Safe Driving Techniques Flashcards

What is the recommended following distance when driving at 90 km/h on a Singapore expressway?

Answer: At least 3 seconds behind the vehicle in front (the 3-second rule)

The 3-second rule is the recommended minimum following distance in dry conditions: as the vehicle ahead passes a fixed point, your vehicle should not reach that point for at least 3 seconds. In wet or poor visibility conditions, the gap should be doubled to 6 seconds.

When should a driver use hazard warning lights in Singapore?

Answer: When the vehicle is stationary and causing an obstruction, or in an emergency

Hazard warning lights should be used when the vehicle is stationary and creating an obstruction for other road users, or in an emergency situation. They should NOT be used routinely in heavy rain or as a signal when driving, as this can confuse other drivers.

What is the correct procedure for merging onto an expressway from an on-ramp in Singapore?

Answer: Adjust speed to match the expressway traffic flow and merge smoothly using the acceleration lane, giving way to vehicles already on the expressway

When merging onto an expressway, drivers should use the acceleration lane to build up speed to match the expressway traffic, check mirrors and blind spots for gaps, use the indicator, and merge smoothly when safe. Drivers already on the expressway have right of way.

What should a PHC driver do when a passenger requests a route that the driver believes is unsafe or illegal?

Answer: Politely explain why the route cannot be taken and suggest a safe, legal alternative

PHC drivers have a professional duty to drive safely and legally. If a passenger requests an unsafe or illegal route, the driver should politely decline, explain the reason, and offer a safe, legal alternative. Drivers should never compromise safety to satisfy a passenger's preference.

What is 'defensive driving' in the context of professional PHC operation?

Answer: Anticipating potential hazards and the actions of other road users, maintaining safe distances, and having escape routes planned

Defensive driving is a proactive approach to driving that involves anticipating hazards and the unpredictable behaviour of other road users, maintaining adequate following distances, scanning the road ahead, and always having a plan B if something unexpected happens.

When approaching a pedestrian crossing with a pedestrian waiting to cross in Singapore, what must a driver do?

Answer: Stop and give way to the pedestrian

Under Singapore's Road Traffic Act, drivers must stop and give way to pedestrians who are at or near a pedestrian crossing and waiting to cross. Failure to give way to pedestrians at crossings is an offence and carries demerit points.