1. What is a Hazard?

A hazard is any situation requiring a driver to take action, such as braking or steering. Hazards can be:

1. Static Hazards: Parked cars, junctions, roundabouts
2. Moving Hazards: Pedestrians, cyclists, other drivers
3. Road & Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, ice, sunlight
4. Personal Factors: Fatigue, distractions, alcohol, drugs

2. Static Hazards

Types of Static Hazards:

1. Bends
2. Junctions
3. Roundabouts
4. Parked vehicles and road obstructions
5. Roadworks
6. Road surfaces
7. Different types of crossings
8. Traffic lights

Key Points:

1. Always be aware of static hazards and respond accordingly.
2. Slow down and be prepared to stop if necessary.
3. At level crossings with red flashing lights, stop before the barrier, even if it isn’t down yet.

3. Road Signs

1. Road signs and markings give clues about potential hazards.
2. Learn the meanings of road signs from the Highway Code.
3. Anticipate hazards based on signs (e.g., sharp bends, crossings ahead).

4. Parked Vehicles

Hazards associated with parked cars:

1. Children running out from between vehicles.
2. Vehicle doors opening unexpectedly.
3. Vehicles pulling away from parking spots.

Tip: Always assess whether you can stop or avoid these hazards in time.

5. Junctions

1. Reduced visibility at junctions (especially in towns) requires extra caution.
2. Pull forward slowly until you can see clearly.
3. Use reflections in windows to detect approaching vehicles.
4. Do not block junctions when queuing in traffic.
5. Treat malfunctioning traffic-light junctions as unmarked junctions.

6. Motorways & Dual Carriageways

1. Use hazard warning lights briefly to warn others of obstructions.
2. Follow lane-change arrows on slow-moving/stationary vehicles near roadworks.
3. In case of breakdowns, switch on hazard warning lights immediately.

7. Moving Hazards

1. Pedestrians
   1. Be patient when pedestrians are crossing the road.
   2. On country roads without pavements, slow down and allow at least 2 meters of space.
2. Cyclists
   1. Give cyclists at least 1.5 meters of space (more at higher speeds).
   2. Watch for swerving due to potholes or drains.
   3. Be cautious at junctions or traffic lights, allowing them time to move.
3. Motorcyclists
   1. Look out for motorcyclists when:
   2. Emerging from a junction.
   3. Turning right.
   4. Changing lanes or overtaking.
4. Horse Riders
   1. Pass horse riders at under 10 mph with at least 2 meters of space.
5. Large Vehicles
   1. Buses may suddenly move off or have passengers crossing nearby.
   2. High vehicles may need the middle of the road to pass under bridges.
   3. HGVs (over 13m long) have red and yellow rear markings.
6. Vehicles Carrying Hazardous Loads
   1. Some vehicles display hazard signs indicating dangerous loads. Learn these symbols.
7. Overtaking
   1. Be cautious of motorcyclists overtaking.
   2. If necessary, drop back to maintain a safe distance.
   3. Check for overtaking vehicles before making right turns.
8. Disabled Road Users
   1. Reduce speed near mobility scooters, as they are slow and hard to see.
9. Older Drivers
   1. Older drivers may react more slowly—be patient.

8. Road & Weather Conditions

1. Rain/Ice/Fog: Increase stopping distance and drive slower.
2. Bright Sunlight: Can cause glare—use sunglasses and sun visors.
3. Key Rule: Double your usual gap from the car in front to 4 seconds.
4. In icy conditions: Increase the gap up to 10 times.

9. Driver’s Awareness & Fitness to Drive

1. Mirrors & Observation
   1. Always use your mirrors for full awareness of your surroundings.
   2. Convex mirrors provide a wider field of vision.
2. Tiredness
   1. Plan for rest breaks every 2 hours.
   2. Open windows for fresh air.
   3. If tired, pull over at a safe place.
3. Distractions
   1. Common distractions include:
   2. Mobile phones (even hands-free devices)
   3. Loud music
   4. Navigation equipment
   5. Emotional stress

Avoid distractions by:

1. Switching off your phone before driving.
2. Keeping music at a reasonable volume.
3. Stopping in a safe place before checking maps or navigation.

10. Alcohol & Drugs

1. Alcohol
   1. Never drive after drinking alcohol.
   2. Alcohol affects:
   3. Concentration & coordination
   4. Confidence (leading to riskier driving)
   5. Judgment of speed and distance
   6. Reaction times
2. Drugs (Legal & Illegal)
   1. Check medication labels for drowsiness warnings.
   2. Illegal drugs impair driving for up to 72 hours.
   3. Driving under the influence can invalidate insurance.
   4. Convictions lead to higher insurance costs.

11. Eyesight Requirements

1. Your eyesight MUST meet legal driving standards.
2. If necessary, wear glasses or contact lenses.