Many of the questions seem to be testing the English vocabulary rather than driving knowledge

2.49 Mark ONE answer

What style of driving causes increased risk to everyone?

ConsiderateDefensiveCompetitiveResponsible

NotesCompetitive driving increases the risks to everyone and is the opposite to responsible, considerate and defensive driving. Defensive driving is about questioning the actions of others. Don’t be taken by surprise.

Personally I think the candidates should be made to think how they can drive defensively, rather than make their minds go into panic mode using long words that they may not understand with no alternative words or phrases being offered on screen or readers being allowed to substitute words not understood.

3.35 Mark ONE answer

Rapid acceleration and heavy breaking can lead to

Reduced pollutionIncreased fuel consumptionReduced exhaust emissionsIncreased road safety

NotesUsing the controls smoothly can reduce fuel consumption by about 15% as well as reducing wear and tear on your vehicle. Plan ahead and anticipate changes of speed well in advance. This will reduce the need to accelerate rapidly or brake sharply

This is typical of the verbose questions AND explanation that just frightens many of my learning difficulties or ENFL candidates.

Poorly phrased questioned for people who think very logically such as Autistic suffers.

3.98 Mark ONE answer

As a driver, you can help reduce pollution levels in town centres by

Driving more quicklyOver-revving in a low gearWalking or cyclingDriving short journeys

NotesUsing a vehicle for short journeys means the engine does not have time to reach its normal running temperature. When an engine is running below its normal running temperature it produces increased amounts of pollution. Walking and cycling do not create pollution and have health benefits as well.

One of my clients completely dismissed the “correct” answer and went for short journeys.

His explanation was “If I walked or cycled I would not be driving, so the best option was to use the car the least on short journeys”

When I explained this was not the answer The DSA wanted, he asked me why did they ask “As a driver then?”

Some questions are wrong or imply incorrect information.

4.8 Mark ONE answerAnti-lock brakes will take effect when

You do not brake quickly enoughMaximum brake pressure has been appliedYou have not seen a hazard aheadSpeeding on slippery road surfaces

NotesIf your car is fitted with anti-lock brakes they will take effect when you use them very firmly in an emergency. The system will only activate when it senses the wheels are about to lock.

This question suggests that ABS will only activate in emergency situations, I would say this is dangerous, as ABS can activate at very slow speeds (e.g driving on compacted snow/ice, mud) and cause the car to take MUCH longer than one would normally expect.

4.14 Mark ONE answerYou are on a good dry, road surface. Your brakes and tyres are good. What is the typical overall stopping distance at 40 mph

23 metres (75 feet)36 metres (118 feet)53 metres (175 feet)96 metres (315 feet)

NotesStopping distances are affected by a number of variable factors. These include the type, model and condition of your vehicle, road and weather conditions and your reaction time. Look well ahead for hazards and leave enough space between you and the vehicle in front. This should allow you to pull up safely, if you have to, without braking sharply.

I know I maybe being petty here, but why can’t The DSA get it right?They appear to not understand how the distances are calculated and have converted imperial into metric and rounded the result down.

At 40 mph the thinking distance is 40’, the same in feet as speed in mphthe braking distance is 80’, 40 x 2making 120’ total.

4.30 Mark ONE answerYou are about to go down a steep hill. To control the speed of your vehicle you should

Select a high gear and use the brakes carefullySelect a high gear and use the brakes firmlySelect a low gear and use the brakes carefullySelect a low gear and avoid using the brakes

NotesWhen going down a steep hill your vehicle will speed up. This will make it more difficult for you to stop. Select a lower gear to give you give more engine braking and control. Use this in combination with careful use of the brakes.

This type of question appears to give no consideration as to how someone with off road 4x4 experience could picture the problem and select a low gear and avoid using the brakes and be marked down for giving the correct answer,This question should be rephrased to enquire about in what situations would one use engine braking and how one would achieve this.

5.5 Mark THREE answersWhat THREE things should the driver of the grey car (arrowed) be especially aware of?

Pedestrians stepping out between carsOther cars behind the grey carDoors opening on parked carsThe bumpy road surfaceCars leaving parking spacesEmpty parking spaces

NotesYou need to be aware that other road users may not have seen you.Always be on the lookout for hazards that develop suddenly and need you to take avoiding action

In this sort of situation I would be expecting my clients to be aware of following cars….BUT……It would seem the DSA do not consider this to be a priority.

