It is important to understand that other road users may not be aware of the space required when driving a large goods vehicle. 

As a result, the onus is on you as the driver, to avoid incidents.  Always signal in plenty of time and be tolerant of other road users.

HIERARCHY OF ROAD USERS

 Drivers of vehicles that can cause the greatest harm in the event of a collision bear the greatest responsibility to take care and reduce the danger to others. This principle applies most strongly to drivers of LGVs, cars/taxis and motorcycles. Cyclists and horse riders likewise have a responsibility to reduce danger to pedestrians.

TURNING

When a motorcyclist, horserider or cyclist turns, they usually take a quick glance over their shoulder. 

Observing their actions and making eye contact can give you an early indication of their intentions on the road.

Other road users may not be aware that a large vehicle will sometimes need to take more than one lane when making turns.

You shouldn’t cut across cyclists going ahead when turning into or out of a junction or changing direction or lane, just as you wouldn’t turn across the path of another motor vehicle.

  • Always check your mirrors and blind spots when making turns

OVERTAKING

Motorcyclists and cyclists often overtake traffic on the outside or ride through gaps. When queuing in traffic, be sure to check all your mirrors and blind spots before moving off or turning.

  • When overtaking motorcyclists, cyclists and horse riders, drivers must leave a minimum distance of 1.5 metres at speeds of less than 30mph and 2.0 metres at speeds of more than 30mph and at least 2.0 metres of space where a pedestrian is walking in the road, passing them at a slow speed. If you can’t, you must wait.
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 Cyclists, in particular, can be affected by the draft caused by a large lorry passing.

JUNCTIONS AND ROUNDABOUTS

Large goods vehicles are not as quick as cars or motorbikes at pulling away. Take this, along with the length of the vehicle you are driving, into account.

  • Motorcyclists can be hidden by parked cars or slight bends in the road. Take extra time to look for bikes.
  • Cyclists can overtake on either side of your vehicle. ALWAYS check your mirrors and blind spots before pulling away.
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At a junction, you should give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross a road into which or from which you’re turning.

PARKING

Cyclists and motorbikes often ride close to parked vehicles.

  •  It is important to check your mirror before exiting the vehicle to ensure you don’t cause any accidents when opening the door.

POOR WEATHER

Road users can be affected by weather conditions or poor road surfaces. In wet weather, consider the vehicles you are overtaking, and the effect the spray your wheels may cause.

Leave extra room when travelling behind vehicles in case they need to brake in an emergency. 

Windy conditions can cause vehicles to be blown off course.

  • Large unladen lorries
  •  Cars towing caravans
  • Cyclists 
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  • are most susceptible to high winds

HORSE RIDERS

Country roads are often used by horse riders who you must be ready to slow down and stop for if necessary.

  • Look out for hand signals requesting you stop or slow down. 
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  • Be aware of sudden movements; horses can be unpredictable, especially when frightened.
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  • When overtaking, DO NOT rev your engine, sound your horn, or play loud music. Be sure to accelerate away slowly when you have passed the horse rider.

NERVOUS DRIVERS

Other drivers can often lack confidence on the road.  They could be learner drivers, recently passed or elderly. DO NOT become impatient or try to intimidate the driver by:

  • Using your horn
  • Revving your engine
  • Pumping your air brakes

PEOPLE

Pedestrians can appear from between parked cars and blind spots.  Be sure to slow down and ready to stop when approaching crossings.

Never wave pedestrians across as other drivers might not stop for them.

At a junction, drivers,  should give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross a road into which or from which you are turning. You should give way to pedestrians waiting to cross a zebra crossing and to pedestrians and

TYPES OF CROSSINGS

The most common of crossings  A red person on the opposite side of the road changes to green when it is safe to cross

Lights controlling the pedestrians are located on the near side of the road.

This crossing can be used by both pedestrians and cyclists

A crossing for riders on horseback

Recognised by its alternating dark and light stripes on the road surface.  Usually accompanied by flashing yellow lights at either end

LEARNING SESSION

In this section, you will ‘learn by doing‘ Try and answer the test questions that have not been covered in the videos or learning material.

Be sure to read the explanations in full and watch your score increase at every attempt 

Other Road Users