In a contraflow system you will be travelling close to oncoming traffic and sometimes in narrow lanes. You should obey the temporary speed limit signs, get into the correct lane at the proper time and keep a safe separation distance from the vehicle ahead. When traffic is at a very low speed, merging in turn is recommended if it is safe and appropriate.

Inconsiderate parking can obstruct the flow of traffic and so make traffic congestion worse. Red routes are designed to prevent this by enforcing strict parking restrictions. Driving slowly in traffic increases fuel consumption and causes a build-up of exhaust fumes.

Tyre grip is greatly reduced in icy conditions. For this reason, you need to allow up to ten times the stopping distance you would allow on dry roads.

Do not pass riders too closely as this may cause them to lose balance. Always leave as much room as you would for a car, and do not cut in.

Towing a caravan or trailer affects the way the tow vehicle handles. It is highly recommended that you take a caravan manoeuvring course. These are provided by various organisations for anyone wishing to tow a trailer.

It is your legal responsibility to keep the details of your Vehicle Registration Certificate (V5C) up to date. You should tell the licensing authority of any changes. These include your name, address, or vehicle details. If you do not do this you may have problems when you sell your vehicle.

You must understand the serious dangers of mixing alcohol with driving or riding. Alcohol will severely reduce your ability to drive or ride safely. Just one drink could put you over the limit. Do not risk peoples lives:
DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE OR RIDE!

If you have a garage, use it. Your vehicle is less likely to be a victim of car crime if it is in a garage. Also in winter the windows will be free from ice and snow.

Note that this is the typical stopping distance. It will take at least this distance to think, brake and stop in good conditions. In poor conditions it will take much longer.

Ideally you should plan your journey so that you have regular rest stops.
If you do become tired leave at the next exit, or pull in at a service area if this is sooner

Whenever possible park in an area which will be well lit at night.

Alcohol will stay in the body for several hours and may make you unfit to drive later in the day.
Drinking during the day will also affect your performance at work or study.

If you want to turn your car around try to find a place where you have good all-round vision. If this is not possible and you are unable to see clearly, then get someone to guide you.

You should be aware of the motorway regulations for vehicles towing trailers. These state that a vehicle towing a trailer must not :
> use the right-hand lane of a three-lane motorway unless directed to do so, for example, at roadworks or due to a lane closure
> exceed 60 mph.

When a long vehicle is going to turn right it may need to keep close to the left-hand kerb. This is to prevent the rear end of the trailer cutting the corner. You need to be aware of how long vehicles behave in such situations. Do not overtake the lorry because it could turn as you are alongside. Stay behind and wait for it to turn.

Traffic on motorways usually travels faster than on other roads. You need to be looking further ahead to give yourself more time to react to any hazard that may develop.

If you follow another vehicle with your headlights on full beam they could dazzle the driver. Leave a safe distance and ensure that the light from your dipped beam falls short of the vehicle in front.

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

Check any height limits that may accompany this sign.

Do not reverse into a main road from a side road. The main road is likely to be busy and the traffic on it moving quickly. Cut down the risks by reversing into a quiet side road.

If you are involved in a collision, head restraints will reduce the risk of neck injury. They must be properly adjusted. Make sure they are not positioned too low, in a crash this could cause damage to the neck.

Wet roads will reduce your tyres grip on the road. The safe separation gap of at least two seconds in dry conditions should be doubled in wet weather.

Depending on relevant speed, it will usually take you longer to pass a lorry than other vehicles. Some hazards to watch for include oncoming traffic, junctions ahead, bends or dips which could restrict your view, and signs or road markings that prohibit overtaking. Make sure you can see that it is safe to complete the manoeuvre before you start to overtake.

The STOP sign is the only sign this shape. This is to give it greater prominence.
You can still recognise this sign despite snow covering the wording.

Do not leave moving into the left-hand lane until the last moment. Plan ahead and do not rely on other traffic letting you in.

As well as visibility being reduced, the road will be extremely wet. This will reduce the grip the tyres have on the road and increase the distance it takes to stop.
Double your separation distance.

Hazard warning lights may be used to warn other road users when you have broken down and are causing an obstruction, or are on a motorway and want to warn following traffic of a hazard ahead. Do not use them when being towed or when parking illegally.

