Vehicle handling, signals and general driving knowledge
Vehicle Handling
Before you move
Walk around the vehicle if possible: check tyres, lights, mirrors, number plates and that nothing is under the car. Adjust the seat, head restraint and mirrors before starting. Know your controls: steering, accelerator, brake, clutch on a manual, gear lever, parking brake, indicators, wipers and lights. In an automatic, keep your foot on the brake when selecting drive or reverse.
Braking and grip
ABS prevents wheel lock-up and helps steering under heavy braking; it may not shorten stopping distance on gravel or loose surfaces. In an emergency, press the brake firmly and steer; do not pump the pedal in a car with ABS. On a slippery road, brake gently and avoid abrupt steering. Use engine braking on long downhill slopes rather than riding the brakes. If a tyre blows, hold the steering firmly, ease off the accelerator and slow gradually; do not brake hard.
Checks and warnings
Check engine oil, coolant and tyre pressures when the tyres are cold. Dashboard warnings for oil pressure, temperature, battery and brakes mean stop safely and investigate. A red warning light is urgent; amber means check soon.
Parking and hills
When parking on a slope, set the parking brake and turn the wheels so the car would roll into the kerb, not into traffic.
Trap
ABS questions often suggest you should pump the brakes. With ABS, maintain firm pressure. Another trap is thinking a warning light can be ignored until the next service.
Rule of thumb
If a red light stays on, stop safely and check; do not continue a long journey.
Signals and General Driving Knowledge
Signals
Signals tell others what you intend to do; they do not give you priority. Signal early enough to be useful, generally at least three seconds before a turn or lane change, and cancel afterwards. Check mirrors and blind spots before moving. At a junction, indicate before slowing. Use hazard lights only to warn of danger or a breakdown, not as a parking permit. Flash your headlights only to warn of your presence; do not use them to bully others. The horn is for warning of danger, not for expressing annoyance. At night or in heavy rain, use dipped headlights; use high beam only when it will not dazzle others.
General knowledge
Know the documents needed to drive: a valid licence, road tax and at least third-party insurance. Keep the vehicle roadworthy: tyres with adequate tread, working lights, brakes and horn. Understand demerit points and that serious offences can lead to disqualification. Know what to do after an accident: stop, switch on hazard lights, exchange particulars, report if required, and help anyone injured within your ability.
Traps
Questions often ask whether a signal gives you the right to move; it does not. Another trap is using hazard lights while driving in rain instead of dipped headlights.
Worked example
You want to change lanes. Mirror, signal, check blind spot, then move only when there is a safe gap. If another driver speeds up, wait.
Rule of thumb
Signal, then check; never signal and assume.