All practice questions

1884 questions

Question 1141Question →

On a motorway with three or more lanes, a Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) with a maximum gross weight exceeding 7.5 tonnes is permitted to use the right-hand lane (Lane 3) to overtake slower-moving traffic during normal driving conditions.

Show answer & explanation

Answer: False

Answer

False (Large Goods Vehicles over 7.5 tonnes are legally prohibited from using the right-hand lane on a three-lane motorway under normal conditions)
According to Highway Code Rule 265, any goods vehicle with a maximum laden weight exceeding 7.5 tonnes is prohibited from using the right-hand lane on a motorway with three or more lanes, unless emergency road signs or temporary lane closures direct otherwise.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the vehicle classification and road layout described in the statement
The scenario involves a Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) exceeding 7.5 tonnes traveling on a motorway with three or more lanes.
Different vehicle weight classes and road types have specific lane restriction rules under UK traffic law.
2
Apply the relevant Highway Code regulation regarding motorway lane discipline
Highway Code Rule 265 states that vehicles over 7.5 tonnes maximum gross weight must not use the right-hand lane on motorways with three or more lanes.
This restriction prevents heavy and speed-limited vehicles from obstructing the outside overtaking lane.
3
Evaluate the statement's claim against the rule
The statement claims LGVs over 7.5 tonnes may use Lane 3 during normal driving conditions, which directly contradicts the Highway Code.
Because the action is prohibited under normal conditions, the statement is false.

Key Concept

Motorway lane restrictions for Large Goods Vehicles (LGVs)
Estimated Time:30s
Question 1142Question →

You are driving behind a motorcyclist along a road with uneven surfaces and potholes. Which TWO precautions should you take to keep them safe? (Select TWO answers)

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Allow extra following distance to give yourself more time to react; Anticipate that the rider may swerve or alter their road position suddenly

Answer

Allow extra following distance and anticipate that the rider may swerve or alter their road position suddenly.
Motorcyclists are easily destabilised by potholes, debris, and uneven road surfaces, which often forces riders to adjust their line or swerve unexpectedly. Leaving extra following distance provides the space and time needed to react safely.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Assess the hazard posed by road defects to two-wheeled vehicles
Recognise that potholes and uneven surfaces can destabilise a motorcycle, requiring the rider to adjust course
Two-wheeled vehicles are much more sensitive to uneven road conditions than cars
2
Select appropriate driver safety adjustments
Increase separation distance and prepare for sudden position changes without using intimidating signals or tailgating
Maintaining a generous safety margin ensures sufficient time and space to react safely

Key Concept

Safe following distances and hazard anticipation behind motorcyclists on uneven road surfaces
Estimated Time:45s
Question 1143Question →

You are driving at 50 mph on a single carriageway during heavy rain. As the motorcycle ahead passes a fixed road sign, what is the minimum time that should elapse before your vehicle reaches the same sign to maintain a safe separation distance?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: At least 4 seconds

Answer

At least 4 seconds
In good, dry conditions, drivers must leave a minimum separation gap of at least two seconds using a fixed stationary marker. When driving on wet roads, reduced tyre grip doubles overall stopping distances, meaning the separation time must be doubled to at least four seconds.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Determine the baseline separation gap required in dry conditions.
The standard minimum gap under dry road conditions is 2 seconds.
The two-second rule provides a sufficient safety margin for thinking and braking distances combined at any speed.
2
Apply the wet weather multiplier to the separation time.
The 2-second baseline is doubled to 4 seconds.
Reduced tyre grip on wet surfaces approximately doubles stopping distances, requiring double the time buffer.

Key Concept

Applying the two-second rule and doubling the separation gap to at least four seconds when driving on wet roads.
Estimated Time:45s
Question 1144Question →

Drivers must adapt their road positioning, hazard awareness, and compliance based on different bus and coach operating conditions. Match each specific bus scenario or infrastructure feature to the correct legal requirement or hazard management action required by the Highway Code.

