LGV theory practice test 1

Explanation

Lanes at roadworks often have weight restrictions to keep larger vehicles in the left-hand lane. The lanes through the roadworks are often narrow and therefore not wide enough for large vehicles to pass each other safely. Always look for restriction signs at roadworks. They're usually placed well in advance to give you time to move safely into the correct lane in good time.

Explanation

Keep a check in your mirrors as you're driving to make sure that the sheets are secure. Air can force itself under the sheets and work them loose.

Explanation

The national speed limit for a goods vehicle exceeding 7.5 tonnes on a single carriageway road in England and Wales is 50 mph. In Scotland, the limit is 40 mph. The national speed limit varies for different vehicle categories. You must know the limit that applies to the vehicle you're driving.

Explanation

In England and Wales, the national speed limit for lorries over 7.5 tonnes maximum authorised mass on a single carriageway road is 50 mph. In Scotland, the limit is 40 mph.

Explanation

Vehicles carrying dangerous or hazardous goods need to have markings on them that clearly identify the load. This could, for example, help the emergency services to deal with any incident quickly and safely.

Explanation

Some lanes are set aside for certain types of vehicle. Signs and road markings show the authorised vehicles in words or pictures. There's usually also a sign showing the times that the lane is in operation. Some lanes might only be in operation for a short time. Check the sign and only use the lane if you're allowed to do so.

Explanation

This sign is found where a shallow stream crosses the road. Heavy rainfall could increase the flow of water. If the water looks too deep or the stream has swelled over a large distance, stop and find another route.

Explanation

When you see this sign, you must give way to traffic from the opposite direction, regardless of the size of your vehicle.

Explanation

Double red lines indicate that you're on a Red Route and in a no stopping area. Red Routes also have single red lines, with signs showing the times that restrictions are in force. There are also parking and loading boxes, which have signs explaining the restrictions that apply.

Explanation

60 mph may be the legal speed limit for a goods vehicle on a dual carriageway in England and Wales, but it doesn't mean that it's safe to drive at that speed. You should always take into account the road, weather and traffic conditions, and maintain safety margins.

Explanation

No motor vehicles are allowed past this sign. Although a motorcycle and car are shown, the restriction applies to all motor vehicles.

Explanation

At motorway roadworks, some lanes may be narrower than normal and large vehicles may not be allowed to use those lanes. Look for weight-limit signs to check for any lanes that you can't use. Move to the appropriate lane in good time.

Explanation

Roll-over' usually happens as a result of the inside rear wheels of an articulated vehicle starting to lift when the driver changes direction sharply. This tends to happen when a driver is changing direction to leave a roundabout. If the load moves during the change of direction, the vehicle is increasingly at risk of rolling over. The problem often involves vehicles carrying fluids in bulk.

Explanation

Make sure you carry enough approved tachograph charts for your journey. Store your spare charts in a plastic wallet to keep them clean and undamaged.

Explanation

The 'Stop' sign is the only sign in the shape of a hexagon. This helps you to recognise it even when the wording can't be seen.

Explanation

You won't be able to see any hazards that might be out of sight in the dip. As well as oncoming traffic, there may be cyclists, horse riders, parked vehicles or pedestrians hidden from view. Only start to overtake when you can see the road ahead is clear, giving you enough time to overtake safely.

Explanation

This traffic sign means no stopping on the main carriageway at any time, not even to set down passengers. However, you may stop in a lay-by.

Explanation

You'll need to identify the sign in time, so that you can select an appropriate gear.

Explanation

Some signs can look similar to others but each one has a different meaning. For example, this one looks a little like the sign for a hump bridge. Learn the meaning of every sign to prepare yourself for how to react to them.

Explanation

If any vehicle displaying a warning symbol is involved in an incident, the consequences could be serious. The emergency services need to be aware of how a dangerous or hazardous material will behave in different situations; for example, when it's wet.

Explanation

If you're driving a high vehicle, make sure that there's enough headroom available for you to go through the tunnel. There may be additional signs showing height and width restrictions.

Explanation

You should be familiar with all warning lights and buzzers fitted to your vehicle. If you're driving the vehicle for the first time, make sure that you know the function of each. If the brake warning light shows a fault in the system, stop as soon as it's safe to do so. Report the fault, and don't continue until it's been corrected.

Explanation

Even though there are no restrictions, make sure that you park where you won't cause an obstruction or endanger other road users.

