PK Driving Theory (Car) key terms

An octagonal red sign bearing the word STOP. A driver must bring the vehicle to a complete halt at the stop line or before entering the intersection, then give way to all traffic before proceeding.

An inverted red triangle sign meaning a driver must slow down and yield to traffic on the intersecting road, stopping if necessary. It does not require a complete stop when the way is clear.

A sign that imposes a legal requirement or prohibition, such as a speed limit, no-entry or turn restriction. Disobeying one is an offence, unlike advisory or warning signs.

Usually a yellow diamond-shaped sign alerting drivers to a hazard ahead, such as a curve, crest, railway crossing or pedestrian crossing. It tells you to adjust speed and be prepared to react.

A sign showing the maximum legal speed in kilometres per hour for that road. The limit applies from the sign until another limit sign or a default urban/rural limit takes effect.

A yellow sign showing a recommended speed for a hazard such as a sharp bend. It is not a legal maximum but indicates a speed at which the feature can be negotiated safely in good conditions.

A red circle with a white horizontal bar prohibiting entry to that road or lane, typically marking a one-way street against traffic or a restricted access. Entering is an offence.

A dashed white line separating opposing traffic flows. It may be crossed to overtake or turn when it is safe, provided visibility and the law allow it.

A continuous white line that must not be crossed except to avoid an obstruction, and only when safe. It marks a zone where overtaking is considered too dangerous.

A solid white line across a lane at an intersection, pedestrian crossing or railway crossing. At a stop sign or red signal, the vehicle must stop before this line.

The sequence of red, amber and green displays controlling traffic. Green permits movement if safe, amber warns the light is about to turn red, and red requires a stop behind the line.

A flashing yellow light at an intersection warning drivers to proceed with caution and apply give-way rules, usually because the signals are inactive or the crossing is hazardous.

The legal priority to proceed through a situation while others must yield. It is never absolute; a driver with priority must still avoid a collision if another road user fails to give way.

An intersection with no signs or signals directing priority. Drivers must apply the default rule, typically giving way to traffic already on the road or approaching from the right, and proceed cautiously.

At a roundabout, entering drivers must give way to vehicles already circulating on the roundabout. Signal intent on approach and exit, and do not change lanes across circulating traffic.

When turning right, a driver must yield to oncoming vehicles going straight or turning left, and to pedestrians crossing the road being entered. Only turn when a safe gap exists.

A minimum gap behind the vehicle ahead of about two seconds in good conditions, measured from a fixed point. Increase it in rain, at night, or when following heavy vehicles and motorcycles.

The distance a vehicle travels from the moment the brakes are applied until it stops. It grows with speed and is much longer on wet, icy or gravel surfaces.

The total distance needed to stop, combining the driver's reaction distance with the vehicle's braking distance. It increases sharply with speed and poor road or tyre conditions.

Following another vehicle too closely, leaving insufficient time to react if it brakes suddenly. It is a common cause of rear-end collisions and is an offence in many jurisdictions.

The skill of scanning ahead and to the sides to spot developing risks early, such as a pedestrian near the kerb or a car edging out, so you can adjust speed before danger develops.

A driving style that anticipates other road users' mistakes and keeps a safety margin. It involves looking well ahead, planning escape routes and never assuming others will obey the rules.

An area around the vehicle not visible in the mirrors. Drivers must turn their head to check it before changing lanes or reversing, since mirrors alone do not show everything.

The speed limit that applies on built-up roads when no sign shows otherwise, commonly 50 km/h. Drivers must still reduce speed below it when conditions demand.

A speed appropriate to the actual conditions, such as weather, visibility, traffic and road surface, even if it is below the posted limit. The limit is a maximum, not a target.

Passing another vehicle travelling in the same direction. It is permitted only where lines and signs allow, with clear visibility and enough space to complete the manoeuvre safely.

Keeping within your lane, using indicators before changing lanes, and returning to the correct lane after overtaking. Weaving or straddling lanes increases collision risk.

A flashing lamp used to signal an intention to turn or change lanes. Signal early enough to inform others, and cancel it after completing the manoeuvre.

A routine for any change of position: check mirrors, signal intention, then move only after confirming it is safe. It structures observation before acting on the road.

A brief glance over the shoulder to check the blind spot before changing lanes, merging or reversing. Mirrors do not cover the area directly beside and behind the vehicle.

The depth of grooves in a tyre, which channels water away and maintains grip. Worn tyres increase stopping distance and the risk of aquaplaning on wet roads.

Loss of tyre contact with the road when water builds up under the tyre at speed, causing a loss of steering and braking. Ease off the accelerator and avoid harsh braking until grip returns.

The condition of a vehicle being safe and legal to drive, covering tyres, brakes, lights, steering and emissions. Regular checks and periodic inspections help maintain it.

A quick inspection before driving: tyres, lights, mirrors, seat and head restraint, fuel and warning lights. It catches faults before they become hazards on the road.

A provisional licence allowing a person to learn to drive under stated conditions, such as supervision by a qualified driver, display of L plates and zero alcohol. It precedes the full licence.

A restricted full-stage licence issued after passing the driving test, often carrying lower speed or alcohol limits and display of P plates. Serious offences can extend or cancel it.

Penalty points added to a driver's record for traffic offences. Accumulating a set number within a period leads to suspension or loss of licence.

Temporary withdrawal of the right to drive, imposed for offences such as excessive speeding, drink driving or too many demerit points. Driving while suspended is a serious offence.

The amount of alcohol in the blood, expressed as grams per 100 millilitres. Legal limits vary by licence type, and learner and probationary drivers usually must record zero.

Cover that pays for injury or damage the insured driver causes to others, but not usually for the driver's own vehicle. Compulsory in many jurisdictions as part of registration.

The official record and plate that authorise a vehicle to be used on public roads. Driving an unregistered vehicle is an offence and may void insurance cover.

A first-aid sequence: Danger, Response, Send for help, Airway, Breathing, CPR, Defibrillator. It guides a rescuer through assessing and treating a casualty at a crash scene.

Lying an unconscious but breathing casualty on their side with the head tilted back to keep the airway open. Used when spinal injury is not suspected and help is on the way.

Steps taken at a crash to prevent further harm: switch off engines, warn traffic, move people clear, call emergency services and avoid moving injured casualties unless in danger.

A marked area where pedestrians have priority over vehicles. Drivers must approach at a speed allowing a stop, yield to anyone on or entering it, and not overtake a vehicle stopped there.

A road user with little physical protection, such as pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and riders. Drivers should give them extra space and anticipate sudden movements.

A motorcyclist riding between lanes of slower traffic. Drivers should check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes and avoid blocking the gap.

The large blind areas to the front, sides and rear of trucks and buses. Drivers should avoid lingering alongside or directly behind them and never pass on the right where a turn is likely.

A place where a road crosses railway tracks. Drivers must approach at a speed allowing a stop, obey signals and boom gates, and never enter unless the exit is clear.