DVSA - UK Driving Theory Vulnerable Road Users Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When overtaking a cyclist on a road with a 30 mph speed limit, what is the minimum distance you should leave?
- The width of your car door
- 1.0 metre (approx 3 feet)
- 1.5 metres (approx 5 feet) (Correct answer)
- As much room as you would give a motorcycle
Correct answer: 1.5 metres (approx 5 feet)
The Highway Code (Rule 163) was updated to state that drivers should leave at least 1.5 metres of space when overtaking cyclists at speeds up to 30 mph, and more space at higher speeds. This is to ensure the safety of the cyclist, who may need to swerve to avoid potholes or other hazards.
Question 2: You are approaching a horse and rider on a country lane. What is the maximum speed at which you should pass?
- 10 mph (Correct answer)
- 20 mph
- 30 mph
- The speed is not specified, but you must pass 'wide and slow'
Correct answer: 10 mph
The Highway Code (Rule 215) is very specific about passing horses. You must slow down to a maximum of 10 mph and allow at least 2 metres of space. Horses are flight animals and can be easily scared by vehicles that are moving too fast or are too close.
Question 3: You are driving in queuing traffic and notice a motorcyclist filtering between the lanes. What is the most appropriate action to take?
- Move closer to the vehicle in front to block their path.
- Sound your horn to show you are aware of them.
- Maintain your position and check your mirrors and blind spots before manoeuvring. (Correct answer)
- Flash your headlights to let them pass.
Correct answer: Maintain your position and check your mirrors and blind spots before manoeuvring.
Filtering (or lane splitting) by motorcyclists in slow-moving traffic is not illegal in the UK. Drivers should remain aware of their presence. The correct action is to hold your position and be vigilant, checking mirrors and blind spots frequently, especially before any change in position, as a motorcycle could be alongside you.
Question 4: You are driving past a parked ice cream van on a residential street. What is the main hazard you should be anticipating?
- The van's refrigeration unit may be leaking.
- Children running out into the road from behind the van. (Correct answer)
- The driver suddenly pulling out without indicating.
- Litter being dropped from the van's serving window.
Correct answer: Children running out into the road from behind the van.
Ice cream vans attract children, who may be excited and less aware of road safety. They can run into the road unexpectedly, often from behind the van where they are hidden from your view. You must reduce your speed significantly and be prepared to stop.
Question 5: At a Puffin crossing, the green figure for pedestrians has turned off while someone is still crossing. What will the traffic lights for vehicles show?
- A flashing amber light.
- A steady green light as soon as the figure goes out.
- A steady red light until the crossing is clear. (Correct answer)
- A steady amber light.
Correct answer: A steady red light until the crossing is clear.
Puffin crossings (Pedestrian User-Friendly Intelligent crossings) use sensors to detect if pedestrians are on the crossing. The traffic light will remain red for vehicles until the pedestrian has safely reached the other side, even if the green figure has gone out. Unlike older Pelican crossings, there is no flashing amber phase for drivers.
Question 6: Which of these is a legal requirement for a 'Class 3' powered mobility scooter to be used on the road?
- The user must have a full car driving licence.
- It must be registered with the DVLA. (Correct answer)
- It must be fitted with a flashing amber beacon at all times.
- The user must be over 18 years of age.
Correct answer: It must be registered with the DVLA.
Class 3 mobility scooters, which can travel up to 8 mph on the road, must be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). While they don't require road tax or a driving licence, the user must be at least 14 years old. They must also be equipped with lights, indicators, a horn, and a rear-view mirror for road use.
DVSA - UK Driving Theory Vulnerable Road Users Questions and Answers
When overtaking a cyclist on a road with a 30 mph speed limit, what is the minimum distance you should leave?