All practice questions
178 questions
Question 1Question →
You are driving at 30 mph along a narrow rural lane bounded by high hedges. Ahead, you observe a horse and rider travelling in your direction, while simultaneously spotting the roofline of an oncoming vehicle approaching a pinch point just beyond them. Arrange the following driver actions in the correct chronological sequence to manage these combined hazards safely.
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Answer
The correct defensive sequence is: first check mirrors to assess following traffic, ease off the accelerator early to smoothly bleed off speed, hold back at a safe distance behind the horse and rider, and finally bring the vehicle to a gentle stop with low engine revs to allow the oncoming vehicle to clear the pinch point.
Applying the standard Hazard Management Routine requires early observation (checking mirrors) before altering vehicle dynamics, followed by smooth deceleration, positioning well back to give vulnerable animals space, and coming to a complete, calm halt while oncoming traffic negotiates the bottleneck.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Check rear-view and exterior mirrors.
Driver establishes situational awareness of vehicles following closely behind.
Before adjusting speed or lane position for an emerging forward hazard, checking mirrors ensures following road users are accounted for.
2
Ease off the throttle to decelerate smoothly.
The vehicle gradually reduces speed without jarring braking forces.
Gradual deceleration gives trailing vehicles sufficient time to respond and prevents loud braking noises that can startle horses.
3
Establish a generous holding distance behind the horse and rider.
A safety cushion is maintained without encroaching on the horse's space.
Horses are vulnerable and easily spooked; hanging back maintains a wide buffer and keeps sightlines open.
4
Come to a complete stop and keep engine revs low until the road is clear.
The oncoming vehicle clears the narrow section without risk of a side-swipe or startling the animal.
Pinch points cannot accommodate multiple vehicles alongside vulnerable road users, necessitating waiting stationary until it is safe to pass wide and slow.
Key Concept
Defensive Hazard Sequencing for Vulnerable Road Users and Restricted Carriageways
Estimated Time:1m 20s
Question 2Question →
You are driving on a rural road and approach a horse and rider travelling ahead in your lane. Arrange the driver's actions in the correct sequential order from first to last to pass them safely according to The Highway Code.
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Answer
Gradually reduce speed to under 10 mph and hold back, wait for a clear forward view free of oncoming hazards, overtake with at least 2 metres clearance at low engine revs, and confirm via rear-view mirror before returning to your lane.
According to Highway Code Rule 215, drivers approaching horse riders must first reduce speed to under 10 mph and hold back, wait for a completely clear overtaking opportunity without oncoming traffic, pass giving at least 2 metres of space while keeping engine revs low, and finally confirm clearance in the rear-view mirror before smoothly moving back into lane.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Decelerate early and smoothly to under 10 mph while keeping well back from the horse.
Vehicle approaches calmly without sudden brake lights or close proximity that could spook the animal.
Highway Code Rule 215 specifies that drivers must slow down when approaching horses to prevent unpredictable reactions.
2
Hold your position behind the horse and observe the road ahead for oncoming traffic and visibility obstructions.
A safe overtaking window is established before crossing the centre line.
Passing without full forward visibility risks a head-on collision or being forced back into the horse.
3
Move out wide across the lane, maintaining at least 2 metres of separation at low engine revs.
The vehicle clears the rider with safe lateral clearance and minimal noise disturbance.
Highway Code Rule 215 requires passing horse riders at under 10 mph and allowing at least 2 metres of space.
4
Check the interior mirror and steer smoothly back into the left lane once well clear of the horse.
The overtaking manoeuvre is safely completed without cutting in.
Returning too sharply or early can frighten the animal or clip the rider.
Key Concept
Highway Code Rule 215 horse rider overtaking procedure
Estimated Time:1m 15s
Question 3Question →
You notice signs of fatigue while driving on a dual carriageway. Arrange the following steps in the correct chronological order to follow the recommended safety procedure for managing driver tiredness.
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Answer
Leave the road at a safe location, drink two caffeinated beverages, take a short 15-minute nap, and confirm you are fully alert before driving again.
The Highway Code advises drivers who feel sleepy to leave the carriageway at a safe location, drink two cups of caffeinated coffee or a high-caffeine drink, take a short nap of around 15 minutes while waiting for the caffeine to take effect, and verify they feel refreshed before continuing.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Exit the road at a safe parking location or service area.
The vehicle is stationary in a safe place off the active roadway.
Driver fatigue countermeasures must only be carried out once parked safely off the main road.
2
Consume two cups of caffeinated coffee or an equivalent high-caffeine drink.
Caffeine is ingested to aid alertness.