It would appear The DSA think all learners are youngsters and blatantly ageist.5.13 Mark ONE answerAn elderly person’s driving ability could be affected because they may be unable to

Obtain car insuranceUnderstand road signsReact very quicklyGive signals correctly

NotesBe tolerant of older drivers. Poor eyesight and hearing could affect the speed with which they react to a hazard and may cause them to be hesitant.

One of my mature clients asked me what The DSA considered to be elderly?I replied probably your son!

This lady could easily have been mistaken for being in her mid 50s rather than in her 80s. She certainly picked up learning to drive quicker than many 17 year olds who were going onto University.

Surely this question could be phrased to encompass all age groups who may not be apparently confident , rather than apparently endorsing driving with poor eyesight and at the same time alienating learners against people with hearing difficulties.

Some of my learners have said 5.37 is wrong and I would agree with them.

5.37 Mark TWO answersWhy should you be especially cautious when going past this stationary bus?

There is traffic approaching in the distanceThe driver may open the doorIt may suddenly move offPeople may cross the road in front of itThere are bicycles parked on the pavement

NotesA stationary bus at a bus stop can hide pedestrians just in front of it who might be about to cross the road. Only go past at a speed that will enable you to stop safely if you need to.

The bus driver does have a door that could be opened into your path.

Confusing question as the information given is far too vague as are some of the possible answers, the information given in the notes is also confusing/wrong.AND AGAIN refers to the person as a driver, which could cause some of my clients to dismiss the best answer.

5.54 Mark ONE answerWhat advice should you give to a driver who has had a few alcoholic drinks at a party?

Have a strong cup of coffee and then drive homeDrive home carefully and slowlyGo home by public transportWait a short time and then drive home.

NotesDrinking black coffee or waiting a few hours a few hours won’t make any difference. Alcohol takes time to leave the body.A driver who has been drinking should go home by public transport or taxi. They might even be unfit to drive the following morning.

I feel this question would be better phrased asWhat is the safest way to get home after drinking alcohol at a party?

What is a few alcoholic drinks 1 or 2, 15/20??

5.61 Mark ONE answerYou are about to drive home. You feel very tired and have a severe headache.You should

Wait until you are fit and well before drivingDrive home, but take a tablet for headachesDrive home, if you can stay awake for the journeyWait a short time, then drive home slowly.

NotesAll your concentration should be on driving. Any pain you feel will distract you and you should avoid driving when drowsy. The safest course of action is to wait until you have rested and feel better

Again this question could suggest that one MUST home, again asking for the safest option must cause less confusion without damaging the integrity of the question, indeed the notes actually say this. However mentioning driving whilst in pain causes distress to some of my clients and knocks their confidence as to question themselves as to the fact they should be even considering driving.

5.66 Mark ONE answer Is VERY confusing

You take the wrong route and find you are on a one-way street. You should.

Reverse out of the roadTurn around in a side roadContinue to the end of the roadReverse into a driveway.

NotesNever reverse or turn your vehicle around in a one-way street. This is highly dangerous. Carry on and find another route, checking the direction signs as you drive. If you need to check a map, first stop in a safe place.

Which way are we travelling??With the flow in a one-way street or the wrong way against the flow??John used this very question in his ADI News article, AND apparently it is still there even though I had complained to Trevor Wedge about it and he refused to tell me which way we were supposed to be travelling.

5.85 Mark ONE answerYou want to turn left at this junction. The view of the main road is restricted. What should you do?

Stay well back and wait to see if something comesBuild up your speed so that you can emerge quicklyStop and apply the handbrake even if the road is clearApproach slowly and edge out until you can see more clearly

NotesYou should slow right down, and stop if necessary, at any junction where the view is restricted. Edge forward until you can see properly. Only then can you decide if it is safe to go.

The picture is very poor and difficult to tell if it is a Give Way junction or Stop, but the best way of increasing one’s awareness of other road users in a situation such as this is not mentioned at all and in my opinion should ALWAYS be done if edging out into the possible path of others.....WIND THE WINDOW DOWN TO HEAR APPROACHING TRAFFIC AND/OR AUDIBLE WARNINGS.

5.96 Mark ONE answerAfter passing your test, you suffer from ill health. This affects your driving. You MUST

Inform your local police stationAvoid using motorwaysAlways drive accompaniedInform the licensing authority

NotesThe licensing authority won’t automatically take away your licence without investigation. For advice, contact the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (or DVA in Northern Ireland)

This is WRONG or at least incomplete the illness has to be expected to last more than 6 months and should be included in the question as well as It should be a new condition or an already declared condition that has worsened, many of my clients would be only too aware of this requirement and would be expecting the correct answer to actually be there.

