RTT On Motorways 5 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of the chevron markings painted on the road between lanes at motorway contraflow systems?
- To indicate a bus lane
- To mark the safe separation distance between lanes (Correct answer)
- To show where U-turns are permitted
- To indicate a higher speed zone
Correct answer: To mark the safe separation distance between lanes
Chevrons in contraflow and lane-narrowing zones define a safe buffer between opposing or adjacent traffic flows.
Question 2: How does cold weather affect a motorcycle's tire performance on a motorway?
- Tires grip better in cold, dry conditions
- Cold tires have reduced grip until they reach operating temperature (Correct answer)
- Cold weather has no significant effect on modern tires
- Tires overinflate in cold weather, improving contact patch
Correct answer: Cold tires have reduced grip until they reach operating temperature
Cold tires are harder and grip less effectively; riders should ride gently until tires warm up to operating temperature.
Question 3: What does a flashing amber light on a motorway overhead gantry indicate?
- The motorway is closed ahead
- A hazard ahead — slow down and be prepared to stop (Correct answer)
- Maintenance vehicles are present — use the hard shoulder
- Speed cameras are active
Correct answer: A hazard ahead — slow down and be prepared to stop
Flashing amber lights signal a temporary hazard; reduce speed and be prepared for changing conditions ahead.
Question 4: At what point is a motorcyclist allowed to exceed the 70 mph national motorway speed limit?
- When overtaking a slower vehicle
- When the road is clear and visibility is excellent
- Never — 70 mph is the absolute maximum (Correct answer)
- When road signs show a higher limit
Correct answer: Never — 70 mph is the absolute maximum
70 mph is the absolute maximum speed limit on motorways and may never legally be exceeded regardless of conditions.
Question 5: A motorcyclist notices a warning triangle placed 150 yards before a broken-down vehicle on the motorway. What does this mean?
- The breakdown is in a safe location and no action is needed
- A hazard is ahead — reduce speed and be prepared to move lanes (Correct answer)
- The motorway is closed beyond that point
- Emergency services are already on scene and the lane is clear
Correct answer: A hazard is ahead — reduce speed and be prepared to move lanes
A warning triangle indicates a stopped vehicle ahead; slow down, increase following distance, and move to a safer lane if possible.
Question 6: When exiting a motorway, at which point should a rider begin decelerating?
- At the exit road itself once off the carriageway
- On the deceleration lane after the exit slip road begins (Correct answer)
- In lane 1 before reaching the deceleration lane
- At the roundabout or junction at the end of the slip road
Correct answer: On the deceleration lane after the exit slip road begins
Deceleration should begin on the slip road's deceleration lane, not on the main carriageway, to avoid disrupting motorway traffic.
Question 7: Which of these best describes 'motorway hypnosis' and its danger to motorcyclists?
- A type of speed-induced euphoria that improves reaction times
- A trance-like state from monotonous riding that reduces alertness and reaction times (Correct answer)
- Dazzling from oncoming headlights that impairs vision
- Vibration from the road surface causing hand numbness
Correct answer: A trance-like state from monotonous riding that reduces alertness and reaction times
Motorway hypnosis is a reduced awareness state caused by monotony; it slows reaction times and can cause riders to miss hazards entirely.
RTT On Motorways 5
What is the primary purpose of the chevron markings painted on the road between lanes at motorway contraflow systems?