Harsh use of the accelerator, brakes or steering are likely to lead to skidding, especially on slippery surfaces. Avoid steering and braking at the same time. In icy conditions it is very important that you constantly assess what is ahead, so that you can take appropriate action in plenty of time.

Note that this is the typical stopping distance. It will take at least this distance to think, brake and stop in good conditions. In poor conditions it will take much longer.

The emergency services need to know your exact location so they can reach you as quickly as possible.
Look for a number on the nearest marker post beside the hard shoulder. Give this number when you call the emergency services as it will help them to locate you.
Be ready to describe where you are, for example, by reference to the last junction or service station you passed.

On motorways reflective studs are located into the road to help you in the dark and in conditions of poor visibility.
Amber-coloured studs are found on the right-hand edge of the main carriageway, next to the central reservation.

If you accumulate six or more penalty points within two years of gaining your first full licence it will be revoked. The six or more points include any gained due to offences you committed before passing your test.
If this happens you may only drive as a learner until you pass both the theory and practical tests again.

Try not to brake or steer heavily as this will only make matters worse and you could lose control altogether.
Keep calm and regain control by easing off the accelerator.

Do not reverse into a main road from a side road. The main road is likely to be busy and the traffic on it moving quickly. Cut down the risks by reversing into a quiet side road.

It is essential that the traffic behind is given a clear warning when you brake. In good visibility, your rear fog lights can make it hard for others to see your brake lights.
Make sure you switch off your fog lights when the visibility improves.

You need to show caution when driving in areas where trams operate.
You may not hear their approach and they cannot change direction to avoid you.
There may also be crossing points where you will need to give way to them, or areas specifically
reserved for trams which you are not allowed to enter.

Check your tyre pressures frequently, normally once a week. If pressures are lower than those recommended by the manufacturer, there will be more rolling resistance. The engine will have to work harder to overcome this, leading to increased fuel consumption.

Some modern batteries are maintenance free. Check your vehicle handbook and, if necessary, make sure that the plates in each battery cell are covered.

If someone has been injured, the sooner proper medical attention is given the better. Send someone to phone for help or go yourself. An injured person should only be moved if they are in further danger. An injured motorcyclists helmet should NOT be removed unless it is essential.

Powered vehicles used by disabled people are small, low, hard to see and travel very slowly.
On a dual carriageway a flashing amber light will warn other road users.

Your tyre grip is greatly reduced on icy roads and you need to allow up to ten times the normal stopping distance.

When you are in a one-way street and want to turn right, you should take up a position in the right-hand lane. This will allow other road users, not wishing to turn, to pass on the left. Indicate your intention and take up the correct position in good time.

You should always give cyclists plenty of room when overtaking. When it is windy, a sudden gust could blow them off course.

There might be pedestrians crossing from in front of the bus. Look out for them if you intend to pass. Consider staying back and waiting.
How many people are waiting to get on the bus? Check the queue if you can. The bus might move off straight away if there is no one waiting to get on.
If a bus is signalling to pull out, give it priority as long as it is safe to do so.

Pelican crossings are signal-controlled crossings operated by pedestrians. Pushbutton controls change the signals. Pelican crossings have no red-and-amber stage before green. Instead, they have a flashing amber light, which means you MUST give way to pedestrians already on the crossing, but if it is clear, you may continue.

No entry signs are used in places such as one-way streets to prevent vehicles driving against the traffic. To ignore one would be dangerous, both for yourself and other road users, as well as being against the law.

Try to give way to buses if you can do so safely, especially when the driver signals to pull away from a bus stop. Look out for people getting off the bus or running to catch it, because they may cross the road without looking. Do not accelerate to get past the bus, and do not flash your lights, as this could mislead other road users.

Your tyres are your only contact with the road. To prevent problems with braking and steering keep your tyres free from defects; they must have sufficient tread depth and be correctly inflated. Correct tyre pressures help reduce the risk of skidding and provide a safer and more comfortable drive or ride.

You should be aware of the motorway regulations for vehicles towing trailers. These state that a vehicle towing a trailer must not :
> use the right-hand lane of a three-lane motorway unless directed to do so, for example, at roadworks or due to a lane closure
> exceed 60 mph.

