow line at the kerb, marks the limit of the carriageway; double yellow lines at the kerb mean no waiting at any time.

  • Traffic light sequence: red, red and amber together (prepare to go, do not move), green, amber (stop unless unsafe to do so). A flashing amber at a pelican crossing means give way to pedestrians still on the crossing.

  • A red circle with a white horizontal bar means no entry; a red triangle pointing down means give way; a blue circle with a white arrow means the direction shown is compulsory.

  • Traffic signs take priority over road markings, and road markings take priority over signals given by police officers or authorised persons directing traffic.

Quick reference

Traffic Rules, Right of Way and Intersections

  • Brunei drives on the left; at an unmarked junction the default is to give way to traffic approaching from your right unless signs or signals indicate otherwise.

  • At a roundabout, traffic already circulating has priority; approach on the left, give way to the right, and signal left to leave and right only when changing lane within the circle.

  • A STOP sign requires a complete stop at the stop line regardless of whether the road appears clear; a GIVE WAY sign requires yielding without necessarily stopping.

  • When turning right across oncoming traffic, you must give way to oncoming vehicles going straight or turning left; do not cut the corner.

  • Overtake on the right; on a multi-lane road keep left unless overtaking, and never overtake at a pedestrian crossing, on a bend, or where a solid line forbids it.

  • At a junction controlled by a police officer, the officer's signals override traffic lights, signs and markings; a whistle blast means stop.

  • Enter a box junction or yellow box marking only if your exit is clear, except when turning right and blocked only by oncoming traffic.

  • Give way to emergency vehicles showing blue flashing lights and sirens; do not break the law (for example, run a red light) to make way.

Quick reference

Safe Driving Behaviour, Speed and Following Distance

  • The two-second rule gives minimum following distance in dry conditions: pick a fixed point, and ensure at least two seconds pass between the vehicle ahead reaching it and your own arrival.

  • Double the following gap to at least four seconds in rain, at night, or when following a large vehicle that restricts forward vision.

  • Stopping distance = thinking distance + braking distance. Thinking distance grows linearly with speed; braking distance grows with the square of speed, so doubling speed roughly quadruples braking distance.

  • A safe speed is one that lets you stop within the distance you can see to be clear; this governs speed on bends, at night, and in rain.

  • Use dipped headlights in rain, at dusk, and at night; use full beam only where it will not dazzle others, and dip when meeting or following traffic.

  • Signal before manoeuvring, check mirrors (interior then relevant exterior), and check the blind spot over your shoulder before moving off or changing lane.

  • Do not use a hand-held mobile phone while driving; even hands-free use reduces attention and lengthens reaction time.

  • Speed limits are maxima, not targets; the posted limit applies only when conditions allow, and lower limits apply near schools, in built-up areas and at roadworks.

Quick reference

Hazard Awareness and Defensive Driving

  • Scan far ahead and keep a 12-second visual lead where possible; check mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds so you always know what is behind you.

  • Identify a hazard, decide on a response, and act early; the IPSGA system (Information, Position, Speed, Gear, Acceleration) structures a safe approach to any hazard.

  • Hidden junctions, parked vehicles, bends and crests are potential hazards because they conceal other road users; reduce speed before the point of no return.

  • Children, cyclists, pedestrians near schools, and animals are unpredictable; cover the brake and reduce speed when passing them.

  • Avoid target fixation: look where you want to go, not at the hazard, especially when avoiding an obstacle or skidding.

  • If a vehicle is tailgating, increase the gap ahead of you so you can brake progressively rather than sharply, and let the tailgater pass when safe.

  • Wet roads, oil patches, loose gravel and painted lines reduce grip; brake and steer more gently and increase following distance.

  • A hazard perceived early can be managed by easing off the accelerator; late perception forces hard braking and increases collision risk.

Quick reference

Vehicle Safety, Maintenance and Documents

  • Minimum legal tread depth is 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre around the whole circumference; check pressures when tyres are cold.

  • Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid and tyre condition weekly or before a long journey; a blown tyre at speed requires easing off the accelerator and holding the wheel firmly.

  • Brakes should be tested gently after driving through deep water; if the pedal feels spongy, pump it gently to dry the linings.

