Hazard Perception Flashcards
6 cards from real DVSA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Hazard Perception flashcards as text
What hazard perception technique helps you prepare for a green traffic light changing?
Answer: Noting how long the light has been green — a 'stale' green light is likely to change soon
A 'stale' green light — one that has been green for a while or that you did not see change from red — may turn amber at any moment. If you notice the pedestrian light has been green for a while, the traffic light will likely change soon. Be prepared to stop smoothly.
Why is it important to check your left mirror and left blind spot before turning left?
Answer: Because cyclists or motorcyclists may be filtering up your left side
Cyclists and motorcyclists often travel along the left side of traffic, especially in slow-moving conditions. Before turning left, check your left mirror and blind spot to ensure no one is alongside you. Cutting across a cyclist is one of the most common causes of serious cycling injuries.
What does an ice cream van stopped at the side of the road indicate as a hazard?
Answer: Children may be nearby, running across the road excitedly and not paying attention to traffic
An ice cream van is a strong indicator that children are nearby. Children may run across the road to or from the van without looking for traffic. Slow down significantly, be prepared to stop, and scan both sides of the road.
How does driving behind a large vehicle affect your hazard perception?
Answer: Your forward visibility is severely reduced, limiting your ability to see hazards, traffic lights, and road signs
A large vehicle ahead blocks your view of the road, traffic lights, signs, and developing hazards. Increase your following distance to improve your view and give yourself more reaction time. If you cannot see past it, do not attempt to overtake.
What is the hazard perception risk at a left-hand bend on a country road?
Answer: Oncoming vehicles may have crossed the centre line, and your view of the road ahead is blocked by hedgerows or walls
On a left-hand bend, your view ahead is limited by the bend itself and any hedgerows, walls, or banks. Oncoming vehicles, including tractors, may be partly in your lane. Reduce speed so you can stop within the distance you can see to be clear.
Why should you be extra cautious at pedestrian crossings when it is raining?
Answer: Pedestrians may have umbrellas obscuring their view and hearing, and the wet road increases your stopping distance
In rain, pedestrians may have umbrellas that block their view and muffle traffic sounds. They may rush across crossings without looking properly. Meanwhile, your stopping distance is increased on wet roads. This combination means you need to approach crossings more slowly and be extra vigilant.