The driver may be unsure of the location of a junction and turn suddenly. Be cautious and do not attempt to overtake.

You MUST have valid insurance before you can apply for Vehicle tax. Your vehicle will also need to have a valid MOT certificate, if applicable. You can apply on-line, at certain post offices or by post.
It is illegal and can be dangerous to drive without valid insurance or an MOT.

Water on the brakes will act as a lubricant, causing them to work less efficiently.
Using the brakes lightly as you go along will dry them out.

It is important that people at the scene of a collision do not create further risk to themselves or others. If the incident is on a motorway or major road, traffic will be approaching at speed. Do not put yourself at risk when trying to help casualties or warning other road users.

An amber flashing light on a vehicle indicates that it is slow-moving. Battery powered vehicles used by disabled people are limited to 8 mph. It is not advisable for them to be used on dual carriageways where the speed limit exceeds 50 mph. If they are then an amber flashing light must be used.

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

Your tyres are your only contact with the road. To prevent problems with braking and steering keep your tyres free from defects; they must have sufficient tread depth and be correctly inflated. Correct tyre pressures help reduce the risk of skidding and provide a safer and more comfortable drive or ride.

You should only flash your headlights to warn others of your presence. Do not use them to greet others, show impatience or give priority to other road users. They could misunderstand your signal.

There will be a plate or additional sign to tell you when the restrictions apply.

Newly qualified, and particularly young drivers, are more vulnerable in the first year after passing the test. Inexperience plays a part in this but it is essential to have the correct attitude. Be responsible and always show courtesy and consideration to other road users

The people on the walk should be keeping to the left, but do not assume this. Pass slowly, make sure you have time to do so safely. Be aware that the pedestrians have their backs to you and may not know that you are there.

If you want to make a U-turn, slow down and ensure that the road is clear in both directions.
Make sure that the road is wide enough to carry out the manoeuvre safely.

These are small battery powered vehicles and include wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
Some are designed for use on the pavement only and have an upper speed limit of 4 mph (6 km/h).
Others can go on the road as well and have a speed limit of 8 mph (12 km/h).
They are now very common and are generally used by the elderly, disabled or infirm.
Take great care as they are extremely vulnerable because of their low speed and small size.

On motorways reflective studs are located into the road to help you in the dark and in conditions of poor visibility.
Amber-coloured studs are found on the right-hand edge of the main carriageway, next to the central reservation.

This is more likely to happen on vehicles fitted with drum brakes but can apply to disc brakes as well.
Using a lower gear will assist the braking and help you to keep control of your vehicle.

You should keep to the left-hand lane whenever possible. Only use the other lanes for overtaking or when directed by signals.
Using other lanes when the left-hand lane is empty can frustrate drivers behind you.

Vehicles that are used to carry children to and from school will be travelling at busy times of the day. If you are following a vehicle with this sign, be prepared for it to make frequent stops. It might pick up or set down passengers in places other than normal bus stops.

A long lorry with a heavy load will need more time to pass you than a car, especially on an uphill stretch of road. Slow down and allow the lorry to pass.

This sign shows a shared route for pedestrians and cyclists: when it ends, the cyclists will be rejoining the main road.

Motorway traffic travels at higher speeds, and advance signs warning of junctions are
vital to enable you to be in the correct lane in good time to take your exit.
In most cases, one mile before the exit you will see a junction sign with road numbers.
Half a mile before the exit the sign will also include the names of places accessible from that junction.

Do not venture out if your journey is not necessary. If you have to travel and someone is expecting you at the other end, let them know that you will be taking longer than usual for your journey. This will stop them worrying if you do not turn up on time and will also take the pressure off you, so you do not feel you have to rush.

The only time you are permitted to use your hazard warning lights while moving is if you are on a motorway or dual carriageway and you need to warn other road users, particularly those behind, of a hazard or obstruction ahead.
Only use them long enough to ensure your warning has been seen.

You should not allow yourself to be distracted when driving. You need to concentrate fully in order to be safe on the road. Loud music could mask other sounds, such as the audible warning of an emergency vehicle. Any distraction which causes you to take your hands off the steering wheel or your eyes off the road could be dangerous.