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

A school bus displaying flashing amber lights while stopped by the roadside
A designated contraflow bus lane indicated by regulatory road signs and markings
An articulated bus or long coach negotiating a restricted mini-roundabout
A bus lane sign with a bus symbol but displaying no operational days or times

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

School bus with flashing amber lights matches anticipating crossing children; Contraflow bus lane matches traffic traveling opposite to one-way flow; Articulated bus at mini-roundabout matches holding back for lane-straddling swept path; Bus lane sign with no times displayed matches 24/7 continuous operation.
Each scenario represents a specific Highway Code rule regarding buses and coaches: school buses with flashing amber lights alert to boarding/alighting children who may cross unexpectedly; contraflow lanes allow buses to travel in reverse of one-way traffic; long articulated vehicles need clearance for their wide swept paths when turning; and un-timed bus lane signs enforce 24/7 continuous restrictions.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the rules regarding special warning signals on passenger transport
A school bus showing flashing amber lights warns of vulnerable child pedestrians boarding or alighting, necessitating reduced speed and vigilance.
School buses use specialized hazard beacons to alert drivers of heightened pedestrian risks.
2
Analyze the specific operational definition of contraflow bus infrastructure
Contraflow lanes flow in the reverse direction of the standard one-way road layout.
Recognizing lane flow prevents collisions at junctions and pedestrian crossings along one-way streets.
3
Evaluate the vehicle dynamics of large passenger carrying vehicles (PCVs)
Articulated buses and long coaches have large swept paths and pivot points, requiring adjacent lane space during tight turns.
Preventing side-swipe collisions requires other drivers to maintain generous following and lateral margins.
4
Apply statutory rules for bus lane operational time plates
The absence of listed operating hours means the restriction is non-stop and in effect 24 hours a day.
Drivers must strictly adhere to regulatory signage to avoid unlawful use of designated priority lanes.

Key Concept

Buses and Coaches Infrastructure, Priority, and Operational Safety Rules
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 1145Question →

As you travel through a village, you see a stationary local bus at a roadside stop ahead with several passengers disembarking. What developing hazard should you foresee, and how should you respond?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Expect pedestrians to emerge from behind or in front of the bus to cross the road, so reduce speed and prepare to stop.

Answer

Expect pedestrians to emerge from behind or in front of the bus to cross the road, so reduce speed and prepare to stop.
When a bus is stationary at a bus stop, passengers who have just stepped off may walk around the front or rear of the vehicle to cross the road. Because the large body of the bus obstructs your view, these pedestrians represent a classic developing hazard. Defensive driving and the Highway Code require drivers to anticipate this risk by reducing speed, scanning carefully, and being fully prepared to stop.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify early environmental clues indicating potential hazards.
Recognise that a stationary bus discharging passengers creates visual obstructions and introduces vulnerable pedestrians into the roadway.
Anticipating what other road users might do before they act is the core principle of proactive hazard perception.
2
Evaluate the specific risks associated with obscured sightlines.
Determine that pedestrians may step out from behind or in front of the bus without checking for approaching traffic.
The bulk of the bus hides crossing pedestrians until they are already in the carriageway.
3
Apply proactive defensive driving measures.
Check mirrors, ease off the accelerator, reduce speed, and cover the brake pedal to ensure you can stop smoothly if someone steps out.
Lowering speed reduces thinking and braking distances, providing a safe buffer to react to sudden pedestrian movements.

