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DRTS Heavy-Vehicle Theory study materials
DRTS Heavy-Vehicle Theory study resources

DRTS Heavy-Vehicle Theory practice questions

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Question 1Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

Under most road traffic codes, what is the standard maximum permissible blood alcohol concentration for a fully licensed driver of a heavy vehicle?

  1. 0.08 grams per 100 millilitres of blood
  2. 0.02 grams per 100 millilitres of blood
  3. 0.05 grams per 100 millilitres of blood
  4. 0.00 grams per 100 millilitres of blood Correct answer.

Explanation

Heavy-vehicle drivers are almost universally held to a zero-tolerance standard, meaning any detectable alcohol in the blood is an offence. Professional drivers carry greater responsibility because of vehicle mass and stopping distance, so the permitted limit is effectively nil. Even small amounts that would be legal for a car driver can end a heavy-vehicle licence.

Question 2Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A heavy rigid truck is travelling on a road with a posted speed limit of 60 km/h. Which speed should the driver select?

  1. A speed matching the surrounding traffic flow regardless of the sign
  2. A speed about 10 km/h below the limit to allow for the truck's mass
  3. The posted limit exactly, because the sign defines the legal maximum
  4. The posted limit, adjusted downward for load, weather, and visibility Correct answer.

Explanation

The posted figure is a legal ceiling, not a target; drivers must also comply with the general duty to drive at a speed safe for conditions. A loaded heavy vehicle needs far more distance to stop, so rain, poor visibility, or a heavy load should reduce speed below the sign. Matching traffic flow never overrides the legal limit.

Question 3Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

What is the minimum safe following rule commonly taught for heavy vehicles travelling at highway speed?

  1. At least four seconds behind the vehicle ahead Correct answer.
  2. Two seconds behind the vehicle ahead
  3. One vehicle length per 10 km/h of speed
  4. One second behind the vehicle ahead

Explanation

Heavy vehicles need a much longer gap than cars because their braking distance grows with mass and load. A minimum four-second gap is the usual professional standard and should be extended further in rain, on gravel, or when fully laden. Time-based gaps automatically scale with speed, unlike fixed distances.

Question 4Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

Before reversing a heavy vehicle into a loading dock, what should the driver do first?

  1. Rely on the reversing camera alone
  2. Sound the horn continuously while reversing
  3. Walk around the vehicle to check for obstructions and pedestrians Correct answer.
  4. Ask a passer-by to watch and then reverse immediately

Explanation

A walk-around check lets the driver see hazards that mirrors and cameras cannot, especially in the blind spots behind a large vehicle. Reversing cameras have limited fields of view and can be obscured by dirt or load. If a guide is used, the driver must agree on signals before moving.

Question 5Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

When must a heavy vehicle driver use low-beam headlights during daylight hours?

  1. Only on roads outside built-up areas
  2. Only between sunset and sunrise
  3. Only when it is raining heavily
  4. Whenever visibility is seriously reduced, such as in fog or heavy spray Correct answer.

Explanation

Low beams are required whenever the driver cannot clearly see people or vehicles at a reasonable distance, including fog, heavy rain, and spray thrown up by other traffic. Daytime running lights alone are often insufficient because they may not show rear lamps. High beams must not be used in fog because they reflect back and worsen visibility.

Question 6Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A truck's load overhangs the rear of the vehicle. What is the usual legal requirement?

  1. No action is needed if the load is under the vehicle's rated mass
  2. The load must be removed and carried in a trailer
  3. The driver may proceed if speed is kept below 40 km/h
  4. The overhanging load must be marked with a warning device such as a flag or light Correct answer.

Explanation

Most traffic codes require a rear overhang to be made conspicuous with a flag, board, or light so following drivers can judge the true length of the vehicle. The requirement applies regardless of whether the load is within the permitted mass. Overhangs beyond a set length may also need special permits.

Question 7Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

What does a solid white line along the left edge of a carriageway typically indicate?

  1. A lane reserved for overtaking
  2. A parking zone for goods vehicles
  3. A guide line that may be crossed freely at any time
  4. The edge of the roadway, beyond which driving is normally not permitted Correct answer.