  • Seat belts are mandatory for the driver and all passengers; children must use an appropriate child restraint, and a rear-facing restraint must never be placed in front of an active airbag.

  • A valid driving licence, vehicle registration, road tax and insurance certificate must be carried or produced when required; driving without valid insurance is an offence.

  • Warning lights: red means stop as soon as safe; amber means check or service soon; a red oil-pressure or brake warning light means stop immediately.

  • Head restraints should be adjusted so the top is level with the top of the head to reduce whiplash injury.

  • Loads must be secure and must not obstruct lights, number plates or the driver's view; overloaded vehicles handle poorly and brake longer.

Quick reference

Alcohol, Drugs, Fatigue and Driver Fitness

  • Alcohol slows reaction time, reduces peripheral vision, impairs judgement of speed and distance, and increases confidence while decreasing ability.

  • The safest and legally safest limit is zero: any alcohol before driving raises crash risk, and effects persist after the drinker feels sober.

  • Prescription and over-the-counter medicines can cause drowsiness; if a label warns against driving or operating machinery, do not drive.

  • Fatigue signs include yawning, heavy eyelids, drifting lanes, missed signs and difficulty concentrating; the only reliable remedy is to stop and rest, not to open a window or turn up music.

  • Plan breaks of at least 15 minutes every two hours on long journeys, and avoid driving during the hours when the body naturally feels sleepy (early morning and mid-afternoon).

  • A driver who is ill, injured, very stressed, or who has taken drugs (legal or illegal) is unfit to drive and must not take the wheel.

  • Never drive after taking cannabis, opiates or other impairing drugs; they remain detectable and impairing for hours, and combining them with alcohol multiplies impairment.

  • If you feel drowsy while driving, stop at a safe place, take a short nap or rest, and resume only when alert.

Quick reference

Sharing the Road with Pedestrians, Cyclists and Motorcyclists

  • At a pedestrian crossing, give way to pedestrians already on the crossing and to those waiting to cross where the law or courtesy requires; never overtake a vehicle stopped at a crossing.

  • Give cyclists at least 1 metre of clearance when overtaking at low speed and more at higher speeds; wait behind until it is safe to pass.

  • Motorcyclists are hard to see and vulnerable; check blind spots twice before pulling out, and never share a lane with them.

  • When turning left (in left-hand traffic) watch for cyclists and motorcyclists filtering on your left; check mirrors and blind spot before every turn.

  • Children, elderly pedestrians, and people with disabilities may move unpredictably or need more time; reduce speed and be prepared to stop.

  • Cyclists may need to avoid drains, potholes or debris and may move out into the lane; allow them room rather than squeezing past.

  • When opening a car door, use the far hand (the 'Dutch reach') to force a look over your shoulder for cyclists and motorcyclists.

  • Give way to pedestrians at zebra or signal-controlled crossings, and never park on a crossing, its zig-zag markings, or on a pavement where it blocks pedestrians.

Quick reference

Emergency Procedures, Incidents and First Aid Basics

  • At a collision, stop, switch off the engine, switch on hazard lights, and place a warning triangle if safe; do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger (fire, traffic).

  • Call emergency services (Brunei emergency number 995 for ambulance/fire, 993 for police) and give location, number of casualties, and nature of injuries.

  • DR ABC: Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, Circulation. Check responsiveness and breathing, and begin CPR if the casualty is not breathing normally.

  • Control severe bleeding by applying firm direct pressure with a clean dressing or cloth; do not remove an embedded object, pad around it instead.

  • For a suspected spinal injury, keep the casualty still and support the head; for burns, cool with clean running water for at least 10 minutes and do not apply creams.

  • Report any collision involving injury, damage to another vehicle or property, or an animal to the police as required, and exchange names, addresses, registration and insurance details.

  • If your vehicle breaks down, move it off the carriageway if possible, put on hazard lights, and stand behind a barrier or well away from traffic while waiting for help.

  • Never give food or drink to an unconscious casualty; place an unconscious but breathing casualty in the recovery position and monitor breathing.

Quick reference

Road Conditions, Weather and Night Driving

  • In rain, reduce speed, increase following distance to at least four seconds, and use dipped headlights so other drivers can see you.