The driver may be unsure of the location of a junction and turn suddenly. Be cautious and do not attempt to overtake.

Check any height limits that may accompany this sign.

Make sure that you have reduced your speed and are in the correct gear for the turn.
Look into the road before you turn and always give way to any pedestrians who are crossing.

It is very frustrating when your separation distance is shortened by another vehicle. React positively, stay calm and drop further back.

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

Water on the brakes will act as a lubricant, causing them to work less efficiently.
Using the brakes lightly as you go along will dry them out.

Motorway traffic travels at higher speeds, and advance signs warning of junctions are
vital to enable you to be in the correct lane in good time to take your exit.
In most cases, one mile before the exit you will see a junction sign with road numbers.
Half a mile before the exit the sign will also include the names of places accessible from that junction.

If a school crossing patrol steps out into the road with a stop sign you must stop.
Do not wave anyone across the road and do not get impatient or rev your engine.

This sign shows a shared route for pedestrians and cyclists: when it ends, the cyclists will be rejoining the main road.

As you begin to think about overtaking, ask yourself if it is really necessary. If you can not see well ahead stay back and wait for a safer place to pull out.

You need to show caution when driving in areas where trams operate.
You may not hear their approach and they cannot change direction to avoid you.
There may also be crossing points where you will need to give way to them, or areas specifically
reserved for trams which you are not allowed to enter.

Pull over in a place where the ambulance can pass safely.
Check that there are no bollards or obstructions in the road that will prevent it from doing so.

The STOP sign is the only sign this shape. This is to give it greater prominence.
You can still recognise this sign despite snow covering the wording.

These are small battery powered vehicles and include wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Some are designed for use on the pavement only and have an upper speed limit of 4 mph (6 km/h). Others can go on the road as well and have a speed limit of 8 mph (12 km/h). They are now very common and are generally used by the elderly, disabled or infirm. Take great care as they are extremely vulnerable because of their low speed and small size.

You should always give cyclists plenty of room when overtaking. When it is windy, a sudden gust could blow them off course.

Driving in neutral or with the clutch down for long periods is known as coasting. There will be no engine braking and your vehicle will pick up speed on downhill slopes. Coasting can be very dangerous because it reduces steering and braking control.

Windscreen pillars can block your view, particularly at junctions. Those road users most at risk of not being seen are cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians.
Never rely on just a quick glance.

Powered vehicles used by disabled people are small, low, hard to see and travel very slowly.
On a dual carriageway a flashing amber light will warn other road users.

Your tyres are your only contact with the road. To prevent problems with braking and steering keep your tyres free from defects; they must have sufficient tread depth and be correctly inflated. Correct tyre pressures help reduce the risk of skidding and provide a safer and more comfortable drive or ride.

Newly qualified, and particularly young drivers, are more vulnerable in the first year after passing the test. Inexperience plays a part in this but it is essential to have the correct attitude. Be responsible and always show courtesy and consideration to other road users

Transport is an essential part of modern life but it does have environmental effects. In heavily populated areas traffic is the biggest source of air pollution.
Eco-safe driving and riding will reduce emissions and can make a surprising difference to local air quality.

You must stop if overhead gantry signs show flashing red lights above every lane on the motorway. If any of the other lanes does not show flashing red lights or a red cross, you may move into that lane and continue if it’s safe to do so.

Try to plan your journey so that you can take rest stops. It’s recommended that you take a break of at least 15 minutes after every two hours of driving or riding. This should help to maintain your concentration.

You should keep to the left-hand lane whenever possible. Only use the other lanes for overtaking or when directed by signals.
Using other lanes when the left-hand lane is empty can frustrate drivers behind you.

If you want to keep a vehicle off the public road you must declare SORN. It is an offence not to do so. You then will not have to pay road tax. If you do not renew the SORN declaration or re-license the vehicle, you will incur a penalty.

Note that this is the typical stopping distance.
It will take at least this distance to think, brake and stop in good conditions.
In poor conditions it will take much longer.

Red rear reflectors show up when headlights shine on them. These are useful when you are parked at night but will only reflect if you park in the same direction as the traffic flow. Normally you should park on the left, but if you are in a one-way street you may also park on the right-hand side.

