Driving Handout Guide

Heather Brodrick
www.apple-drivingschool.co.uk
info@apple-drivingschool.co.uk
Tel: 01747 825574
Mobile: 07545 339653

MSM Driving School - www.msm-driving-school.org - mandy@msm-driving-school.org
Index
Why will this Handout HELP ME? 3
The Signing System 4
Mirror - Signal - Manoeuvre 5
Changing Gear 6
Moving Off 8
Stopping 10
Approaching Junctions 11
Emerging at T-Junctions 14
Crossroads 16
Roundabouts 18
Meeting Approaching Traffic 25
Adequate Clearance (Defensive Driving) 26
Pedestrian Crossings 29
Approaching Bends (Limit Point) 34
Straight Line Reverse 35
Reverse around a Corner 36
Turn in the Road 37

Reverse Parking 38
Bay Parking 39
Dual Carriageways 40
Show Me Tell Me 41
Page 2 of 43
Study
Knowledge and understanding of the

proper procedures in driving is vital to a
driving test pass and for safe driving
thereafter.
By studying this handout you will get

better understanding of what you are
being taught throughout the day,
This 5 day course is not an easy, it's very

hard work and the more you know the
better and faster you will learn.
Practice
This part of your training is the practical

part; here we cover the proper procedures
that you have studied the night before.
"Practice makes perfect"
The knowledge from your home study will

help you get there quicker (less time on
the road side for me to explain it all over
again and again). You just get to do the
practical part.
Pass
With hard practical work and study you

will get there in no time.
However to get that nice red car you may

have to work longer than a week or 2
The Signing System
Page 3 of 43
There are three basic types of traffic sign: signs that give orders, signs that warn and signs that
give information. Each type has a different shape. A further guide to the function of a sign is its
colour, all triangular signs are red.
Circles give orders Triangles warn Rectangles inform
Blue circles generally give a mandatory instruction,

such as "turn left", or indicate a route available only to
particular classes of traffic, e.g. buses and cycles only
Red rings or circles tell you what you must not do, e.g.
you must not exceed 30 mph, no vehicles over the
height shown may proceed
Blue and Green rectangle signs are used for direction signs on primary
routes.
White rectangles are used for direction signs on non-primary

routes, or for plates used in combination with warning and
regulatory signs
There are a few exceptions to the shape and colour rules, to give certain signs greater
prominence. Examples are the "STOP" and "GIVE WAY" sign.
Always Look out for all signs when you are driving, they are there to help you know what to
do, what not do and where to go.
Page 4 of 43
Mirror - Signal - Manoeuvre
It‟s important to make sure the mirrors are clean and properly adjusted so that you always get the
best possible view of what‟s going on behind. By checking the mirrors regularly you‟ll be able to
monitor the behaviour of road users behind you, this means what they‟re doing, how close, how
fast and so on, checking the mirrors will let us know if it is safe to carry out our planned actions
and if a signal is required and how early to give it.
To help you to remember to use the mirrors in the correct order

we use a sequence called M-S-M, which stands for: Mirrors,
Signal and Manoeuvre, this is one of the most important aspects
of driving and early, effective use of the mirrors will feature in
every lesson and every time you drive.
By using all of the mirrors frequently and effectively you will have
a good idea of what is happening around the car. However, there
are areas not covered by the mirrors, these areas are called blind
spots, in order to check these blind spots, which could hide
pedestrians or any other road users you must turn your head and
shoulders and physically check to see if other road users are around.
Mirrors: Check the speed and position of traffic behind you
SIGNAL: Consider whether a signal is necessary. If it is, signal your

intention to change course or slow down in good time
Manoeuvre: Manoeuvre is any change of speed/position, this is broken down into: Position -
Speed - Look
Position: Your vehicle must always be in the correct position for the manoeuvre
Speed: Ensure that the vehicle is travelling at the appropriate speed and in a suitable gear to
complete the manoeuvre safely
Look: The 'look' phrase consists of four elements:
1. Look: What can I see?

2. Assess: What are my options?
3. Decide: Depending on what I see.
4. Act: Either continue or wait.
Always: Use the MSM routine before:
 Moving off
 Signalling
 Changing direction turning left or right , overtaking or changing lanes
 Slowing down or stopping
Never
 Signal without checking the mirrors first

 Assume that, because you have signalled, you can carry out the intended manoeuvre
safely. Check to be sure
Page 5 of 43
Changing Gear
In most vehicles the first 4 gears form an 'H' appearance on the gear lever. Neutral is the middle
position in the 'H' formation on the gear lever. The gear lever will automatically spring to the central
neutral position when not in a gear. This is very useful when trying to find and select third or fourth
gear.
1st Gear is used for moving off, manoeuvring and for creeping slowly in traffic.
2nd Gear is used for building up speed after moving away, this is a working gear for built up areas.
3rd Gear is also a working gear for speeds up to 30 mph.
4th Gear is used for driving at speeds generally higher than 30 mph, where there are no hazards
to confront.
5th Gear gives better fuel economy. This is normally only used on open roads when travelling
constantly at higher speeds.
Reverse Gear is for reversing and this must be done at very slow speeds.
Approximate Speeds for each gear:
For eco safe driving and to save fuel, we always have the car in the correct gear for the speed that
we are doing:
Page 6 of 43
Gear change routine
1. Keep your eyes on the road