  • Aquaplaning occurs when water lifts the tyres off the road; ease off the accelerator, hold the wheel steady, and do not brake hard until grip returns.

  • On wet roads, stopping distances can roughly double; on ice they can be up to ten times longer.

  • After driving through deep water, test the brakes gently; water reduces braking efficiency until the linings dry.

  • At night, drive at a speed that lets you stop within the distance lit by your headlights; dip headlights for oncoming traffic and when following another vehicle.

  • In fog, use dipped headlights and fog lights if fitted, reduce speed, and never use full beam because it reflects back and reduces visibility.

  • In strong crosswinds, reduce speed, hold the wheel firmly with both hands, and take extra care when passing high-sided vehicles or exposed bridges.

  • In hot weather, check tyre pressures and coolant, watch for overheating, and be alert for glare and for pedestrians or animals near the road.

Quick reference

Road Signs, Signals and Road Markings

  • Sign shape carries meaning: octagon = STOP (must stop fully); inverted triangle = GIVE WAY; circle = regulatory prohibition or mandatory instruction; rectangle = information or direction.

  • Sign colour carries meaning: red ring or red slash = prohibition; blue circle = mandatory instruction; yellow or amber background = warning; green = primary route direction; brown = tourist or facility information.

  • Warning signs are triangles with a red border and are placed in advance of the hazard; the distance to the hazard increases with the speed limit of the road.

  • Broken white centre line = overtaking permitted when safe; double solid white line = no crossing in either direction; a single solid line on your side = no crossing from your side.

  • A solid white line at the edge, or a yellow line at the kerb, marks the limit of the carriageway; double yellow lines at the kerb mean no waiting at any time.

  • Traffic light sequence: red, red and amber together (prepare to go, do not move), green, amber (stop unless unsafe to do so). A flashing amber at a pelican crossing means give way to pedestrians still on the crossing.

  • A red circle with a white horizontal bar means no entry; a red triangle pointing down means give way; a blue circle with a white arrow means the direction shown is compulsory.

  • Traffic signs take priority over road markings, and road markings take priority over signals given by police officers or authorised persons directing traffic.

Quick reference

Traffic Rules, Right of Way and Intersections

  • Brunei drives on the left; at an unmarked junction the default is to give way to traffic approaching from your right unless signs or signals indicate otherwise.

  • At a roundabout, traffic already circulating has priority; approach on the left, give way to the right, and signal left to leave and right only when changing lane within the circle.

  • A STOP sign requires a complete stop at the stop line regardless of whether the road appears clear; a GIVE WAY sign requires yielding without necessarily stopping.

  • When turning right across oncoming traffic, you must give way to oncoming vehicles going straight or turning left; do not cut the corner.

  • Overtake on the right; on a multi-lane road keep left unless overtaking, and never overtake at a pedestrian crossing, on a bend, or where a solid line forbids it.

  • At a junction controlled by a police officer, the officer's signals override traffic lights, signs and markings; a whistle blast means stop.

  • Enter a box junction or yellow box marking only if your exit is clear, except when turning right and blocked only by oncoming traffic.

  • Give way to emergency vehicles showing blue flashing lights and sirens; do not break the law (for example, run a red light) to make way.

Quick reference

Safe Driving Behaviour, Speed and Following Distance

  • The two-second rule gives minimum following distance in dry conditions: pick a fixed point, and ensure at least two seconds pass between the vehicle ahead reaching it and your own arrival.

  • Double the following gap to at least four seconds in rain, at night, or when following a large vehicle that restricts forward vision.

  • Stopping distance = thinking distance + braking distance. Thinking distance grows linearly with speed; braking distance grows with the square of speed, so doubling speed roughly quadruples braking distance.

  • A safe speed is one that lets you stop within the distance you can see to be clear; this governs speed on bends, at night, and in rain.

  • Use dipped headlights in rain, at dusk, and at night; use full beam only where it will not dazzle others, and dip when meeting or following traffic.

  • Signal before manoeuvring, check mirrors (interior then relevant exterior), and check the blind spot over your shoulder before moving off or changing lane.