Explanation

Edge lines mark the boundary of the usable carriageway and help drivers, especially in poor visibility, keep the vehicle on the road. Crossing them is generally permitted only to avoid a hazard or where a shoulder is designed for use. They are not parking or overtaking markings.

Question 8Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

In most jurisdictions, how close may a heavy vehicle stop to an intersection without traffic lights?

  1. Within 1 metre of the corner
  2. Within 5 metres of the corner
  3. Directly at the corner if no crosswalk exists
  4. Within 10 metres of the corner Correct answer.

Explanation

A common rule prohibits stopping or parking within about 10 metres of an intersection corner so that sight lines for turning and crossing traffic are preserved. A large vehicle parked near a corner can hide pedestrians and smaller vehicles completely. Local codes may vary slightly, but the principle of keeping corners clear is consistent.

Question 9Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A heavy vehicle approaches a railway level crossing with flashing red lights and a raised boom. What should the driver do?

  1. Proceed slowly around the boom if no train is visible
  2. Sound the horn and cross quickly
  3. Stop and wait until the lights stop flashing and the boom is fully raised Correct answer.
  4. Continue if the vehicle ahead has just crossed

Explanation

Flashing red lights mean a train is approaching and the crossing must not be entered, even if the boom is still up. The driver must stop short of the crossing and wait until the signals stop and the path is clear. Heavy vehicles cannot stop quickly, so committing to a crossing on a warning is extremely dangerous.

Question 10Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

What is the primary purpose of a weighbridge check for a heavy vehicle?

  1. To test brake efficiency
  2. To measure tyre tread depth
  3. To verify the driver's licence category
  4. To confirm axle and gross mass are within legal limits Correct answer.

Explanation

Weighbridges measure the mass carried by each axle and the total vehicle mass so that enforcement officers can confirm compliance with legal load limits. Overloading increases braking distance, damages pavement, and can make the vehicle unstable. Drivers should know their axle group limits before loading.

Question 11Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A driver of a heavy combination vehicle is descending a long steep grade. Which technique best controls speed?

  1. Coasting in neutral to save fuel
  2. Applying the brakes hard and late at each curve
  3. Riding the footbrake lightly throughout the descent
  4. Selecting a low gear before the descent and using engine braking Correct answer.

Explanation

Selecting a low gear before the descent uses engine braking to hold speed and keeps the service brakes cool for emergencies. Continuous light brake application overheats drums and pads, causing fade and loss of stopping power. Coasting in neutral removes engine braking and is illegal in most places.

Question 12Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

Under typical chain-of-responsibility laws, who can be held accountable for a heavy-vehicle mass offence?

  1. Only the driver
  2. The driver, the operator, the loader, and the consignor Correct answer.
  3. Only the person who loaded the vehicle
  4. Only the registered operator

Explanation

Chain-of-responsibility regimes extend duties to everyone whose actions affect compliance, including drivers, operators, schedulers, loaders, and consignors. Each party must take reasonable steps to prevent breaches such as overloading or fatigue. Penalties can apply to each party independently.

Question 13Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A driver has been awake for 19 hours and feels alert. What does fatigue law generally require?

  1. The driver may continue if a second driver is in the cab
  2. The driver may continue for up to four more hours
  3. The driver may continue if no signs of tiredness appear
  4. The driver must comply with prescribed rest breaks and maximum work hours regardless of how they feel Correct answer.

Explanation

Fatigue rules are based on recorded work and rest hours precisely because tiredness is poorly self-assessed. Feeling alert does not excuse exceeding maximum work time or skipping mandated rest. A second driver only helps if that person is actually rested and takes over the driving.

Question 14Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

What is the effect of a load that is placed too far behind the rear axle of a rigid truck?

  1. It has no effect on axle loads if total mass is unchanged
  2. It increases weight on the front axle and improves steering
  3. It reduces weight on the front axle and can make steering light Correct answer.
  4. It lowers the centre of gravity and improves stability

Explanation

Load position changes how mass is distributed between axles; weight behind the rear axle acts as a lever that lifts the front. A light front axle reduces steering grip, which is dangerous at speed and on curves. Total mass can be legal while individual axle loads are not.

Question 15Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A truck is involved in a crash and the driver is uninjured. What is the usual first legal duty?

