Mozambique INATRO Heavy Vehicle (Pesado) Driving Theory flashcards

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

Hierarchy of road authority

Police officer signals override traffic lights, which override road signs, which override general traffic rules and markings. Memorise this order to resolve any conflict at a junction or incident scene.

Heavy vehicle motorway speed

Heavy goods vehicles over 3 500 kg are generally limited to 80 km/h on motorways and expressways and 70 km/h on ordinary roads outside built-up areas, unless signs state otherwise.

Two-second rule for trucks

The normal two-second following gap is doubled to four seconds for vehicles over 3 500 kg and for motorcycles. In rain add more; on ice or in fog double again.

Duty after a collision

Stop immediately, secure the scene, give first aid, call 112 and exchange identification and insurance details. Failing to stop or to assist is a criminal offence.

Triangle and circle signs

Triangular signs warn of danger ahead; red-bordered circles prohibit; blue circles impose an obligation; rectangular or square signs give information or indication.

Temporary signs precedence

Yellow temporary signs and roadworks markings override permanent signs and markings. Police signals override both. Always obey the most restrictive applicable instruction.

Solid versus broken lines

A solid white line may not be crossed or straddled. A broken line may be crossed to overtake or turn when safe. With mixed lines, the line nearest you governs.

Stop sign versus give way

The red octagon requires a complete stop at the line before proceeding. The inverted triangle requires yielding to traffic on the priority road without a mandatory stop if clear.

Air brake pressure check

Before moving, confirm the air system reaches the manufacturer's minimum pressure, typically 6-8 bar. A low-pressure warning means stop and diagnose; never drive with it.

Heavy vehicle tyre tread

Heavy vehicle tyres need at least 3 mm tread across the central three-quarters and around the circumference. Sidewall cuts, bulges or exposed cord require immediate replacement.

Engine braking on descents

Use the retarder, exhaust brake or a low gear on long descents. Continuous service braking overheats the drums and causes brake fade or complete loss of braking.

Fifth-wheel coupling check

After coupling, confirm the locking jaw is closed and the handle secured, connect the air lines, raise the landing legs, and perform a pull test before driving away.

Maximum vehicle dimensions

A rigid heavy vehicle may be up to 2.55 m wide, 4.0 m high and 12 m long; an articulated combination may not exceed 16.5 m overall length on normal roads.

Load securing forces

Cargo must be secured against 0.8 g forward, 0.5 g rearward and 0.5 g sideways acceleration. Use rated straps or chains and recheck tension after the first kilometres.

Rear load projection rule

A load may project up to one third of the vehicle length beyond the rear if flagged. Any projection beyond the front or sides must be marked with a flag or light.

Abnormal load authorisation

Indivisible loads exceeding legal dimensions or weights need a special transport authorisation, an approved route and, where prescribed, an escort vehicle and warning signs.

Blind spots on heavy vehicles

Large no-go zones exist in front, both sides and directly behind a truck. Confirm with mirrors before manoeuvring and use a banksman whenever reversing.

Cornering a high vehicle

Brake in a straight line before the bend, reduce speed, then accelerate gently on exit. Sudden steering with a high centre of gravity risks rollover.

Overtaking decision rule

Overtake only with clear visibility for the whole manoeuvre, a sufficient speed advantage, and enough room to return before a crest, bend or solid line.

Space cushion driving

Maintain a buffer on all four sides: look 12-15 seconds ahead, scan mirrors every 5-8 seconds, and avoid travelling alongside other vehicles in their blind spots.

Aquaplaning recovery

If steering feels light in heavy rain, ease off the accelerator, hold the wheel straight and avoid braking until grip returns. Then slow down and increase the following gap.

Fog light use rule

Use dipped headlights and rear fog lights when visibility is below about 50 m. Switch fog lights off when visibility improves, since they dazzle following drivers.

Night beam dipping

Main beam reaches about 100 m. Dip to low beam when meeting oncoming traffic or following within about 50 m, and drive so you can stop within the lit distance.

Skid recovery technique

Release the brake, steer in the direction of the skid and avoid harsh acceleration. ABS permits steering while braking but does not shorten stopping distance on ice.

Protect-Rescue-Alert sequence

Secure the scene with hazard lights, reflective vest and warning triangle, then assess casualties and call 112 giving location, casualty count and hazards present.

Warning triangle distances

Place the triangle at least 30 m behind the vehicle on ordinary roads and at least 100 m on motorways, and only when placing it is safe from traffic.

CPR compression rate

For an adult not breathing, compress the chest 100-120 times per minute to 5-6 cm depth. Attach an AED as soon as one is available and follow its prompts.

Recovery position use

An unconscious casualty who is breathing should be placed on their side in the recovery position, with the airway open, and monitored continuously until help arrives.

Alcohol limit and effects

The general legal blood alcohol limit is 0.3 g/l. Impairment begins earlier: reaction time rises, peripheral vision narrows and risk-taking increases. Professional drivers face stricter limits.

Fatigue countermeasures

Only a short nap of 15-20 minutes and caffeine reliably restore alertness. Fresh air, music and open windows do not counter microsleeps at highway speed.

Daily and weekly driving limits

Daily driving is 9 hours, extendable to 10 hours twice a week. Weekly driving is capped at 56 hours and two consecutive weeks at 90 hours.

Tachograph break rule

After 4.5 hours of driving, take a 45-minute break, which may be split into 15 minutes followed by 30 minutes. Record the correct mode throughout the shift.