2. Cover the clutch
3. Firm grip of the steering wheel with your right hand
4. Place left hand on the gear lever
5. Off Gas
6. Clutch down to the floor
7. Select the gear you want, bring the clutch up smoothly
8. Back on gas
9. Place your left hand back on the steering wheel
When changing gear going uphill build up more speed before changing gear as you will lose
momentum when you press the clutch down.
When changing gear going down a steep hill you will need to apply light brake pressure to stop the
car building up to much speed during the gear change
Coasting
Don't coast, that's keeping the clutch down longer than is necessary or travelling in neutral
Selective Gear Changing
Selective gear changing means you sometimes miss out gears, for example, by changing from fifth
or fourth gear to second gear. This method is called 'selective' or 'block' gear changing.
There are also times when you might selectively change up, for example if you have used a lower
gear such as third for better acceleration you might be able to change to fifth gear when you have
reached your intended cruising speed.
The basic gear changing rule is 'brakes to slow - gears to go'. As the car increases speed,
change up through the gears. When you want to slow down, use the foot brake.
Palming method
To operate the gear lever we use a method known as 'palming' see picture for example:
Palm towards Instructor for 1st and 2nd
Palm towards driver for 5th and Reverse
Palm on top for 3rd and 4th
Page 7 of 43
Moving Off
To move off safely follow the P-O-M routine (Prepare-Observe-Move) explained below:
Prepare
 Press clutch pedal all the way down

 Select first gear
 Set gas (1.5 rev)
 Slowly raise clutch pedal to biting point and hold feet still
Observation
 Look over your left shoulder to check the blind spot

 Check all mirrors
 Look over your right shoulder to check the blind spot
Move
 Consider a signal - apply if other pedestrians/road users would benefit

 Release the parking brake
 Slowly raise clutch pedal (keeping on gas)
 Steer to your normal driving position (1mtr/3ft from the kerb or the middle of your lane)
 Rest your clutch foot on the floor
 Cancel signal (if applied)
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Moving off uphill
Prepare: The steeper the incline you should raise clutch

higher at biting point to avoid rolling back.
Observation: Check your mirrors & bind spots
Move: Give a little more gas as you release the parking

brake, keep in first gear for longer before changing to
second as you will need more power going up a hill
Moving off downhill
Prepare: If it‟s a steep hill you can move off in second

gear
 Keep on footbrake and release parking brake

(the weight of your vehicle will make you move
off)
Observation: Check your mirrors & blind spots
Move: Release footbrake, raise clutch pedal up and

give more gas
Moving off from behind a parked car
Prepare: Find biting point
Observation:
 Check your mirrors & blind spots

 Look out for oncoming traffic
 Look out for hazards in front of parked car
Move
 A signal will be required, because you cannot see behind the parked car
 Move out slowly with the clutch just at or above biting point - do not raise pedal all the way
up too soon to control speed
 Steer enough around obstruction trying to give a car doors clearance where possible
Page 9 of 43
Stopping
You will need to ensure you stop somewhere safe - legal and convenient.
Do not park where you will create a hazard to other road users i.e. on or near a bend, a brow of a
hill, too close to junctions, blocking someone's drive etc.
Follow the M-S-M routine:
Mirrors
Check your inside and left door mirrors (well before commencing
manoeuvre to assess distance and speed of any following traffic).
Signal
After you have picked a suitable place to stop only apply a left signal if anyone behind or ahead
would benefit.
Manoeuvre
Off gas pedal, cover the brake, cover the clutch, steer closer to the kerb aiming to be
approximately 1/2ft / 6 inches away.
For 1st gear stops: Clutch down, gently brake to a complete stop - keep clutch and brake pedal
applied. Secure the car (select parking brake and neutral) rest your feet. If signal is still on -
cancel.
For all other gear stops: Off gas, brake progressively to bring down your speed, just before the car
stops clutch down.
Secure the Car
1. Apply the parking brake

2. Select neutral
3. Cancel signal (if applied)
Page 10 of 43
Approaching Junctions
Approaching junctions to turn left, this is when you are leaving a main road to turn into a side road.
Identify
First you will need to identify where the junction is, you can do this
via warning signs, road markings, gaps in the houses or trees.
Priority
When turning left you will have priority over traffic turning right off the main road as they will be
cutting across your path. To help you arrive at the junction at the right speed, in the correct
position and gear we use the MSPSL routine.
Mirrors
Interior first will give best view of approaching traffic and an

idea of their speed. Check left door mirror next to be aware
of any cyclists.
Signal
Always signal when you are going from one road to another
and in good time but not too early which may confuse other
road users (they may think you are pulling up on the left) say
about 5/6 car lengths from the junction.
Position
There would be no need to change from your normal driving

position unless there are obstructions (parked cars).
Speed
Slow down enough to take the turn safely - an average turn

should be taken at approximately 8 - 10 mph (second gear
should be selected for this speed). Bring clutch pedal up to avoid coasting and to maintain control.
Look
Check into new road to assess how clear the junction is. Look out for parked
cars; pedestrians who could easily be crossing the road, pedestrians who
have stepped onto the road have priority! All this must be done before you
start to steer into the new road.
Taking a sweeping turn
Here, your view into the new road would be much clearer and it will be easier
to maintain control of your car with less steering needed for the turn,
therefore you may not need to slow down as much as a standard turn. If you
haven‟t needed to slow down much you can often take these in third gear.
Page 11 of 43
Approaching junctions to turn right
Approaching junctions to turn right, this is when you are leaving a main road to turn into a side
road.
Identify
First you will need to identify where the junction is, you can
do this via warning signs or gaps in the houses or trees.
Priority
Oncoming traffic will have priority - you must not cut across
them if to do so would cause them to change speed or
direction. If you can walk across then you can drive across!
Mirrors
Inside mirror then right door mirror, be aware of any vehicles