  1. Continue to the depot and report the crash there
  2. Move the vehicle away before anyone arrives
  3. Photograph the scene and leave if no one is hurt
  4. Stop, give assistance, and exchange particulars with other parties Correct answer.

Explanation

Road traffic law generally requires a driver involved in a crash to stop, render reasonable assistance, and provide name, address, and registration details to other parties. Crashes involving injury or significant damage must also be reported to police within a set period. Leaving the scene without meeting these duties is an offence.

Question 16Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

When may a heavy vehicle driver legally cross a continuous double centre line?

  1. Only when a passenger gives directions
  2. To enter or leave a property or side road, or to avoid an obstruction Correct answer.
  3. To overtake a slower vehicle on a straight section
  4. Whenever traffic is light

Explanation

Continuous centre lines prohibit overtaking, but the rules normally allow crossing to turn into a driveway or side road, or to pass a stationary obstruction when it is safe. Overtaking on a clear straight is still prohibited because the line is continuous. The manoeuvre must always be safe and permitted by any signs.

Question 17Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A driver is directed by a police officer to proceed through a red traffic light. What should the driver do?

  1. Wait for the light to turn green regardless of the officer
  2. Refuse because the light has priority over the officer
  3. Proceed only after another driver moves first
  4. Obey the officer's direction, having checked that it is safe Correct answer.

Explanation

Police directions override traffic signals and signs, so a driver directed through a red light may lawfully proceed. The driver must still confirm the way is clear, because the officer's signal does not remove the duty of care. Following the officer's instruction is not an offence.

Question 18Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

What is the standard legal tread depth requirement for the tyres of a heavy vehicle in most jurisdictions?

  1. At least 1.5 mm in the main grooves Correct answer.
  2. Any depth, provided no cords are visible
  3. At least 3.0 mm in a continuous band around the tyre
  4. At least 1.0 mm across the whole tread

Explanation

Most codes require heavy-vehicle tyres to have at least 1.5 mm of tread in the principal grooves across the central band. Tyres below this depth lose wet grip and are more prone to aquaplaning under heavy loads. Visible cords or cuts are separate defects that also make a tyre unroadworthy.

Question 19Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A truck's air brake system loses pressure and the low-pressure warning sounds. What is the correct response?

  1. Increase speed to reach a workshop sooner
  2. Stop safely as soon as possible and investigate before continuing Correct answer.
  3. Continue to the nearest depot and report the fault
  4. Pump the brake pedal rapidly to build pressure

Explanation

A low-pressure warning means the service brakes may not operate reliably, and spring brakes could apply suddenly. The driver should bring the vehicle to a safe stop, secure it, and not continue until the fault is corrected. Pumping the pedal does not repair a leak and wastes remaining pressure.

Question 20Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

How should a driver secure a load of steel pipes on a flatbed trailer?

  1. Rely on the pipes' own weight to hold them in place
  2. Stack the pipes loosely so they can settle during travel
  3. Use rated straps and chocks arranged to prevent forward, rearward, and lateral movement Correct answer.
  4. Place a tarpaulin over the pipes without additional restraints

Explanation

Loads must be restrained against forces in all directions, including braking and cornering, using restraints rated for the load mass. Round steel pipes can roll, so chocks and multiple straps are needed to stop lateral and longitudinal movement. Weight alone never secures a load.

Question 21Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A heavy vehicle is travelling in the left lane of a multi-lane highway and wishes to turn right at an upcoming intersection. What is the usual requirement?

  1. Turn from the left lane if no traffic is beside the vehicle
  2. Cross the intersection and make a U-turn later
  3. Change to the right lane or designated turning lane in good time, signalling and checking mirrors Correct answer.
  4. Straddle both lanes for the last 500 metres

Explanation

Drivers must position the vehicle in the correct lane for the intended turn well before the intersection, signalling and checking mirrors and blind spots. Turning across other lanes from the wrong position is unsafe and generally illegal. Large vehicles may need extra space, but they must still follow lane discipline.

Question 22Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

What is the purpose of a permit for an oversize heavy vehicle movement?