Explanation

Take extra care when you're driving on roads where trams operate. Look out for road markings and signs that tell you to expect them. Modern trams are very quiet and you might not hear them approaching.

Explanation

A triangular sign is a warning sign. Knowing this, you can prepare for the hazard ahead.

Explanation

Be cautious, especially if there's a bend in the road and you're unable to see well ahead. If you have to pass pedestrians, leave them plenty of room. You might have to use the right-hand side of the road, so look well ahead and in your mirrors before you pull out.

Explanation

Side-wind warning signs are often found on roads that are frequently affected by strong wind. High-sided vehicles, caravans and motorcycles are more susceptible to windy weather, and you should be aware of the difficulties they may be having.

Explanation

Parked vehicles near junctions can hide smaller road users such as cyclists and motorcyclists. Double-check before emerging with a large vehicle. If in doubt, move forward slowly into a position where you can safely have another look.

Explanation

Always make a final check in your mirrors and check your blind spots before you turn. Another driver or a motorcyclist may have committed themselves to overtaking traffic behind you before realising you intend to turn.

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Stopping where you see this sign is likely to cause an obstruction, which could lead to traffic delays. Obeying the sign will help keep the traffic flowing.

Explanation

Sometimes, drivers or riders use arm signals as well as direction indicators and brake lights; for example, in bright sunshine or when approaching a zebra crossing. Using the arm signals shown in The Highway Code can help other road users to understand your intentions.

Explanation

When you see this sign, reduce your speed. You may well have to stop at the level crossing, or there may already be traffic queuing ahead.

Explanation

The maximum speed for lorries over 7.5 tonnes maximum authorised mass on a motorway is 60 mph. However, it may not always be appropriate or possible to drive at this speed, because of the weather, volume of traffic and other factors.

Explanation

This is the sign for a tram. These vehicles are powered by electricity and reduce the emissions released into the environment. As they can carry many people, they can help to reduce the number of other vehicles on the road.

Explanation

When there's no traffic ahead of you, you should always drive in the left-hand lane.

Explanation

When you see this sign, beware of traffic queues ahead. Check your mirrors and reduce your speed. Research shows that you make poor decisions when you're angry, so you're less likely to spot and respond safely to hazards. Be patient when you're delayed and reduce the possibility of being involved in an incident.

Explanation

This is a warning sign to indicate loose chippings ahead. The sign is usually accompanied by an advisory speed limit. Vehicles travelling too fast for the conditions can throw up chippings or stones. Avoid causing damage to paintwork and windscreens by keeping your speed down.

Explanation

Vehicles over the weight shown on the sign may not use the bridge ahead. You must know the weight of your vehicle, including any load. With this knowledge you should plan your route in advance, so that you don't come to a bridge you can't cross. That way, you'll avoid delays and save time and fuel.

Explanation

If you know which light is going to show next, you can plan your approach. This will help prevent excessive braking or hesitation at the junction.

Explanation

Whenever you see this sign, take extra care with these very vulnerable road users.

Explanation

It's essential that all limits are complied with to avoid breaking the law and facing possible prosecution. Weight restrictions normally apply to the plated weight of a vehicle, often referred to as the maximum authorised mass (MAM).

Explanation

Make sure that you signal in good time, so that the motorcyclist behind you knows your intention. You may have to position yourself wide in order to negotiate the junction. Be aware that the motorcyclist may see this as an opportunity to filter through on your nearside. Check your left-hand mirror carefully before you start to turn.

Explanation

Good forward planning will allow you to deal safely with this situation. You need to assess how your actions will affect other road users. Acting on impulse can have disastrous consequences.

Explanation

If you drive a vehicle carrying dangerous or hazardous material, you must make sure the correct symbol or mark is clearly visible.

Explanation

These signals can be found at level crossings, some airfields, bridges and emergency access sites. You must stop if the red lights are flashing. At level crossings, if the lights continue to flash after a train has passed, continue to wait because another train is coming.

Explanation

High vehicles are often directed to the centre of the road to go under an arched bridge. Check that your vehicle doesn't exceed the height restriction indicated. Plan your route in advance to avoid any bridges that your vehicle won't be able to clear.

Explanation

When the road narrows, there'll be less room than normal and others may not obey the rules, so slow down and approach with caution. Even when you have priority, you should still be ready to stop.

Explanation

The maximum permitted length of vehicle includes any trailer being towed. Make sure you know the total length of your vehicle.