The highway code general rules and advice

The Highway Code is necessary reading for everyone. Its rules implements to all road users: drivers, motorcyclists, cyclists, pedestrians as well as horse riders.

Many of the rules in the highway code are legal requirements, and if you disobey these rules may be considered as a criminal offence. You may be fined, given penalty points on your licence or be disqualified from driving. In the most serious cases you may be sent to prison. Such rules are identified by the use of the words MUST / MUST NOT.

A road marking plays a very significant role as a road signs gives us information about the roads on which we are traveling and what type of action we should take.

Driving theory test package

 The fundamental principle of road marking is to direct and control traffic on a highway. This adds the function of traffic signs. They play a very vital role in ensuring the safety, smoothness and harmonious flow of traffic. There are different types of road markings like transverse markings, longitudinal markings, object markings and special markings to alert the driver about the hazardous place on the road which you will face soon etc.

Importance:

• You may be fined, given penalty points on your licence.
• You may be disqualified from driving by taking your licence if you disobey or doesn't follow these rules and sometime if it is more serious case then you may be sent to prison.
• Disobeying this is considered as a criminal offence.

Following are some rules which are for safety purpose:
1. Road works
When the 'Road Works Ahead' sign is displayed, you will need to be more watchful and look for an additional sign provides more specific instructions. Observe all signs they are there for your safety and the safety of road workers.

Visit: http://www.pass-test.co.uk/common/frm_hazard_perception_test.aspx

2. Rules about animals:
All horse-drawn vehicles should have two red rear reflectors. It is safer not to drive at night but if you do, a light showing white to the front and red to the rear MUST be fitted.

3. Rules for pedestrians:
Keep to the right-hand side of the road so that you can see oncoming traffic.You should take extra care and

• Be prepared to walk in single file, especially on narrow roads or in poor light
• Keep close to the side of the road.

Rules for cyclists:
Use cycle routes, advanced stop lines, cycle boxes and toucan crossings unless at the time it is unsafe to do so. Use of these facilities is not compulsory and will depend on your experience and skills, but they can make your journey safer.

Rules for motorcyclists:
On all journeys, the rider and pillion passenger on a motorcycle, scooter or moped MUST wear a protective helmet. This does not apply to a follower of the Sikh religion while wearing a turban. Helmets MUST comply with the Regulations and they MUST be fastened securely. Riders and passengers of motor tricycles and quadricycles, also called quadbikes, should also wear a protective helmet. Before each journey checks that your helmet visor is clean and in good condition.

Always follow The Highway Code!

The Highway Code - Rules for road works

288) When the 'Road Works Ahead' sign is displayed, you will need to be more watchful and look for additional signs providing more specific instructions. Observe all signs they are there for your safety and the safety of road workers. you MUST NOT exceed any temporary maximum speed limit. use your mirrors and get into the correct lane for your vehicle in good time and as signs direct do not switch lanes to overtake queuing traffic. take extra care near cyclists and motorcyclists as they are vulnerable to skidding on grit, mud or other debris at road works. where lanes are restricted due to road works, merge in turn (see Rule 134). do not drive through an area marked off by traffic cones. watch out for traffic entering or leaving the works area, but do not be distracted by what is going on there. Concentrate on the road ahead, not the road works. bear in mind that the road ahead may be obstructed by the works or by slow moving or stationary traffic. keep a safe distance - there could be queues in front. To obtain further information about road works see 'Other information'. Law RTRA sect 16

Additional rules for high-speed roads

289) Take special care on motorways and other high speed dual carriageways. one or more lanes may be closed to traffic and a lower speed limit may apply. works vehicles that are slow moving or stationary with a large 'Keep Left' or 'Keep Right' sign on the back are sometimes used to close lanes for repairs, and a flashing light arrow may also be used to make the works vehicle more conspicuous from a distance and give earlier warning to drivers that they need to move over to the next lane. check mirrors, slow down and change lanes if necessary. keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front (see Rule 126). 290) Contraflow systems mean that you may be travelling in a narrower lane than normal and with no permanent barrier between you and oncoming traffic. The hard shoulder may be used for traffic, but be aware that there may be broken-down vehicles ahead of you. Keep a good distance from the vehicle ahead and observe any temporary speed limits.