  1. To authorise a specific route and conditions for a vehicle exceeding standard dimensions Correct answer.
  2. To replace the driver's heavy-vehicle licence
  3. To allow unlimited speed on highways
  4. To exempt the vehicle from all traffic laws

Explanation

Oversize permits define the approved route, travel times, escort requirements, and warning devices for a vehicle that exceeds standard limits. They do not exempt the operator from general road rules or speed limits. Conditions are set to protect bridges, tunnels, and other road users.

Question 23Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

An operator schedules a driver to complete a run that cannot be finished within legal hours unless the driver exceeds the speed limit. What is the correct analysis?

  1. The operator has breached the duty to prevent fatigue and speed breaches, and the driver must not comply Correct answer.
  2. Only the driver is at fault if a crash occurs
  3. The schedule becomes lawful once the driver agrees to it
  4. The driver may speed because the schedule is lawful

Explanation

Schedulers and operators must plan trips that can be completed within speed and fatigue limits; a schedule that requires breaches is itself a contravention. The driver remains responsible for refusing to break the law, and agreeing to an unlawful schedule does not make it lawful. Liability can fall on both parties.

Question 24Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A driver is unsure whether a load exceeds the permitted height. Which approach best reflects the legal duty?

  1. Proceed only at night when fewer structures are open
  2. Measure the load and check the permitted height and route before departure Correct answer.
  3. Ask another driver at the destination
  4. Proceed and rely on signs to warn of low structures

Explanation

Drivers and operators must know the dimensions of the loaded vehicle and plan a route that clears all bridges, tunnels, and overhead lines. Relying on signage assumes every obstruction is signed, which is not guaranteed. Measuring before departure is the only reliable way to meet the duty.

Question 25Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A heavy vehicle's load shifts during a journey on a highway. What should the driver do?

  1. Stop in a safe place as soon as possible and secure the load before continuing Correct answer.
  2. Ask a passenger to hold the load in place
  3. Continue at reduced speed to the destination
  4. Accelerate to reduce the effect of the movement

Explanation

An unsecured or shifting load is a serious safety and legal risk, so the driver must stop safely and re-secure it before continuing. Continuing, even slowly, allows further movement that could destabilise the vehicle or shed the load. Only a proper stop and inspection satisfies the duty.

Question 26Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

For how long may a heavy-vehicle driver generally drive before a legally required rest break in most jurisdictions?

  1. Thirty minutes of continuous driving
  2. One hour of continuous driving
  3. Two hours of continuous driving
  4. Five hours of continuous driving Correct answer.

Explanation

Most heavy-vehicle fatigue rules require a rest break after roughly five hours of driving, though the exact figure varies by jurisdiction. The break must be taken before the limit is exceeded, not after the driver feels tired. Shorter intervals may apply to particular operations under local rules.

Question 27Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A heavy vehicle is required to stop at a stop sign. Where must the vehicle come to a complete halt?

  1. Anywhere within ten metres before the sign
  2. With the rear wheels level with the sign
  3. At the marked stop line, or at the edge of the intersection if no line exists Correct answer.
  4. Once the cab has passed the sign

Explanation

The legal stop point is the marked stop line, and where no line is painted the vehicle must stop at the edge of the intersecting roadway. Stopping beyond the line can obstruct crossing traffic and defeat the purpose of the control. Drivers should ensure the whole vehicle, including any trailer, is positioned lawfully.

Question 28Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

What does a flashing yellow traffic signal at an intersection generally require a heavy-vehicle driver to do?

  1. Accelerate to clear the intersection quickly
  2. Treat the intersection as closed to heavy vehicles
  3. Proceed with caution, giving way as required Correct answer.
  4. Stop completely and wait for a green light

Explanation

A flashing yellow signal warns drivers to approach with care and to yield to other traffic as the rules require. It does not create a stop obligation or grant priority. Heavy vehicles should reduce speed because of their longer stopping distances.

Question 29Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

In most jurisdictions, what is the general default urban speed limit that applies to a heavy vehicle where no sign shows a lower limit?

  1. 80 km/h
  2. 50 km/h Correct answer.
  3. 60 km/h
  4. 40 km/h

Explanation

Fifty km/h is the common default built-up area limit in many jurisdictions, and it applies unless signage states otherwise. Heavy vehicles must also obey any lower limit imposed for their mass or class. Drivers should always check local rules because default limits differ between regions.