Caffeine takes around 15 to 20 minutes to reach peak effectiveness in the bloodstream.
3
Rest and nap for about 15 minutes.
Acute sleepiness is reduced as the caffeine begins to act.
A short nap combined with caffeine intake is the proven procedure recommended by official driving guidelines.
4
Assess your condition before resuming driving.
Confirmation that alertness is restored.
Driving must not resume if drowsiness or impaired concentration persists.
Key Concept
Highway Code recommended procedural countermeasures for driver tiredness
Question 4Question →
An overhead gantry sign indicates that your current lane is closed ahead due to roadworks, requiring you to move into the adjacent offside lane. Arrange the following actions in the correct chronological order to complete this lane change safely according to the Highway Code.
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Answer
The correct sequence begins with checking the interior and offside mirrors, followed by checking the offside blind spot, then signalling right in good time, smoothly steering into the target lane, and finally cancelling the indicator while establishing a safe following distance.
Safe lane discipline and positioning when responding to an overhead lane closure strictly follow the Mirrors–Signal–Manoeuvre routine. First, the driver must check interior and door mirrors to understand traffic flow in the target lane. Second, a quick shoulder check must be made to cover the blind spot. Third, a right signal is applied in good time to warn other drivers. Fourth, the driver moves smoothly into the available gap. Finally, the indicator is cancelled and appropriate following distances are restored.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Check rear-view and offside exterior mirrors.
Assesses the speed, distance, and approach rate of vehicles in the adjacent offside lane.
Highway Code Rule 133 requires all manoeuvres to begin with mirror observation to evaluate surrounding traffic.
2
Perform a quick shoulder check into the offside blind spot.
Ensures no vehicle, cyclist, or motorcyclist is positioned in the unviewable area alongside your vehicle.
Mirrors alone do not eliminate blind spots; a direct glance confirms it is safe before signalling.
3
Apply the right-turn direction indicator.
Gives clear, unambiguous notice to drivers behind and in the adjacent lane of your planned move.
Signalling must precede the physical lane change so other road users have sufficient time to react and accommodate the merge.
4
Steer smoothly across into the open lane.
Positions your vehicle safely in the new lane without causing disruption or sudden braking to following traffic.
Executes the manoeuvre into an identified, safe gap in accordance with lane discipline rules.
5
Cancel the indicator and re-establish a safe separation gap.
Prevents misleading following drivers and ensures the required two-second gap is maintained.
Leaving an indicator running after completing a lane change creates confusion and potential hazards.
Key Concept
Highway Code Lane Discipline and the Mirrors–Signal–Manoeuvre (MSM) Procedure
Estimated Time:1m 15s
Question 5Question →
You are driving in Lane 2 (the middle lane) of a three-lane motorway and plan to leave at the next junction. In what order should you carry out the following actions to exit safely while observing correct lane discipline?
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Answer
Move into Lane 1 well ahead of the junction using the MSM routine, signal left at the countdown markers while maintaining speed, enter the deceleration lane smoothly without harsh braking on the carriageway, and then decelerate once fully inside the exit lane.
Under Highway Code Rules 272 and 273, drivers intending to exit a motorway must get into the left-hand lane (Lane 1) well in advance of the junction. You should signal left as you approach the countdown markers while maintaining cruising speed. Steer smoothly into the deceleration lane before applying the brakes, ensuring all significant deceleration occurs within the slip road rather than on the live carriageway.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Check mirrors and move into Lane 1 (the left-hand lane) well before reaching the junction.
The vehicle is correctly positioned in the leftmost lane ahead of the exit.
The Highway Code requires drivers to move into the left-hand lane in good time rather than attempting last-minute lane changes near the exit.
2
Signal left in good time, using the 300-yard countdown marker to time the indicator while maintaining carriageway speed.
Surrounding road users are alerted to your intention to leave the motorway.
Signalling early while maintaining a steady cruising speed prevents following drivers from misinterpreting your intentions or braking unnecessarily.
3
Steer smoothly across into the deceleration lane without harsh braking on the live carriageway.
The vehicle enters the slip road safely without causing a hazard to traffic continuing on the main carriageway.
Braking on the live motorway before entering the slip road creates severe rear-end collision risks for trailing high-speed traffic.
4
Apply the brakes smoothly once completely within the deceleration lane to bring the speed down for the slip road.
The vehicle reaches an appropriate speed for the slip road bends or end-of-ramp junction.
Deceleration lanes are specifically designed to absorb braking off the main high-speed carriageway.
Key Concept
Motorway lane discipline when exiting requires establishing position in Lane 1 well before the junction, signalling at the countdown markers, and delaying braking until fully within the deceleration lane.
