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 should you anticipate when you see a vehicle ahead with its reversing lights on?
Answer: The vehicle may reverse into your path, from a driveway, side road, or parking space
White reversing lights indicate the vehicle is in reverse gear and may move backwards into your path. Be prepared to stop. The driver may not see you, especially if they are reversing from a driveway or around a corner. Sound your horn gently if necessary.
What is the main hazard perception challenge when driving through roadworks?
Answer: Narrower lanes, contraflow traffic, uneven surfaces, workers near the carriageway, and sudden speed limit changes
Roadworks create multiple simultaneous hazards: narrowed lanes require precise steering, contraflow means oncoming traffic is closer, road surfaces may be uneven or loose, workers may be near the carriageway, and speed limits change abruptly. Maintain concentration and follow temporary signs and signals.
When driving on a motorway, how do you identify a developing hazard in the distance?
Answer: Watch for clusters of brake lights ahead, changes in traffic flow patterns, or motorway signs and signals
On motorways, early hazard identification is crucial due to high speeds. Watch for brake lights cascading through traffic (indicating a slowdown), vehicles changing lanes suddenly, matrix signs showing warnings or speed limits, and debris or breakdowns ahead. Scanning far ahead gives you maximum reaction time.
Why should you be cautious when passing a row of shops on a high street?
Answer: Pedestrians may step off the kerb suddenly, doors may open, and delivery vehicles may be loading
Shopping areas generate multiple hazards: pedestrians stepping off the kerb between cars, delivery vehicles stopping suddenly, car doors opening, people carrying large items, children, and distracted shoppers looking at phones. Reduce speed and scan the pavement as well as the road.
What should alert you to the possibility of black ice on the road?
Answer: The road surface looks wet and shiny but other surfaces are dry, or the temperature gauge reads near or below freezing
Black ice is nearly invisible — the road appears wet and glossy when surrounding surfaces are dry, or your temperature gauge shows near-freezing conditions. Be especially cautious on bridges, overpasses, shaded areas, and north-facing roads where ice forms first.
How does the 'lifesaver look' improve your hazard perception when changing lanes?
Answer: It is a final glance over your shoulder into the blind spot just before committing to the manoeuvre
The 'lifesaver look' is a quick glance over your shoulder into the blind spot immediately before changing lanes or turning. It catches any vehicle, cyclist, or motorcyclist that your mirrors may have missed. It is called the 'lifesaver' because it can literally prevent a fatal collision.