  • Do not use a hand-held mobile phone while driving; even hands-free use reduces attention and lengthens reaction time.

  • Speed limits are maxima, not targets; the posted limit applies only when conditions allow, and lower limits apply near schools, in built-up areas and at roadworks.

Quick reference

Hazard Awareness and Defensive Driving

  • Scan far ahead and keep a 12-second visual lead where possible; check mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds so you always know what is behind you.

  • Identify a hazard, decide on a response, and act early; the IPSGA system (Information, Position, Speed, Gear, Acceleration) structures a safe approach to any hazard.

  • Hidden junctions, parked vehicles, bends and crests are potential hazards because they conceal other road users; reduce speed before the point of no return.

  • Children, cyclists, pedestrians near schools, and animals are unpredictable; cover the brake and reduce speed when passing them.

  • Avoid target fixation: look where you want to go, not at the hazard, especially when avoiding an obstacle or skidding.

  • If a vehicle is tailgating, increase the gap ahead of you so you can brake progressively rather than sharply, and let the tailgater pass when safe.

  • Wet roads, oil patches, loose gravel and painted lines reduce grip; brake and steer more gently and increase following distance.

  • A hazard perceived early can be managed by easing off the accelerator; late perception forces hard braking and increases collision risk.

Quick reference

Vehicle Safety, Maintenance and Documents

  • Minimum legal tread depth is 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre around the whole circumference; check pressures when tyres are cold.

  • Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid and tyre condition weekly or before a long journey; a blown tyre at speed requires easing off the accelerator and holding the wheel firmly.

  • Brakes should be tested gently after driving through deep water; if the pedal feels spongy, pump it gently to dry the linings.

  • Seat belts are mandatory for the driver and all passengers; children must use an appropriate child restraint, and a rear-facing restraint must never be placed in front of an active airbag.

  • A valid driving licence, vehicle registration, road tax and insurance certificate must be carried or produced when required; driving without valid insurance is an offence.

  • Warning lights: red means stop as soon as safe; amber means check or service soon; a red oil-pressure or brake warning light means stop immediately.

  • Head restraints should be adjusted so the top is level with the top of the head to reduce whiplash injury.

  • Loads must be secure and must not obstruct lights, number plates or the driver's view; overloaded vehicles handle poorly and brake longer.

Quick reference

Alcohol, Drugs, Fatigue and Driver Fitness

  • Alcohol slows reaction time, reduces peripheral vision, impairs judgement of speed and distance, and increases confidence while decreasing ability.

  • The safest and legally safest limit is zero: any alcohol before driving raises crash risk, and effects persist after the drinker feels sober.

  • Prescription and over-the-counter medicines can cause drowsiness; if a label warns against driving or operating machinery, do not drive.

  • Fatigue signs include yawning, heavy eyelids, drifting lanes, missed signs and difficulty concentrating; the only reliable remedy is to stop and rest, not to open a window or turn up music.

  • Plan breaks of at least 15 minutes every two hours on long journeys, and avoid driving during the hours when the body naturally feels sleepy (early morning and mid-afternoon).

  • A driver who is ill, injured, very stressed, or who has taken drugs (legal or illegal) is unfit to drive and must not take the wheel.

  • Never drive after taking cannabis, opiates or other impairing drugs; they remain detectable and impairing for hours, and combining them with alcohol multiplies impairment.

  • If you feel drowsy while driving, stop at a safe place, take a short nap or rest, and resume only when alert.

Quick reference

Sharing the Road with Pedestrians, Cyclists and Motorcyclists

  • At a pedestrian crossing, give way to pedestrians already on the crossing and to those waiting to cross where the law or courtesy requires; never overtake a vehicle stopped at a crossing.

  • Give cyclists at least 1 metre of clearance when overtaking at low speed and more at higher speeds; wait behind until it is safe to pass.

  • Motorcyclists are hard to see and vulnerable; check blind spots twice before pulling out, and never share a lane with them.

  • When turning left (in left-hand traffic) watch for cyclists and motorcyclists filtering on your left; check mirrors and blind spot before every turn.

  • Children, elderly pedestrians, and people with disabilities may move unpredictably or need more time; reduce speed and be prepared to stop.