that may be overtaking.
Signal
Signal right.
Position
Move over to the centre of the road where possible - this will
not only confirm your intentions to turn right but on many roads
will leave enough room for following traffic to pass on the left.
Speed
Slow down enough to take turn safely or to stop smoothly if it‟s not clear to go due to oncoming
traffic.
Look
Check into road your entering to see if clear -possibly

pedestrians may be crossing / the road maybe blocked due to
parked cars with emerging traffic.
Point of turn (P.O.T.)
Try not to cut the corner, always drive on

your own side of the road unless a parked
car prevents you from doing so.
Stopping Position
Stop at your point of turn for oncoming traffic or if the road

you intend on turning into is blocked - this will make it easier
to turn in the correct position.
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ONE WAY
Look out for one way signs; you need to know what type of
road you are entering.
No Entry
Also look out for no Entry roads; you don't want to go down
there.
FILTER LANES
When turning right off main roads and when the road is wide
enough, you will often have filter lanes to help to keep the flow
of the traffic which will be able to pass on the left.
Try to enter as soon as you are clear of the chevron markings -

Do not unnecessarily drive over the chevron markings.
Page 13 of 43
Emerging at T-Junctions
What is a T - junction: a T-Junction it is where a side road joins a main road. The main points
before emerging at a T-Junction is to give way to other road users on the main road. This lesson
focuses on the L part of the MSPSL routine, Look Assess Decide Act
On the approach to a junction you will need to:
Look – For road signs that warn you that you are approaching a T-
Junction, and to identify what type of junction it is, there are four
different types, Give Way, Stop, Unmarked and Light Controlled.
Give Way Junctions you may not have to Stop, they are the most
common junctions. You can identify them by the: give way lines, the
white triangle or you could get a road sign on approach.
Stop Junctions you have to stop at. They are usually found in areas like
on a bend. You can identify them by the: solid white line, you may also
get the word Stop on the road and a sign on approach. Do not change
gear on approach just stop in the gear you in and then change to first
gear, this way you will stop even if the junction is clear "YOU MUST
STOP"
If you are going to have to wait for more then 5/6 seconds or on a hill/
gradient then apply the parking brake.
Unmarked At these Junctions, no one has priority so take special care.

They are usually found in rural areas or quiet housing estates. You can
identify them by: approaching a T-Junction with no Lines on the road.
Light Controlled Junctions. They are put up in busy areas to help the flow of
traffic, the lights decide when you have to stop or go. You can identify them by
the: lights on approach a solid white stop line and you could get a road sign on
approach. If the light is red, do not change gear on approach just stop in
the gear you in and then change to first gear, this way you will be
concentrating on your stop position. If you are going to have to wait for
more then 5/6 seconds or on a hill/ gradient then apply the parking brake.
Page 14 of 43
Assess – Your zones of vision on approach for an Unmarked or a Give Way junction. This will
help you decide what speed and gear you will need, we do this via assessing an open or a closed
junction:
Open Junctions
You can start to make your assessment earlier as visibility

onto the main road will be good. If clear you may be able to
emerge in 2nd gear.
Closed Junctions
On most T-Junctions your zone of vision is not so good; it is

only as you reach the junction mouth that you can see clearly
enough onto the main road to make a decision. In these
circumstances your speed will be very slow and you will need
to select 1st gear, we call this rolling into first.
Peep & Creep
In some circumstances even when you are at the junction,

your view may be further restricted by buildings, hedges or
parked vehicles. Good clutch control at this point will enable
you to edge forward so that you have a good view in both
directions; we call this peep and creep.
Decide – You must take effective observations before you emerge. The minimum observations
you should make are to the RIGHT, LEFT, RIGHT at least once, but as many times as necessary.
Decide if it is safe to go before crossing the white line or emerging. As a general guide when
emerging, if you would cause another vehicle to have to change direction or speed, then you
should stop and wait. Sound judgement of speed and distance takes time and a lot of practice.
IF IN DOUBT, WAIT.
ACT- Emerge safely and positively from the junction.
The most important thing to remember about emerging at junctions is to approach them at such a
speed that you can stop safely if necessary and to take effective observations before
emerging.
Page 15 of 43
Crossroads
When approaching a marked or unmarked crossroads and the intention is to turn left or right. If the
road opposite to you is clear, exactly the same method will be used as though you are turning at a
T-junction, the only difference being is that extra observations need to be taken of the opposing
road to make sure it is clear. A slower speed may be required due to the extra observation as
pedestrians and cyclists need to be taken into account as well as other road vehicles.
Identify:
First you will need to identify where the junction is, you can do this via warning signs, road
markings or gaps in the houses or trees.
Working out priority:
Traffic on the main road will have priority as usual (this is identified by the thicker line on the road
sign). The easiest way of working out priority over traffic opposite is to think of yourself when
driving on a main road you have priority for the direction you are taking until cutting across traffic‟s
path (turning right you need to give way to oncoming traffic), therefore you should give way to
traffic opposite when turning right as you will be cutting across their path. However never assume
priority make eye contact for any indication that the opposing car is going to give way to you. On
the following diagram the yellow car has priority.
Page 16 of 43
Equal priority!
When turning right at crossroads where an oncoming vehicle is also turning right, there is a choice
of two methods:
1. Turn right side to right side (offside to

