Vulnerable road users: pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists
Pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists make up a large share of road users, and they have no metal shell to protect them. The exam expects you to notice them early and leave them room.
Pedestrians
Footpaths are rare, so expect people walking on the edge of causeways, often with children, at dusk and at night in dark clothing. Slow down and give a wide berth. Near schools, churches, maneaba and markets, drop speed and cover the brake. Pedestrians already on a crossing have priority.
Cyclists and motorcyclists
When passing, slow down and leave at least a metre, more at higher speed; a rider may swerve for a pothole, sand or a chicken. Do not overtake a rider and then turn left across them. Check mirrors and blind spots before every turn: motorcycles are narrow and easy to lose. Pillion passengers, often children without helmets, make motorcycles less stable - never pressure one.
Passengers on vehicles
People riding in the back of trucks or hanging from minibuses can fall; keep well back and never overtake close to an open-sided passenger vehicle.
Worked example
A group of schoolchildren walks along the causeway edge as an oncoming truck approaches. Reasoning: passing the children now would squeeze them toward the truck. Action: slow, stay behind until the truck passes and there is clear room, then pass wide and slowly.
Traps
Using the horn instead of slowing; assuming a cyclist will hold a straight line; passing a motorcycle then braking sharply in front of it; forgetting that a child may run back toward the road.