A green flashing beacon on a vehicle means the driver or passenger is a doctor on an emergency call. Give way to them if it is safe to do so. Be aware that the vehicle may be travelling quickly or may stop in a hurry.

You have priority over vehicles from the opposite direction. However, if a vehicle approaching from the opposite direction is not going to stop, you should slow down and give way to avoid confrontation or an incident.

Some modern batteries are maintenancefree. Check your vehicle handbook and, if necessary, make sure that the plates in each battery cell are covered.

Motorways must not be used by pedestrians, cyclists, motorcycles under 50 cc, certain slow-moving vehicles without permission, and powered wheelchairs/mobility scooters.

If you stop for pedestrians and they do not start to cross do not wave them across or sound your horn. This could be dangerous if another vehicle is approaching which has not seen or heard your signal.

Long vehicles might have to take a slightly different position when approaching the roundabout or going around it. This is to stop the rear of the vehicle cutting in and mounting the kerb.

In addition, motorways MUST NOT be used by pedestrians, motorcycles under 50 cc, certain slow-moving vehicles without permission, and invalid carriages weighing less than 254 kg (560 lbs).

When you check the tyre pressures do so when the tyres are cold. This will give you a more accurate reading.
The heat generated from a long journey will raise the pressure inside the tyre.

If a disabled drivers vehicle breaks down and they are unable to walk to an emergency phone, they are advised to stay in their car and switch on the hazard warning lights. They may also display a Help pennant in their vehicle.

Windscreen pillars can block your view, particularly at junctions. Those road users most at risk of not being seen are cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians.
Never rely on just a quick glance.

When you see emergency vehicles with blue flashing beacons, move out of the way as soon as it is safe to do so.

Do not overtake if there is a possibility of a road junction, bend or brow of a bridge or hill ahead. There are many other possible hazards that may be difficult to see in the dark so only overtake if you are certain that the road ahead is clear.
Do not take a chance.

Try not to brake or steer heavily as this will only make matters worse and you could lose control altogether.
Keep calm and regain control by easing off the accelerator.

Newly qualified, and particularly young drivers, are more vulnerable in the first year after passing the test. Inexperience plays a part in this but it is essential to have the correct attitude. Be responsible and always show courtesy and consideration to other road users.

Slow-moving, large vehicles might slow down the progress of other traffic. On a steep gradient this extra lane is provided for these slow-moving vehicles to allow the faster-moving traffic to flow more easily.

Make sure that you have reduced your speed and are in the correct gear for the turn.
Look into the road before you turn and always give way to any pedestrians who are crossing.

Pelican crossings are signal-controlled crossings operated by pedestrians. Push-button controls change the signals. Pelican crossings have no red-and-amber stage before green; instead, they have a flashing amber light. This means you must give way to pedestrians who are already on the crossing. If the crossing is clear, however, you can continue.

Your tyres are your only contact with the road. To prevent problems with braking and steering keep your tyres free from defects; they must have sufficient tread depth and be correctly inflated. Correct tyre pressures help reduce the risk of skidding and provide a safer and more comfortable drive or ride.

It is your responsibility to ensure that all children in your car are secure. Suitable restraints include a child seat, baby seat, booster seat or booster cushion.
It is essential that any restraint used should be suitable for the childs size and weight, and fitted to the manufacturers instructions.

Always use your headlights at night on a motorway unless you have stopped on the hard shoulder. If you break down and have to stop on the hard shoulder, switch off the headlights but leave the sidelights on so that other road users can see your vehicle.

A long lorry with a heavy load will need more time to pass you than a car, especially on an uphill stretch of road. Slow down and allow the lorry to pass.

Hazard warning lights are fitted to all modern cars and some motorcycles. They should be used to warn
> other road users when your vehicle is causing a temporary obstruction, for example after a collision or when it has broken down
> following drivers on a motorway of a hazard or obstruction ahead.
They should not be used as an excuse for dangerous or illegal parking.

It is illegal to use your fog lights in conditions other than when visibility is seriously reduced; that is, less than 100 metres (328 feet). Fog lights are very bright and, if you use them when visibility has improved, you could dazzle other drivers.