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 6Question →
While negotiating a turn on a wet road, the rear of your car loses grip and begins to slide to the left. In what sequence should you carry out the following actions to safely correct the skid and resume driving?
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Answer
The correct sequence is to release the accelerator pedal smoothly without braking, turn the steering wheel to the left into the direction of the skid, centralise the steering wheel as the vehicle straightens, and finally apply gentle acceleration once the vehicle is fully stabilised.
When the rear of a vehicle slides to the left, the driver must first release the accelerator to reduce rotational force and help the tyres regain grip without inducing wheel lockup from braking. The driver must then steer into the direction of the slide (to the left) to align the front wheels with the slide. As the vehicle begins to straighten, the steering must be centralised promptly to prevent a secondary slide in the opposite direction, after which gentle power may be restored.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Ease off the accelerator pedal immediately while keeping off the footbrake.
Engine power to the driving wheels is cut and vehicle weight shifts smoothly forward.
Harsh braking or sudden throttle changes further break tyre adhesion on slippery surfaces.
2
Steer into the skid by turning the steering wheel to the left.
The front wheels point along the vehicle's true path of motion.
This counters the rotational force and arrests the sliding rear end.
3
Straighten the steering wheel as the rear wheels grip the road.
The car aligns smoothly with the intended line of travel.
Holding the steering angle too long causes an over-correction and a violent slide in the opposite direction.
4
Reapply gentle, smooth throttle.
Stable forward progress is re-established.
Gradual acceleration settles the chassis once the tyres have fully regained grip.
Key Concept
Correcting a rear-wheel skid through smooth pedal and steering control
Estimated Time:45s
Question 7Question →
You are driving in the middle lane of a three-lane dual carriageway and intend to move into the right-hand lane to overtake a slower vehicle. In what sequence should you carry out the following actions?
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Answer
The correct sequence is: Check interior and right door mirrors, signal right, check the right blind spot, and steer smoothly into the right-hand lane.
According to the official DVSA driving standard and Highway Code, drivers must apply the Mirrors-Signal-Manoeuvre (MSM) routine when changing lanes. This requires checking the interior mirror and appropriate exterior mirror first, applying the indicator signal to warn other road users, making a quick sideways glance into the blind spot to verify clearance, and finally executing the manoeuvre smoothly.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Check the interior mirror followed by the right-hand door mirror.
Assesses the presence, distance, and closing speed of vehicles behind and in the adjacent lane.
The driver must evaluate the rearward traffic situation before making any other driving decision.
2
Apply the right-turn direction indicator.
Informs road users ahead and behind of your planned lane change in good time.
Signals must be given only after checking mirrors so you do not mislead other drivers if a manoeuvre is unsafe.
3
Perform a brief sideways glance over the right shoulder into the blind spot.
Detects any vehicle, such as an overtaking car or motorcycle, hidden from mirror view.
Mirrors do not cover the entire area alongside the rear quarter of the vehicle.
4
Move smoothly into the target lane while maintaining appropriate speed.
Completes the lane change safely without cutting across or causing other vehicles to brake.
The manoeuvre is the final phase of the Mirrors-Signal-Manoeuvre (MSM) routine.
Key Concept
Pre-manoeuvre observation requires following the Mirrors-Signal-Manoeuvre (MSM) routine, concluding with a blind-spot shoulder check before altering vehicle position.
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 8Question →
You intend to turn left into a side road while travelling near a cyclist who is riding ahead on your left. Arrange the following actions in the correct sequential order required by the Highway Code to complete the turn safely.
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Answer
The correct order is: Check interior and left door mirrors -> Signal left in good time -> Reduce speed and hold back behind the cyclist -> Allow the cyclist to pass the junction mouth -> Perform a final left blind-spot check before turning.
Under Highway Code Rule H3 (Hierarchy of Road Users) and standard MSM procedures, drivers turning left must check mirrors first, signal their intention, hold back behind a cyclist travelling ahead, wait for them to pass the junction mouth, and perform a final blind-spot observation before committing to the turn.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Check rear and nearside mirrors.
Establishes awareness of the cyclist's exact position, pace, and following traffic.
The Mirrors-Signal-Manoeuvre (MSM) routine mandates assessing the road situation before indicating or altering speed.
2
Apply the left indicator well in advance.
Gives clear, timely notice to other road users of your intention to turn left.
Early signalling communicates intent without forcing sudden reactions from vulnerable road users.
3
Ease off the accelerator and maintain a safe following distance behind the cyclist.
Prevents placing the cyclist in immediate danger or squeezing them towards the kerb.
