Vehicle safety, roadworthiness and documentation
Machine faults cause crashes that rules cannot prevent. The test checks basic roadworthiness knowledge and the paperwork you must be able to produce.
Pre-drive checks
Walk around the vehicle: tyres (tread depth, pressure, cuts, spare), lights, indicators, brake lights, horn, mirrors, wipers, windscreen, fluid levels, battery security, and that doors and loads are secure. Look underneath for leaks. On the move, test the brakes gently at low speed - salt water and spray can leave brakes weak until they dry.
Loads
Do not overload; it changes braking and steering and can burst tyres. Secure cargo, and never carry passengers where they can fall.
Documents
Carry a valid licence for the class you are driving (motorcycle, car, heavy goods), current vehicle registration, and any insurance, inspection or roadworthiness certificate required for the vehicle. Driving unlicensed, unregistered or uninsured can see the vehicle detained.
Worked example
You borrow a motorcycle and notice the rear tyre is bald and the brake lever reaches the grip. Reasoning: both are roadworthiness failures, so the bike will not stop predictably, especially in rain. Action: do not ride it - arrange a repair or another way to travel.
Traps
Assuming a borrowed vehicle is fine; treating a warning light as normal; forgetting that a licence for one class does not cover another; leaving documents at home; ignoring corrosion around brakes and suspension on salt-exposed vehicles.