Skid Prevention and Defensive Driving Flashcards

What is the most common cause of skidding in a bus or coach?

Answer: Excessive speed for the road conditions

Skids are most often caused by driving too fast for the prevailing road and weather conditions.

If the rear of a bus begins to skid to the right (oversteer), what should the driver do?

Answer: Steer gently into the skid (to the right) and avoid harsh braking

Steering into the direction of the skid (the direction the rear is moving) helps the driver regain control.

What does 'defensive driving' mean for a PCV driver?

Answer: Anticipating hazards and adjusting driving to keep a safe space cushion around the vehicle

Defensive driving means anticipating hazards ahead and maintaining safe space to respond without emergency manoeuvres.

On a downhill gradient, which driving technique best prevents brake fade in a fully loaded coach?

Answer: Using a lower gear to provide engine braking rather than relying solely on the footbrake

Engine braking via a lower gear reduces brake temperature and prevents brake fade on descents.

What is the stopping distance of a double-deck bus travelling at 30 mph on a wet road compared to a dry road?

Answer: About twice as long

On a wet road, stopping distances for large vehicles roughly double compared to dry conditions.

What is the recommended safe following distance for a coach travelling at 60 mph on a dry motorway?

Answer: At least 3 seconds (greater on large vehicles)

A minimum 2-second gap is advised for cars; large vehicles should use at least 3 seconds or the 'metre per tonne' rule.