6.10 Mark ONE answerWhere would you see this sign?

In the window of a car taking children to schoolAt the side of the roadAt playground areasOn the rear of a school bus or coach

NotesVehicles that are used to carry children to and from school will be travelling at busy times of the day. If you’re following a vehicle with this sign be prepared for it to make frequent stops. It might pickup or set down passengers in places other than normal bus stops

I am sure I have seen taxis with this sign in their window, which gives 2 correct answers.

6.48 Mark ONE answerYou notice horse riders in front. What should you do FIRST?

Pull out to the middle of the roadSlow down and be ready to stopAccelerate around themSignal right

NotesBe particularly careful when approaching horse riders – slow down and be prepared to stop. Always pass wide and slowly and look out for signals given by the horse riders. Horses are unpredictable; always treat them as potential hazards and take great care when passing them.

Surely this is a potential hazard and MSPSL should surely be followed or am I teaching my pupils incorrectly?

I find it very difficult to explain to my clients why this question has to be answered

PLEASE explain why MIRRORS is NOT listed as this must be the FIRST thing to do.Signal the SECOND thing I would teach my pupils to consider is apparently wrongPosition the THIRD action to be considered again seems to be wrong.

ONLY in an emergency would the answer be STOP and I fail to see that it has been explained in the photograph, question or the notes that this is the case.

THIS QUESTION REALLY UPSETS MANY OF MY PUPILS AS THE RULES ARE COMPLETELY IGNORED, BUT AT THE SAME TIME APPEARS TO BE STRESSING TO FOLLOWING A SET ROUTINE.

Perhaps the question should be rephrased to ..”What would be the safest way to approach these horses?”

7.9 Mark TWO answersYou are driving in heavy traffic on a wet road. Spray makes it difficult to be seen. You should use your

Full beam headlightsRear fog lights if visibility is less than 100 metres (328 feet)Rear fog lights if visibility is more than 100 metres (328 feet)Dipped headlightsSidelights only.

NotesYou must ensure that you can be seen by other on the road. Use your dipped headlights during the day if visibility is bad. If you use your rear fog lights, don’t forget to turn them off when visibility improves

Personally I would say this is the MOST DANGEROUS advice in the whole question bank.I would never use rear fog lights in heavy traffic let alone with spray reducing visibility and possibly risk dazzling other road users.

7.22 Mark ONE answerIn front of you is a class 3 powered vehicle (powered wheelchair) driven by a disabled person. These vehicles have a maximum speed of

8 mph (12km/h)16 mph (29km/h)28 mph(45km/h)38 mph (61km/h)

NotesThese vehicles are battery powered and very vulnerable due to their slow speed, small size and low height. Some are designed for pavement and road use and have a maximum speed of 8 mph (12 km/h). Others are for pavement use only and are restricted to 4 mph (6 km/h). Take extra care and be patient if you are following one. Allow plenty of room when overtaking and do not go past unless you can do safely.

Why not call them a disabled buggy? Many of my clients use them but do not know the official classification, what hope is there for the general public and does it help to road safety if they do?

This type of question just produces panic in many candidates.8.21 Mark ONE answerYou are driving in fog. Why should you keep well back from the vehicle in front?

In case it changes direction suddenlyIn case its fog lights dazzle youIn case it stops suddenlyIn case its brake lights dazzle you.

NotesIf you’re following another road user in fog stay well back. The driver in front won’t be able to see hazards until they are close and might brake suddenly. Another reason why it is important to maintain a good separation distance in fog is that the road surface is likely to be wet and slippery.

Personally I would agree with many of my learners that all of the options are valid and thus would not be able to think like a civil servant and panic into having to guess which one is “correct”.

8.22 Mark ONE answerYou should switch your rear fog lights on when visibility drops below

Your overall stopping distanceTen car lengths200 metres (656 feet)100 metre (328 feet)

NotesIf visibility falls below 100 metres (328 feet) in fog, switching on your rear fog lights will help following road users to see you. Don’t forget to turn them off once visibility improves: their brightness might be mistaken for brake lights and they could dazzle other drivers

Personally I feel this type of question actually REDUCES road safety as it appears to give the message ALWAYS turn your fog lights on with NO REGARD to the proximity of others and that one could well dazzle others. I would say this point should be stressed rather than give the impression to turn them on without thinking.

8.31 Mark THREE answersYou forget to switch off your rear fog lights when the fog has cleared. This may

Dazzle other road usersReduce battery lifeCause brake lights to be less clearBe breaking the lawSeriously affect engine power.