Highway Code Rule H3 explicitly forbids overtaking and turning across the path of a cyclist travelling straight ahead.
4
Wait until the cyclist has cleared the junction entrance completely.
Ensures the path across the cycle lane and into the side road is completely unobstructed.
Cyclists going ahead have priority over turning motor traffic at junctions.
5
Check the left blind spot and make the turn smoothly.
Safely completes the left turn into the side road.
A final glance eliminates any remaining blind spots before crossing the cycle path and entering the new road.
Key Concept
Highway Code Rule H3 and the MSM Routine when turning across a cyclist's path
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 9Question →
While driving on a free-flowing three-lane motorway, you need to overtake a slower vehicle travelling ahead in your lane and subsequently return to your original lane. In what sequence should you carry out these driving actions?
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Answer
The correct sequence begins with checking mirrors and blind spots, followed by signalling right and moving into the overtaking lane, passing the vehicle steadily, verifying adequate forward clearance in the interior mirror, and finally signalling left to return to the left-hand lane and cancelling the indicator.
Safe overtaking on a motorway requires a strict adherence to the Mirror-Signal-Manoeuvre routine. Drivers must first verify that lane 2 and their blind spots are clear before signalling and moving out. After overtaking, the driver must confirm adequate separation distance using the interior mirror before signalling left, returning to the left-hand lane, and cancelling the indicator.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Check interior mirror, right door mirror, and the right-side blind spot before signalling.
Establishes comprehensive situational awareness and ensures lane 2 is clear of faster-approaching traffic.
Highway Code Rule 267 mandates thorough observation before initiating an overtaking manoeuvre to avoid causing other drivers to brake or swerve.
2
Indicate right and smoothly steer out into lane 2.
Alerts other road users to your intention and transitions your vehicle into the overtaking lane.
Signalling must happen only after confirming the gap is safe, allowing a controlled change of direction.
3
Drive past the overtaken vehicle at a safe, legal speed without lingering in their blind spot.
Completes the physical passage alongside the vehicle.
Maintaining appropriate lane discipline and prompt progression prevents unnecessary lane hogging and reduces exposure to side hazards.
4
Observe the interior rear-view mirror until the overtaken vehicle's headlights/front bumper appear.
Confirms sufficient stopping distance between both vehicles.
Using the interior mirror gives an accurate perspective of depth and distance, ensuring you will not cut across the other driver's front.
5
Signal left, steer smoothly back into lane 1, and ensure the indicator is cancelled.
Restores primary lane discipline in the left-hand lane.
Highway Code Rule 264 requires returning to the left-hand lane once overtaking is complete, while cancelling the signal avoids confusing following drivers.
Key Concept
Motorway Overtaking Procedure and Lane Discipline
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 10Question →
You are travelling in the right-hand lane of a two-lane urban road approaching a Zebra crossing. A tall delivery van is stationary in the left lane, directly before the crossing area. Arrange the following driver actions into the safest and most legally compliant chronological sequence.
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Answer
The correct sequence is to first identify the static hazard, manage your speed and mirrors, halt alongside the van to prevent an illegal overtake, thoroughly scan the resulting blind spot, and finally proceed only when the crossing is verified clear.
The correct sequence ensures full compliance with Highway Code Rule 191. By identifying the hazard early, managing speed, and stopping alongside the van, the driver legally avoids overtaking the leading vehicle. Scanning the blind spot from a stationary position ensures no pedestrians are missed before safely proceeding.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Hazard Identification
Recognise the van as a static hazard indicating a potential pedestrian.
Early identification provides the necessary time to execute defensive driving routines.
2
Speed Management and Observation
Check mirrors and reduce speed on approach.
You must assess following traffic before altering your speed or position near a high-risk crossing.
3
Legal Compliance (Stopping)
Stop the vehicle without passing the front of the van.
Rule 191 strictly prohibits overtaking the leading vehicle stopped at a pedestrian crossing to protect vulnerable road users.
4
Blind Spot Scanning
Actively look for pedestrians hidden by the van's bulk.
Pedestrians may be walking across from the left and would be completely hidden from your initial viewpoint.
5
Safe Progression
Proceed across the Zebra crossing.
You must only move off when you are absolutely certain there are no pedestrians on the crossing.
Key Concept
Navigating obscured pedestrian crossings and complying with overtaking prohibitions.
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 11Question →
You are driving a vehicle that loses speed on a steep motorway incline where a climbing (crawler) lane is provided. In what order should you carry out the following actions to maintain proper lane discipline?