offside) keep the other vehicle on your
right and turn behind it. This is generally
the safer method as you have a clear
view of any approaching traffic when
completing your turn.
2. Turn left side to left side (nearside to

nearside) turning in front of each other.
This can block your view of oncoming
vehicles, so take extra care. Cyclists
and motorcyclists in particular may be
hidden from your view. Road layout,
markings or how the other vehicle is
positioned can determine which course
should be taken
Where both you and the driver opposite intend on turning right no-one can assume priority as you
are both doing the same thing. You need to work out the safest way of emerging. If you emerge
onto the main road at the same time your options are to emerge nearside to nearside or offside to
offside, "if in doubt don't pull out"
Box Junctions:
Yellow criss-cross lines mark a box junction. The purpose is to keep

the junction clear by preventing traffic from stopping in the path of
crossing traffic. You must not enter a box junction unless your exit road
is clear. When turning right it is ok to enter the box when you are only
prevented from turning by oncoming traffic.
Page 17 of 43
Roundabout
Once you have learnt how to cross and join moderately busy junctions it‟s time to look at dealing
with roundabouts. Roundabouts are designed to keep the traffic flowing, traffic entering the
roundabout must give way to traffic already on the roundabout approaching from the right.
When approaching a roundabout, you need to use the MSM routine. Before you get onto a
roundabout you should make sure that you are fully aware of the situation around you - including
where you are entering the roundabout and which exit you should be leaving it from.
On approach to most roundabouts, you will be able to see a road sign that will indicate the shape
of the roundabout and how many exits there are in total.
Looking at the diagram, left is the first exit and will take you towards Amesbury, Portsmouth or the
M27. Ahead the 2nd exit, will take you to the town centre. Right the 3rd exit will take you to
Warminster or Wilton via the A36.
Page 18 of 43
Most learners and drivers are often confused how to position on a roundabout. If you were
approaching a cross roads, there are three ways you would go:
1- Keep left to turn left (Blue)

2- Also keep left to go ahead (Yellow)
3- Move to the right to turn right (Green)
Exactly the same rules apply at roundabouts:
1- Keep left to turn left (Blue)

2- Also keep left to go ahead (Yellow)
3- Move to the right to turn right (Green)
Page 19 of 43
You join the roundabout at six o'clock, and treat any exit up to (and including) 12 o'clock as either
left or ahead, staying in the left lane. Exits past 12 o'clock are treated as right turns, so use the
right lane (until you need to move over for your exit). No matter how many exits, the "12 o'clock"
rule normally applies unless signs or road marking tell you otherwise.
Many large roundabouts have multiple lanes. If there are no signs or road markings, use the
normal rules.
Lots of big roundabouts will have signs and

road markings to guide you. So you have to
know where you want to go! Follow the lane
marked.
"Look for signs and road markings"
Page 20 of 43
Safely Navigating a Roundabout
If you get your speed and gear right and the way is clear, on many occasions you will be able to
merge with the moving traffic without stopping.
The following advice assumes a roundabout has 3 exits and is a handy guide to follow:
To Turn Left (leaving at the first exit)
Signals left, and approach the roundabout in the left-hand lane.
Keep to the left of the roundabout and maintain the left signal to
leave
To Go Ahead (leaving at the second exit)
Choose the appropriate lane on approach to and on the

roundabout. If you can't see the markings on the road then it is
usually the safest option to keep in the left lane.
Stay in this lane until you are getting ready to exit the
roundabout, indicate left after you have passed the exit before
the one you want.
To Turn Right (leaving at the third exit)
Indicate right and approach the roundabout in the right-hand lane
Keep to the right-hand lane on the roundabout until you need to

change lanes to exit the roundabout
Signal left after you have passed the exit before the one that you
want.
Page 21 of 43
Mini-Roundabouts
Approach these in the same way as normal roundabouts. All vehicles MUST pass round the
central markings except large vehicles which are physically incapable of doing so. Remember,
there is less space to manoeuvre and less time to signal. Beware of vehicles making U-turns.
We want to turn left and we have to give way to the red car on our right but the red car is turning
left so we can go.
Double Mini-Roundabouts
At double mini-roundabouts treat each roundabout separately and give way to traffic from the right.
The red car has to give way to us; the blue car is not close enough to make us stop. So we can
deal with both roundabouts without stopping.
Page 22 of 43
The red car has to give way to us so we can deal with the first roundabout, now we have to give
way to the blue car so we need to stop.
The roundabout is clear to our right so we can enter the first one; we now have to give way to the
red car so we stop.
Page 23 of 43
We want to follow the road ahead; we can go because the red car is turning left.
Multiple roundabouts
At some complex junctions, there may be a series of mini-roundabouts. Treat each mini-
roundabout separately and follow the normal rules.
Page 24 of 43
Meeting Approaching Traffic
Meeting approaching traffic will mainly be where there are parked cars and you have oncoming
vehicles.
Priority
If the obstruction is on your side of the road oncoming vehicles have priority, you must not cause
oncoming vehicles to change speed or direction.
Be prepared to sacrifice priority when you‟re not sure if oncoming drivers are going to let you
through (where the obstruction is on their side).
Flashing Lights
Some people may flash their headlights as a sign they are willing for you
to proceed, judge their speed and position to confirm their intentions to
let you through. The true meaning of flashing headlights are for „a
warning of presence‟ so be sure of their intentions - they may not have
been flashed at you. As this is the true meaning of flashing your
headlights do not use to beckon people on.
Hold Back Position
If you need to stop, aim to keep a reasonable clearance from the

