SKN Driver's Written Examination flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Stop sign shape

Octagon. It is the only road sign with this shape, so it can be recognised from behind or when covered in snow or dirt. It requires a complete stop at the line.

Give way sign

An inverted triangle with a red border. It requires you to slow down and give way to traffic on the priority road, stopping only if necessary.

Warning sign colour

Warning signs are usually yellow diamonds with black symbols. They alert you to a hazard ahead such as a bend, junction, crossing or slippery surface, but do not themselves impose a speed limit.

Steady amber light

A steady amber traffic light means stop, unless you are so close to the line that stopping would be unsafe. Accelerating to beat the amber causes many junction collisions.

Solid white centre line

A solid white line on your side of the centre means you must not cross or straddle it, except to pass a stationary obstruction or enter a side road where permitted.

Double yellow lines

Double yellow lines along the kerb mean no waiting at any time. Single yellow lines mean waiting is restricted during the times shown on nearby signs.

Driving side in St. Kitts

Traffic drives on the left in St. Kitts and Nevis. At unmarked junctions you give way to traffic approaching from your right, but never assume the other driver will follow the rule.

Roundabout priority

At a roundabout you give way to traffic already circulating, which approaches from your right. Signal left to leave, and check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes.

Two-second rule

Leave at least a two-second gap to the vehicle ahead in dry conditions, and at least four seconds in rain or at night. Stopping distance rises with speed and wet roads.

Learner permit rules

A learner must hold a valid permit, display L plates and be accompanied by a fully licensed driver. Driving unaccompanied on a learner permit is an offence.

Minimum insurance cover

Third-party insurance is the legal minimum and covers damage or injury you cause to others. Driving uninsured is an offence and leaves you personally liable for all costs.

Seat belt law

Seat belts must be worn by the driver and all passengers where fitted. Children must use an appropriate child restraint, and the driver is responsible for ensuring this.

Hazard drill order

Before any manoeuvre: check mirrors, signal if needed, adjust position, adjust speed, look and assess, then complete the manoeuvre. The order keeps observation ahead of action.

Covering the brake

Hovering your foot over the brake pedal when approaching a hazard you cannot see past, such as a blind junction or parked cars, shortens your reaction time.

Tyre tread minimum

The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre around its whole circumference. Check for cuts, bulges and uneven wear.

Anti-lock braking system

ABS prevents the wheels locking under hard braking, allowing you to steer while stopping. Keep firm, continuous pressure on the pedal and do not pump it.

Dutch reach

Opening the car door with the hand furthest from it forces you to turn and look back, helping you spot cyclists and motorcyclists before the door swings into their path.

Overtaking a cyclist

Give a cyclist at least about 1.5 metres of space at higher speeds, wait until the road ahead is clear, and never squeeze past where there is not room.

Collision first actions

Stop, switch on hazard lights, check for injuries, call emergency services, make the scene safe, exchange details and report to the police.

CPR compression rate

For an adult, push hard and fast in the centre of the chest about 5-6 cm deep at 100-120 compressions per minute, giving 30 compressions to 2 rescue breaths.

Brake failure response

Pump the brake pedal, change down through the gears, apply the handbrake progressively, and look for an uphill escape route or a soft obstacle to slow the vehicle.

Alcohol elimination

Alcohol is removed from the blood at roughly one standard drink per hour, and this varies by person. Coffee, food and cold showers do not speed it up; only time works.

Fatigue warning signs

Yawning, heavy eyes, drifting lanes, missing signs and poor concentration mean you must stop somewhere safe and rest. Loud music and fresh air do not restore alertness.

Medicine and driving

Prescription and over-the-counter medicines can cause drowsiness and slow reactions. Read the label, ask a pharmacist, and do not drive until you know how it affects you.

Cockpit drill

Before starting: doors closed, seat adjusted, mirrors set, seat belt on, gear in neutral or park, handbrake applied. Then start the engine and check the warning lights.

Engine braking on hills

On a long descent, select a lower gear and use engine braking to control speed rather than riding the brakes, which can overheat and fade, reducing stopping power.

Zebra crossing priority

Once a pedestrian has stepped onto a zebra crossing, all traffic must stop and stay stopped until they have cleared it. Do not overtake a vehicle stopped at a crossing.

Warning triangle use

Place a warning triangle well behind a broken-down vehicle to warn approaching traffic, and get occupants out and behind a barrier, away from the carriageway.

Recovery position

An unconscious but breathing casualty should be placed on their side with the airway open, to prevent the tongue or vomit blocking breathing, while help is on the way.

Designated driver

Arrange a designated driver, taxi or public transport before a night out, not afterwards. Planning ahead is the only reliable way to avoid drink-driving.

Speed limit meaning

A speed limit sign shows the maximum permitted speed, not a target. In rain, at night, near schools or on poor surfaces you should drive well below the limit.

Traffic light failure

If traffic lights are dark or flashing red, treat the junction as a stop or unmarked junction: slow down, give way to traffic on your right and proceed only when it is safe.