Question 30Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A heavy vehicle is carrying a load that projects more than the permitted rear overhang. What must generally happen before the journey?

  1. The driver must reduce speed by twenty km/h
  2. The driver may proceed if warning flags are fitted
  3. The driver must travel only during daylight hours
  4. The driver must obtain the appropriate overhang or oversize permit Correct answer.

Explanation

When a load exceeds the permitted rear overhang, an oversize or overhang permit is normally required before movement. The permit sets conditions such as signage, flags, escort requirements and travel times. Proceeding without it exposes the driver and operator to penalties.

Question 31Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A heavy vehicle approaches a pedestrian crossing where a pedestrian has stepped onto the roadway. What is the driver's legal obligation?

  1. Continue if the pedestrian is still on the far half of the road
  2. Pass behind the pedestrian without stopping
  3. Give way and stop to allow the pedestrian to cross safely Correct answer.
  4. Sound the horn and maintain speed

Explanation

Drivers must give way to pedestrians on or entering a marked crossing and stop if necessary for them to cross safely. Heavy vehicles need extra stopping distance, so early braking is essential. Passing behind a pedestrian on a crossing is generally unlawful.

Question 32Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A heavy vehicle is overtaking a cyclist on a road with a marked speed limit above 60 km/h. What minimum passing clearance do most jurisdictions require?

  1. At least one metre
  2. At least 1.5 metres Correct answer.
  3. No minimum if the cyclist stays left
  4. At least half a metre

Explanation

Where the speed limit exceeds 60 km/h, most jurisdictions require a lateral clearance of at least 1.5 metres when passing a cyclist. At lower speeds the requirement is commonly one metre. If the clearance cannot be given safely, the driver must wait.

Question 33Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A heavy vehicle is parked on a road at night in an unlit area. What is generally required?

  1. Only the trailer needs lights
  2. The vehicle must be left with parking lights or hazard lights displayed as required Correct answer.
  3. The vehicle must be removed from the road before dusk
  4. The vehicle may be left unlit if it is within a built-up area

Explanation

A heavy vehicle left on a road at night in an unlit area must display parking lights or other lights required by local rules so it can be seen. Large vehicles are especially hazardous when unlit because approaching drivers misjudge their size and distance. Operators should also consider reflective markings.

Question 34Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A driver of a heavy vehicle intends to change lanes on a multi-lane road but a car is in the blind spot. What is the correct legal and safe response?

  1. Move across gradually so the car must slow down
  2. Use the hazard lights and change lanes immediately
  3. Wait until the lane is clear and the manoeuvre can be made safely Correct answer.
  4. Signal and move across because heavy vehicles have priority

Explanation

A lane change is only lawful when it can be made safely and without causing other road users to take evasive action. Heavy vehicles have large blind spots, so mirror checks and a shoulder check are essential. Signalling does not give the driver the right to move into an occupied lane.

Question 35Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

At a roundabout, a heavy vehicle intends to take the third exit. Which approach best reflects the usual give-way rule?

  1. Give way to all traffic already in the roundabout and signal the exit Correct answer.
  2. Give way only to vehicles already circulating from the right
  3. Enter without slowing because the vehicle is large
  4. Stop completely at every entry

Explanation

Drivers entering a roundabout must give way to traffic already circulating, which in left-hand-drive jurisdictions usually approaches from the right. The driver should signal left on approach where required and signal the exit. Heavy vehicles need to plan the manoeuvre early because of their size and swept path.

Question 36Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A heavy vehicle is involved in a crash where a person is injured. Beyond stopping, what is the driver generally required to do first?

  1. Render assistance and call emergency services Correct answer.
  2. Continue to the next town to report the crash
  3. Exchange details only after leaving the scene
  4. Move the vehicle away before anyone arrives

Explanation

After stopping, the driver must provide reasonable assistance to injured persons and summon emergency services. Leaving the scene without doing so can amount to a serious offence. Details must then be exchanged and police notified as required.

Question 37Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A heavy vehicle is required to carry a load that exceeds the permitted width. What is the most likely regulatory consequence?

