UK PCV Theory Vulnerable Road Users Questions and Answers

Question 1

According to the Highway Code, what is the recommended maximum speed and minimum distance you should allow when overtaking a horse and rider?

Accepted Answer

10 mph and a gap of at least 2 metres.

Answer

The Highway Code (Rule 215) advises drivers to pass horses wide and slowly. You should slow down to a maximum of 10 mph and allow at least 2 metres of space, being prepared to stop if necessary.

Question 2

You are driving your bus in slow-moving, congested traffic. What particular hazard involving motorcyclists should you be especially vigilant for?

Accepted Answer

Filtering between lanes of traffic, potentially in your vehicle's blind spots.

Answer

Motorcyclists are legally permitted to 'filter' through slow-moving or stationary traffic in the UK. PCV drivers must be highly aware of this, as a motorcycle can easily be hidden in the vehicle's large blind spots. Constant and careful mirror checks are essential before any change in position.

Question 3

You are approaching a Pelican crossing and the traffic light is on flashing amber. A pedestrian is still on the crossing. What is your legal obligation?

Accepted Answer

You must wait for the pedestrian to finish crossing before proceeding.

Answer

The Highway Code (Rule 196) is explicit: at a Pelican crossing, a flashing amber light means you MUST give way to any pedestrians who are still on the crossing. You must not proceed until the crossing is clear.

Question 4

The Highway Code has established a 'hierarchy of road users'. As a PCV driver, what does this principle primarily require of you?

Accepted Answer

To bear the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger you pose to more vulnerable road users.

Answer

The hierarchy of road users (Highway Code Rule H1) places those who can cause the greatest harm (such as drivers of large passenger vehicles) with the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger they pose to others, such as pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders.

Question 5

You are about to turn left into a side road. A cyclist is positioned ahead of you in the centre of the lane, not by the kerb. What is the safest course of action?

Accepted Answer

Hold back, wait for the cyclist to clear the junction, and then turn.

Answer

A cyclist may adopt the 'primary position' (centre of the lane) for safety, to be more visible, or to avoid hazards near the kerb. Overtaking and then turning left is extremely dangerous and a common cause of collisions ('left hook'). The correct procedure is to hold back and wait for the cyclist to proceed safely through the junction before you make your turn.

UK PCV Theory Practice Test

UK PCV Theory Practice Test

UK PCV Theory Vulnerable Road Users Questions and Answers