Motorcycle study notes
Hazard Awareness
Spotting and reacting to developing hazards — children, cyclists, animals, weather.
What this topic covers
Spotting and reacting to developing hazards — children, cyclists, animals, weather. The full Motorcycle Theory Test app contains 56 questions on this topic, drawn from the official DVSA bank.
Worked examples
Here are a few practice questions from this topic. Try answering each before reading the explanation.
Example 1
You get cold and wet when riding. Which TWO are likely to happen?
- A. You may lose concentration ✓ correct
- B. You may slide off the seat
- C. Your visor may freeze up
- D. Your reaction times may be slower ✓ correct
- E. Your helmet may loosen
Explanation: When you’re riding a motorcycle make sure you’re wearing suitable clothing. If you become cold and uncomfortable this could cause you to lose concentration and could slow down your reaction time.
Example 2
Drinking any amount of alcohol is likely to
- A. slow down your reactions to hazards ✓ correct
- B. increase the speed of your reactions
- C. worsen your judgement of speed ✓ correct
- D. improve your awareness of danger
- E. give a false sense of confidence ✓ correct
Explanation: Never drink if you are going to ride. It’s always the safest option not to drink at all. Don’t take risks, it’s not worth it.
Example 3
Why should you wear ear plugs when riding a motorcycle?
- A. To help to prevent ear damage ✓ correct
- B. To make you less aware of traffic
- C. To help to keep you warm
- D. To make your helmet fit better
Explanation: The use of ear plugs is recommended to reduce the effect of noise levels and protect your hearing.
Example 4
When should you use hazard warning lights?
- A. When you are double-parked on a two-way road
- B. When your direction indicators are not working
- C. When warning oncoming traffic that you intend to stop
- D. When your motorcycle has broken down and is causing an obstruction ✓ correct
Explanation: Hazard warning lights are an important safety feature and should be used if you have broken down and are causing an obstruction. Don’t use them as an excuse to park illegally, such as when using a cash machine or post box. You may also use them on motorways to warn following traffic of danger ahead.
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Take the interactive quiz for Hazard Awareness.
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