DVSA Vulnerable Road Users 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What particular danger do blind or partially sighted pedestrians present near crossings?
- None — they use crossings the same as everyone else
- They may not see your vehicle approaching and rely on sound — drive slowly and do not rev your engine or sound your horn unnecessarily (Correct answer)
- They always have a guide dog that will stop them
- They are not permitted to cross roads alone
Correct answer: They may not see your vehicle approaching and rely on sound — drive slowly and do not rev your engine or sound your horn unnecessarily
Blind or partially sighted pedestrians may carry a white cane or be accompanied by a guide dog. They rely heavily on hearing to judge when it is safe to cross. Quiet electric and hybrid vehicles pose a particular risk. Be patient, give them time, and avoid any sudden noises that could disorient them.
Question 2: What is the Dutch Reach technique and why is it recommended?
- A method of parking used in the Netherlands
- Opening your car door with the hand furthest from the door, which forces you to turn and look for cyclists before opening (Correct answer)
- A cycling technique for riding in traffic
- A method of checking your blind spot while driving
Correct answer: Opening your car door with the hand furthest from the door, which forces you to turn and look for cyclists before opening
The Dutch Reach involves using your left hand (as a driver) to open the door, which naturally turns your body and head to look over your shoulder for approaching cyclists or traffic. This simple habit can prevent 'dooring' — a major cause of cyclist injuries and deaths.
Question 3: When driving near roadworks with pedestrian diversions, what should you watch for?
- Only the temporary traffic lights
- Pedestrians walking in the road because pavements are closed, and workers near the carriageway (Correct answer)
- Nothing extra — roadworks have their own safety measures
- Only construction vehicles
Correct answer: Pedestrians walking in the road because pavements are closed, and workers near the carriageway
When pavements are closed due to roadworks, pedestrians may be walking in the road or crossing at unexpected points. Workers may also be near the carriageway. Reduce speed, scan for pedestrians on both sides, and be prepared to stop.
Question 4: What should you do if animals are being herded along a road?
- Sound your horn to move them out of the way
- Stop, switch off your engine if necessary, and wait patiently until the road is clear (Correct answer)
- Drive through slowly — they will move aside
- Flash your headlights to alert the handler
Correct answer: Stop, switch off your engine if necessary, and wait patiently until the road is clear
Animals being herded on the road can be startled by engines, horns, or headlights. Stop your vehicle, switch off your engine if necessary, and wait patiently. Do not rev your engine or use your horn. Follow the directions of the person in charge of the animals.
Question 5: Why should you be extra cautious near parked vehicles when cyclists are on the road?
- Parked vehicles have no relevance to cyclists
- A cyclist may need to swerve into your path to avoid a car door opening suddenly (Correct answer)
- Cyclists always ride on the pavement near parked cars
- Parked vehicles protect cyclists from traffic
Correct answer: A cyclist may need to swerve into your path to avoid a car door opening suddenly
Parked vehicle doors opening into a cyclist's path ('dooring') is a serious hazard. Cyclists may ride further from parked cars or swerve suddenly to avoid a door. Give cyclists extra room when parked cars are present and watch for occupants about to exit their vehicles.
Question 6: What does the Highway Code advise when driving near a pedestrian who is using a white cane with a red band?
- They are a slow walker — be patient
- They are both deaf and blind — take extra care as they cannot see or hear your vehicle (Correct answer)
- They have a visual impairment only
- The red band has no specific meaning
Correct answer: They are both deaf and blind — take extra care as they cannot see or hear your vehicle
A white cane with a red band indicates the person is both deaf and blind (deafblind). They can neither see nor hear approaching traffic, making them extremely vulnerable. Pass very slowly and carefully, giving them maximum space. They may have a helper, but treat them with extreme caution regardless.
DVSA Vulnerable Road Users 4
What particular danger do blind or partially sighted pedestrians present near crossings?