obstruction (say 1/2 car lengths) and as close as safe to the right, as
this will help your view of the road ahead and confirm your intentions. If
you are too close to the left following traffic may think that you are
parked up and overtake you. Move off safely as soon as clear.
On approach use the MSM routine
Mirrors
Is it safe to change position?
Signal
Consider a signal and indicate right only if you think anyone will benefit.
Your road position and speed will also confirm your intentions.
Manoeuvre
Position - move over to the centre of the road where possible on approach. Speed - approach slow
enough to allow you to come to a nice, smooth stop if needed. Look -down the road is it safe to
go?
Approach slow enough to enable you to stop safely if necessary and be aware of not only car
doors opening but pedestrians walking out from behind parked cars or vehicles emerging from side
roads.
Page 25 of 43
Adequate Clearance (Defensive Driving)
Adequate Clearance is where you need to protect your car from a collision to the front, side or
rear, like putting a Safety Bubble abound it. To achieve this Safety Bubble around our car, we use
four rules:
1) 2 - Second Rule, 2) Door Width Rule, 3) Diagonal Rule, 4) Queuing Rule
2 Second Rule:
The 2 Second Rule is to protect the front and rear of our car, adding additional seconds as
necessary.
Good conditions for a 2 second rule:
Environment - Daylight, clear weather, dry clean level surface 2 sec

Vehicle - All new / good condition 2 sec
Driver - Fit, alert, good sight, concentrating 2 sec
Bad conditions demanding extra time in addition to 2 seconds:
Environment - Vehicle behind to close, night no street lights 2/3 sec

Vehicle - Tyre inflation unchecked, dirty windows 2/3 sec
Driver - Fatigued, mental distraction (Tom-Tom/stereo) 2 sec
Choose a point like a road sign
When the vehicle in front passes that point,

say out loud
"Only a fool breaks the two-second rule".
Check your position in relation to your

chosen point as you finish saying this. If you
have already passed the point, you are
driving too close to the vehicle in front and
need to pull back.
If a driver behind is to close (Tailgating) give

yourself more room to the front, this will give
you more time to act if necessary.
Page 26 of 43
Door Width Rule:
Secondly we must also maintain a safe space at the sides of our vehicle - the Door Width Rule.
"When travelling at 30 mph never become closer than a door's width, i.e. 1 metre (3 feet) when
passing a parked vehicle, to allow for the possibility of a door opening or pedestrians moving out
from the parked cars".
Wherever there is less space due to hazards on both sides of your vehicle, speed must be
reduced in proportion.
When travelling at higher speeds, a greater width of safety margin must be maintained.
“Less Space Less Speed”
30 mph 15 mph
Page 27 of 43
Diagonal Rule:
Thirdly for maintaining space is the 'Diagonal Rule' and

which states "Always position yourself DIAGONALLY to
other vehicles, when travelling in a multilane system at a
similar speed to other traffic", i.e. don't travel alongside
another vehicle which is steering, or which may steer, as
you may come into contact.
It is necessary to use this rule in any multilane system,

that is, anywhere there are 2 or more lanes in your
direction and when traffic is travelling similar speeds to
each other. At a roundabout, entering, and exiting, always
use the Diagonal rule.
Never drive alongside a vehicle especially a large vehicle,

always remain Diagonally behind as this avoids most
problems and retains an escape route.
Queuing Rule:
And fourthly, to protect our front when stationary we have the

'Queuing Distance Rule'. When stopping in a traffic queue, it is
sufficient that the driver can see the rear tyres of the car ahead
and some tarmac (road),
Adequate Clearance is all about using just 4 rules to maintain a

SAFE SPACE
Page 28 of 43
Pedestrian Crossings
There are 4 main types of pedestrian crossing: Zebra, Pelican, Puffin and Toucan.
Zebra Crossing
A Zebra crossing is a path across a road marked with black and white stripes where pedestrians
may cross.
When you see a Zebra crossing ahead, they‟re identified by

road signs, flashing amber lights on black and white striped
poles and Zig-Zag lines painted on the road, you should:
Check your mirrors and be ready to slow or stop and give way
to pedestrians.
Do
 Check mirrors on approach

 Check to the sides for pedestrians at the crossings or approaching
 On approach to the crossing your speed should be well in
hand so that you can stop safely if necessary, keep speed
down until you see both sides are clear
 You must stop if someone is crossing or has crossed onto the
crossing. This is a legal requirement. This also applies to
people with prams or buggies, if they are on the crossing you
must stop
 You should stop if people obviously want to cross for example
if they‟re waiting by the side of the crossing or walking towards
it purposefully
 You MUST give way when someone has moved onto a
crossing
 Stop before the white dotted line - not after it
Do Not
 Do not invite pedestrians to cross as other traffic may not stop

for them
 Do not harass pedestrians by revving your engine or edging
forward
 Do not overtake in the areas marked with zig zag lines
 Do not park on zig zag lines
 In a queue of traffic never stop on the zebra leave it clear
Page 29 of 43
Pelican Crossing
This crossing is light controlled and pedestrians press a button to control the lights.
Pelicans can be identified by yellow boxes on the light

poles and zig- zag lines in the road on approach. You may
also get a road sign on approach telling you that you are
approaching a Pedestrian Crossing.
The light sequence at pelican differs from ordinary traffic lights and is as follows:
Red means Stop
Flashing amber means give way to pedestrians who are crossing and you can go if
clear
Green means go but only if there are no pedestrians on the crossing
Steady amber means stop unless you have already crossed the white stop line or are
so close to it that to pull up would cause an accident
Do

