DKT Car Driver Knowledge Test – Negligent Driving — Questions and Answers
Question 1: If you have been convicted for street or drag racing, which of these penalties may apply?
- You will get three demerit points and a large fine. (Correct answer)
- You will be given a letter of warning and fined.
- You will be fined a small amount and get one demerit point.
Correct answer: You will get three demerit points and a large fine.
Street or drag racing is a serious traffic offense due to the extreme danger it poses to public safety. Conviction for such activities typically results in severe penalties, including a significant fine and the accumulation of demerit points. These penalties are designed to deter drivers from engaging in highly reckless and illegal racing.
Question 2: Will a P1 licence be suspended for any speeding offence?
- Only for 10 km\/h or more over the speed limit.
- No.
- Yes. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Yes.
Provisional (P1) licence holders are subject to stricter rules to promote safe driving habits in new drivers. In many jurisdictions, any speeding offense, regardless of how minor, can lead to the immediate suspension of a P1 licence. This strict policy aims to reinforce the importance of adhering to speed limits.
Question 3: The first thing you should do before overtaking is:
- Increase your speed.
- Sound your horn.
- Make sure it is safe and the way is clear of oncoming traffic. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Make sure it is safe and the way is clear of oncoming traffic.
Safety is the absolute priority before attempting to overtake another vehicle. The first and most crucial step is to thoroughly check your mirrors, blind spots, and ensure the road ahead is completely clear of oncoming traffic or other hazards. This ensures the maneuver can be completed without risk of collision.
Question 4: You are approaching the crest (top of a hill) on a narrow road, the safest procedure is to:
- Increase your speed and sound your horn.
- Flash your headlights to warn oncoming traffic.
- Keep to the left and slow down. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Keep to the left and slow down.
Approaching the crest of a hill on a narrow road significantly limits your visibility of what's ahead, including oncoming traffic or unexpected obstacles. To ensure safety, you should reduce your speed to allow more reaction time and keep as far left as possible to maximize clearance and avoid potential collisions.
Question 5: When you have started to overtake the car, you notice that its right indicator is flashing. You should:
- Immediately brake to a stop.
- Check your mirror and move back in behind the car. (Correct answer)
- Accelerate quickly to get past.
Correct answer: Check your mirror and move back in behind the car.
If the vehicle you are overtaking signals a right turn, it indicates their intention to change direction and potentially move into your path. Continuing to overtake would be extremely dangerous. The safest action is to immediately abort the overtake, check your mirrors, and safely return to your original position behind the turning vehicle.
Question 6: The speed limit on this road is 90 km\/h. You have just overtaken a vehicle in the left lane. What should you do next?
- Accelerate away from the other vehicle and keep driving in this lane.
- Move into the left lane. (Correct answer)
- Keep your position in this lane.
Correct answer: Move into the left lane.
On multi-lane roads with speed limits of 90 km/h or more, or where indicated by signs, drivers are generally required to keep to the left lane unless they are actively overtaking. After successfully completing an overtaking maneuver, it is both good practice and often a legal requirement to return to the left lane to allow other vehicles to pass freely.
Question 7: If you are convicted of dangerous driving:
- You could be given demerit points only.
- You could lose your licence and may be sent to prison. (Correct answer)
- You could only be fined and given demerit points.
Correct answer: You could lose your licence and may be sent to prison.
Dangerous driving is a serious criminal offense that demonstrates a blatant disregard for the safety of others on the road. Conviction for such an offense carries severe penalties, which can include immediate licence disqualification, substantial fines, and in serious cases, imprisonment. These penalties reflect the gravity of the offense and its potential for harm.
Question 8: If the police suspect you may have been involved in street or drag racing, they may take immediate action. Which one of the following is correct? The police may:
- Take your vehicle away and sell it at an auction.
- Take your vehicle from you and keep it stored for up to three months. (Correct answer)
- Take your vehicle to the local police station and keep it till the following morning.
Correct answer: Take your vehicle from you and keep it stored for up to three months.
Police have specific powers to address serious traffic offenses like street or drag racing. As an immediate action, they may seize the vehicle involved and impound it for an extended period, often up to three months. This serves as a significant deterrent and prevents further dangerous driving while legal proceedings are underway.
Question 9: You are in the purple vehicle, you may overtake the vehicle in front:
- Only on its right-hand side. (Correct answer)
- On either side.
- Not at anytime.
Correct answer: Only on its right-hand side.
