Road Safety and Hazard Awareness
Road Safety and Hazard Awareness tests how you read the road ahead, anticipate other road users and choose a safe speed and position in a truck or bus.
Core concepts
- Use the two-second rule in dry conditions and at least four seconds in wet weather; increase further for ice, poor visibility or a heavy vehicle.
- Scan far ahead and use mirrors frequently. Trucks and buses have large blind spots; check them before moving off, turning or changing lane.
- At junctions, look specifically for cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians, not just cars. Give way when required and do not cut across a cycle lane.
- Around bus stops, schools and parked cars, reduce speed and expect people to step out. A bus pulling out may need priority; watch for passengers crossing.
- In fog, use dipped headlights and fog lights only when visibility is seriously reduced; switch fog lights off when conditions improve.
- Fatigue and distraction are hazards: take planned breaks, and do not use a hand-held phone while driving.
Worked example
On a narrow regional road you close on a cyclist before a blind bend. You hold back and allow a safe passing distance, wait until you can see clear road, and overtake only then. Reasoning: the bend hides oncoming traffic, and a heavy vehicle needs more space and time to pass safely.
Traps
Tailgating to make progress; overtaking a cyclist into a bend; assuming a green light means the junction is clear; missing a pedestrian hidden by a bus; leaving fog lights on and dazzling others.