Key Concept

Hazard anticipation involves actively scanning ahead, recognising environmental clues (such as a stationary bus discharging passengers), and taking early precautionary action like slowing down before a potential hazard becomes an immediate emergency.
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 1146Question →

Which driver action is most likely to cause a vehicle to skid when travelling on a slippery road surface?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Harsh braking and sudden, sharp steering movements

Answer

Harsh braking and sudden, sharp steering movements
Harsh braking, rapid acceleration, and sudden steering movements put extreme forces on the contact patches of the tyres. On slippery surfaces where grip is already reduced, these abrupt actions easily exceed available traction, causing the tyres to slide and the vehicle to skid.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the primary mechanism of a vehicle skid
A skid happens when tyre adhesion is lost because the physical demands placed on the tyres exceed the available friction between the rubber and the road surface.
Understanding traction limits clarifies which driver behaviours cause tyres to break grip.
2
Evaluate driver inputs against friction limits
Sudden control inputs such as heavy braking, sharp steering, or rapid acceleration place intense, abrupt loads on the tyres that easily break traction on low-grip surfaces.
Smooth and progressive driving actions preserve tyre adhesion and prevent skidding.

Key Concept

Skidding is primarily caused by driver error, specifically sudden or excessive braking, steering, or acceleration that exceeds tyre grip.
Estimated Time:30s
Question 1147Question →

You are driving along a road where loose chippings have recently been laid following surface dressing. What action should you take to safely maintain vehicle control and protect other road users?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Reduce your speed and increase your following distance from the vehicle ahead

Answer

Reduce your speed and increase your following distance from the vehicle ahead.
On roads treated with loose chippings, tyre grip is significantly reduced, meaning stopping distances increase and the risk of skidding rises. Slowing down and maintaining a larger gap from the vehicle in front provides ample room to brake smoothly and prevents loose chippings from being thrown up and damaging bodywork or windscreens.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Assess the surface condition and reduced tyre grip
Recognise that loose chippings act like ball bearings under tyres, significantly increasing stopping distances and reducing steering traction.
Unstable road surfaces require proactive speed reduction before loss of grip occurs.
2
Adjust speed and following separation
Drive at a reduced, steady pace and leave a much larger safety gap behind the vehicle ahead.
This allows sufficient room to stop smoothly without harsh braking and minimises the hazard of loose stones damaging windscreens or injuring other road users.

Key Concept

Adapting speed, braking, and separation distances on loose road surfaces
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 1148Question →

While driving through an industrial area, you approach a row of high-sided parked lorries on the left that completely blocks your view of an upcoming side road. What should you do before continuing past the junction?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Reduce your speed, check your mirrors, and be prepared to stop if traffic emerges from the hidden junction

Answer

Reduce your speed, check your mirrors, and be prepared to stop if traffic emerges from the hidden junction
High-sided stationary vehicles parked along the roadside act as static hazards by creating blind spots and concealing approaching traffic or pedestrians from junctions. The driver must reduce speed, monitor mirrors, and approach with caution, remaining ready to stop if someone pulls out unexpectedly.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the static hazard and the restricted visibility it causes ahead
Recognised that the high-sided parked lorries create a severe blind spot across the side road junction
Stationary tall vehicles prevent drivers from seeing traffic or pedestrians joining the main carriageway
2
Adjust vehicle speed and perform mirror observations in anticipation of emerging road users
The vehicle travels at a manageable speed with ample safety margins to stop smoothly
Defensive driving requires anticipating hidden dangers and being ready to stop if an emerging vehicle pulls out

Key Concept

Anticipating hidden hazards created by static roadside obstructions
Estimated Time:45s
Question 1149Question →

Following heavy rainfall, extensive surface water has accumulated across a rural carriageway. While driving through this section, your vehicle begins to aquaplane, causing the steering wheel to feel completely light and unresponsive. What is the correct action to take to safely regain steering control?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Ease off the accelerator gradually and keep the steering wheel straight until tyre grip returns