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Answer
The correct sequence begins with checking mirrors and signalling left, moving into the climbing lane, remaining in the climbing lane during the ascent, and finally checking right-hand mirrors and blind spots before rejoining the main running lane as the climbing lane ends.
According to the Highway Code, climbing (crawler) lanes are provided on steep motorway gradients so slow-moving traffic can pull to the left and avoid obstructing faster vehicles. The procedure begins with the Mirrors - Signal - Manoeuvre routine to safely enter the climbing lane, staying in that lane throughout the climb, and finishing with comprehensive mirror and blind-spot checks before merging back into the normal running lane as the climbing lane terminates.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Apply the Mirrors - Signal - Manoeuvre routine before entering the climbing lane.
Observation and indication confirm that moving left into the newly opened crawler lane is safe without endangering following traffic.
Safe lane changes always require checking mirrors and signalling intentions prior to altering course.
2
Transition smoothly into the designated climbing lane on the left.
The main running lanes remain clear of slow-moving obstruction.
The Highway Code instructs slower traffic to use climbing lanes to prevent congestion on steep gradients.
3
Maintain vehicle progress within the climbing lane for the duration of the hill climb.
Faster-moving vehicles can pass unhindered in the main carriageway lanes.
Proper lane discipline requires remaining in the dedicated lane until the gradient levels out.
4
Observe right-hand mirrors, check the blind spot over your right shoulder, and merge back into the main carriageway.
The vehicle safely rejoins the normal running lane as the crawler lane terminates.
Climbing lanes end near the summit, requiring drivers to yield and safely merge back into the continuing traffic flow.
Key Concept
Proper use of motorway climbing (crawler) lanes and the Mirrors - Signal - Manoeuvre routine when entering and exiting dedicated lanes.
Question 12Question →
You are driving at 60 mph in the left-hand lane (Lane 1) of a three-lane motorway and approach a slower-moving vehicle travelling at 50 mph. In what order should you carry out the actions to overtake safely and comply with motorway lane discipline rules?
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Answer
The correct sequence begins with checking the interior and right-hand door mirrors, followed by signalling right, moving into Lane 2 to pass the vehicle, and finally checking mirrors and returning to Lane 1.
The proper sequence adheres to the standard Mirrors-Signal-Manoeuvre (MSM) routine followed by the fundamental motorway rule of keeping left (Rule 264). A driver must first observe rear and side traffic through mirrors, indicate right to warn others, change into Lane 2 to complete the overtake, and immediately return to Lane 1 when safely clear.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Check rear and right-hand mirrors before changing speed or direction.
Driver establishes whether Lane 2 has a safe gap and no faster vehicles are approaching.
The Mirrors-Signal-Manoeuvre (MSM) routine requires situational awareness before indicating.
2
Apply the right turn signal in good time.
Other motorway drivers are alerted to the impending lane change.
Signalling before changing lanes prevents surprises for following and adjacent traffic.
3
Change lanes into Lane 2 and overtake the slower vehicle safely.
The overtaking manoeuvre is carried out smoothly in Lane 2.
Lanes 2 and 3 on a motorway are designated strictly for overtaking slower-moving traffic.
4
Check mirrors to confirm the overtaken vehicle is sufficiently behind, then return to Lane 1.
The vehicle safely returns to the primary driving lane.
Highway Code Rule 264 requires drivers to keep in the left lane unless overtaking.
Key Concept
Motorway lane discipline and the Mirrors-Signal-Manoeuvre routine during overtaking
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 13Question →
Road markings ahead indicate that your current lane will soon become a mandatory right-turn-only filter lane, but you need to continue straight ahead. In what sequence should you carry out the actions to safely move into the adjacent straight-ahead lane?
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Answer
The correct sequence is: Check interior and right door mirrors, Signal right in good time, Perform a brief blind-spot check over your right shoulder, Steer smoothly into the straight-ahead lane while matching traffic speed, and Cancel your direction indicator once established in the new lane.
Under Highway Code Rules 137, 138, and the standard Mirrors-Signal-Manoeuvre (MSM) routine, a driver wishing to change lanes must first check interior and door mirrors to assess surrounding traffic, signal their intention in good time, conduct a final blind-spot check to clear unobserved areas, smoothly manoeuvre into the chosen lane, and promptly cancel the signal once established.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Check interior and right exterior door mirrors.
Assesses the presence, speed, and distance of following vehicles.
The Highway Code requires drivers to establish situational awareness before giving signals or changing speed and position.
2
Apply the right direction indicator.
Gives advance notice to other road users of the intended lane change.
Early signalling allows surrounding traffic to anticipate the manoeuvre and adjust accordingly.
