Restricted View
Mirror checks, blind spots and how a large vehicle limits what you can see.
What this topic covers
Mirror checks, blind spots and how a large vehicle limits what you can see. The full PCV Theory Test app contains 25 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
What should you first check before moving to the LEFT?
- A. The nearside mirror ✓ correct
- B. The offside mirror
- C. Behind, over your right shoulder
- D. Behind, over your left shoulder
Explanation: Before you make a turn or a change of direction, however slight, you should always check the mirrors. If you intend to turn left, check your left-hand (nearside) mirror first.
Example 2
You are about to move off. You should always
- A. extend your right arm as far as you can out of the window
- B. use only the offside mirror and move away quickly
- C. signal right with indicator and arm together
- D. use your mirrors and look behind ✓ correct
Explanation: You must use the mirrors well before you signal your intention to make any manoeuvre. Situations when you need to use them include, moving away, changing direction, turning, overtaking, changing lanes, slowing or stopping, changing speed, opening a door.
Example 3
The MSM routine is used to negotiate a hazard. What do the initials MSM stand for?
- A. Mirror, signal, manoeuvre ✓ correct
- B. Manoeuvre, speed, mirror
- C. Mirror, speed, manoeuvre
- D. Manoeuvre, signal, mirror
Explanation: Always use the MSM routine when you’re approaching a hazard. M – Mirror: check the position of the traffic behind you. S – Signal: signal your intention to slow down or change course in good time. M – Manoeuvre: a manoeuvre is any change in position, from slowing or stopping the vehicle to turning off a busy road.
Example 4
To have good all-round vision you should make sure that
- A. windows are open
- B. a sun visor is fitted
- C. your seat is properly adjusted ✓ correct
- D. all lights are clean
Explanation: Large vehicles are designed for their specific function, and this often means the shape and size can impair all-round visibility for the driver. You must make sure that you adjust the seat so that you’re able to reach all the controls and see in all the mirrors. You should be seated in such a way that you’re able to lean out of the window and check all offside blind spots.
Get all 25 questions on this topic in the PCV Theory Test app.