NotesDon’t forget to switch off your fog lights when the weather improves. You could be prosecuted for driving with them on in good visibility The high intensity of the rear fog lights can look like brake lights, and on high speed roads this can cause other road users to brake unnecessarily.

As far as using fog lights when the conditions are good, there is no MAY BE about it at all it is ILLEGAL and sufferers Autistic, Aspergers and the like would expect that answer to be there.

9.16 Mark ONE answerYou are joining a motorway. Why is it important to make full use of the slip road?

Because there is space available to turn round if you need toTo allow you direct access to the overtaking lanesTo build up a speed similar to traffic on the motorway.Because you can continue on the hard shoulder

NotesTry to join the motorway without affecting the progress of the traffic already travelling on it. Always give way to traffic already on the motorway. At busy times you may have to slow down to merge into slow-moving traffic.

Personally I would say this question is DANGEROUS as it implies that one must join the motorway at the end of the slip road/acceleration lane rather than try and join as soon as one can after passing the hatched area adjusting your speed to match traffic flow as one approaches and to only use the full length of the slip road in exceptional circumstances when conditions make this difficult.

10.35 Mark ONE answerWhat does this sign mean?

That it is a no-through roadEnd of traffic calming zoneFree parking zone endsNo waiting zone ends

NotesThe blue and red circular sign on its own means that waiting restrictions are in force. This sign shows that you are leaving the controlled zone and waiting restrictions no longer apply.

This question is WRONG and the notes actually confirm this as it is WAITING RESTRICTIONS and not a CLEARWAY sign that means NO STOPPING/WAITING/

I would not expect to see this sign to alert me I was leaving awaiting restriction area, but the sign shown in 11.20

The correct answer should be waiting restrictions end

11.1 Mark ONE answerYou MUST obey signs giving orders. These signs are mostly in

Green rectanglesRed trianglesBlue rectanglesRed circles

NotesThere are three basic types of traffic signs, those that warn, inform or give orders. Generally, triangular signs warn, rectangular ones give information or directions, and circular signs usually give orders. An exception is the eight-sided ‘STOP’ sign

This question confuses some of my pupils who like things explained very clearly, but go on to think things through further than the average learner.

They understand the shapes and what they convey but the question implies to some they should be looking for a POSITIVE order ‘What you MUST DO’ (Blue circle) rather than a NEGATIVE order ‘What you MUST NEVER DO’ (Red circle) and the answer they expect to see is not there again causing anxiety to them and possibly confusing their performance for several questions on into the test. Changing the wording to circles would not damage the integrity of the question?

11.112 Mark ONE answerWhat is the reason for the yellow criss-cross lines painted on the road here?

To mark out an area for trams only.To prevent queuing traffic from blocking the junction to the leftTo mark the entrance lane to the car parkTo warn you of the tram lines crossing the road

NotesYellow ‘box junctions’ like this are often used where it’s busy. Their purpose is to keep the junction clear for crossing traffic. Don’t enter the painted area unless your exit is clear.The exception to this is when you are turning right and are only prevented from doing so by oncoming traffic or by vehicles waiting to turn right.

AND

11.123 Mark ONE answerWhat is the purpose of these yellow criss-cross lines on the road?

To make you more aware of the traffic lightsTo guide you into position as you turnTo prevent the junction becoming blockedTo show you where to stop when the lights change

NotesYou MUST NOT enter a box junction until your exit road or lane is clear. The exception to this is if you want to turn right and are prevented from doing so by oncoming traffic or by other traffic waiting to turn right.

These questions should have the phrase box junction in them even if only included in brackets, as the phrase criss-cross lines can really confuse ENFL and others with difficulties with the English language.

11.125Mark ONE answerWhich shape is used for a ‘give way’ sign?

NotesOther warning signs are the same shape and colour, but the ‘give way’ sign triangle points downwards. When you see this sign you MUST give way to traffic on the road which you are to enter.

Even the notes say all other warning signs are the same shape and colour…..WHY show a BLACK triangle?

11.142 Mark ONE answerWhich arm signal tells you that the car you are following is going to pull up?

NotesThere may be occasions when drivers need to give arm signals to confirm an indicator. This could include, in bright sunshine, at a complex road layout, when stopping at a pedestrian crossing or when turning right just after passing a parked vehicle. You should understand what each arm signal means. If you give arm signals make them clear, correct and decisive.

Why use the colloquial phrase of pull up? Surely better to use slow down and/or stop.