3
Check the right-hand blind spot with a quick over-the-shoulder glance.
Ensures no vulnerable road users or overtaking vehicles are hidden in mirror blind spots.
Mirrors cannot eliminate all blind spots, making a physical check essential immediately prior to steering across.
4
Steer smoothly across into the adjacent lane while adjusting speed appropriately.
Completes the physical lateral transition into the chosen lane.
Gradual and controlled movement maintains vehicle stability and integrates safely with traffic.
5
Cancel the indicator signal.
Avoids showing a misleading signal to oncoming or following drivers.
Leaving an indicator on creates confusion about future intentions at subsequent junctions or crossings.
Key Concept
Mirrors-Signal-Manoeuvre (MSM) routine for safe lane positioning and discipline
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 14Question →
You are driving in town behind an articulated lorry. As it approaches a tight left turn, the driver signals left but moves out towards the right side of the road. In what chronological sequence should you respond to this moving hazard?
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Answer
Check your interior and door mirrors to assess trailing traffic, ease off the accelerator to increase your following distance, hold your lane position without moving into the left-hand space, and wait for the lorry to complete its turn before proceeding.
Long articulated vehicles require extra road space to negotiate tight corners and will often swing out to the right to prevent the rear wheels mounting the kerb on the left. The correct defensive driving sequence requires first checking mirrors to understand traffic behind, easing off the accelerator to maintain a safe distance and stay within the driver's mirrors, holding lane discipline without undertaking on the left, and waiting patiently until the lorry has completed its turn.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Check rear-view and side mirrors.
Establishes awareness of vehicles behind prior to slowing down.
Early observation ensures any deceleration does not cause a hazard for following road users.
2
Ease off the accelerator and drop back.
Creates a wide safety buffer and maintains line of sight with the lorry's side mirrors.
Large vehicles have significant blind spots directly behind and along their sides.
3
Maintain lane position without undertaking into the open space on the left.
Avoids the trailer off-tracking sweep zone near the kerb.
Long vehicles must swing out to the right to negotiate tight corners, after which the trailer cuts tightly to the left.
4
Wait until the manoeuvre is complete before proceeding.
Ensures the path ahead is entirely clear of the moving hazard.
Moving prematurely risks collision if the lorry driver pauses, adjusts steering, or has to reverse.
Key Concept
Anticipating Long Vehicle Off-Tracking and Turning Space
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 15Question →
You are driving on an unlit dual carriageway at night when an unexpected engine failure forces you to coast safely onto the nearside verge. In what chronological sequence should you execute the necessary safety precautions and warning procedures according to the Highway Code?
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Answer
1. Switch on hazard warning lights and sidelights, 2. Evacuate all occupants via nearside doors, 3. Move passengers safely behind the barrier onto the embankment facing traffic, 4. Place a warning triangle at least 45 metres behind the vehicle, 5. Contact emergency breakdown services.
Under Highway Code Rule 274, the first priority upon stopping is alerting approaching drivers by turning on hazard warning lights and sidelights in darkness. Next, all passengers must exit safely via the nearside (left) doors and move immediately behind the crash barrier or up the verge/embankment to avoid collision debris. Once everyone is in a safe location, the driver may place a warning triangle at least 45 metres (147 feet) behind the car on the same side of the road if safe to do so. Finally, emergency breakdown assistance should be phoned from the safe refuge area.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Activate the vehicle's hazard warning lights and sidelights immediately upon stopping.
The stationary vehicle becomes visible to approaching drivers on the unlit road.
Highway Code Rule 274 states you must warn other road users as early as possible when stopped on a verge or carriageway.
2
Ensure all occupants exit the car using the nearside (left-hand) doors.
Passengers avoid exposure to the live traffic lanes on the offside of the vehicle.
Exiting onto the verge side minimizes the imminent risk of collisions from fast-moving traffic.
3
Direct all occupants to wait well away from the carriageway and hard shoulder/verge, preferably behind a safety barrier or up an embankment, keeping an eye on oncoming traffic.
Passengers are protected in the event that another vehicle strikes the stationary car.
Remaining inside or near a broken-down vehicle on a high-speed road presents extreme collision hazards.
4
Carefully walk back along the verge to place a warning triangle on the road surface at least 45 metres (147 feet) back on the same side.
Approaching vehicles receive sufficient early warning to adjust course safely.
Warning triangles are permitted and recommended on non-motorway dual carriageways when it is safe to set them out.
5
Call breakdown recovery or highway emergency authorities from the safe vantage point behind the barrier.
Professional assistance is dispatched without putting the driver at risk during the call.
