Motorway Driving and CPC Requirements Flashcards

What is the stopping distance for a fully laden artic truck at 90 km/h on a wet road?

Answer: Up to 150 metres or more — significantly more than a car's stopping distance in the same conditions

A fully laden articulated truck at 90 km/h on a wet road may take 150 metres or more to stop. Mass multiplied by speed creates enormous momentum. Maintaining large following distances is critical.

What is 'eco-driving' and why is it emphasised in Driver CPC training?

Answer: A fuel-efficient driving style — smoother acceleration, anticipating traffic, high gear at low revs — reduces fuel consumption, emissions, and operating costs

Eco-driving reduces fuel consumption by 10-15% through smooth acceleration, anticipation, maintaining momentum, and selecting appropriate gears. It also reduces wear on brakes and tyres — lowering total operating costs significantly.

When driving a truck at night on a motorway, what special precautions apply?

Answer: Increased following distances, checking mirrors more frequently for faster overtaking vehicles, and awareness of fatigue — night driving increases crash risk significantly

Night driving increases fatigue risk significantly. Reduced visibility means hazards appear later. Faster cars overtaking at night create wind buffet. Increased following distances and fatigue management are essential.

What is the purpose of motorway service areas for professional truck drivers?

Answer: To provide a safe, legal place to take mandatory breaks and rests — using the hard shoulder for rest is not permitted

Service areas provide safe, legal places for truck drivers to take their mandatory 45-minute breaks and daily rest stops. Using the hard shoulder for anything other than an emergency is illegal.

What is the significance of 'high-sided vehicle' warnings on motorway gantry signs?

Answer: Strong crosswinds make high-sided vehicles vulnerable to overturning — reduce speed significantly and grip the wheel firmly in exposed sections

High-sided vehicles (trucks, buses, curtainsiders, box trailers) present a large surface area to crosswinds. Strong lateral wind forces can cause rollover, especially on bridges and open exposed sections of motorway.

What is the correct procedure when a motorway closure diverts traffic onto an alternative route?

Answer: Follow official diversion signs, be aware of height and weight restrictions on alternative routes, and plan extra time for the detour

Follow official diversion signs for the correct vehicle type. Be especially careful about low bridges, weight-restricted roads, and narrow lanes on diversion routes. Motorway-standard roads may not have these restrictions.