Skid Prevention and Defensive Driving Flashcards

What effect does a fully loaded bus have on its cornering stability compared to an empty bus?

Answer: A full bus has a higher centre of gravity, increasing rollover risk in fast cornering

A fully loaded bus raises the centre of gravity, increasing the risk of rollover when cornering too fast.

What is 'aquaplaning' and how should a PCV driver respond if it occurs?

Answer: Aquaplaning is when tyres ride on a water film and lose contact with the road; ease off the accelerator gently and avoid braking

Aquaplaning occurs when tyres float on a water film; the driver should ease off the accelerator gradually and avoid sharp steering or braking.

How does the weight of standing passengers on a single-deck bus affect braking?

Answer: It reduces braking performance due to increased inertia, requiring greater stopping distances

Extra passenger weight increases the vehicle's inertia, meaning it takes longer to stop — the driver must allow more room.

Which of the following best describes the 'limit point' technique for approaching bends?

Answer: The furthest visible point along the road; if it is not moving away, the driver is going too fast

The limit point is the furthest visible point of the road; if it appears stationary or moving closer, the vehicle is too fast for the visibility available.

When driving on ice or packed snow, which technique should a PCV driver use to avoid skidding while braking?

Answer: Apply the brakes progressively and gently, allowing ABS to function if fitted

Progressive, gentle braking allows ABS (if fitted) to operate effectively and avoids wheel lock on slippery surfaces.

What is the effect of a crosswind on a high-sided vehicle such as a double-deck bus?

Answer: Crosswinds can cause the vehicle to be pushed off course, requiring steering correction

Crosswinds exert lateral force on the large surface area of a double-deck bus, pushing it off course.