LGV theory practice test 9

Explanation

In very cold weather, moisture in the storage tanks can freeze. Ice can form in the pipes and this will result in loss of pressure, which could cause brake failure. Make sure that you drain the tanks daily as part of a routine. Most modern vehicles are fitted with automatic bleed valves. Check that they're working properly and that air drying systems are effective.

Explanation

If your vehicle breaks down, try to stop on the left, facing in the same direction as the flow of traffic. This will help other drivers to see you, as your red reflectors will show to the rear. Don't stop on the pavement, as the weight of the vehicle may damage paving stones and underground services.

Explanation

Warning buzzers are linked to many systems on modern vehicles, including the air brakes. A warning light on the dashboard may help you identify the system that's caused the problem. Stop in a safe place until the fault has been identified and put right. Get professional help if necessary.

Explanation

Driving a large vehicle will sometimes require you to position your vehicle well to the left before making a tight right turn. Inexperienced drivers or riders may not realise your intentions and may try to overtake you. Make sure you signal in good time and make a final mirror check before committing yourself to the turn.

Explanation

You should plan your route to avoid vehicle width, height and weight restrictions that would affect your vehicle and load. Planning to avoid busy times can also reduce journey times and fuel costs.

Explanation

Air suspension provides a smoother journey than traditional suspension and transmits less vibration to the road surface, under road services and nearby structures, such as bridges. It's considered to be environmentally friendly because it reduces damage to the road network.

Explanation

You can legally remove your seat belt when carrying out a manoeuvre that involves reversing. Don't forget to put it back on again when you've finished.

Explanation

During high winds, one of the lanes on a high bridge might be closed to traffic to create a buffer lane. The buffer lane is kept free to prevent vehicles from being blown into the path of other road users in the next lane. The closure of this lane may cause traffic congestion and delay.

Explanation

Buffer lanes are often found in places that are frequently subjected to high winds. Examples include high level bridges, high level roads, exposed viaducts and exposed stretches of motorway. Listen to the weather forecast, which should tell you of any need to re plan your route.

Explanation

If your vehicle is over 17 metres 55 feet long and you wish to cross a level crossing, you must stop before the crossing and telephone the signal operator.

Explanation

If a load is being secured with ropes, you must make sure it's tied securely to the body of the unit. The most effective method of tying is with dolly knots. These are non slip knots that hold firmly.

Explanation

If the trailer begins moving while you're working on it, you could put yourself and others in great danger. You must make sure that it's properly secured by the brake before you start work.

Explanation

A short wheelbase empty vehicle will bounce more noticeably than some long wheelbase vehicles. This can affect braking efficiency and all round control. Don't be tempted to push this type of vehicle into bends or corners simply because the vehicle appears to be easier to drive.

Explanation

Sitting in a high cab doesn't always give you all round visibility. Other road users might assume that you can see them and position themselves out of sight close to your vehicle. Making good use of any extra mirrors can help prevent dangerous incidents, especially when parking.

Explanation

Wind deflectors lower a vehicle's wind resistance. The vehicle therefore requires less energy to drive it forward, and this reduces its fuel consumption. Ecosafe driving techniques, correct tyre pressures and proper maintenance also help to maximise fuel efficiency.

Explanation

If you suspect a fire, try to isolate the source. If possible, disconnect electrical leads and cut off the fuel supply.

Explanation

If you need to park and leave a semi trailer, find a safe place. Don't park it in a lay by or anywhere it could be an obstruction or a danger. Leave lay bys for drivers who wish to stop and rest. Find a place off the road preferably a lorry park or somewhere safe that will also reduce the risk of theft.

Explanation

The driver mustn't allow any cargo to be damaged during transit, loading or unloading. This requires a responsible attitude to safeguard the load at all times.

Explanation

The blue auxiliary line isn't used when connecting to a two line system. Follow the manufacturer's instructions about what to do with this third line.

Explanation

An exhaust brake alters the engine's exhaust flow, using it to help control the vehicle's speed. It's most efficient when the engine is running at a high speed and the vehicle is in a low gear, such as when descending a long hill. Using the exhaust brake can relieve the service brakes, preventing them from overheating and fading.

Explanation

Closed curtains on large empty vehicles can hold the wind. Strong side wind can blow a semi trailer off course and, in severe cases, can blow the whole vehicle over onto its side. To reduce the risk of this happening, you should tie the curtains open.

Explanation

Rain makes the road surface slippery and reduces tyre grip. Doubling your separation distance should allow you the extra time and space you'll need to slow down and stop safely.

Explanation

If you're carrying a steel ISO International Standards Organization cargo container, ropes or straps won't be strong enough to take the strain. This type of load requires a special type of restraint using twist locks.

Explanation

When transporting livestock, it's important to limit the amount of space they have to move around. If you allow them to move around freely, it could increase the risk of injury to the animals. It will also affect the stability of the vehicle when braking and cornering, and could even cause the vehicle to tip over.