  • Cyclists may need to avoid drains, potholes or debris and may move out into the lane; allow them room rather than squeezing past.

  • When opening a car door, use the far hand (the 'Dutch reach') to force a look over your shoulder for cyclists and motorcyclists.

  • Give way to pedestrians at zebra or signal-controlled crossings, and never park on a crossing, its zig-zag markings, or on a pavement where it blocks pedestrians.

Quick reference

Emergency Procedures, Incidents and First Aid Basics

  • At a collision, stop, switch off the engine, switch on hazard lights, and place a warning triangle if safe; do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger (fire, traffic).

  • Call emergency services (Brunei emergency number 995 for ambulance/fire, 993 for police) and give location, number of casualties, and nature of injuries.

  • DR ABC: Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, Circulation. Check responsiveness and breathing, and begin CPR if the casualty is not breathing normally.

  • Control severe bleeding by applying firm direct pressure with a clean dressing or cloth; do not remove an embedded object, pad around it instead.

  • For a suspected spinal injury, keep the casualty still and support the head; for burns, cool with clean running water for at least 10 minutes and do not apply creams.

  • Report any collision involving injury, damage to another vehicle or property, or an animal to the police as required, and exchange names, addresses, registration and insurance details.

  • If your vehicle breaks down, move it off the carriageway if possible, put on hazard lights, and stand behind a barrier or well away from traffic while waiting for help.

  • Never give food or drink to an unconscious casualty; place an unconscious but breathing casualty in the recovery position and monitor breathing.

Quick reference

Road Conditions, Weather and Night Driving

  • In rain, reduce speed, increase following distance to at least four seconds, and use dipped headlights so other drivers can see you.

  • Aquaplaning occurs when water lifts the tyres off the road; ease off the accelerator, hold the wheel steady, and do not brake hard until grip returns.

  • On wet roads, stopping distances can roughly double; on ice they can be up to ten times longer.

  • After driving through deep water, test the brakes gently; water reduces braking efficiency until the linings dry.

  • At night, drive at a speed that lets you stop within the distance lit by your headlights; dip headlights for oncoming traffic and when following another vehicle.

  • In fog, use dipped headlights and fog lights if fitted, reduce speed, and never use full beam because it reflects back and reduces visibility.

  • In strong crosswinds, reduce speed, hold the wheel firmly with both hands, and take extra care when passing high-sided vehicles or exposed bridges.

  • In hot weather, check tyre pressures and coolant, watch for overheating, and be alert for glare and for pedestrians or animals near the road.

Quick reference

Road Signs, Signals and Road Markings

  • Sign shape carries meaning: octagon = STOP (must stop fully); inverted triangle = GIVE WAY; circle = regulatory prohibition or mandatory instruction; rectangle = information or direction.

  • Sign colour carries meaning: red ring or red slash = prohibition; blue circle = mandatory instruction; yellow or amber background = warning; green = primary route direction; brown = tourist or facility information.

  • Warning signs are triangles with a red border and are placed in advance of the hazard; the distance to the hazard increases with the speed limit of the road.

  • Broken white centre line = overtaking permitted when safe; double solid white line = no crossing in either direction; a single solid line on your side = no crossing from your side.

  • A solid white line at the edge, or a yellow line at the kerb, marks the limit of the carriageway; double yellow lines at the kerb mean no waiting at any time.

  • Traffic light sequence: red, red and amber together (prepare to go, do not move), green, amber (stop unless unsafe to do so). A flashing amber at a pelican crossing means give way to pedestrians still on the crossing.

  • A red circle with a white horizontal bar means no entry; a red triangle pointing down means give way; a blue circle with a white arrow means the direction shown is compulsory.

  • Traffic signs take priority over road markings, and road markings take priority over signals given by police officers or authorised persons directing traffic.

Quick reference

Traffic Rules, Right of Way and Intersections

  • Brunei drives on the left; at an unmarked junction the default is to give way to traffic approaching from your right unless signs or signals indicate otherwise.

  • At a roundabout, traffic already circulating has priority; approach on the left, give way to the right, and signal left to leave and right only when changing lane within the circle.