Answer

Ease off the accelerator gradually and keep the steering wheel straight until tyre grip returns.
Releasing the accelerator smoothly reduces forward speed without causing sudden weight transfer or locking the wheels. Maintaining a straight steering angle ensures that when the tyre tread cuts through the standing water and re-establishes contact with the road surface, the vehicle tracks straight ahead safely.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Recognise the loss of traction caused by aquaplaning, indicated by light and unresponsive steering.
The driver avoids panic and prepares for gentle corrective actions.
Identifying the condition prevents sudden, dangerous control inputs.
2
Ease off the accelerator pedal smoothly while avoiding any application of the footbrake.
Vehicle speed decreases steadily without wheel lockup.
Allows the tyre tread grooves to effectively clear the water film and settle back onto the tarmac.
3
Hold the steering wheel straight and steady.
Vehicle maintains a straight trajectory as traction is restored.
Prevents the vehicle from veering violently or entering a skid the moment the tyres regain grip.

Key Concept

Aquaplaning occurs when tyres ride on a film of water rather than the road surface. Recovery requires gradual deceleration by releasing the accelerator without braking or harsh steering.
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 1150Question →

Drivers must understand how different types of medicines, alcohol habits, and substance combinations affect driving safety and legal liability. Which legal or safety implication correctly corresponds to each scenario? Match each scenario on the left with its correct implication on the right.

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

Drinking a unit of alcohol while taking drowsy antihistamine medication
Commuting to work early in the morning following an evening of heavy drinking
Driving while exceeding blood limits for a specified prescription drug without following the prescriber's directions
Purchasing an over-the-counter medicine packaged with a warning label against driving or using machines

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

Drinking alcohol with drowsy antihistamines matches synergistically magnifying sedative effects; morning-after commuting following heavy drinking matches carrying a high risk of remaining over the legal limit; exceeding prescription limits without following directions matches constituting an offence due to a void medical defence; and over-the-counter medicine with warning labels matches requiring pharmacist advice and avoiding driving if drowsy.
Each situation correctly maps to its respective physiological and legal consequence under The Highway Code and UK road safety law. Combining alcohol and sedative drugs causes synergistic impairment; heavy evening drinking leaves residual alcohol well into the morning; exceeding specified prescription drug limits without adhering to medical advice removes the statutory defence; and warning labels on over-the-counter medicines require consulting healthcare professionals and avoiding driving if drowsy.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Examine the interaction between alcohol and drowsy antihistamines.
Identify that combining alcohol with sedating drugs produces a synergistic effect that amplifies drowsiness and degrades reaction times.
Substances with sedative properties interact unpredictably and severely multiply impairment when taken together.
2
Evaluate the bodily elimination rate of alcohol for morning-after driving.
Identify that alcohol metabolism occurs at a constant, fixed rate that cannot be accelerated by sleep or remedies, creating a risk of driving over the legal limit the next morning.
Alcohol takes substantial time to leave the bloodstream, and residual intoxication is a major cause of drink-drive offences.
3
Assess the legal requirements for driving under prescription medication under UK drug-driving laws.
Identify that failing to follow the prescriber's directions forfeits the statutory medical defence against drug-driving limits.
The law only protects drivers using specified medications within legal limits if they strictly adhere to healthcare instructions and driving ability is intact.
4
Determine the required safety protocol when purchasing over-the-counter medication with warnings.
Identify that the driver must consult a doctor or pharmacist and must not drive if feeling drowsy.
Drivers hold personal responsibility under The Highway Code to ensure any medicine taken does not compromise their fitness to drive.

Key Concept

Understanding the physiological effects, drug interactions, bodily elimination rates, and legal responsibilities associated with alcohol and medication in driving.
Estimated Time:1m 15s
Question 1151Question →

Slamming on the footbrake immediately when your vehicle begins to skid is the most effective way to regain steering control.

