Handling and controlling the vehicle

As a driver, you are responsible for not only your own safety but also for the safety of your passengers and other road users.As a driver, you are responsible for not only your own safety but also for the safety of your passengers and other road users.

Controls

You are familiar with the way the steering wheel, clutch, accelerator, brakes, handbrake, gears, indicators, emergency lights, horn and driving lights work, and you know how to use them correctly. You understand the importance of the controls in terms of traffic safety.

Vehicle’s oils, fluids and fuel

You know how to top up the vehicle’s oils and fluids (including engine oil, coolant and windshield wash fluid) as well as fuel. You understand their significance for driving and road safety.

Driving position

You know what the correct driving position is and how to make the appropriate adjustments for reaching it, and you understand its importance for driving.

Mirrors, headrest, seat belts and doors

You know how to adjust the mirrors, seat belts and headrest correctly, and you are aware of their meaning for traffic safety. You check that the doors of the vehicle are closed before you drive off. You also understand the importance of these aspects for safety.

Driver-assistance systems, automation and other technology (mobile phones and navigation devices)

You are familiar with the driver-assistance systems in your vehicle and know how they work. You use them correctly while driving and are aware of how they affect your powers of observation and traffic safety during driving.

Tyres

You are familiar with different types of tyres and their suitability for various conditions. You are aware of how the tyres and tyre pressure affect the grip and the stopping distance in different conditions. You are aware of the role of friction and road conditions in traffic safety.

Space requirement

You are familiar with the size, mass and dimensions of your vehicle and the space it requires when turning and in tight spots.

Speed

You are aware of the importance of speed limits for traffic safety and the consequences of not observing them. You know how to adjust the speed of your vehicle; normal speed, creeping, pulling away. You are aware of the effect of speed on braking and stopping distances in different road conditions and on different road surfaces. You understand why driving at a correct speed is important for traffic safety and know the risks caused by excessive speeds.

Learning outcomes

You are familiar with the vehicle’s controls and safety devices.
You are able to control your vehicle, keep it in the right direction and maintain the correct speed and know how much space the vehicle requires.
You understand the risks and your responsibility associated with handling and controlling the vehicle.
You know how to use your vehicle in an economic and environmentally friendly manner.

Page updated 11/26/2018