Motorway Rules for LGVs Flashcards

How should an LGV driver manage their vehicle when driving through a motorway tunnel?

Answer: Follow the tunnel's specific rules — maintain distance, no overtaking, keep lights on, do not stop unless emergency

In motorway tunnels, drivers must follow specific rules: maintain safe following distance, keep lights on, do not stop (unless emergency), no overtaking (in some tunnels), and be aware of emergency exits. LGV drivers carrying dangerous goods face additional restrictions.

What is an 'emergency area' (orange SOS box) on a smart motorway used for?

Answer: For vehicles to stop in an emergency when there is no hard shoulder

Emergency Refuge Areas (ERAs) on smart motorways are designed as safe stopping points for vehicles that have a problem. They are marked in orange, include emergency SOS telephones, and should be used whenever possible instead of stopping in a running lane.

What should an LGV driver do when emergency/police vehicles with blue lights approach on a motorway?

Answer: Move to the left and create space — do not brake sharply or move onto the hard shoulder

When emergency vehicles approach with lights and sirens, drivers should move to the left to create a clear lane if safely possible. Do not brake sharply or move dangerously — LGV drivers must be careful not to mount the hard shoulder unnecessarily.

At what point is a driver allowed to reverse on a motorway?

Answer: Never — reversing on a motorway is prohibited

Reversing on a motorway is absolutely prohibited. If a driver misses their junction, they must continue to the next junction. Reversing on a motorway is extremely dangerous and is a serious traffic offence.

What additional restriction applies to LGVs over 7.5 tonnes in terms of overtaking on a motorway?

Answer: They are limited to lanes 1 and 2 and must not use lane 3 when overtaking

LGVs over 7.5 tonnes may move into lane 2 to overtake slower vehicles but are prohibited from lane 3. Overtaking is allowed in lane 2, but they must return to lane 1 when safe to do so.

What is the recommended technique for an LGV driver dealing with high crosswinds on a motorway bridge?

Answer: Reduce speed, hold the steering wheel firmly, and be prepared for a sudden gust on leaving the bridge

Bridges and exposed sections experience stronger crosswinds. LGV drivers should reduce speed before the exposed section, grip the wheel firmly, and be particularly aware of the sudden gust effect when leaving a sheltered area (like entering or exiting a cutting).