Safe Driving, Hazard Perception and Interaction with Other Road Users
What this domain tests
This domain tests observation, hazard anticipation and how you share the road with pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and smaller vehicles. A heavy lorry has large blind spots and long stopping distances, so the exam favours early observation and calm interaction.
Core rules
- Keep a following distance of at least three seconds in good conditions; increase it when loaded, in rain, snow or darkness.
- Use mirrors and check blind spots before turning, changing lane or opening the door. A lorry's right-side blind spot is especially dangerous in towns.
- Give way to pedestrians at crossings and to cyclists when turning across a cycle lane. Do not use the vehicle's size to force priority.
- Plan ahead for junctions, bus stops, schools and roadworks. Reduce speed before the hazard, not at it.
- Fatigue is a hazard: stop and rest rather than pressing on. Interaction fails when you are rushed or distracted.
Worked example
You approach a town-centre junction in a rigid lorry. A cyclist is travelling straight ahead on your right as you intend to turn right. You must let the cyclist pass before turning, even if you arrive first. The cyclist is vulnerable and may be in your blind spot; a mirror check plus a shoulder check is required.
Traps that cost marks
Assuming a cyclist will stop because you are large. Turning across a cycle lane without a final blind-spot check. Following a car at a car-length gap. Overtaking a cyclist just before a junction or crossing. Treating a green light as permission to enter a blocked junction.
Key points
- Use at least a three-second gap in good conditions and more when loaded or in bad weather.
- Check mirrors and blind spots before every turn or lane change.
- Give way to cyclists and pedestrians when turning across their path.
- Reduce speed before hazards, not at them.