11.146 Mark ONE answerYou are approaching a red traffic light. What will the signal show next?

Red and amberGreen aloneAmber aloneGreen and amber

NotesIf you know which light is going to show next you can plan your approach accordingly. This can help prevent excessive braking or hesitation at the junction

I have had long conversations with some pupils over the fact that the amber/yellow bulb may have failed, changing the question to “What should the signal show next?” would help these people without compromising the integrity.Changing the complex phrasing in the notes to something like…..Knowing the traffic light sequence will allow you to adjust your arrival so as not to have to stop but keep a smooth drive for you and your passengers and at the same time protecting the planet.

12.14 Mark THREE answersWhich THREE of these do you need before you can use a vehicle on the road legally?

A valid driving licenceA valid tax disc clearly displayedProof of your identityProper insurance coverBreakdown cover A vehicle handbook

NotesUsing a vehicle on the road illegally carries a heavy fine and can lead to penalty points on your licence. Things you MUST have to include, a valid tax disc, and proper insurance.

This question confused some of my clients, as they felt you had to have proof of your identity, which indeed you do to obtain your driving licence and did not understand “proper” insurance when I used the phrase to insurance for you to drive the car or even valid most understood straight away but until then they were thinking what could be improper insurance.

13.17 Mark ONE answerAn adult casualty is not breathing. To maintain circulation, compressions should be given. What is the correct depth to press?

1 to 2 centimetres4 to 5 centimetres10 to 15 centimetres15 to 20 centimetres

NotesAn adult casualty is not breathing normally. To maintain circulation place two hands on the centre of the chest. Then press down 4 to 5 centimetres at a rate of 100 times per minute.Why is there no imperial option for this very important question?

13.62 Mark TWO answersKeep water levels above maximumCarry a fire extinguisherAvoid driving with a full tank of petrolUse unleaded petrolCheck out any strong smell of petrolUse low octane fuel

NotesThe fuel in your car can be a dangerous fire hazard. NeverUse a naked flame near the vehicle if you can smell fuelSmoke when refuelling your vehicle.

AND

13.70 Mark TWO answersYou are in a tunnel. Your vehicle is on fire and you CANNOT drive it. What should you do?

Stay in the vehicle and close the windowsSwitch on your hazard warning lightsLeave the engine runningTry and put out the fireSwitch off all your lightsWait for other people to phone for help

NotesIt is usually better to drive a burning vehicle out of a tunnel. If you can’t do this pull over and stop at an emergency point if possible. Switch off the engine, use hazard warning lights, and leave the vehicle immediately. Call for help from the nearest emergency point. If you have an extinguisher it may help to put out a small fire but do NOT try and tackle a large one. AND….

13.73 Mark THREE answersWhich THREE of these items should you carry for use in event of a collision?

Road MapCan of petrolJump leadsFire extinguisherFirst aid kitWarning triangle

NotesUsed correctly, these items can provide invaluable help in the event of a collision or breakdown. They could even save a life.

The attached reply from Dorset and Somerset Fire Brigades show how DANGEROUS this advice is.

However it appears even The DSA is aware of this as

13.66 Mark ONE answerYour engine catches fire. What should you do first?

Lift the bonnet and disconnect the batteryLift the bonnet and warn other trafficCall a breakdown serviceCall the fire brigade

NotesIf you suspect a fire in the engine compartment, you should pull up as safely and quickly as possible. DO NOT open the bonnet as this will fuel the fire further. Get any passengers out of the vehicle and dial 999 immediately to contact the fire brigade

I agree with the notes on this question but it would be an ideal opportunity to bring in the European Emergency number of 112 which works in the UK and in fact most of the world.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/112_%28emergency_telephone_number%29

.

13.74 Mark ONE answer

Your vehicle has broken down on an automatic railway level crossing. What should you do FIRST?

Get everyone out of the vehicle and clear of the crossingTelephone your vehicle recovery service to move itWalk along the track to give warning to any approaching trainsTry to push the vehicle clear of the crossing as soon as possible.

NotesFirstly get yourself and anyone else well away from the crossing. If there’s a railway phone use that to get instructions from the signal operator. Then if there’s time move the vehicle clear of the crossing.

Personally If not driving an automatic car for obvious reasons, I would immediately try and wind the car off the crossing with the starter motor, if no joy then abandon the car and call the signal operator.

Case Study ONE

James has a two-hour drive to make on a motorway. He has a cold and his nose is also slightly blocked. He takes an off-the-shelf cold remedy to help reduce the symptoms. It is a cold and dull day and the car heater is on. James also turns on his dipped headlights. An hour into the boring journey, James begins to feel drowsy.