In countries where traffic drives on the left-hand side of the road, the general rule is to overtake other vehicles on their right-hand side. This standard practice ensures predictable traffic flow and minimizes the risk of collisions. Overtaking on the left is typically only permitted under specific circumstances, such as when the vehicle ahead is turning right.
Question 10: When being overtaken by another vehicle what should you do to help?
- Move to the left and stop.
- Brake quickly to let the other vehicle overtake.
- Keep left and allow plenty of room to let the other vehicle back in. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Keep left and allow plenty of room to let the other vehicle back in.
When another vehicle is overtaking you, it is your responsibility to facilitate the maneuver safely. You should maintain your speed (not accelerate) and keep as far left as possible within your lane. This provides ample space for the overtaking vehicle to complete its pass and safely return to the lane in front of you.
Question 11: If an overtaking vehicle signals that it must move in, in front of you, you should
- Flash your lights at the overtaking vehicle.
- Prepare to slow down to allow room. (Correct answer)
- Speed up and not let the vehicle back in.
Correct answer: Prepare to slow down to allow room.
If an overtaking vehicle signals its intention to move back into your lane, it means they need space to complete their maneuver safely. As the driver being overtaken, you should anticipate this and be prepared to slightly reduce your speed. This creates a safe gap for them to merge back in, preventing a potential collision.
Question 12: You are travelling in the left lane and wish to turn right at the intersection. You move to the right lane and a driver behind sounds their horn at you. What have you done wrong?
- Changed lanes unnecessarily.
- Driven too slowly.
- Crossed an unbroken lane line. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Crossed an unbroken lane line.
Unbroken lane lines (solid lines) on the road indicate that changing lanes is prohibited or unsafe at that location. Crossing a solid line to change lanes, especially near an intersection, is a traffic offense. This rule is in place to prevent dangerous maneuvers and maintain orderly traffic flow.
Question 13: If you are not sure you have enough distance to overtake a vehicle ahead, you should:
- Sound your horn to signal the driver ahead to slow down.
- Wait for a better opportunity with more distance to overtake. (Correct answer)
- Put the vehicle in a lower gear and speed up.
Correct answer: Wait for a better opportunity with more distance to overtake.
Overtaking requires sufficient clear distance to complete the maneuver safely without impeding oncoming traffic or the vehicle being passed. If you are uncertain whether you have enough space, it is always safest to exercise caution and wait for a clearer, safer opportunity. Rushing an overtake is extremely dangerous and can lead to serious accidents.
Question 14: A driver behind you signals their intention to overtake your car. What should you do?
- Signal the driver to remain behind you if it is travelling too fast.
- Speed up so that the driver will not have to overtake.
- Keep to the left and let that driver overtake you. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Keep to the left and let that driver overtake you.
When a driver behind you signals their intention to overtake, you should assist them in completing the maneuver safely and easily. This means keeping to the left side of your lane and maintaining your current speed (not accelerating). This provides them with sufficient space to pass you without unnecessary risk.
Question 15: When driving near parked vehicles, you should:
- Check for parked vehicles with turn signals on, or children about to step out. (Correct answer)
- Stop, if you see a car with its right-hand indicator on.
- Sound your horn and flash your headlights to warn drivers not to pull out.
Correct answer: Check for parked vehicles with turn signals on, or children about to step out.
When driving near parked vehicles, you must be vigilant for potential hazards. This includes checking for parked cars that might suddenly pull out (indicated by turn signals) or for pedestrians, especially children, who might unexpectedly step out from between vehicles. Maintaining a safe speed and actively scanning for these risks is crucial for safety.
Question 16: How should you overtake a pedal cyclist?
- The same as you would another car, with safety. (Correct answer)
- Drive as close as possible to the cyclist so he or she will move over and let you pass.
- Sound your horn to warn the cyclist to get off the road.
Correct answer: The same as you would another car, with safety.
Pedal cyclists are vulnerable road users and must be treated with the same respect and safety considerations as any other vehicle. When overtaking a cyclist, you must ensure there is ample lateral clearance (often a legally specified minimum distance) and that the road ahead is clear, just as you would when passing a car. Safety is paramount.
Question 17: Another vehicle is overtaking you on your right. You commit a traffic offence if you:
- Speed up while the other vehicle is on your right. (Correct answer)
- Keep the same speed.
- Slow down while the other vehicle is on your right.
Correct answer: Speed up while the other vehicle is on your right.
It is both illegal and extremely dangerous to increase your speed when another vehicle is in the process of overtaking you. This action prolongs the overtaking maneuver, increases the risk of a collision, and creates an unsafe situation for both drivers. You must maintain your speed or slow down slightly to allow them to complete the pass safely.
