Lesson
Hazard awareness
A hazard is anything that might make you change speed or direction. The written questions test whether you can spot hazards and predict what might happen next. (The separate hazard perception part of the test uses video clips, which this site does not simulate.)
Key rules to know
- Scan far ahead, to the sides and in your mirrors — not just the car in front.
- Alcohol limits in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are 80mg per 100ml of blood; in Scotland the limit is lower (50mg). The safest approach is not to drink at all before driving.
- Some medicines, including some cold remedies, can cause drowsiness. Check the label or ask a pharmacist.
- Slow down near schools, ice-cream vans and parked buses, where pedestrians may step out.
How it applies on the road
A ball bounces into the road
Expect a child to follow it. Slow down and be ready to stop.
A bus is stopped ahead
Passengers may walk out from in front of it, and the bus may pull out. Ease off and give it room.
Common mistakes
- Only reacting to the hazard you can see, rather than thinking about what it might lead to.
- Believing coffee or fresh air removes the effects of alcohol.
Official sources
Content written and reviewed by Rob Cordina. Last reviewed: October 2026. Our practice questions are original, written from the Highway Code — they are not official DVSA questions. Always check the latest Highway Code.