1.1 Mark ONE answerWhat information should James check on the medication?

Information about retailers who stock the productInformation about the medicine causing drowsinessInformation about how many pills are in the packet.Information about the manufacturer of the medicine

This question uses many words that ENF and LD could find difficult to understand and cause them to panic.Some of my clients have suggested they would check for allergic reactions to the remedySome clients have said they would not use pills/tablets by a liquid/syrup and the mention of pills really got them worriedSome clients have said they would check the medication was still in date as it could make them “sick”.

1.2 Mark ONE answerWhy would James be using lights in daylight?

To observe other vehicles more clearly.To improve his view of the road.To catch sight of road signs easilyTo maximise his visibility to others

Again difficult words used which ENF and LD can have difficulties with AND a question vaguely worded that several of the answers could well be correct.Some clients think of twilight as dull and switching on headlights can improve the view aheadRoad signs are usually reflective so they could well stand out in dull conditionsSurely “Help others to see them” is an answer that would be understood by most rather than the DSA “New Speak” used here.

1.3 Mark ONE answerHow is the boring journey physically affecting James?

He becomes happyHe becomes drowsyHe becomes angryHe becomes attentive

Again difficult words used AND every answer could be correct depending on the personality of some of my clientsHappy is correct because they are visiting somewhere interesting. Why spend so long getting there otherwise?Drowsy is a word that could well not be understood and sleepy/tired personally I would feel be better choicesAngry is correct if you suffer from Aspergers /ADHD or similar conditionsAttentive is correct as the pupil knows you must always be expecting the unexpected.

1.4 Mark ONE answerWhat should James do about his condition?

Keep driving, slow down a little while taking a caffeinated drinkDrive more slowly, turn the vehicle around and go back homeStop in a service area, drink a caffeinated drink and then restStop on the hard shoulder, recline the seat fully back and rest.

Difficult words and some answers that could be correct.Keep driving is correct as they are not allowed to stop on a motorway AND the DSA recommends taking caffeinated drinks, THEN they can turn off the motorway and restDrive more slowly and turn around is correct as they know they cannot stop on a motorway and their own medical condition would be best dealt with at home.Stop in a service area and drink caffeinated drink and then rest MUST BE WRONG AS………The next service area maybe miles away, they would leave the motorway as soon as they could as they know they are not allowed to stop on a motorway AND surely The DSA would not advise taking stimulants of any sort as they need to rest and sleep it off.Stop on the hard should COULD be correct. They know they should not stop on the hard shoulder, but may not understand the word recline and thus think they may be allowed to is such a situation

1.5 Mark ONE answerHow would James help himself stay alert in the short term?

Open the windowTurn up the heaterTurn on the radioOpen a can of drink

Here using DSA logic some of the diversionary answers could be correctOpen a can of drink especially if caffeinated must be correctPublic information films have also stated turning on the radio helps stave off tiredness

Case Study TWO

Sam is driving in heavy traffic. It has rained, but now bright sun is causing glare on the wet road. A car overtakes, then pulls back sharply into the traffic just in front of Sam. Further on there’s a roundabout with two lanes on approach. Sam needs to take the first exit, turning left. A large vehicle in front signals left but straddles both lanes. The traffic is still heavy, and there’s a zebra crossing up ahead. There are people waiting to cross.

2.1 Mark ONE answerIf affected by the road condition, how should Sam react?

Slow down and, if necessary, stopSpeed up to get out of the sunlightTurn around and go back homeTurn on hazard lights and wipers

The wording is quite vague here and I can envisage different situations where all answers could be correct.Slow Down and stop is the standard stock reply and I would expect most to go for this.Speed up could be correct if one finds oneself with a vehicle coming back into the left lane and one has space to this rather than slow down and cause following traffic to change speedTurn around and go home, could well be correct answer if the driver felt unhappy driving in difficult conditionsWe are not told what type of road we are on except that it is busy and the road is wet, it could well be a dual carriageway as the roundabout has two lanes on its approach, so considering using hazard lights for a slow to a stop and water being kicked up in the form of spray from puddles could well be correct.

2.2 Mark ONE answerWhat should Sam do about the overtaking vehicle?

Become upset, slow down and use the horn.Stay focussed, speed up and lessen the gap.Remain calm, slow down and increase the gapFeel annoyed, speed up and use the horn.

The use of some words that I have had clients not understand could cause panic and confusion.