Administrative and recovery calls must never take priority over physical safety and visibility measures.
Key Concept
Highway Code breakdown safety sequence on high-speed dual carriageways: immediate vehicle lighting, nearside evacuation, passenger safe positioning, warning triangle placement, and emergency service contact.
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 16Question →
A driver is the first to arrive at a serious collision blocking an unlit single-carriageway road. In what sequence should the following emergency management actions be carried out to secure the scene safely and effectively?
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Answer
The correct sequence is: first, park safely with hazard lights on to warn traffic; second, don high-visibility clothing and turn off vehicle ignitions; third, contact emergency services (999 or 112) with location details; fourth, check breathing and provide basic first aid to casualties in place.
According to the UK Highway Code and emergency management guidelines, the first priority upon arriving at a collision scene is to protect the scene from further traffic hazards. Once the scene is protected, physical risks such as vehicle ignitions and personal visibility must be managed. Emergency services (999/112) are then contacted with key details, followed by casualty assessment and basic first aid.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Protect the scene and warn other traffic
Oncoming traffic is alerted to the blockage, preventing secondary crashes.
Scene safety must be established first to prevent further danger to approaching drivers, casualties, and rescuers.
2
Eliminate scene hazards and enhance personal visibility
Fire and electrical hazards are curtailed and the responder remains visible at night.
Switching off damaged vehicle ignitions significantly reduces the risk of fuel vapor ignition or electrical fires.
3
Alert emergency services (999/112)
Police, ambulance, and fire services are mobilized with accurate situational data.
Professional medical and recovery teams must be dispatched as early as possible once basic scene details are known.
4
Assess and assist casualties
Life-saving basic first aid is administered without aggravating potential spinal injuries.
Casualties should not be moved unless there is an immediate threat such as fire, and should be supported until professionals arrive.
Key Concept
Prioritization of emergency response and scene safety management at collision sites
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 17Question →
When entering a motorway via a slip road, arrange the following steps in the correct chronological order to merge safely and lawfully.
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Answer
The correct sequence begins with accelerating along the slip road to match motorway traffic speed, followed by checking mirrors and signalling, performing a right-hand blind spot check while yielding priority to carriageway traffic, and finally merging smoothly into lane 1 and cancelling the indicator.
In accordance with Highway Code Rule 259, safe motorway joining requires building up speed on the slip road, checking mirrors and signalling early, making a quick sideways glance into the blind spot while giving priority to main carriageway traffic, and completing the merge smoothly into lane 1.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Accelerate along the slip road
Vehicle speed matches the prevailing speed of traffic on the motorway
Matching traffic speed prevents causing sudden braking or disruption on the main carriageway.
2
Check mirrors and signal right
Awareness of lane 1 traffic is established and intention to merge is communicated
Allows surrounding drivers on the motorway to anticipate your approach.
3
Check blind spot and observe priority
Confirmation that the intended gap is clear and carriageway priority is respected
Highway Code Rule 259 states traffic joining from a slip road must give priority to traffic already on the main carriageway.
4
Merge into lane 1 and cancel indicator
Safe positioning in lane 1 without misleading signals
Completes the manoeuvre safely and avoids confusing following drivers with a continuous signal.
Key Concept
Highway Code Rule 259 procedure for joining the motorway safely from a slip road
Estimated Time:45s
Question 18Question →
While navigating an unlit single-carriageway route during a cloudburst, a build-up of surface water causes your tyres to lose grip and float. In what chronological order should you carry out the following actions to safely regain vehicle control?
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Answer
1. Keep the steering wheel straight and steady without making abrupt directional changes. 2. Ease your foot smoothly off the accelerator pedal without touching the brake. 3. Allow vehicle momentum to drop until the tyre treads disperse the standing water and contact the road surface. 4. Confirm that normal steering resistance has returned before making any necessary course adjustments.
When a vehicle aquaplanes, water builds between the tyres and road, causing steering to feel light. The correct procedure is to first maintain a straight, steady steering angle to prevent a spin. Next, smoothly ease off the accelerator to let engine drag reduce speed without locking the wheels. Then, allow the lower speed to let tyre treads disperse the water layer. Finally, verify that steering weight and feel have returned before resuming normal driving manoeuvres.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Maintain a steady, straight steering angle immediately upon sensing aquaplaning.
Prevents severe yaw or violent directional snatching when tyre grip re-engages.
Turning wheels while floating on water creates an uncontrolled skid the moment the tyres touch tarmac.
2
Gradually lift off the accelerator pedal while avoiding the brake pedal.
Reduces forward speed safely through natural engine braking.
