Cayman DVDL Driving Theory key terms

The priority one road user has over another at a junction, crossing or narrow section, usually decided by signs, signals, markings or the give-way and turning rules.

To slow or stop and let other traffic pass before you proceed. A give-way line, sign or the general rules can require you to yield even where no sign is present.

A circular junction where traffic already circulating normally has priority. In the Cayman Islands traffic keeps left, so you travel clockwise and give way to traffic approaching from your right.

The basic rule that vehicles travel on the left side of the road in the Cayman Islands, returning to the left lane after overtaking or turning once it is safe.

Passing a slower vehicle travelling in the same direction. It must be done only where permitted, with clear visibility and enough space, and never at a pedestrian crossing or blind bend.

The area around a vehicle that the driver cannot see in the mirrors. Before changing lane or pulling out, check over your shoulder as well as in the mirrors.

The routine of checking mirrors, giving a signal if needed, then carrying out the turn, lane change or stop only when it is safe to do so.

The gap kept between your vehicle and the one ahead. A safe gap grows with speed and in rain or poor visibility, giving time to stop if the vehicle ahead brakes suddenly.

The total distance a vehicle travels from the moment the driver realises a hazard exists until the vehicle comes to a complete stop, including thinking and braking distance.

The maximum legal speed for a road or zone, shown on signs or set by law. It is a ceiling, not a target; drivers must go slower when conditions demand it.

A circular sign with a red border and black numbers giving the maximum permitted speed. It applies from the sign onward until another limit sign or the end of the zone.

An octagonal red sign with white lettering requiring a complete stop at the stop line or before the junction, then proceeding only when the way is clear.

An inverted triangle sign warning that traffic on the road ahead has priority. You must slow down, be ready to stop and yield before entering or crossing.

A sign, usually triangular with a red border, that alerts drivers to a hazard ahead such as a bend, junction, school or uneven road, so they can adjust speed.

A sign that imposes a legal requirement or prohibition, such as a speed limit, no entry, no parking or a compulsory direction. Ignoring one is an offence.

Painted lines and symbols on the road surface that guide, warn or regulate traffic, for example lane dividers, stop lines, arrows and hatched areas.

A continuous line along the centre or edge of the road that generally must not be crossed. It marks places where overtaking or lane changing is unsafe or prohibited.

A dashed centre or lane line that may be crossed when it is safe, for example to overtake or change lane, provided the manoeuvre is legal and clear.

A solid white line across the lane at a junction, signal or stop sign. Vehicles must stop before this line, not beyond it or over the pedestrian crossing.

Signal heads controlling traffic with red, amber and green lamps. Red means stop, green means go only if clear, and amber warns that the signal is about to change to red.

A marked place where pedestrians have priority over vehicles. Drivers must approach slowly and give way to anyone on or about to enter the crossing.

A pedestrian crossing marked by broad alternating light and dark stripes across the road. Drivers must give way to pedestrians waiting to cross or already on it.

The flashing lamps used to signal an intention to turn, change lane, overtake or pull out. They must be used in good time and cancelled afterwards.

The restraint worn across the lap and shoulder that reduces injury in a crash. Drivers and passengers must wear one where fitted, and children need an appropriate restraint.

A purpose-built seat or booster that positions a child safely so the seat belt fits properly. Young or small children must use one rather than an adult belt alone.

Protective headgear worn by riders of motorcycles and similar vehicles. It must be properly fastened and in good condition to be effective in a fall or collision.

Describes a vehicle that is in a safe condition to be used on the road, with working brakes, lights, tyres, steering and other required equipment and no dangerous defects.

A periodic official check that a vehicle meets safety and emission standards. Passing it confirms the vehicle is fit for use and may be required before registration or renewal.

The grooved pattern on a tyre that grips the road and clears water. It must be deep enough to be legal and effective, especially in heavy rain.

Stopping on a wet surface, where grip is reduced and stopping distances increase. Brake earlier, ease off smoothly and allow a larger gap ahead.

A fault or damage that affects a vehicle's safety or legality, such as a broken light, worn tyre or faulty brake. Defects must be repaired before the vehicle is used.

The official record and plate that identify a vehicle and its keeper. A vehicle must be registered and display valid plates before it may be used on public roads.

The official document permitting a person to drive specified categories of vehicle. It must be valid, carried or produced when required, and matched to the vehicle driven.

A licence issued to a learner driver before full qualification. It carries conditions such as supervision by a qualified driver, display of learner plates and speed or passenger limits.

A person learning to drive under a provisional licence. A learner must follow the licence conditions, display the required plates and drive only as the rules allow.

The class of vehicle a licence holder is permitted to drive, for example car, motorcycle or heavy goods vehicle. Driving outside your category is an offence.

The practical assessment of a learner's control, observation, road knowledge and safe decision-making, which must be passed to move from a provisional to a full licence.

A two-wheeled motor vehicle ridden astride. Riders need the correct licence category, must wear a helmet and should ride where they can be seen by other traffic.

Keeping your vehicle within the correct lane, choosing the proper lane in good time and not drifting, straddling lines or weaving between lanes.