  • A STOP sign requires a complete stop at the stop line regardless of whether the road appears clear; a GIVE WAY sign requires yielding without necessarily stopping.

  • When turning right across oncoming traffic, you must give way to oncoming vehicles going straight or turning left; do not cut the corner.

  • Overtake on the right; on a multi-lane road keep left unless overtaking, and never overtake at a pedestrian crossing, on a bend, or where a solid line forbids it.

  • At a junction controlled by a police officer, the officer's signals override traffic lights, signs and markings; a whistle blast means stop.

  • Enter a box junction or yellow box marking only if your exit is clear, except when turning right and blocked only by oncoming traffic.

  • Give way to emergency vehicles showing blue flashing lights and sirens; do not break the law (for example, run a red light) to make way.

Quick reference

Safe Driving Behaviour, Speed and Following Distance

  • The two-second rule gives minimum following distance in dry conditions: pick a fixed point, and ensure at least two seconds pass between the vehicle ahead reaching it and your own arrival.

  • Double the following gap to at least four seconds in rain, at night, or when following a large vehicle that restricts forward vision.

  • Stopping distance = thinking distance + braking distance. Thinking distance grows linearly with speed; braking distance grows with the square of speed, so doubling speed roughly quadruples braking distance.

  • A safe speed is one that lets you stop within the distance you can see to be clear; this governs speed on bends, at night, and in rain.

  • Use dipped headlights in rain, at dusk, and at night; use full beam only where it will not dazzle others, and dip when meeting or following traffic.

  • Signal before manoeuvring, check mirrors (interior then relevant exterior), and check the blind spot over your shoulder before moving off or changing lane.

  • Do not use a hand-held mobile phone while driving; even hands-free use reduces attention and lengthens reaction time.

  • Speed limits are maxima, not targets; the posted limit applies only when conditions allow, and lower limits apply near schools, in built-up areas and at roadworks.

Quick reference

Hazard Awareness and Defensive Driving

  • Scan far ahead and keep a 12-second visual lead where possible; check mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds so you always know what is behind you.

  • Identify a hazard, decide on a response, and act early; the IPSGA system (Information, Position, Speed, Gear, Acceleration) structures a safe approach to any hazard.

  • Hidden junctions, parked vehicles, bends and crests are potential hazards because they conceal other road users; reduce speed before the point of no return.

  • Children, cyclists, pedestrians near schools, and animals are unpredictable; cover the brake and reduce speed when passing them.

  • Avoid target fixation: look where you want to go, not at the hazard, especially when avoiding an obstacle or skidding.

  • If a vehicle is tailgating, increase the gap ahead of you so you can brake progressively rather than sharply, and let the tailgater pass when safe.

  • Wet roads, oil patches, loose gravel and painted lines reduce grip; brake and steer more gently and increase following distance.

  • A hazard perceived early can be managed by easing off the accelerator; late perception forces hard braking and increases collision risk.

Quick reference

Vehicle Safety, Maintenance and Documents

  • Minimum legal tread depth is 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre around the whole circumference; check pressures when tyres are cold.

  • Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid and tyre condition weekly or before a long journey; a blown tyre at speed requires easing off the accelerator and holding the wheel firmly.

  • Brakes should be tested gently after driving through deep water; if the pedal feels spongy, pump it gently to dry the linings.

  • Seat belts are mandatory for the driver and all passengers; children must use an appropriate child restraint, and a rear-facing restraint must never be placed in front of an active airbag.

  • A valid driving licence, vehicle registration, road tax and insurance certificate must be carried or produced when required; driving without valid insurance is an offence.

  • Warning lights: red means stop as soon as safe; amber means check or service soon; a red oil-pressure or brake warning light means stop immediately.

  • Head restraints should be adjusted so the top is level with the top of the head to reduce whiplash injury.

  • Loads must be secure and must not obstruct lights, number plates or the driver's view; overloaded vehicles handle poorly and brake longer.

Quick reference

Alcohol, Drugs, Fatigue and Driver Fitness

  • Alcohol slows reaction time, reduces peripheral vision, impairs judgement of speed and distance, and increases confidence while decreasing ability.

