HTV Driving Theory flashcards

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

Stop sign meaning

A stop sign requires a complete stop at the stop line or signed point, then give way to traffic and pedestrians before proceeding only when safe.

Roundabout right-of-way

When approaching a roundabout, give way to traffic already circulating from the left or right as local traffic direction requires, and signal your intended exit.

Solid centre line

A solid centre line on your side prohibits crossing it to overtake; a broken line permits crossing only when the road ahead is clear and it is safe.

Amber traffic signal

A steady amber light means stop before the intersection unless you are so close that stopping cannot be done safely; do not accelerate to beat the red.

Pre-trip walk-around

Before moving, walk around the vehicle checking tyres, wheels, lights, fluid leaks, load security, coupling, body damage and obstructions; record and correct defects before departure.

Tyre tread minimum

Heavy-vehicle tyre tread must meet the local legal minimum across the specified width; inspect for cuts, bulges, exposed cords and uneven wear, and replace tyres that are unroadworthy.

Air pressure build-up test

Start the engine and let air pressure build from the minimum to governor cut-out; compare build time with the manufacturer's or local inspection standard, and investigate slow build-up.

Defect report contents

A defect report should identify the vehicle, date, defect location and description, severity, reporter, and action taken, so the defect can be assessed, repaired and signed off.

Off-tracking

Off-tracking is the difference between the path of the front wheels and the rear wheels in a turn; long wheelbase and articulated vehicles sweep a wider path, so allow extra space.

Rollover threshold

A vehicle's rollover threshold falls as centre of gravity rises and track width narrows; high loads, fast cornering, sudden steering and crosswinds increase rollover risk.

Centrifugal force in turns

Centrifugal force increases with the square of speed and decreases with turning radius; halving a turn's radius doubles the sideways force at the same speed.

ABS braking action

Anti-lock braking prevents wheel lock by modulating brake pressure; it helps maintain steering control during hard braking but does not shorten stopping distance on all surfaces.

Three-second following rule

In good dry conditions, stay at least three seconds behind the vehicle ahead; increase the gap in rain, darkness, poor visibility, heavy traffic or when carrying a heavy load.

Reaction distance formula

Reaction distance equals speed in metres per second multiplied by reaction time in seconds; at 60 km/h about 16.7 m/s, a 1.5-second reaction covers about 25 metres.

Hazard scanning range

Scan well ahead, typically 12 to 15 seconds of travel, and check mirrors, instruments and blind spots regularly so hazards are detected before they become emergencies.

Stopping distance components

Total stopping distance is reaction distance plus braking distance; braking distance rises with the square of speed, so doubling speed can roughly quadruple braking distance.

Gross vehicle mass

Gross vehicle mass is the maximum permitted total mass of the vehicle including payload, fuel, driver and all fluids; exceeding it can overload axles, brakes, tyres and the chassis.

Load centre of gravity

Keep the load's centre of gravity as low and as close to the vehicle's centreline as practical; a high or offset centre of gravity increases rollover and handling risk.

Load securement check

After loading and again shortly after departure, check straps, chains, binders and chocks for tension, wear and correct attachment, and ensure the load cannot shift.

Axle load limit

Each axle or axle group has a maximum permitted mass; distribute payload so no axle exceeds its limit and the total vehicle mass stays within gross and combination limits.

Spring brake operation

Spring brakes are applied by strong springs and held off by air pressure; if air pressure falls too low, the springs apply the parking or emergency brake automatically.

Low air pressure warning

A low-pressure warning must activate before air pressure falls below the safe operating level; stop safely and investigate, because further pressure loss can apply spring brakes.

Air tank drain purpose

Draining air tanks removes condensed water and oil that can freeze, corrode or contaminate valves; drain at required intervals and after long wet or cold running.

Engine brake limitation

An engine brake or retarder helps control speed on descents but is not a substitute for service brakes; use a low gear and avoid overheating the foundation brakes.

Fatigue break rule

Many heavy-vehicle schemes require a break from driving after a set period, commonly 5.5 hours, and more rest after longer work; confirm the exact rule for your licence.

Duty record accuracy

Drivers must record duty, driving, rest and availability accurately and promptly, retain records for the required period, and never falsify or ask another person to falsify them.

Fit-for-duty check

Before starting duty, assess yourself for illness, fatigue, alcohol, drugs or medication effects; if unfit, do not drive and report according to company and legal requirements.

Daily driving limit

Heavy-vehicle daily driving limits vary by jurisdiction and scheme; plan the journey so driving, work and rest limits and required breaks are not exceeded.

Scene safety first

At an incident, stop safely, switch on hazard lights, set warning devices, and keep yourself and others out of traffic before attempting assistance or calling emergency services.

Severe bleeding control

Apply firm direct pressure to the wound with a clean dressing or cloth, add more dressings if needed, and call emergency help; do not remove an object embedded in the wound.

CPR compression ratio

For adult CPR, give 30 chest compressions at about 100 to 120 per minute followed by 2 rescue breaths if trained; continue until help or a defibrillator arrives.

Warning triangle placement

Place a warning triangle where approaching drivers can see it in time, typically well behind the vehicle on the same side; use additional devices at blind or high-speed locations.