Topic 7: other types of vehicles

Driving Theory Lessons

topic 7: other types of vehicles

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other types of vehicles

When driving, you will share the road with many different types of vehicles. Each type behaves differently and requires different safety considerations. Learning Objectives: In this section, you will learn about:

• different types of vehicles
• how to drive safely when following or approaching them

why this topic matters

Different vehicles:

• have different sizes
• move differently
• have different blind spots
• take longer to stop

Drivers must understand how they behave to stay safe.

Wind effect:Windy weather can:

• blow them off course
• push them into your path

motorcycles

Motorcyclists are vulnerable and can be affected by road and weather conditions

overtaking motorcyclists

When overtaking:

• give plenty of space
• be aware they may swerve

They may swerve:

• to avoid uneven surfaces
• due to wind

If a motorcyclist is in front:

• they may be blown off course
• they may change position suddenly

Keep a safe distance.

motorcyclists ahead

crosswinds (tip)

Crosswinds affect:

• cyclists
• motorcyclists
• vehicles towing caravans/ trailers
• high-sided vehicles

These vehicles can be blown off course. Give extra room when overtaking or following.

Motorcyclists may struggle on:

• wet roads
• metal drain covers

Allow extra space and be cautious.

slippery surfaces

large vehicles

Large vehicles (e.g. lorries):

• block your view of the road ahead
• take longer to overtake

following large vehicles

When following:

• stay well back
• increase your viewing distance

This helps you:

• see ahead
• be seen in mirrors

overtaking large vehicles

Overtaking large vehicles is risky because:

• it takes longer
• visibility is limited

Never overtake unless:

• you can see clearly ahead
• it is safe to complete the manoeuvre

Before overtaking:

• move out slightly to improve view
• drop back if needed

Never begin overtaking unless:

• you can complete it safely

safe overtaking position

wet weather hazard

In wet conditions:

• large vehicles spray water
• this reduces visibility

Drivers should:

• use dipped headlights
• drop back until visibility improves

If visibility is very poor:

• you may use fog lights

Large vehicles need more space at:

• junctions
• roundabouts
• mini roundabouts

large vehicle manoeuvres

turning behaviour

Large vehicles may:

• swing wide
• move away from the direction they turn

Example:

• may move right before turning left

Do NOT try to squeeze past.

When waiting to turn:

• do not assume a large vehicle is going straight
• it may be preparing to turn

Wait until it is safe.

junction safety

Even if it looks safe to turn:

• another vehicle may be hidden behind a large vehicle

Always check carefully.

hidden danger at junctions

If driving downhill and a large vehicle is coming uphill:

• slow down
• be prepared to stop

Large vehicles may struggle to stop or restart uphill.

hill hazard (tip)

Buses:

• stop frequently
• pick up and drop off passengers

buses

Passengers may:

• cross the road suddenly
• step out from behind the bus

Be prepared to slow or stop.

bus stop hazard

A bus may:

• pull out unexpectedly

Give way if safe and allow it to move.

bus moving off

trams

Trams operate in some cities

They:

• are very quiet
• move quickly
• cannot steer to avoid you

Take extra care around trams because:

• they cannot change direction
• they need a long distance to stop

Tram safety

Some traffic lights include:

• extra white signals for trams

Drivers should:

• understand and obey these signals

tram signals

powered vehicles for disabled people

These include:

• mobility scooters
• powered wheelchairs

Speed of mobility vehicles

Mobility vehicles:

• have a maximum speed of 8 mph (12 km/h) on roads

Safety around mobility vehicles

Drivers should:

• be patient
• reduce speed
• give extra space

They are highly vulnerable.

meeting the standards

You must be able to:

• look out for other road users
• predict what they may do
• monitor and adjust your driving

knowledge required

You must know and understand:

• how different vehicles behave
• the positions they may take on the road

Examples include:

• large vehicles
• buses and coaches
• trams
• motorcyclists

final summary

To drive safely around different vehicles:

• understand their limitations
• give them space
• anticipate their actions
• adjust speed and position