Hazard Perception and Defensive Driving
This domain is assessed through the hazard perception component and scenario questions, and it tests whether you spot developing hazards early and choose a plan that leaves you an escape route. A professional driver is expected to assume that the other road user has not seen the lorry, not the reverse.
The observation cycle
Scan far ahead, to the sides and behind on a repeating cycle: mirrors every five to eight seconds, a glance at the instruments, then back to the road twelve to fifteen seconds ahead. Position yourself for the best view, for example slightly left before a right-hand bend, but never at the expense of oncoming traffic. Use the limit point of the bend to judge speed.
The lorry's blind zones
A Category C cab has substantial blind areas directly in front, along both flanks and behind. Motorcyclists filtering in traffic, cyclists at the left corner on a roundabout and pedestrians crossing in front of the cab can all disappear from view. Before turning, check the mirrors twice and take a final direct look at the relevant corner.
Vulnerable road users and predictable surprises
Expect children to emerge from between parked cars near schools and bus stops, elderly pedestrians to misjudge closing speed, cyclists to swerve around drains, and motorcyclists to overtake on either side. On rural and mountain roads expect livestock, agricultural vehicles on blind crests and slow traffic beyond a bend.
Anticipation and escape routes
The defensive driver answers the question: if that vehicle pulls out now, where do I go? Keep a following gap, a lateral option and a speed that can be shed in the distance available. Cover the brake when a hazard is still only likely; act early and gently rather than late and hard, because a laden lorry cannot brake and steer sharply at the same time.
Worked example
You approach a bus stopped at a stop on a two-lane road, with a school entrance beyond it. The hazard is not the bus itself but the pedestrians who may cross in front of it unseen. Reasoning: reduce speed early, move slightly away if the lane allows, cover the brake and be ready to stop for a child who appears from behind the bus. Overtaking the stationary bus at speed is the wrong decision.
Traps that cost marks
Fixating on the first hazard and missing the second one developing behind it; watching only the vehicle immediately ahead; relying on right of way instead of on what other drivers actually do; taking an overtaking gap that closes before a long vehicle can complete the move.