Motorway Rules for LGVs Flashcards
6 cards from real LGV practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Motorway Rules for LGVs flashcards as text
What motorway regulation applies specifically to vehicles towing a trailer?
Answer: Trailer combinations are limited to 60 mph on motorways regardless of vehicle type
Vehicles towing trailers are subject to a 60 mph motorway speed limit. For LGVs already restricted to 60 mph, this makes no additional difference, but driver awareness of trailer stability at speed is important.
What is the procedure for a driver who needs to use a mobile phone in an emergency on a motorway?
Answer: Stop on the hard shoulder or ERA safely before using a phone — never use a phone while driving
Using a hand-held mobile phone while driving is illegal. Even in an emergency, the driver must stop safely before using a phone. On a motorway, this means the hard shoulder or ERA. Hands-free is legal but distracting and not recommended at motorway speed.
What happens to LGV braking performance when driving downhill on a motorway approach gradient?
Answer: Braking distances increase significantly — higher weight means more momentum
A heavily loaded LGV has far greater kinetic energy than a car. Descending a gradient increases approach speed and reduces the effectiveness of brakes over time (brake fade with continuous application). LGV drivers must use engine braking and select low gears before descending.
What is the significance of 'lane discipline' for LGV drivers on a motorway?
Answer: LGVs must return to lane 1 as soon as it is safe after overtaking — lane hogging is an offence
Lane discipline requires drivers to stay in lane 1 unless overtaking. For LGVs, this is especially important as they are already restricted to lanes 1 and 2. Hogging lane 2 obstructs traffic and is a specific motoring offence.
What does a variable message sign (VMS) displaying 'QUEUE AHEAD' mean for an LGV driver?
Answer: Slow down significantly and prepare to stop — there is stationary or very slow traffic ahead
'Queue ahead' means there is stationary or very slow traffic somewhere ahead. LGV drivers must reduce speed substantially because their stopping distances are much greater than cars and they risk ploughing into a stationary queue if they fail to slow down.
What is the impact of fatigue on LGV driving performance on long motorway journeys?
Answer: Fatigue severely impairs reaction time, decision-making, and lane keeping — drivers must take regular breaks
Fatigue is one of the most dangerous factors in HGV accidents. Monotonous motorway driving accelerates fatigue onset. Reaction times slow, lane keeping deteriorates, and micro-sleeps can occur. Regular breaks (as required by tachograph rules) are essential.