Hazard Perception
Learn to identify developing hazards early, react correctly, and stay safe on the road with expert guidance.
Contact UsWhat is Hazard Perception?
Hazard perception is the ability to recognise potential dangers early and respond safely. The earlier you spot hazards, the more time you have to react.
Official DVSA Hazard Perception Guide
Static Hazards
Pedestrian Crossings
Moving Hazards
Road User & What to do
Pedestrians
If you see pedestrians in the road, be patient and wait for them to finish crossing. On country roads there may be no pavement, so look out for pedestrians in the road. They may be walking towards you on your side of the road
Car Drivers
Hazards caused by other drivers are all too common and can lead to emotional reactions. An emotional reaction may affect your ability to drive safely and could increase your likelihood of causing an incident. Stay calm and make allowances for other drivers. Remember, even experienced drivers can make mistakes.
Motorcyclists
Look out for motorcyclists, especially when you’re emerging from a junction, turning into a road on your right or changing lanes or moving out to overtake.
Cyclists
Be aware of cyclists and give them plenty of room. They may wobble or swerve to avoid drains or potholes. At junctions or traffic lights, give cyclists time to turn or pull away. When travelling in slow traffic, before you turn left, check for cyclists filtering through the traffic on your left.
Horse Riders
Horses can be unpredictable and easily spooked. Reduce your speed and give them plenty of room when overtaking.
Drivers Of LargeVehicle
If you see a bus at a bus stop, remember that people may get off and then cross the road, or that the bus may be about to move off. School buses might stop at places other than bus stops. At some bridges, high vehicles may need to use the centre of the road to be able to pass underneath. Large goods vehicles over 13 metres long have red and yellow markings at the back of the vehicle.
VehicleCarrying
Some vehicles have information signs on the back, to show that they contain a hazardous load. Learn what the signs mean.
Overtaking Vehicle
Watch out for vehicles, especially motorcyclists, overtaking and cutting in front of you. If you need to, drop back to keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front. When turning right, don’t forget to check to your right for overtaking vehicles before making the turn.
Disabled Powered Vehicle
Reduce your speed and be careful. These small vehicles are extremely vulnerable on the road because they’re difficult to see and they travel slow.
Older Drivers
Older drivers may not react very quickly, so be patient with them. You can practise spotting hazards in everyday situations such as when you’re on a bus, as a passenger in a car, or riding a bicycle.
Weather Hazards
Rain
Ice
Fog
Bright Sun
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