Hazard Awareness Flashcards

What is the 'blind spot' in driving and how should you manage it?

Answer: An area not visible in mirrors that requires a head check before changing lanes or merging

Blind spots are areas around your vehicle that cannot be seen in any mirror. Before changing lanes, merging, or manoeuvring, you should perform a quick head check (shoulder check) to ensure no vehicle, cyclist, or pedestrian is in your blind spot.

You are approaching a bend on a country road. What should you consider?

Answer: Reduce speed before the bend, position correctly, look for oncoming traffic or hazards, and be able to stop within the distance you can see

On Irish country roads, bends can hide hazards such as oncoming traffic, cyclists, animals, or debris. You should reduce speed before entering the bend (not during), position left in your lane, and ensure you can stop within the visible distance.

What additional hazards should you be aware of when driving at night?

Answer: Reduced visibility, fatigue, dazzle from oncoming headlights, and difficulty judging speed and distance

Night driving presents several hazards: significantly reduced visibility, driver fatigue, dazzle from oncoming headlights, difficulty judging distances, and reduced visibility of pedestrians, cyclists, and animals. Drive slower and increase following distances.

You see black ice on the road ahead. What should you do?

Answer: Reduce speed very gently, avoid sudden braking, steering, or acceleration, and keep movements smooth and gradual

Black ice is extremely dangerous because it is nearly invisible and very slippery. The safest approach is to reduce speed gradually, avoid sudden inputs (braking, steering, or acceleration), and maintain a gentle, steady path. Sudden movements will cause loss of control.

When driving behind a cyclist on a narrow road, what is the safest approach?

Answer: Stay behind at a safe distance until it is safe to pass, then leave at least 1.5 metres clearance when overtaking

Cyclists are vulnerable road users. Wait behind at a safe distance until you can see far enough ahead to pass safely. When overtaking, leave at least 1.5 metres of clearance and pass at a safe speed. Do not intimidate cyclists with horn use or close passing.

What hazard does fog present and how should you adjust your driving?

Answer: Severely reduced visibility; use dipped headlights and fog lights, reduce speed, increase following distance, and be prepared to stop within the distance you can see

Fog can dramatically reduce visibility. Use dipped headlights (full beam reflects off fog and worsens visibility), switch on fog lights, reduce speed significantly, increase following distance, and listen for traffic. Never drive faster than your visibility allows.