LGV Motorway Rules for LGVs 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the minimum distance rule when following another vehicle on a motorway?
- Maintain a separation distance that allows you to stop safely — at least a 2-second gap in dry conditions, doubled in wet (Correct answer)
- One vehicle length for every 10 mph of speed
- 10 metres for every 1 tonne of vehicle weight
- 50 metres at all speeds
Correct answer: Maintain a separation distance that allows you to stop safely — at least a 2-second gap in dry conditions, doubled in wet
The Highway Code recommends maintaining at least a 2-second gap (which should be doubled in wet conditions and increased significantly for heavy vehicles). LGV stopping distances are much greater than cars, so gaps should be larger.
Question 2: Under what circumstances can an LGV driver use lane 3 of a motorway?
- Never — LGVs over 7.5 tonnes are prohibited from lane 3 at all times (Correct answer)
- When overtaking slower lorries
- When directed by matrix signs
- When the motorway has four or more lanes
Correct answer: Never — LGVs over 7.5 tonnes are prohibited from lane 3 at all times
LGVs over 7.5 tonnes are always prohibited from lane 3 on three-lane motorways, regardless of traffic conditions. There is no exception that allows a heavy lorry to use the outside lane.
Question 3: What action should an LGV driver take when approaching motorway roadworks with a lower speed limit displayed?
- Comply with the speed limit — it is mandatory when shown on a matrix sign (Correct answer)
- Treat it as advisory and maintain safe speed
- Slow to the displayed limit only when workers are visible
- The lower limit applies to cars only
Correct answer: Comply with the speed limit — it is mandatory when shown on a matrix sign
Speed limits displayed on motorway matrix signs are legally enforceable mandatory limits, not advisory. LGV drivers must comply with the displayed limit in roadwork zones.
Question 4: On a motorway, what does a flashing amber light on an overhead gantry indicate?
- A hazard ahead — reduce speed and prepare for slower traffic or obstruction (Correct answer)
- Merge into the adjacent lane
- The lane is closing — move right
- An emergency vehicle is ahead
Correct answer: A hazard ahead — reduce speed and prepare for slower traffic or obstruction
Flashing amber lights on motorway overhead gantries warn of a hazard ahead such as an accident, broken down vehicle, or queuing traffic. Drivers must reduce speed and be prepared to stop.
Question 5: What should an LGV driver do before joining a motorway from a slip road?
- Build up speed in the acceleration lane and merge when safe, giving way to motorway traffic (Correct answer)
- Stop at the end of the slip road before joining
- Flash headlights to indicate intention to join
- Join as quickly as possible to avoid disrupting traffic
Correct answer: Build up speed in the acceleration lane and merge when safe, giving way to motorway traffic
On the acceleration lane, drivers should build up speed to match motorway traffic and find a safe gap to merge. Motorway traffic has priority — the joining driver must give way and should not force their way into traffic.
Question 6: What is the Highway Code's guidance on using cruise control on a motorway?
- Cruise control can be used but the driver must remain in full control and be ready to brake immediately (Correct answer)
- Cruise control is prohibited for LGVs
- Cruise control is recommended at all times on motorways
- Cruise control should be used only in lane 1
Correct answer: Cruise control can be used but the driver must remain in full control and be ready to brake immediately
Cruise control can be used on motorways to maintain steady speed and reduce driver fatigue, but the driver must remain alert and in control at all times and be prepared to disengage and respond to hazards immediately.
LGV Motorway Rules for LGVs 2
What is the minimum distance rule when following another vehicle on a motorway?