 If pedestrians are waiting to cross and the lights are on green, assume that the button has
been pressed and anticipate the lights changing
 On approach to the crossing your speed should be well in hand so that you can stop safely
if necessary, keep speed down until you see both sides are clear
 Stop before the white line - not after it
Do Not
 Do not invite pedestrians to cross as other traffic may not stop for them
 Do not harass pedestrians by revving your engine or edging forward
 In a queue of traffic never stop on the crossing leave it clear
Page 30 of 43
Toucan and Puffin Crossings
Other types of controlled crossings are Toucan and Puffin, they can be identified by yellow boxes
on the light poles and zig- zag lines in the road on approach. You may also get a road sign on
approach telling you that you are approaching a Pedestrian Crossing.
Puffin crossings are similar to Pelicans but there is no flashing amber phase. An infra-red sensor
will hold the lights on red when pedestrians are crossing.
Toucan crossings operate in the same way and are designed for use by pedestrians and cyclists,
they can both cross at the same time.
Do

 If pedestrians are waiting to cross and the lights are on green, assume that the button has
been pressed and anticipate the lights changing
 On approach to the crossing your speed should be well in hand so that you can stop safely
if necessary, keep speed down until you see both sides are clear
 Stop before the white line - not after it
Do Not
 Do not invite pedestrians to cross as other traffic may not stop for them
 Do not harass pedestrians by revving your engine or edging forward
 In a queue of traffic never stop on the crossing leave it clear
Page 31 of 43
School Crossing Patrol
You must stop when a school crossing patrol shows a stop for children sign, it is an offence not to
Stop when signalled to do so.
There may be a flashing amber signal below the school warning sign to alert you that children may
be crossing the road ahead. Drive slowly until you are clear of the area. Be cautious when passing
a stationary bus showing a school bus sign.
Not ready to cross pedestrians Barrier to stop pedestrians crossing
Ready to cross pedestrians, All vehicles must stop

vehicles must be prepared to stop
Extract from The Highway Code http://www.direct.gov.uk/prod_consum_dg/groups/dg_digitalassets/@dg/@en/documents/digitalasset/dg_070565.pdf
Page 32 of 43
Traffic Light Signals
Traffic lights will change frequently to keep the traffic flowing.
You should follow the M-S-M routine on approach and try to anticipate what
the lights are likely to show for when you are at them.
Pay attention to lane markings to ensure you get in the correct lane in good
time for the direction you wish to take.
You should also keep your speed down on approach and not be tempted to
speed up hoping to beat them.
RED means „Stop‟.
Wait behind the stop line
RED AND AMBER also means „Stop‟
Do not pass through or start until GREEN shows
GREEN means you may go on if the way is clear
Take special care if you intend to turn left or right and give way to
pedestrians who are crossing
AMBER means „Stop‟ at the Stop Line
You may go on only if the AMBER appears after you have crossed the
stop line or are so close to it that to pull up might cause an accident
Page 33 of 43
Approaching a Bend
Identify the bend via road signs/street lights/trees moving off to the left/right. As soon as you
identify that you are approaching a bend, you will need to start your MSM routine, and ask yourself
the following questions:
 How sharp is the bend?

 Are you at a safe speed / gear?
 What might you meet?
 Could you stop if necessary?
The Golden Rule:
"You must be able to stop, on your side of the road,

in the distance you can see to be clear"
A good way to read a bend is by using the limit point, The

limit point is the furthest point along a road to which you
have an uninterrupted view of the road surface.
“THE MORE DISTANCE THE LIMIT POINT THE

FASTER YOU CAN GO” because you have more space
to stop in.
“THE CLOSER THE LIMIT POINT THE SLOWER YOU

MUST GO” because you have less space to stop in.
On approach to the bend, ask yourself is the limit point

getting further away? (In this diagram yes) If it is and you
can see further ahead than your speed is fine.
If it is getting closer you should continue to reduce your

speed until the limit point begins to move with you and
your view opens up again.
IF IT IS MOVING AWAY FROM YOU, ACCELERATE

IF IT IS COMING CLOSER TO YOU OR STANDING
STILL DECELERATE OR BRAKE
Page 34 of 43
Straight Line Reversing
Straight line reversing is the first set manoeuvre you need to learn. It forms the basis for all the
other manoeuvres.
The key points are:
Location:
Make sure that where you intend to reverse is safe, legal and convenient.
Seating position and seatbelt:

When reversing you can unfasten your seatbelt to enable you to shuffle around in your seat so that
you can look through the rear window by looking over your left shoulder.
Low Speed - Clutch Control:

All the set manoeuvres should be undertaken at a very slow speed by using what is termed “Clutch
Control” move at walking pace.
All round awareness:

While reversing you must be taking observations through the rear window of the vehicle
occasionally pausing using clutch control to take all round observations.
Keep the kerb around

here will help you steer in
a straight line
Look well back for positioning:

In exactly the same way that you position the car when moving
forward by looking well ahead (i.e. where you want to go) the
same is true for driving in reverse. The near side door mirror may
also be useful for checking the position of the vehicle in relation to
the kerb.
Dealing with other road users:

When reversing pause and wait if a vehicle appears to your rear. Particularly watch for pedestrians
or children on bikes crossing to your rear. Again you need to give way and wait. When crossing a
driveway to your rears watch for road users emerging from or wanting to turn into the driveway.
Page 35 of 43
Reverse around a Corner
POT
1 - From here, move off using the POM routine. As you drive past the road have a glance into it, is
it safe?
Carry out the MSM routine and pull up about 1/2 car lengths from the corner and about 18 inches
from the kerb.
2 - From here, move off using the POM routine. Reverse back to your point of turn. Use quick
glances to keep an eye on your position.
3 - Now your point of turn well be when the back wheels are level with the last straight kerbstone
or the point at which the kerb starts to bend, this is when you need to start to turn. Before you turn
you must check forward and over your right blind spot (the front of your car will swing out as you
turn this will present a danger to other traffic). With quick glances in the left blind spot mirror, you
will be able to work out how much you need to steer.
4 - Half-way round the corner, check over to the right down the main road for an update on what's
around you. When the car is about two –thirds of the way round, start to straighten up.
5 - Steer towards the kerb till the car becomes parallel to it, looking through the middle of the back
window but still glancing forward.
6 - Stop when you are parallel to the kerb and about 6/8" away from it.
The important things to remember are:
Drive the car slowly (walking pace) using clutch control, keeping the car slow will enable you to
keep all round observations and accurate positioning. When reversing you must be prepared to
stop and give way to all other road users. If you cause inconvenience to a car behind, you will
have to pull forward to start again.
Page 36 of 43
Turn in the Road
Before you carry out this exercise you must first consider the site you have chosen and ask
yourself the following questions: Is it safe? Is it convenient? Is it Legal?
Use the POM routine to move off, drive forward slowly, steer quickly and fully to the right (aim to
get full right lock on, before the front of the car gets to the middle of the road), as you get over the
middle of the road check right and left.
1 - About 3ft from the kerb clutch down and steer quickly to the left
2 - About 1ft from the kerb gently brake to a stop
Now because of the camber of the road, (a camber is the convex slopes across a road surface
designed to assist drainage), you may need to treat it as an uphill start? Use the POM routine to
move off. Drive backwards slowly, looking over your left shoulder through the middle of the back
window, steering quickly and fully to the left. As the car crosses the middle of the road look over
your right shoulder. The back wheel at the right would be the first to strike the kerb so you need to
monitor in relation to the kerb
3 - About 3ft from the kerb clutch down and steer quickly to the right
4 - About 1ft from the kerb gently brake to a stop
Use the POM routine to move off, drive forward slowly, steering quickly to the right, then steer left
to a driving line and make normal progress.
Page 37 of 43
Reverse/Parallel Park
1 - Drive forward and get your chest in line with the bonnet of the
target car
Look all round starting from the right, is it safe?
Start to reverse
2 - See the back lights in the quarter light
Look all round is it safe?
One full turn Left, keep the steering still
3 - Door pillar just paces the lights,
Look all round, is it safe?
One full turn Right, keep the steering still
4 - The kerb forms a triangle just above door handle, reverse back
to get a bit closer to the kerb.
One full turn Right, keep the steering still
5 - The gutter appears in the blind spot mirror
One full turn Left and Stop
Page 38 of 43
Bay Park
For the Bay Park there are two choices, see diagram:
1 - Use the POM routine to move off, drive forward slowly, steer quickly and fully to the left (full left
lock).
2 - Now assess where you are in line with a bay (look over your shoulders, back window and blind
spot mirrors) this will help you decide which bay to reverse into.
3 - Use your POM routine to move off and steer yourself into the bay looking all around the car at
all times. Drive forward (POM) and straighten out if needed, then reverse (POM) back in. Do not hit
the kerb.
1 - Use the POM routine to move off, reverse slowly, steer quickly and fully to the right (full right
lock).
2 - Now assess where you are in line with a bay (look over your shoulders, back window and blind
spot mirrors) to assess where you are in line with the bay.
Drive forward and straighten out if needed, then reverse back in. Do not hit the kerb.
Page 39 of 43
Dual Carriageways
A dual carriageway is a multi-lane and mainly high speed road which has a central reservation
separating the two carriageways. To enter the dual carriageway from a slip road, look out for the
speed limit sign (not all dual carriageways are 70mph), use the slip road to build up your speed to
that of the traffic on the carriageway, make use of your lower gears to build up speed quickly.
Look for a gap in the traffic and move into the left hand lane using the M-S-M routine (always apply
your right signal; this can help others on the carriageway plan to move over and let you on). Take
a quick shoulder glance just before you move over, to be sure if it‟s safe. Don‟t emerge if to do so
would cause traffic on the carriageway to alter speed or direction.
Once you have joined the carriageway, check your mirrors, cancel your signal and keep in the left
lane and make safe progress. Keep a safe following distance by applying the two second rule. You
should stay in the left hand lane and only use the right hand lane for overtaking, allowing traffic to
join carriageway or turning right.
Exiting the carriageway, on most carriageways you will get a sign for your exit giving you at least
half a miles notice.
The countdown markers are placed at 300yds - 200yds - 100yds before your exit
slip road. Start your MSM when your car gets to the 300yds marker.
Page 40 of 43
Show Me Tell Me
Your examiner will ask you two questions about carrying out vehicle safety checks, you'll be
asked one 'show me' and one 'tell me' question, one or both questions answered incorrectly will
result in one driving fault being recorded. See diagrams for Ford Focus:
Page 41 of 43
Q1. Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell
me how you would check the engine has the correct level.
Identify the coolant tank and check the min/max markings. If the coolant is below the min mark
then more coolant will need to be added. To do this, unscrew the cap and pour in coolant until
the max mark is reached.
Q2. Open the bonnet, identify where the brake fluid reservoir is and tell me how you
would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.
Identify the brake fluid reservoir and check the fluid level against the min/max levels.
Q3. Show me/explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working
before starting a journey.
If the steering becomes heavy the steering may be faulty. Before starting a journey two simple
checks can be made. 1) Gentle pressure on the steering wheel, maintained whilst the engine
is started, should result in slight but noticeable movement as the system begins to operate. 2)
Turning the steering wheel after just moving off will give an immediate indication that the
power assisted steering is functioning correctly.
Q4. Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check
the windscreen washer level.
Identify the reservoir and explain how to check the level.
Q5. Open the bonnet identify, where you would check the engine oil level and tell me
how you would check that the engine has enough oil.
Identify the dipstick, pull it out and check the oil level against the min/max markings.
Q6. Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only).
Press the horn and listen (turn on ignition if necessary).
Q7. Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car. (I can
assist you, if you need to switch the ignition on, please don't start the engine).
Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc, or ask someone
to help. (may need to switch ignition on, prompt not to start engine)
Q8. Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.
As you move off check the brakes. They should not feel spongy and the car should not pull to
one side.
Q9. Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working.
Turn on lights (turn ignition if necessary), walk around car and check that the lights are on.
Q10. Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working correctly.
Activate the indicators or hazard warning lights and walk around the car to see if all the
indicators are working correctly.
Page 42 of 43
Q11. Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures
for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.
Information will be found using the car manufacturer's manual. Check the tyre pressures by
using a reliable pressure gauge when the tyres are cold. Don't forget the spare and remember
to refit the valve caps.
Q12. Tell me how you would check the tyres to show that they have sufficient tread
depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road.
A safe tyre will have no cuts or bulges. The tread depth should be at least 1.6mm across the
central 3/4s of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.
Q13. Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear.
Apply the parking brake. When it is fully applied it should secure itself.
Q14. Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides
the best protection in the event of a crash.
The head restraint should be adjusted so the rigid part of the head restraint is at least as high
as the eye or top of the ears, and as close to the back of the head as is comfortable. N.B.
Some restraints might not be adjustable.
Q15. Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and
wipers .
Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen (turn ignition on if necessary.
Q16. Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows
effectively, this should include both front and rear screens.
Set all relevant controls including; fan, temperature, air direction / source and heated screen to
clear windscreen and windows. Engine does not have to be started for this demonstration.
Q17. Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking
system.
Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system.
Q18. Show me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain
how you would know the main beam is on whilst inside the car.
Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light.
Q19. Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you
would use it/them. (No need to exit vehicle).
Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light is on.
Explain use.
Page 43 of 43