2.3 Mark ONE answerHow should Sam be positioned on approach to the roundabout?

In the right-hand lane while signalling rightIn the left-hand lane without signallingIn the left-hand lane while signalling leftIn the right-hand lane without signalling

People who have great difficulty distinguishing between left and right find these types of questions particularly as they have to remember he is trying to turn left.Surely the question could be rephrased “How should Sam be positioned for turning left on his approach to the roundabout?”

2.4 Mark ONE answerWhy might the large vehicle be taking this position?

The driver is not sure which way to goThe indicators are not working properlyThe load carried is extremely heavyThe vehicle needs more room to turn.

Again most of the answers could be a reason for the driver adopting such a position so confusion is being generated together with panic in the minds of ENFL and LD.Changing the question to “What is the most likely reason for the large vehicle to be taking this position? Surely must be clearer as to what answer The DSA are looking for.

2.5 Mark ONE answerWhat should Sam do at the zebra crossing?

Stop and wave them acrossRev the engine until they crossStop and wait for them to crossInch forward slowly as they cross

I have had clients come to me not knowing what rev the engine and a thesaurus that could suggest alternative words/phrases would easily sort that out this question should cause little problems to candidates who know the correct answer.

Case Study THREE

Jeff drives through the city centre, choosing to travel outside the rush hour. In the city are double red lines along the roadside. Later, Jeff reaches a major junction. The traffic lights are not working but there are very few vehicles on the road. At work, Jeff has to park on the roadside. When parking, his steering feels a little heavy. He picks up his laptop to take to work and locks the car. He leaves his camera on the back seat.

3.1 Mark ONE answerWhat effect could Jeff’s choice of travel time have on his journey?

Increase delaysDecrease mileageHigher traffic volumeShorter travel time

Some words that could well confuse less articulate candidates and cause them to panic and guess the wrong answer

3.2 Mark ONE answerWhat do these red lines mean?

No stopping at peak timeNo stopping at lunch timeNo stopping at any timeNo stopping at night time

The CORRECT answer is NOT THERE and really has upset several of my clients, especially as the story implies he has parked illegally as there is no mention of the lines no longer being painted on the road.If the question was changed to double yellow lines then the correct answer would be there and changing the script to confirm that he had not parked on a road with parking restrictions.If The DSA want to keep the original script then why do they not give the correct answer to what red lines mean?

3.3 Mark ONE answerWhat should Jeff do at these traffic lights?

Stop and wait for the signals to start working again.Proceed with care as with an unmarked junctionContinue on and assume he has right of way.Drive as quickly as possible over the junction.

Here the use of the unusual phrase of “as with” has confused some most prefer “the same as”, but the diversionary answers are so wrong most assume the only answer is the correct one, but for the few who don’t know the word assume then it can be a real guess.

3.4 Mark ONE answer.What could be affecting Jeff’s steering?

Tyres which are over-inflatedTyres which are low on tread.Tyres which are under-inflatedTyres which are non-matching.

Again phrases that many members of society would not use in day to day situations particularly if they come from a non-driving family, substituting with phrases like“Too much air/ Too high tyre pressure/ blown up too much” “Too little air/ Not enough air/ Low tyre pressure/ Maybe punctured” “Not the same make/brand/ Not exactly the same” help many but at the moment no substitution whatsoever can leave candidates with the only option of guessing, when in fact they do know the answer.

3.5 Mark ONE answerWhat should Jeff do with his camera?

Leave it lying on the back seat.Put it in a bag on the front seatLock it away securely out of sightCover it with a thick blanket

Here again the answer is NOT THERE and can cause panic for those who know the correct answer but cannot find it.Namely…..“Take the camera with him”If The DSA want to use this question it should be amended to read “Jeff is not allowed to take his camera to work, what should he do it?”

Case Study FOUR

You have a short but essential journey to make. It is early morning and the roads are icy in places. It is very cold and snow is falling. Your tyres are making almost no sound. On turning left, the back of your vehicle slides a little to the right. Further on there is a slow moving vehicle spreading salt on the road surface.

4.1 Mark TWO answers

Allow more distanceAllow more timeAllow more fuelAllow more money

I am not sure that The DSA have considered where many candidates would be driving, as I find this is a VERY confusing question as all the answers could well be correct. Living a rural environment often roads become blocked because of snow drifts or hill become impassable because of ice.Allow more distance. What does this mean? Give yourself more space between vehiclesORHave an alternative route planned if the first is blocked by snow/ice or crashAllow more time would be selected by most because of the inclement weather conditionsAllow more fuel. Personally I would say this was very wise as an alternative route may have to be driven AND/OR one may become stuck and require to run the engine purely to remain warm.More money. I would make sure I had various forms of money perhaps for a public phone box or in the extreme situation to pay for accommodation and/or to pay for my car to be recovered if stuck.