  1. A pilot or escort vehicle and a permit may be required Correct answer.
  2. The load may proceed if it is flagged at night
  3. No action is needed if the load is indivisible
  4. Only the operator's insurance policy needs updating

Explanation

Loads exceeding the permitted width normally require an oversize permit and may need pilot or escort vehicles depending on the excess. The permit sets conditions for route, signage and travel times. Indivisibility of the load does not by itself authorise the movement.

Question 38Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

An operator instructs a driver to use a route that is signposted with a mass limit lower than the vehicle's laden mass. What should the driver do?

  1. Proceed because the operator accepts liability
  2. Proceed slowly to reduce the effective load
  3. Cross the bridge only at night
  4. Refuse the route and seek a lawful alternative or permit Correct answer.

Explanation

A posted mass limit is a legal restriction that applies regardless of operator instructions. The driver must not cross and should find a lawful route or obtain the relevant permit. Chain-of-responsibility laws can also make the operator liable for pressuring the driver.

Question 39Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A driver suspects the vehicle's load has become unsecured after a long rough section of road. What is the legally appropriate action?

  1. Reduce speed and rely on the existing restraints
  2. Ask a passenger to watch the load while driving
  3. Stop in a safe place and re-secure the load before continuing Correct answer.
  4. Continue to the destination and report it there

Explanation

The driver remains responsible for ensuring the load is secure throughout the journey. If security is in doubt, the vehicle must be stopped in a safe location and the load re-secured before continuing. Driving on with an insecure load risks a serious offence and a dangerous incident.

Question 40Road rules and traffic law for heavy vehicles

A heavy vehicle's permitted axle load is exceeded even though the total vehicle mass is within limits. What does this generally indicate?

  1. Only the trailer axles need to be checked
  2. The vehicle is compliant because total mass is the only limit
  3. The tyres should be inflated to a higher pressure and the journey continued
  4. The load distribution must be adjusted to bring each axle within its limit Correct answer.

Explanation

Axle mass limits apply independently of total mass, so a vehicle can be lawful overall yet overload an individual axle. The load must be redistributed or reduced so every axle complies. Tyre pressure changes do not alter the legal axle limit.

Question 41Vehicle inspection, roadworthiness and defect reporting

Under a typical periodic roadworthiness inspection scheme for heavy goods vehicles, which item is checked as part of the braking system test?

  1. The colour of the brake calipers
  2. The brand of brake fluid used
  3. The performance of the service, secondary and parking brakes Correct answer.
  4. The shape of the brake pedal pad

Explanation

Roadworthiness inspections assess whether the braking system can actually stop and hold the vehicle, so service, secondary and parking brake performance is measured. Cosmetic details such as caliper colour or pedal shape do not affect the vehicle's ability to brake safely. Fluid specification matters for maintenance but is not the inspection performance criterion.

Question 42Vehicle inspection, roadworthiness and defect reporting

A driver finds a heavy vehicle with a brake warning lamp illuminated continuously after the engine starts. What is the correct action before driving?

  1. Report the defect and have the system checked before use Correct answer.
  2. Switch off the lamp by removing the bulb
  3. Drive normally and note the lamp at the next service
  4. Increase following distance and continue the journey

Explanation

A brake warning lamp that stays on after start-up signals a fault in the braking system that may reduce stopping performance. The vehicle should not be used until the fault has been investigated and cleared. Removing the bulb or ignoring the warning conceals a safety defect and is a reportable issue.

Question 43Vehicle inspection, roadworthiness and defect reporting

What is the main purpose of a daily walk-around check before a heavy vehicle starts its journey?

  1. To record the driver's working hours
  2. To identify obvious defects such as tyre damage or leaks Correct answer.
  3. To calculate fuel consumption for the trip
  4. To confirm the vehicle is clean enough for customers

Explanation

The walk-around check is a visual and functional inspection intended to catch obvious defects like damaged tyres, fluid leaks, insecure loads and faulty lights before the vehicle is used. It is a defect-detection routine, not a cleaning, fuel or hours-recording task. Early detection prevents defects developing into roadside failures.

