Highway Safety Fundamentals

What are the general principles of driving signals?Signals should be clear, given in good time, and inform other road users of your intended actions (changing course or direction, stopping, or moving off). It is crucial to ensure signals are not misleading; for example, don't signal to stop until you've passed a side road you're not turning into. Always cancel signals after use, and if necessary, use arm signals to reinforce them. Remember that signaling does not grant you priority.
How should drivers react to signals from other road users and authorized personnel?Drivers should actively watch for signals given by other road users and only proceed when it is safe to do so. Be aware that indicators on other vehicles might not have been cancelled. It is mandatory to obey signals given by police officers, traffic officers, traffic wardens, and signs used by school crossing patrols. Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency officers and Traffic Officers also have powers to stop vehicles, and their signals must be obeyed.
When and how should headlights and other lights be used?Sidelights and rear registration plate lights must be lit between sunset and sunrise. Headlights should be used at night, except on roads with lit street lighting (typically restricted to lower speed limits), and when visibility is seriously reduced. Front or rear fog lights should only be used when visibility is seriously reduced and switched off as visibility improves to avoid dazzling others. Never use any lights in a way that dazzles or causes discomfort to other road users. In stationary traffic, use the parking brake and release the footbrake to minimize glare from brake lights. Dipped headlights should be used at night in built-up areas and in dull daytime weather to ensure visibility.
What are the recommended techniques for braking and controlling a vehicle, especially in emergencies or difficult conditions?For normal circumstances, brake early and lightly, increasing pressure as you slow down, and easing off just before stopping to avoid a jerky stop. In an emergency, brake immediately, trying to avoid locking the wheels, which can lead to loss of control. If skidding occurs, release the brake or ease off the accelerator and steer in the direction of the skid to recover. Vehicles with ABS require firm application of the footbrake in emergencies, as the system helps retain steering control, but it doesn't necessarily shorten stopping distance. After driving through deep water, test your brakes at the first safe opportunity. Avoid "coasting" (travelling in neutral or with the clutch pressed down) as it reduces control.
What are the rules regarding speed limits and appropriate speeds?Drivers must not exceed the maximum speed limits for the road and vehicle type. A 30 mph limit generally applies to roads with street lights (20 mph in Wales) unless otherwise signed. Speed limits are the absolute maximum and it may not be safe to drive at that speed depending on conditions. Unsafe speeds increase the risk and severity of collisions and can intimidate other road users. Always reduce speed when road conditions are hazardous, when sharing the road with vulnerable users (pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders), in poor weather, or when driving at night.
How should drivers manage stopping distances and avoid tailgating?Drive at a speed that allows you to stop well within the visible distance. Maintain enough space between your vehicle and the one in front to stop safely if they suddenly brake. On high-speed roads and in tunnels, a two-second gap is recommended, doubled on wet roads and up to ten times greater on icy roads. Large vehicles and motorcycles require greater stopping distances. Tailgating, which is driving too close to the vehicle in front, is dangerous, intimidating, and can cause collisions. Maintaining a safe distance provides time to react and stop.
What are the rules and guidance regarding road markings and lane discipline on multi-lane carriageways?Road markings like broken white lines (centre of the road), double white lines (broken nearer you allows crossing to overtake if safe, solid nearer you prohibits crossing unless necessary for access or passing specific slow vehicles), and areas of white diagonal stripes (separating lanes or protecting turning traffic, enter only if necessary and safe if bordered by broken lines, never enter if bordered by solid lines except in emergency) provide important information. Lane dividers are short broken lines separating lanes on wide carriageways. Reflective road studs also indicate lanes and road edges. On multi-lane carriageways, use mirrors and quick glances before changing lanes, signal intentions, and move over when safe. Follow signs for lane directions and avoid unnecessary lane changes in congested traffic. Merge in turn is recommended at very low speeds. On dual carriageways with two lanes, stay in the left-hand lane and use the right for overtaking or turning right, returning to the left lane when safe. On dual carriageways with three or more lanes, you can use middle or right lanes to overtake but should return to middle then left when safe. Use climbing/crawler lanes if driving a slow vehicle or if vehicles behind want to overtake.
What are the key aspects of safe driving behaviour and considerations for other road users?Concentration is vital for safe driving. Avoid distractions such as loud music, reading maps, adjusting controls, arguing, eating, drinking, or smoking while driving. Smoking is prohibited in certain vehicles under specific circumstances. Drivers must exercise proper control at all times and must not use hand-held mobile phones or similar devices while driving or supervising a learner, except for emergencies or contactless payments when stationary. In-vehicle systems can also be distracting; drivers must remain in control and not over-rely on driver assistance systems. Be considerate of all road users, especially vulnerable ones. Avoid throwing things from a vehicle. Be patient, understanding, and do not become agitated by the behaviour of others. Adapt your driving to the road conditions, not treating speed limits as a target. Be prepared for unexpected hazards and adjust your speed accordingly. Drive slowly and carefully in residential streets, looking out for hazards like emerging vehicles, opening doors, pedestrians, and children. Be aware of traffic-calming measures and reduce speed in these areas. On country roads, take extra care on bends and at junctions, and be prepared for various road users and conditions. On single-track roads, use passing places to allow other vehicles to pass and give way to uphill traffic. Certain motorized vehicles are not legal for use on roads or pavements. Ensure any vehicle used on the road meets legal standards and is properly registered, taxed, and insured.