Special Conditions and Hazard Perception
Special conditions questions test judgement in weather, on bridges and in tunnels. A C1 truck is heavier than a car but can be more affected by crosswind when empty, and its high centre of gravity makes sudden steering risky. The exam expects you to reduce speed before the hazard, not after it.
Weather and road surface
- In rain, watch for aquaplaning. Ease off the accelerator and avoid sudden braking or steering. Increase the gap.
- In fog, use dipped headlights. Front fog lights are for fog, heavy rain or snow. Rear fog lights are for visibility below 50 m and must be switched off when visibility improves.
- On ice and snow, reduce speed, brake gently and use engine braking. Danish winter tyres are not mandatory by law, but the vehicle must have adequate tyres for the conditions.
Bridges, tunnels and crossings
- High-sided vehicles can be restricted on the Storebælt and Øresund bridges in strong wind. Follow signs, barrier signals and police instructions.
- In tunnels, keep the required distance, use dipped headlights, do not reverse or turn around, and follow evacuation signs.
- At level crossings, never stop on the tracks. If the barrier starts to close, do not try to beat it; stop clear of the crossing.
Hazard perception
- Look for the escape route, not only the obstacle. Anticipate what cyclists, pedestrians and other drivers may do.
- An empty C1 truck is more vulnerable to crosswind and has less traction on the drive axle than a loaded one. Smooth inputs matter.
Worked example
You drive an empty C1 truck onto an icy bridge with a strong crosswind. The rear feels light and the steering is vague. Reduce speed gently, keep both hands on the wheel, avoid abrupt steering or braking and increase the gap. Do not use cruise control on ice. If the bridge is closed to high-sided vehicles, stop safely and wait.
Traps that cost marks
Rear fog lights in rain dazzle following drivers. Cruise control on ice reduces your ability to react. Do not assume a heavier truck is safer in wind; an empty box body can act like a sail. Never enter a level crossing unless you can clear it completely.