Explanation

When using ropes, the ends should be spliced or otherwise treated to prevent fraying. The rope should be of at least three strand construction, with a normal diameter of at least 10 mm.

Explanation

You must stop in a safe place as soon as possible. The curtain might be the only support for a slipped load, so don't open it before checking. Check the load by carefully opening the rear door or opposite curtain, if it shows no sign of bulging.

Explanation

You must be aware of the position of other road users, so that you know how they may be affected by your actions. Before opening your door, it's important to check the mirrors, as well as looking around for passing or approaching vehicles and pedestrians.

Explanation

To prevent your wheels from locking, you'll need to brake very gently on ice. Give yourself as much room and time as possible to stop. If your front wheels lock, you can't steer, and that will mean you can't avoid any obstacle in your path.

Explanation

You're allowed to extend your daily driving time twice a week, to 10 hours a day. A day is generally any 24 hour period that starts when you begin driving or other work again, after the last daily or weekly rest period.

Explanation

You may only record a break when you're not doing any other type of work. You're allowed to take a break on a double manned vehicle while the other crew member is driving, but any break must be a minimum of 15 minutes.

Explanation

If you start to feel tired, you should stop as soon as it's safe to do so, even if you aren't due a break. Make sure that you get enough sleep before you're due to work, especially if you're on an early shift.

Explanation

Most incidents happen as a result of a lapse in concentration. Don't let this happen to you. If you start to feel tired, you won't perform as well as you should. Your reactions will slow down, and your anticipation and judgement of hazards will become flawed. If you feel tired, stop and rest as soon as it's safe to do so.

Explanation

Gently tilt the unconscious person's head to clear their airway. Check for at least 10 seconds that the casualty is breathing by looking for movement in the chest, listening for sounds and feeling for breath on your cheek. Get someone to call the emergency services.

Explanation

If you're the first to arrive at an incident, further collisions and fire are the immediate concerns. Switch on your hazard warning lights to warn other traffic. Stop any running vehicle engines to reduce the risk of fire. Don't assume that someone else has called the emergency services do it yourself. Don't move casualties trapped in vehicles unless they're in danger.

Explanation

If possible, lay the casualty down. Raising the arm above the level of the heart will reduce the flow of blood. Check that the limb isn't broken and that there's nothing in the wound before applying pressure over it.

Explanation

Bulbs should be replaced as soon as you're aware that they've failed. Carry a stock of all the various bulbs used on your vehicle, so you can repair a fault without delay.

Explanation

Air suspension reduces the pounding of the vehicle on an uneven road surface. This, in turn, reduces the vibrations transmitted to buildings and underground services along the route.

Explanation

In extremely cold weather, you'll have to use diesel fuel with anti waxing additives to stop the fuel lines from freezing up. During the winter months, these additives are usually put in by the fuel companies.

Explanation

Standing on or near the edge of the carriageway is very dangerous. Your priority is to alert the emergency services by using an emergency roadside telephone. This connects to an operator, who ll get help out to you as soon as possible. In most cases, this is preferable to using a mobile phone, as it will show the operator your precise location.

Explanation

You're responsible for the safety of the load you're carrying. At no time should the load endanger other road users. It's vital that you make sure your load is secure and safely distributed on your vehicle. How you do this will depend on the.

Explanation

Drivers need to be alert at all times. Fatigue is a recognised danger for professional drivers, so working conditions are governed by EU rules. These set a maximum driving time and minimum requirements for rest and break periods. Setting limits on the length of time a driver can work combats fatigue and so helps road safety.

Explanation

Your tachograph chart is a legal document it's a record of your work covering a rolling 24 hour period. Drivers who break the rules are subject to heavy fines and could lose their vocational licence. Altering your tachograph chart with intent to deceive is against the law and could lead to a prison sentence. Similar penalties exist for those who permit such offences.

Explanation

If your current tachograph chart becomes damaged, you should start another and then attach it to the damaged one. Your records must be clear and up to date at all times. It's sensible to carry more tachograph charts than you think you'll need for your journey. Then you'll be able to use a spare if one becomes dirty or damaged.

Explanation

If you become unwell, it will affect your ability to concentrate. You must be fully alert and ready for any hazards that might occur while you're driving. Stop in a safe place and call for help. You may have to call out a relief driver to complete the journey for you.

Explanation

Both your load and your vehicle can be a target for thieves. Taking simple precautions, such as securing the windows and doors, can deter thieves and help ensure your own safety.

Explanation

Fragile loads need extra care in loading and handling. The load must be secured using the most appropriate form of restraint. Air suspension reduces the vibration caused by the impact of the lorry wheels on road surfaces. This also reduces damage to the road, bridges and adjacent structures.

Explanation

Wide loads are a hazard to other road users. In addition to having an attendant with you, you must notify the police if your load is wider than 3.5 metres 11 feet 5 inches. Side markers must also be used to show other road users the limits of your vehicle.

Explanation

The view you get in your mirrors may vary, depending on the size of the trailer and the load it carries. Always adjust your mirrors to ensure that you have the best possible view down each side of the trailer before you drive away.