Driving theory test with touch screen computer

About driving theory test -
There are two parts of driving theory test i.e. multiple-choice test and the hazard perception test. Both the test must be passed in the same attempt to get theory test certificate. Once you clear driving theory test then only you will be allowed to appear for driving practical test.

 Multiple-choice test is the first part of driving theory test which consist of 50 questions out of which you need to answer 43 questions right and the time limit is 57 minutes. You can also go for a practice session of the multiple choice questions to get used to the layout of the test. This session is being designed to test your understanding for the theory behind driving.

Hazard perception test is the second part of driving theory test in which you will be shown 14 clips of 1 minute each having 15 hazards in all (1 clip will have 2 hazards respectively). Once you are done with hazard perception test you will be invited to answer few customer survey questions. This session is designed to test your alertness of potential hazards whilst driving.

Unlike multiple choice questions, for the hazard perception test there are no separate versions for different vehicles e.g. car, bike, heavy vehicle etc, each vehicle category takes the same test, however the pass mark is different for different categories of tests.

If you pass one part and fail the other you will fail the whole driving theory test, and need to attempt for both the test again.

About touch screen system:
A touch screen is an electronic visual display that can identify the existence and position of a touch within the display area. The term in general refers to touching the display of the device with a finger or hand. Touch screens can also sense other inactive objects, such as a stylus. On the other hand, if the thing sensed is active, as with a light pen, the term touch screen is usually not relevant.

The touch screen has two main attributes:
Firstly, it enables one to cooperate directly with what is displayed, rather than indirectly with a cursor controlled by a mouse or touchpad.

Secondly, it lets one do so without requiring any intermediate device that would need to be held in the hand. The touch screen system has been carefully designed to make sure it is easy to use.

• Candidate can also work through a practice session for up to 15 minutes to get used to the system before actually starting their test.
• To answer a question the candidate simply touches their choice of answer from the listed answers on the computer screen.
• To take online theory test for driving theory test candidate use touch screen computer system.
• Touch screen is preferred because it is easy to use or user friendly.
• During examination if a candidate faces any problem or finds difficult to use the new system staff will be on hand to help them.
• The system has been carefully designed so those candidates that are colour blind can use it.
• The system has the option for dyslexic candidate to listen to the test being read in English through a headset.

People with dyslexia can also apply to have up to doubled the standard time for the multiple choice part of the test. This accommodation must be arranged at the time of booking. Supporting documents such as a letter from your teacher will be required.

Driving theory test with touch screen computer system:
All candidates for the driving theory test are now using the new ‘touch screen computer system’ to take their test as it is easy to use.

• You need to select the answers by simply touching a computer screen for the multi choice element of the test and clicking a mouse button for the hazard perception test.
• The question/screens are easy to read on the screen. Only one question will be on the screen at any time, you will be able to move backwards as well as forwards through the test questions.
• You will be able to 'flag' any of the questions you want to go back to and look at again, you will also be able to change any of the answers you may feel need to be changed.
• Some questions will ask you to select more than one answer. You will be alerted by the system if you have not completely answered all the questions.
• Staff will be on hand to help you if you have any difficulties in using the new system.