Show answer & explanation

Answer: False

Answer

False. Slamming on the footbrake eliminates tyre grip needed for steering, which exacerbates the skid rather than resolving it.
The statement is false because harsh braking removes tyre adhesion and prevents the front wheels from steering effectively. To recover from a skid, the driver must release the footbrake and gently steer into the direction of the skid.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Evaluate the effect of abrupt, heavy braking on tyre traction during a skid.
Heavy braking overloads the contact patch of the tyres, causing them to lock or lose all lateral grip.
Tyres have a finite amount of grip; using all available friction for braking leaves no grip available for steering.
2
Identify the standard DVSA corrective procedure for regaining vehicle control.
The driver should release the footbrake and smoothly steer into the direction of the skid.
Releasing the brake allows the wheels to rotate freely again, restoring directional steering control.

Key Concept

Tyre adhesion limits and appropriate driver inputs during skid correction
Estimated Time:30s
Question 1152Question →

Agricultural vehicles are permitted to travel on UK motorways as long as they display an active amber flashing beacon and remain in the left-hand lane.

Show answer & explanation

Answer: False

Answer

False
The statement is false. According to Highway Code Rule 253, agricultural vehicles are strictly prohibited from using motorways. While slow-moving agricultural vehicles are permitted on dual carriageways provided they use an amber flashing beacon when travelling at speeds under 25 mph (Rule 225), no equipment or lane choice permits them on a motorway.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the vehicle classification and the specific road type in the statement.
The statement involves agricultural vehicles operating on a UK motorway.
Different road categories enforce distinct vehicle access and safety restrictions.
2
Apply Highway Code regulations regarding motorway prohibitions.
Highway Code Rule 253 lists agricultural vehicles among prohibited motorway users.
Motorways are designed exclusively for higher-speed traffic, making slow agricultural machinery an unacceptable hazard.
3
Evaluate the condition regarding amber flashing beacons and lane positioning.
Amber beacons are mandatory for slow-moving agricultural vehicles on unrestricted dual carriageways (Rule 225), but they do not grant permission to enter motorways.
Beacon equipment does not override absolute statutory vehicle prohibitions on motorway networks.

Key Concept

Motorway access restrictions and prohibited road users regarding agricultural vehicles
Estimated Time:45s
Question 1153Question →

According to the Highway Code, a motorcyclist approaching a multi-lane roundabout who intends to take an exit to the right is legally required to approach in the right-hand lane and is not permitted to remain in the left-hand lane.

Show answer & explanation

Answer: False

Answer

False. Motorcyclists are permitted to stay in the left-hand lane when travelling around a roundabout to turn right.
Under Highway Code Rule 187, road users must watch out for motorcyclists and cyclists who may keep to the left-hand lane even when they intend to continue all the way round to turn right. Other drivers must allow them space and not attempt to overtake or crowd them.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the standard lane positioning rule for roundabouts versus the allowances for vulnerable road users.
Standard car drivers generally use the right lane for right turns, but vulnerable road users have specific safety allowances under Rule 187.
Vulnerable road users face unique stability and visibility risks that require flexible positioning.
2
Evaluate whether motorcyclists are prohibited from using the left lane when turning right.
Motorcyclists are allowed to keep left to avoid being cut up by other traffic or to handle vehicle dynamics safely.
The Highway Code explicitly instructs drivers to watch for and give room to motorcyclists who keep to the left while turning right.

Key Concept

Motorcyclist roundabout positioning allowances under Highway Code Rule 187
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 1154Question →

Match each traffic calming feature or specialized road surface with the correct driver action and hazard response.

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

Speed cushions in a 20 mph residential zone
Chicane traffic calming system
Wet tram tracks embedded in urban asphalt
High-friction anti-skid surface approaching a pedestrian crossing