Driving Handout Guide

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Driving Handout Guide

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Heather Brodrick

Tel: 01747 825574

Mobile: 07545 339653

Why will this Handout HELP ME? 3

The Signing System 4

Mirror - Signal - Manoeuvre 5

Meeting Approaching Traffic 25

Adequate Clearance (Defensive Driving) 26

Approaching Bends (Limit Point) 34

Straight Line Reverse 35

Reverse around a Corner 36

Turn in the Road 37

Knowledge and understanding of the

By studying this handout you will get

This 5 day course is not an easy, it's very

This part of your training is the practical

"Practice makes perfect"

The knowledge from your home study will

With hard practical work and study you

However to get that nice red car you may

The Signing System

Circles give orders Triangles warn Rectangles inform

Blue circles generally give a mandatory instruction,

White rectangles are used for direction signs on non-primary

Mirror - Signal - Manoeuvre

To help you to remember to use the mirrors in the correct order

Mirrors: Check the speed and position of traffic behind you

SIGNAL: Consider whether a signal is necessary. If it is, signal your

Look: The 'look' phrase consists of four elements:

1. Look: What can I see?

Always: Use the MSM routine before:

 Signal without checking the mirrors first

3rd Gear is also a working gear for speeds up to 30 mph.

Approximate Speeds for each gear:

Gear change routine

1. Keep your eyes on the road

Selective Gear Changing

Palm towards Instructor for 1st and 2nd

Palm towards driver for 5th and Reverse

Palm on top for 3rd and 4th

 Press clutch pedal all the way down

 Look over your left shoulder to check the blind spot

 Consider a signal - apply if other pedestrians/road users would benefit

Moving off uphill

Prepare: The steeper the incline you should raise clutch

Observation: Check your mirrors & bind spots

Move: Give a little more gas as you release the parking

Moving off downhill

Prepare: If it‟s a steep hill you can move off in second

 Keep on footbrake and release parking brake

Observation: Check your mirrors & blind spots

Move: Release footbrake, raise clutch pedal up and

Moving off from behind a parked car

Prepare: Find biting point

 Check your mirrors & blind spots

Follow the M-S-M routine:

Secure the Car

1. Apply the parking brake

Interior first will give best view of approaching traffic and an

There would be no need to change from your normal driving

Slow down enough to take the turn safely - an average turn

Taking a sweeping turn

Approaching junctions to turn right