The Highway Code - Rules for Level crossings

291)	A level crossing is where a road crosses a railway or tramway line.  Approach and cross it with care. Never drive onto a crossing until  the road is clear on the other side and do not get too close to the  car in front. Never stop or park on, or near, a crossing.
292)	Overhead electric lines. It is dangerous to touch overhead electric lines.  You MUST obey the safe height warning road signs and you should not  continue forward onto the railway if your vehicle touches any height  barrier or bells. The clearance available is usually 5 metres  (16 feet 6 inches) but may be lower. Laws RTA 1988 sect 36, TSRGD 2002 reg 17(5)
293)	Controlled crossings. Most crossings have traffic light signals with a steady amber light, twin flashing red stop lights (see 'Light signals controlling traffic' and 'Warning signs') and an audible alarm for pedestrians. They may have full, half or no barriers. You MUST always obey the flashing red stop lights. You MUST stop behind the white line across the road. Keep going if you have already crossed the white line when the amber light comes on.
	Do not reverse onto or over a controlled crossing. you MUST wait if a train goes by and the red lights continue to flash. This means another train will be passing soon only cross when the lights go off and barriers open never zig-zag around half-barriers, they lower automatically because a train is approaching at crossings where there are no barriers, a train is approaching when the lights show. Laws RTA 1988 sect 36 & TSRGD regs 10 & 40
294)	Railway telephones. If you are driving a large or slow-moving vehicle, a long, low vehicle with a risk of grounding, or herding animals, a train could arrive before you are clear of the crossing. You MUST obey any sign instructing you to use the railway telephone to obtain permission to cross. You MUST also telephone when clear of the crossing if requested to do so. Laws RTA 1988 sect 36 & TSRGD reg 10 & 16(1)
295)	Crossings without traffic lights. Vehicles should stop and wait at the barrier or gate when it begins to close and not cross until the barrier or gate opens.
296)	User-operated gates or barriers. Some crossings have 'Stop' signs and small red and green lights. You MUST NOT cross when the red light is showing, only cross if the green light is on. If crossing with a vehicle, you should open the gates or barriers on both sides of the crossing check that the green light is still on and cross quickly close the gates or barriers when you are clear of the crossing. Laws RTA 1988 sect 36 & TSRGD reg 10 & 52(2)
297)	If there are no lights, follow the procedure in Rule 295. Stop, look both ways and listen before you cross. If there is a railway telephone, always use it to contact the signal operator to make sure it is safe to cross. Inform the signal operator again when you are clear of the crossing.
298)	Open crossings. These have no gates, barriers, attendant or traffic lights but will have a ' Give Way ' sign. You should look both ways, listen and make sure there is no train coming before you cross.
299)	Incidents and breakdowns. If your vehicle breaks down, or if you have an incident on a crossing you should get everyone out of the vehicle and clear of the crossing immediately use a railway telephone if available to tell the signal operator. Follow the instructions you are given move the vehicle clear of the crossing if there is time before a train arrives. If the alarm sounds, or the amber light comes on, leave the vehicle and get clear of the crossing immediately.

The Highway Code - Rules for Tramways( 300-307 )

300)	You MUST NOT enter a road, lane or other route reserved for trams. Take extra care where trams run along the road. You should avoid driving directly on top of the rails and should take care where trams leave the main carriageway to enter the reserved route, to ensure you do not follow them. The width taken up by trams is often shown by tram lanes marked by white lines, yellow dots or by a different type of road surface. Diamond-shaped signs and white light signals give instructions to tram drivers only. Law RTRA sects 5 & 8
301)	Take extra care where the track crosses from one side of the road to the other and where the road narrows and the tracks come close to the kerb. Tram drivers usually have their own traffic signals and may be permitted to move when you are not. Always give way to trams. Do not try to race or overtake them or pass them on the inside, unless they are at tram stops or stopped by tram signals and there is a designated tram lane for you to pass. For more information visit: http://www.pass-test.co.uk
302)	You MUST NOT park your vehicle where it would get in the way of trams or where it would force other drivers to do so. Do not stop on any part of a tram track, except in a designated bay where this has been provided alongside and clear of the track. When doing so, ensure that all parts of your vehicle are outside the delineated tram path. Remember that a tram cannot steer round an obstruction. Law RTRA sects 5 & 8
303)	Tram stops. Where the tram stops at a platform, either in the middle or at the side of the road, you MUST follow the route shown by the road signs and markings. At stops without platforms you MUST NOT drive between a tram and the left-hand kerb when a tram has stopped to pick up passengers. If there is no alternative route signed, do not overtake the tram - wait until it moves off. Law RTRA sects 5 & 8
304)	Look out for pedestrians, especially children, running to catch a tram approaching a stop.
305)	Always give priority to trams, especially when they signal to pull away from stops, unless it would be unsafe to do so. Remember that they may be carrying large numbers of standing passengers who could be injured if the tram had to make an emergency stop. Look out for people getting off a bus or tram and crossing the road. Visit:  http://www.pass-test.co.uk/common/frm_comparepage.aspx
306)	All road users, but particularly cyclists and motorcyclists, should take extra care when driving or riding close to or crossing the tracks, especially if the rails are wet. You should take particular care when crossing the rails at shallow angles, on bends and at junctions. It is safest to cross the tracks directly at right angles. Other road users should be aware that cyclists and motorcyclists may need more space to cross the tracks safely.
307)	Overhead electric lines. Tramway overhead wires are normally 5.8 metres above any carriageway, but can be lower. You should ensure that you have sufficient clearance between the wire and your vehicle (including any load you are carrying) before driving under an overhead wire. Drivers of vehicles with extending cranes, booms, tipping apparatus or other types of variable height equipment should ensure that the equipment is fully lowered. Where overhead wires are set lower than 5.8 metres, these will be indicated by height clearance markings - similar to 'low bridge' signs. The height clearances on these plates should be carefully noted and observed. If you are in any doubt as to whether your vehicle will pass safely under the wires, you should always contact the local police or the tramway operator. Never take a chance as this can be extremely hazardous.