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

Speed cushions match driving centrally to straddle the cushion safely; chicanes match checking priority signs and negotiating curves smoothly; wet tram tracks match crossing at right angles to prevent slip; and high-friction surfacing matches recognizing enhanced grip on hazard approaches.
Each traffic calming measure and surface type requires a distinct driving response: speed cushions must be straddled centrally to protect cyclists; chicanes require obeying priority signs and negotiating curves at low speed; wet tram tracks demand a perpendicular crossing angle to avoid skidding; and high-friction surfacing provides increased grip at critical braking zones.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the physical structure and intent of speed cushions versus other calming measures.
Speed cushions allow vehicles to straddle them centrally while leaving edge space for cyclists.
Correct alignment avoids suspension damage and protects cyclists in the kerbside gutter.
2
Evaluate the traffic management purpose of chicanes.
Chicanes require drivers to give way to oncoming traffic when indicated and steer through staggered obstacles at low speed.
They slow speeds by physically disrupting straight travel lines.
3
Assess the surface friction hazard of wet tram rails.
Metal tracks have very low friction when wet, requiring perpendicular crossing angles.
Crossing at shallow angles risks tyre slip and loss of steering control.
4
Determine the role of high-friction anti-skid surfacing.
It provides increased tyre traction to reduce stopping distance on critical approaches.
Installed at junctions and pedestrian crossings to reduce collision risk.

Key Concept

Appropriate vehicle handling and speed adjustment across varied traffic calming features and road surface conditions
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 1155Question →

You are driving a passenger car towing a trailer on a motorway where no variable speed limits or roadworks are active. What is the maximum legal speed limit that applies to your vehicle?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: 60 mph

Answer

60 mph
Under the UK Highway Code, while solo cars and motorcycles may travel up to 70 mph on motorways, any vehicle towing a trailer or caravan is legally restricted to a maximum speed limit of 60 mph unless lower variable or temporary limits are posted.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the vehicle category and road type from the scenario.
The vehicle is a car towing a trailer travelling on an unrestricted motorway.
National speed limits in the UK differ according to the road classification and whether a trailer is attached.
2
Apply the UK Highway Code rule for towing vehicles on high-speed roads.
The maximum legal speed limit for a car towing a trailer on a motorway is 60 mph.
The additional weight and altered dynamics when towing reduce vehicle stability, requiring a 10 mph reduction from the standard 70 mph limit.

Key Concept

National speed limits for towing vehicles on motorways
Estimated Time:45s
Question 1156Question →

According to the Highway Code, front and rear fog lights must be switched off once visibility improves.

Show answer & explanation

Answer: True

Answer

True
The statement is true because Highway Code Rule 236 strictly requires drivers to extinguish both front and rear fog lights as soon as visibility improves beyond 100 metres to prevent dazzling others and obscuring brake lights.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the relevant Highway Code regulation governing fog light operation in changing conditions.
Highway Code Rule 236 mandates that fog lights must only be used when visibility is seriously reduced (below 100 metres) and must be extinguished when conditions improve.
High-intensity rear fog lights can obscure brake lights and dazzle following drivers, while front fog lights cause glare for oncoming traffic.
2
Evaluate the accuracy of the statement based on the legal requirement.
The statement accurately reflects the mandatory requirement to deactivate fog lights once visibility clears.
Compliance with lighting regulations is essential for road safety and preventing glare.

Key Concept

Highway Code rules regarding the mandatory deactivation of fog lights when visibility clears
Estimated Time:30s
Question 1157Question →

While driving behind a motorcyclist on a multi-lane road, you notice the rider take a quick glance over their right shoulder. What is this action most likely to indicate?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: The rider is planning to change direction or change lanes

Answer

The rider is planning to change direction or change lanes.
Under Highway Code Rule 212, when following motorcyclists, drivers should be aware that a glance over the shoulder usually means the rider is preparing to make a manoeuvre, such as turning, overtaking, or changing lanes. This is often referred to as a 'lifesaver' check to ensure their blind spot is clear before moving.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the motorcyclist's physical observation cue
The rider is performing a rear shoulder check over their right shoulder into their blind spot.
According to Highway Code Rule 212, a motorcyclist glancing over their shoulder often precedes a change in course or direction.
2
Anticipate the impending manoeuvre and adjust driving
Anticipate that the rider may move right, overtake, or turn, and ensure sufficient following distance is maintained.
Recognising early hazard cues from vulnerable road users allows drivers to react safely and avoid collisions.

