Trainee bus driver and instructor reviewing a checklist beside a single-deck bus at the depot

PCV study notes

Leaving the Vehicle

Parking and securing a large vehicle safely, and getting out of the cab without risk.

What this topic covers

Parking and securing a large vehicle safely, and getting out of the cab without risk. The full PCV Theory Test & Toolkit app contains 16 questions on this topic.

In the app's syllabus: Mirrors, Signals, Parking, Moving off, Blind spots, Observation at junctions.

Worked examples

Here are a few practice questions from this topic. Try answering each before reading the explanation.

Example 1

When may hazard warning lights be used while driving?

A. When on motorways or dual carriageways, to warn drivers behind of a hazard ahead ✓ correct
B. To show you want to go ahead when your position suggests otherwise
C. As a warning to drivers that you're towing another vehicle
D. To thank a driver who has let you move back to the left after overtaking

Explanation: Use your hazard warning lights on a motorway or unrestricted dual carriageway to warn following drivers of an obstruction or hazard ahead. This will alert drivers who may not be able to see the hazard due to the size of your vehicle.

Example 2

What must you do before you leave your vehicle?

A. Check that the warning lights are working
B. Apply the parking brake ✓ correct
C. Adjust your mirrors
D. Empty the air tanks

Explanation: The parking brake must always be set whenever you leave the vehicle. It's an offence not to leave your vehicle properly secured.

Example 3

You need to stop and get out of your vehicle. When should you use the parking brake?

A. After the air pressure has dropped
B. Whenever you leave the vehicle ✓ correct
C. Only if you park on a gradient
D. After the service brake has been released

Explanation: It's an offence to leave your vehicle unattended at any time without applying the parking brake.

Example 4

What should you do before leaving your vehicle parked on a public road?

A. Put the gear lever into reverse
B. Adjust the mirrors
C. Switch off the engine ✓ correct
D. Remove your tachograph chart

Explanation: It's an offence to leave a vehicle unattended on a public road with the engine running. Take care if you have to open the cab door directly into the road. Look for passing traffic - especially cyclists or motorcyclists - that may not be visible in your mirrors.

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More PCV study notes

Get all 16 questions on this topic in the PCV Theory Test & Toolkit app.