  • The safest and legally safest limit is zero: any alcohol before driving raises crash risk, and effects persist after the drinker feels sober.

  • Prescription and over-the-counter medicines can cause drowsiness; if a label warns against driving or operating machinery, do not drive.

  • Fatigue signs include yawning, heavy eyelids, drifting lanes, missed signs and difficulty concentrating; the only reliable remedy is to stop and rest, not to open a window or turn up music.

  • Plan breaks of at least 15 minutes every two hours on long journeys, and avoid driving during the hours when the body naturally feels sleepy (early morning and mid-afternoon).

  • A driver who is ill, injured, very stressed, or who has taken drugs (legal or illegal) is unfit to drive and must not take the wheel.

  • Never drive after taking cannabis, opiates or other impairing drugs; they remain detectable and impairing for hours, and combining them with alcohol multiplies impairment.

  • If you feel drowsy while driving, stop at a safe place, take a short nap or rest, and resume only when alert.

Quick reference

Sharing the Road with Pedestrians, Cyclists and Motorcyclists

  • At a pedestrian crossing, give way to pedestrians already on the crossing and to those waiting to cross where the law or courtesy requires; never overtake a vehicle stopped at a crossing.

  • Give cyclists at least 1 metre of clearance when overtaking at low speed and more at higher speeds; wait behind until it is safe to pass.

  • Motorcyclists are hard to see and vulnerable; check blind spots twice before pulling out, and never share a lane with them.

  • When turning left (in left-hand traffic) watch for cyclists and motorcyclists filtering on your left; check mirrors and blind spot before every turn.

  • Children, elderly pedestrians, and people with disabilities may move unpredictably or need more time; reduce speed and be prepared to stop.

  • Cyclists may need to avoid drains, potholes or debris and may move out into the lane; allow them room rather than squeezing past.

  • When opening a car door, use the far hand (the 'Dutch reach') to force a look over your shoulder for cyclists and motorcyclists.

  • Give way to pedestrians at zebra or signal-controlled crossings, and never park on a crossing, its zig-zag markings, or on a pavement where it blocks pedestrians.

Quick reference

Emergency Procedures, Incidents and First Aid Basics

  • At a collision, stop, switch off the engine, switch on hazard lights, and place a warning triangle if safe; do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger (fire, traffic).

  • Call emergency services (Brunei emergency number 995 for ambulance/fire, 993 for police) and give location, number of casualties, and nature of injuries.

  • DR ABC: Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, Circulation. Check responsiveness and breathing, and begin CPR if the casualty is not breathing normally.

  • Control severe bleeding by applying firm direct pressure with a clean dressing or cloth; do not remove an embedded object, pad around it instead.

  • For a suspected spinal injury, keep the casualty still and support the head; for burns, cool with clean running water for at least 10 minutes and do not apply creams.

  • Report any collision involving injury, damage to another vehicle or property, or an animal to the police as required, and exchange names, addresses, registration and insurance details.

  • If your vehicle breaks down, move it off the carriageway if possible, put on hazard lights, and stand behind a barrier or well away from traffic while waiting for help.

  • Never give food or drink to an unconscious casualty; place an unconscious but breathing casualty in the recovery position and monitor breathing.

Quick reference

Road Conditions, Weather and Night Driving

  • In rain, reduce speed, increase following distance to at least four seconds, and use dipped headlights so other drivers can see you.

  • Aquaplaning occurs when water lifts the tyres off the road; ease off the accelerator, hold the wheel steady, and do not brake hard until grip returns.

  • On wet roads, stopping distances can roughly double; on ice they can be up to ten times longer.

  • After driving through deep water, test the brakes gently; water reduces braking efficiency until the linings dry.

  • At night, drive at a speed that lets you stop within the distance lit by your headlights; dip headlights for oncoming traffic and when following another vehicle.

  • In fog, use dipped headlights and fog lights if fitted, reduce speed, and never use full beam because it reflects back and reduces visibility.

  • In strong crosswinds, reduce speed, hold the wheel firmly with both hands, and take extra care when passing high-sided vehicles or exposed bridges.

  • In hot weather, check tyre pressures and coolant, watch for overheating, and be alert for glare and for pedestrians or animals near the road.