Sudden hard braking on water causes wheels to lock instantly, increasing loss of control.
3
Wait for tyre tread channels to clear standing water as vehicle speed decreases.
The water wedge dissipates and tyre rubber re-establishes contact with the road.
Tyre tread requires a lower speed threshold to effectively evacuate high volumes of standing water.
4
Feel for the return of steering wheel weight and responsiveness before applying further control inputs.
Confirms vehicle has successfully recovered full traction.
Aquaplaning creates light steering; resistance indicates restored grip and safe controllability.
Key Concept
Driver recovery sequence during aquaplaning
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 19Question →
You are driving along an urban major road and plan to turn left into a side road. A cyclist is travelling behind you on your left, and pedestrians are waiting at the pavement edge to cross the entrance of the side road. In what chronological sequence should you carry out the following actions to safely complete the turn?
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Answer
The correct sequence starts with checking interior and left door mirrors, followed by signalling left in good time, holding back behind the cyclist to avoid cutting across them, yielding to pedestrians waiting to cross the side road, and finally making a final blind-spot check before completing the turn.
Safe execution of a left turn into a minor road follows the Mirror-Signal-Manoeuvre (MSM) routine while respecting the Highway Code Hierarchy of Road Users. The driver must first check rear and nearside mirrors to locate following traffic, then signal their intention. Speed must be moderated to hold back behind any cyclist proceeding straight ahead (Rule H3), followed by yielding to pedestrians waiting to cross the junction mouth (Rule H2 and Rule 170). Once all vulnerable road users are clear and a final blind-spot check is made, the turn can be completed safely.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Assess traffic with interior and left door mirrors
Driver identifies the speed and exact positioning of the cyclist on the nearside.
The Mirror-Signal-Manoeuvre (MSM) routine requires thorough observations before giving any signals.
2
Signal left in good time
Surrounding road users, including the cyclist and following vehicles, are alerted to the upcoming turn.
Clear, early signalling gives others sufficient time to react to your intended change of direction.
3
Control speed and hold back behind the cyclist
The risk of a dangerous 'left-hook' collision is eliminated.
Rule H3 of the Highway Code prohibits overtaking or cutting across cyclists who are proceeding straight ahead through or past a junction.
4
Give priority to waiting pedestrians at the junction mouth
Pedestrians are able to cross the entrance of the side road safely.
Rule H2 and Rule 170 require drivers turning into a road to give priority to pedestrians already crossing or waiting to cross.
5
Check blind spots and steer into the side road
The vehicle completes the manoeuvre cleanly and safely into the new road.
A final look ensures that the path remains clear of any late-emerging pedestrians or micromobility users.
Key Concept
Applying the MSM routine alongside updated Highway Code junction priority rules (Hierarchy of Road Users Rules H2 and H3).
Estimated Time:1m 15s
Question 20Question →
You are driving on a two-way urban road and approach a stationary delivery lorry obstructing your lane. In what sequence should you carry out the observation and communication routine before moving out to pass the vehicle?
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Answer
Check the interior rear-view mirror, check the right exterior door mirror, check the right blind spot over your shoulder, signal right to indicate intention, and make a final forward assessment before steering smoothly around the obstruction.
Under official DVSA driving standards and the Highway Code, the Mirrors-Signal-Manoeuvre (MSM) routine requires observation to precede signalling and action. The driver first checks the interior mirror to gauge following traffic, followed by the right door mirror and a shoulder blind spot check to ensure no vulnerable road users are alongside. Only after safety is verified should a right signal be applied, concluding with a final forward scan before steering around the stationary obstruction.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Check the interior rear-view mirror.
Assesses the distance and speed of vehicles directly behind you.
Establishes whether moving out or slowing down will compromise following traffic.
2
Check the right exterior door mirror.
Identifies road users already approaching or overtaking in the adjacent lane.
Ensures the space to the right is clear before planning the manoeuvre line.
3
Look over the right shoulder into the blind spot.
Detects cyclists, motorcyclists, or pedestrians that are hidden from mirror reflections.
Mirrors have physical blind zones that require a direct visual check.
4
Apply the right turn signal if necessary.
Communicates your planned movement to drivers behind, oncoming vehicles, and pedestrians.
Signalling after observation ensures you only signal when the action is safe and appropriate.
5
Make a final forward check and steer out around the obstruction.
Safely carries out the manoeuvre with full awareness of the changing road ahead.
Executes the manoeuvre smoothly once all hazards have been verified and cleared.
Key Concept
Mirrors-Signal-Manoeuvre (MSM) routine and blind spot observation before passing stationary hazards
Estimated Time:1m 15s
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