Emergency vehicles use blue flashing lights.
If you see or hear one, move out of its way as soon as it’s safe and legal to do so.

You should normally use the left-hand lane on any dual carriageway unless you are overtaking or turning right.
When overtaking on a dual carriageway, look for vehicles ahead that are turning right. They are likely to be slowing or stopped. You need to see them in good time so that you can take appropriate action.

At junctions your view is often restricted by buildings, trees or parked cars. You need to be able to see in order to judge a safe gap. Edge forward slowly and keep looking all the time. Do not cause other road users to change speed or direction as you emerge.

A lorry may swing out to the right as it approaches a left turn. This is to allow the rear wheels to clear the kerb as it turns. Do not try to filter through if you see a gap on the nearside.

Plan your journey to include suitable rest stops. You should take all possible precautions against feeling sleepy while driving.
Any lapse of concentration could have serious consequences.

Do not reverse into a main road from a side road. The main road is likely to be busy and the traffic on it moving quickly. Cut down the risks by reversing into a quiet side road.

You have shown that you are a risk to yourself and others on the road.
For this reason insurance companies may charge you a higher premium.

Check your tyre pressures frequently, normally once a week. If pressures are lower than those recommended by the manufacturer, there will be more rolling resistance. The engine will have to work harder to overcome this, leading to increased fuel consumption.

Do not venture out if your journey is not necessary. If you have to travel and someone is expecting you at the other end, let them know that you will be taking longer than usual for your journey. This will stop them worrying if you do not turn up on time and will also take the pressure off you, so you do not feel you have to rush.

You must understand the serious dangers of mixing alcohol with driving or riding. Alcohol will severely reduce your ability to drive or ride safely. Just one drink could put you over the limit. Do not risk peoples lives:
DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE OR RIDE!

Do not leave moving into the left-hand lane until the last moment. Plan ahead and do not rely on other traffic letting you in.

If the vehicle in front is on fire, you should pull over to the side and stop. Switch on your warning lights and switch off your engine. If you can locate a fire extinguisher use it to put out the fire, taking great care. Do NOT open the bonnet.
Always call for help from the nearest emergency point and if possible give first aid to anyone who is injured

If a school crossing patrol steps out into the road with a stop sign you must stop.
Do not wave anyone across the road and do not get impatient or rev your engine.

At night or in poor visibility reflective studs on the road help you to judge your position on the carriageway.

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 are usually placed well in advance to give you time to move safely into the correct lane in good time.

Sometimes an insurance company will issue a temporary insurance certificate called a cover note. It gives you the same insurance cover as your certificate, but lasts for a limited period, usually one month.

Always give cyclists plenty of room when overtaking them. You need to give them even more room when it?s windy. A sudden gust could easily blow them off course and into your path.

Use a liquid that is clean, cold and nontoxic, preferably water. Its coolness will help take the heat out of the burn and relieve the pain. Keep the wound doused for at least ten minutes. If blisters appear do not attempt to burst them as this could lead to infection.

You should take extra care when you first encounter trams. You will have to get used to dealing with a different traffic system.
Be aware that they can accelerate and travel very quickly and that they cannot change direction to avoid obstructions.

You do not have to carry the documents for your vehicle around with you. If a police officer asks to see them and you do not have them with you, you may be asked to produce them at a police station within seven days.

Cyclists, and motorcyclists, are very vulnerable in crosswinds. They can easily be blown well off course and veer into your path.
Always allow plenty of room when overtaking them. Passing too close could cause a draught and unbalance the rider.

Your brake lights will give an indication to traffic behind that you are slowing down. Good anticipation will allow you time to check your mirrors before slowing.

First check for anything that may be in the wound such as glass. If there is nothing in it apply a pad of clean cloth or bandage. Raising the leg will lessen the flow of blood. Do not tie anything tightly round the leg. This will restrict circulation and can result in long-term injury.

Do not forget that you are towing a trailer. If you are towing a small, light, trailer, it will not reduce your vehicles performance by very much.
However, strong winds or buffeting from large vehicles might cause the trailer to snake from side to side. Be aware of your speed and do not exceed the lower limit imposed.