4.2 Mark ONE answerHow should you brake under the conditions described?

Quickly and heavilyGently and quicklySlowly and heavilyGently and slowly

Maybe it’s just my clients but most would be looking for the phrase “smoothly” as they would know heavy braking would be wrong, but also they would be expecting to reduce their speed much earlier than in good conditions….So many would not select slowly as some interpret this as “LATE”.Some might think of quickly as “SUDDENLY/RUSHED” which I believe The DSA wants it to be read asBUT….For some it can be read as the “EARLIEST OPERTUNITY” so they would be correct thinking of the correct answer, when they answer “incorrectly” Gently and quickly after dismissing gently and slowly.

4.3 Mark ONE answerWhat might your tyres be telling you?

There could be grit.There is new tarmacThe road could be icyThe road surface is worn.

Again many clients would tell me only the answer it could not be would be driving on grit, as…..New tarmac is often very smooth giving little road noiseIce on the road also reduces the noise generatedIf the road surface is worn smooth noise again would be reduced.

If the question was rephrased to something like..What danger are the tyres most likely warning you of in these conditions?

4.4 Mark ONE answerWhat should you do in the skid described?

Ease off the brake pedal and keep the wheels straightEase off the accelerator but don’t turn the steering wheelEase off the brake pedal and then steer gently to the leftEase off the accelerator then steer carefully to the right.

A few confusing words used here particularly accelerator as The DSA would normally expect an instructor to use the phrase “gas”

4.5 Mark ONE answer

GreenAmberBlueWhite

If the option of Amber/Yellow was used many would not be confused particulary if they have only just started to drive.

Case Study FIVE,HAZARD AWARENESS

Andrea is waiting to turn right into the town centre. Cars are parked along the roadside, obstructing Andrea’s view. There are many shop windows. The area is busy with traffic and pedestrians. Further on, a vehicle is unloading on the left and there are several oncoming cars. At inactive traffic lights a police officer is directing traffic. He is facing Andrea with one hand straight up, his palm showing. There is a bus lane, but no signs showing periods of operation or permitted use by other vehicles.

5.1 Mark ONE answerHow could Andrea use the shop windows?

To check for reflections of any vehicles approaching.To check to ensure the vehicle’s indicator is workingTo check for any good bargains, sales or promotionsTo check the number of cars parked on the main road.

Taking this question literally as many Autistic/Dyspraxic could do then all the possible answers could be correct.Changing the wording to something like…..“What could Andrea be looking for in the shop windows to improve her safety by being aware of other road users?

5.2 Mark ONE answerWhat could happen because of these parked cars?

Empty parking spaces maybe availableThe road surface could be bumpy and unevenPedestrians or cyclists could be stepping out.Traffic wardens may be working in the area.

Taking this question literally again at least THREE answers could be correct.On the other hand some might dismiss the correct answer as they might say a cyclist would NOT STEP OUT as if they were pushing the bike they would be a pedestrian (with a bike) AND they would say a cyclist would RIDE OUT so they could ignore this answerPerhaps changing it….Pedestrians and cyclists coming out into the road between the parked cars.

5.3 Mark ONE answerWhat should Andrea do about the delivery vehicle?

Stop and wait until the vehicle pulls awaySpeed up and quickly pass the vehicleStop and wait until the way is clear aheadRev the engine and press the horn relatedly.

Some clients find it very hard to work out if the delivery lorry is further up the road before or after the policeman directing traffic, if the script was changed to “she comes across/finds” or similar. The HUGE block of text is very intimidating for those ENFL or have reading and/or comprehension difficulties making them just give up and guess.

5.4 Mark ONE answerWhat MUST Andrea do in response to the officer’s signal?

Travel as quickly as possible through the junctionDrive carefully and slowly past the police officerSlow to a crawl, while flashing the headlightsStop and wait patiently till signalled to go on.

Confusing words once again. Particularly concerning is the use of patiently in the correct answer when its omission would in have little/no difference to the answer.“Stop and wait until signalled to go on”.

5.5 Mark ONE answerIn the bus lane, what is indicated by the absence of signs?

Other vehicles can use the bus lane at any timeOnly certain vehicles can use the bus laneThe lane can only be used by buses at all timesThere has not been enough time to erect a sign.

Maybe changing the wording to something like…..“Why does the bus lane have no signs?”