Driving theory test: are you ready enough to pass at 1st attempt?

Have you used correct study material?

Many learners fail in their driving test because they get nervous and stressed out on their test day. Nearly everyone gets nervous about taking their driving test, no matter how well prepared they are. It has been observed that people who are usually cool and calm.

 The questions which are being asked in DSA theory test exam are chosen from official theory test question bank. The actual exam questions are chosen from this accurate set of questions. Make sure that you refer the latest DSA theory test question bank, as the questions keep changing at least once in a year.

Have you practiced enough?

Only few questions are bit difficult to keep in mind a part from that driving theory test is not tough. You need to practice more, especially speed limits, stopping distances, and road signs questions.

• Take guidance from your driving instructor about when can you appear for your test, he/she could direct you whether you are ready for the test or not.
• You can book driving theory test in advance, so you decide for a convenient time slot from the nearest test center.
• Choose the time slot when you could be at your best. Your bad day might affect your test at the evening time. Mornings are usually the best as you are more relaxed and focused.
• Before appearing for the test at least once have a "mock" driving test with your friends or family members.
• Taking test in the early morning will lead to less time to worry about it.
• When you arrive at the test center make sure that you have the important documents with you.
• Theory test is computer based; for which you don’t have to be an expert at using computers. But make sure you understand how the touch screen works.
• You can also work through a practice session for up to 15 minutes to get used to the system before actually starting your theory test.
• Think positively. Don’t be nervous, the questions will be exactly same as you practiced (if you have referred correct material)
• Read each question carefully and note how many answers are required.
  
• If you are not sure about any of the answers, flag them and you can come back to them later and start answering the easy questions first.
• Check through all your answers again if you think you've finished your test.

Hazard perception test –
It is very important to understand the concept of hazard perception test. It is known as a scoring mechanism. Many candidates fail in this test because they need to know much more about hazard perception test to score maximum score.

The Highway Code - Latest edition

The Highway Code is essential reading for everyone. Its rules apply to all road users: drivers, motorcyclists, cyclists, pedestrians as well as horse riders. Navigate around this site through the road user categories, keyword search (A-Z index) or simply browse through the rules.

Many of the rules in the code are legal requirements, and if you disobey these rules you are committing a criminal offence. You may be fined, given penalty points on your

driving licence or be disqualified from driving. In the most serious cases you may be sent to prison. Such rules are identified by the use of the

 words MUST / MUST NOT.

 In addition the rule includes an abbreviated reference to the legislation which creates the offence. Abbreviation explanation.

Although failure to comply with the other rules of the Code will not, it itself, cause a person to be prosecuted, The Highway Code may be used in evidence in any court proceedings under Traffic Acts to establish liability.

This is very useful to know UK road traffic signs, rule and regulations if you are preparing for your driving theory test or practical test.

The most vulnerable road users are pedestrians, particularly children, older or disabled people, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders. It is important that all road users are aware of the Code and are considerate towards each other. This applies to pedestrians as much as to drivers and riders.

Knowing and applying the rules contained in The Highway Code could significantly reduce road casualties. Cutting the number of deaths and injuries that occur on our roads every day is a responsibility we all share. The Highway Code can help us discharge that responsibility.