Key Concept

Anticipating motorcyclist manoeuvres from observation cues (Highway Code Rule 212)
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 1158Question →

You are driving behind another vehicle on a road that has recently been resurfaced with loose chippings. What actions should you take to maintain vehicle control and avoid causing damage to other road users?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Reduce your speed well before hazards, increase your following distance, and avoid abrupt steering or harsh braking

Answer

Reduce your speed well before hazards, increase your following distance, and avoid abrupt steering or harsh braking
When driving over loose chippings, the road surface provides significantly less grip because loose stones roll under the tyres like ball bearings. Drivers must reduce their speed well before reaching bends or hazards, make all steering and braking inputs smoothly and progressively, and leave a much greater separation distance from the vehicle in front. Keeping well back compensates for the extended stopping distance on loose surfaces and protects your vehicle from flying stones thrown up by tyres ahead.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Recognise the physical hazards of loose chippings on the road surface
Understanding that loose stones reduce tyre grip and act as airborne projectiles
Loose chippings roll under the tyres, drastically increasing braking distances and presenting a projectile danger to surrounding vehicles
2
Adjust speed and separation distance in response to the reduced grip
Lower vehicle speed and an increased following distance
Lower speed minimises stone throw and reduces the risk of skidding, while extra following distance prevents windscreen damage and allows for longer stopping distances
3
Apply smooth and progressive control inputs for steering, braking, and accelerating
Stable tyre contact without sudden weight transfers or wheel lock-up
Sudden or aggressive inputs easily exceed the limited friction available on loose surfaces, provoking a loss of control

Key Concept

Vehicle stability, skid prevention, and following distance adjustments on loose road surfaces
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 1159Question →

On a smart motorway, a speed limit displayed inside a red circle on an overhead gantry is legally mandatory.

Show answer & explanation

Answer: True

Answer

True
In the UK Highway Code, signs with a red ring give orders. When a variable speed limit is shown inside a red ring on a motorway gantry, it is legally enforceable and sets a mandatory maximum speed.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the sign type and border design
The speed limit is enclosed within a circular sign with a red border on an active gantry display.
Circular signs with red rings convey mandatory orders and legal restrictions under the UK Highway Code.
2
Differentiate between mandatory and advisory motorway signals
Signals in red rings are legally binding, whereas amber flashing matrix signs indicate advisory speeds or warnings.
Variable speed limits displayed within red circles must be adhered to until signs indicate otherwise or the national speed limit sign appears.

Key Concept

Mandatory motorway speed limits and overhead gantry signs
Estimated Time:30s
Question 1160Question →

When driving on a single-track road, if the nearest passing place is located on your right-hand side, you should cross over to the right and wait inside the passing place for an oncoming vehicle to pass.

Show answer & explanation

Answer: False

Answer

False
The statement is false because Rule 155 of The Highway Code dictates that on single-track roads, drivers must pull into a passing place on their left, or wait opposite it if the passing place is on their right. Crossing over to the right-hand side to occupy a passing bay creates confusion and severe collision risk.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Assess the static hazard presented by the narrow single-track road layout and identify the position of the passing bay.
The road accommodates only one vehicle at a time, and the available passing place is situated on the right-hand side of the road.
Understanding the physical constraints of single-track roads is essential for safe vehicle positioning.
2
Apply Highway Code Rule 155 regarding oncoming vehicles and passing places.
You must remain on the left side of the carriageway and wait stationary opposite the passing place on your right.
Entering a passing place on your right crosses oncoming traffic flow, creates ambiguity, and blocks the oncoming driver from using the bay on their left.

Key Concept

Proper vehicle positioning and passing place protocols on single-track roads when negotiating static road width restrictions.
Estimated Time:45s
PreviousPage 58 / 95Next
All practice questions — UK Driving Theory Test | Examkin