Observation
Driving safely takes a lot of concentration. Look around constantly and assess the
changing situations as you drive.
Be aware of traffic all around you. Before you carry out any manoeuvre you should
• use your mirrors to assess how your actions will affect traffic behind you
• look around for a final check
• signal if necessary.
If you can’t see behind when reversing, ask a reliable person to guide you.
If you can’t see when emerging from a junction because your view is obstructed by
parked cars, move forward slowly and carefully until you can get a proper view.
Be particularly careful before you overtake. Ensure that
• you have a clear view of the road ahead – there shouldn’t be any bends or dips
• you have enough time to complete the manoeuvre safely.
It’s also important for other road users to know you’re there.
• When it starts to get dark, switch on your lights, even if the street lights aren’t on.
• Where you can’t be seen, such as at a hump bridge, consider using your horn.
Anticipation and awareness
Look at the road signs and markings; these give you information about any hazards.
You should
• follow their advice
• slow down if necessary.
Watch other road users. Try to anticipate their actions so you’re ready if you need to
slow down or change direction.
When turning right onto a dual carriageway, first check that the central reservation is
wide enough for your vehicle.
Be aware of other, more vulnerable road users. Watch out for
• pedestrians, especially where they may be hidden or approaching a crossing
• cyclists, always pass slowly and leave plenty of room
• motorcyclists, who may be obscured by your windscreen pillar.
If you’re approaching traffic lights that have been green for some time, be prepared
to stop because they may change.
However well prepared you are, you may still have to stop quickly in an emergency.
Keep both hands on the wheel as you brake to keep control of your vehicle.
Concentration
Always plan your journey so you
• know what route you need to take
• have regular rest stops.
You’ll not be able to concentrate properly if you’re tired. It’s particularly easy to feel
sleepy on a motorway, so
• don’t drive continuously for more than two hours
• ensure you’ve a supply of fresh air
• if you feel tired, leave at the next exit. Find a safe place to stop and have a
short nap.
Distraction
Don’t let passengers distract you. If you argue with them it will take your mind off
driving. Loud music and high spirits may mean you’re having fun, but it can be
distracting for the driver, and could end in disaster.
You can also be distracted by
• objects hanging in the car
• tuning your radio or inserting a CD
• looking at a map.
Just taking your eyes off the road for a second could be disastrous. In that second,
at 60 mph, your car will travel 27 metres.
Using a mobile phone while you’re driving is illegal. The chance of you having a
collision while you are using one increases by four times. Be safe, switch it off
and use the voicemail service. Wait until you’re parked in a safe and proper place
before you
• retrieve any messages
• make any calls
• send or receive texts.
If you are driving on a motorway you should leave the motorway and stop in a safe
place before using your phone.
If your vehicle has a navigation system, stop in a safe place before using the system.
FAQs
Is it OK to use a ‘hands-free’ phone when driving?
Just because it’s hands-free doesn’t make it safe, it can still distract you. The person
you’re talking to can’t see the traffic situation. They won’t stop speaking to you if
you’re approaching a hazard.
It’s safer not to use a phone at all if you’re driving. Wait and find a safe place
to stop.
I’ve seen yellow lines painted at intervals across the road. What do
they mean?
These encourage drivers to reduce their speed. They may be red. You often see
them on approach to a
• hazard (such as a roundabout)
• reduced speed limit.
I have heard the term ‘blind spot’. What does this mean?
Blind spots are areas that can’t be seen either when using normal forward vision or
when using the mirrors.
Be aware that a lorry driver can’t see you if you’re close behind. Keep well back so the
driver can see you.