Question 44Vehicle inspection, roadworthiness and defect reporting

During a walk-around check, a driver notices a deep cut in a tyre sidewall exposing the cord. What should the driver do?

  1. Cover the cut and recheck at the next stop
  2. Record it and continue if the tyre holds pressure
  3. Take the vehicle out of service and report the defect Correct answer.
  4. Reduce speed and complete the planned route

Explanation

Exposed cord in a tyre sidewall means the tyre structure is damaged and it can fail suddenly under load. The vehicle must be taken out of service and the defect reported so the tyre is replaced. Pressure holding does not make a structurally damaged tyre safe.

Question 45Vehicle inspection, roadworthiness and defect reporting

Why must defect records for a heavy vehicle fleet be retained and made available to inspectors?

  1. To calculate driver bonus payments
  2. To provide an auditable history of reported and rectified defects Correct answer.
  3. To prove the vehicle was washed regularly
  4. To advertise the operator's maintenance standards

Explanation

Defect records create an auditable trail showing that faults were reported, assessed and repaired within a reasonable time. Inspectors use these records to judge whether the operator's maintenance system is effective. They are a compliance document, not a cleaning log or payroll tool.

Question 46Vehicle inspection, roadworthiness and defect reporting

Which lighting defect on a heavy vehicle makes it unroadworthy for use on a public road at night?

  1. A missing rear registration plate lamp Correct answer.
  2. A slightly faded indicator lens colour
  3. A scratched headlamp lens that still passes light
  4. A dirty but functioning reversing lamp

Explanation

A rear registration plate lamp is a required lamp, and if it is missing the plate cannot be read at night, which is a defect. Scratches, slight colour fade or dirt that do not stop a lamp working are not automatically grounds for taking the vehicle out of service. Required lamps must be present and functioning.

Question 47Vehicle inspection, roadworthiness and defect reporting

A driver reports a steering fault that makes the vehicle wander. Who should assess whether the vehicle can continue in service?

  1. The fuel station attendant
  2. A competent person responsible for maintenance Correct answer.
  3. The driver alone, by test driving it
  4. The next customer waiting for the load

Explanation

Defect assessment must be made by a competent person with the knowledge and authority to judge vehicle safety. A wandering steering fault can indicate serious wear, so continued use requires a proper evaluation. Neither customers nor fuel attendants have that responsibility.

Question 48Vehicle inspection, roadworthiness and defect reporting

An operator's maintenance system requires planned safety inspections at set intervals. What is the primary purpose of these intervals?

  1. To ensure defects are found before they become dangerous Correct answer.
  2. To spread workshop workload evenly across the year
  3. To reduce the number of tyres purchased
  4. To satisfy insurance discount conditions only

Explanation

Planned inspection intervals are set so that wear and deterioration are detected and corrected before they reach a dangerous stage. The intervals are based on vehicle use and risk, not on workshop convenience or purchasing targets. Insurance and cost effects are secondary to safety.

Question 49Vehicle inspection, roadworthiness and defect reporting

A heavy vehicle develops a hydraulic fluid leak from a brake component during a journey. What is the safest response?

  1. Increase brake pedal pressure to compensate
  2. Top up the reservoir and continue to the depot
  3. Stop in a safe place and treat the vehicle as unfit until repaired Correct answer.
  4. Continue at reduced speed with hazard lights on

Explanation

A leak in a hydraulic brake component means braking performance can deteriorate rapidly and unpredictably. The vehicle should be stopped safely and treated as unfit for further use until the fault is repaired and verified. Topping up or pressing harder does not restore a leaking system's integrity.

Question 50Vehicle inspection, roadworthiness and defect reporting

Why is an air pressure build-up test important on a heavy vehicle with an air brake system?

  1. It checks the tightness of the wheel nuts
  2. It confirms the compressor can raise pressure to the operating range within a reasonable time Correct answer.
  3. It verifies the engine oil level
  4. It measures the colour of the air dryer desiccant

Explanation

An air brake system depends on the compressor maintaining adequate reservoir pressure, so the build-up test confirms the system reaches operating pressure in a reasonable time. Slow build-up indicates a compressor or leakage fault that could leave the brakes under-supplied. The test is unrelated to wheel nuts, oil level or desiccant colour.