Question 18: On a single laned road (as shown), you must always overtake another vehicle on its right except when:
- The other vehicle is turning right. (Correct answer)
- You are travelling at more than 80 km\/h.
- The other vehicle is going slower than you.
Correct answer: The other vehicle is turning right.
On a single-laned road, overtaking is generally performed on the right side of the vehicle ahead. However, a specific exception applies when the vehicle in front is signaling its intention to turn right. In this scenario, it is permissible and often necessary to overtake on the left, provided there is sufficient space and it can be done safely without using the shoulder.
Question 19: Before beginning to overtake another vehicle, you should
- Sound your horn, move out and overtake.
- Check to see it is safe, change gear if necessary, and signal your intention before moving out. (Correct answer)
- Signal and slow down so you will have more room to overtake.
Correct answer: Check to see it is safe, change gear if necessary, and signal your intention before moving out.
A safe overtaking maneuver involves a clear sequence of actions. First, always check to ensure it is safe and the way is clear. Then, select the appropriate gear for acceleration, and crucially, signal your intention to change lanes well in advance. Only after these steps should you move out to complete the overtake.
Question 20: You are approaching a hill or curve. You must not cross the centre line to overtake:
- If you cannot see clear road ahead for 75 metres.
- If you do not have a clear view of any approaching traffic. (Correct answer)
- If you cannot see clear road ahead for 100 metres.
Correct answer: If you do not have a clear view of any approaching traffic.
Overtaking on a hill or curve is inherently dangerous because your line of sight is restricted, creating a 'blind spot.' You must never cross the center line to overtake if you do not have a clear and unobstructed view of any approaching traffic. This rule is critical to prevent head-on collisions in areas of limited visibility.
Question 21: The faster the vehicle in front of you is travelling, the:
- More distance and time you need to overtake. (Correct answer)
- Less time you need to overtake.
- Closer you must get before starting to overtake.
Correct answer: More distance and time you need to overtake.
The physics of overtaking dictate that the faster the vehicle you intend to pass is traveling, the greater the relative speed difference you need to achieve. Consequently, you will require a significantly longer distance and more time to complete the overtaking maneuver safely. This is a fundamental principle of safe driving.
Question 22: You are driving behind a long vehicle (as shown) which has a sign saying DO NOT OVERTAKE TURNING VEHICLE. The long vehicle indicates that it is going to turn left. You:
- May pass the truck because it cannot turn left from the middle lane.
- May move to the left-hand side of the road and pass the long vehicle.
- Must let the long vehicle turn first. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Must let the long vehicle turn first.
Long vehicles, especially those displaying 'DO NOT OVERTAKE TURNING VEHICLE' signs, often require extra space and may swing wide to complete turns, particularly left turns. It is crucial to give them ample room and allow them to complete their maneuver first. Attempting to pass them during a turn can lead to a dangerous collision.
Question 23: The speed limit on this road is 100 km\/h. When can you use the right lane?
- When there is no other traffic around.
- Whenever you want to.
- Only when overtaking or turning right. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Only when overtaking or turning right.
On a road with a speed limit of 100 km/h, the right lane is generally designated for overtaking slower vehicles or for making a right turn. This rule helps maintain efficient traffic flow and ensures that the left lane (or lanes) can be used by vehicles traveling at a consistent speed. Using the right lane unnecessarily can impede traffic and is considered an improper use of the lane.
Question 24: When overtaking another vehicle you should NOT move back in front of it, unless
- The driver of the vehicle signals it is safe to do so.
- You can see the overtaken vehicle in your rear vision mirror. (Correct answer)
- An oncoming car appears over a hill.
Correct answer: You can see the overtaken vehicle in your rear vision mirror.
It is crucial to ensure you have sufficient space and visibility before moving back into a lane after overtaking. Seeing the overtaken vehicle in your rear vision mirror confirms that you have cleared their vehicle and can safely re-enter the lane without cutting them off. This practice prevents collisions and promotes safe driving maneuvers.
Question 25: What is this driver doing that is negligent and illegal?
- Crossing an unbroken line at a curve. (Correct answer)
- Not signalling to change lanes.
- Overtaking on the kerb side.
Correct answer: Crossing an unbroken line at a curve.
Crossing an unbroken line is illegal because it indicates a section of road where it is unsafe to change lanes or overtake, often due to limited visibility or an upcoming hazard like a curve. Doing so is negligent as it significantly increases the risk of a head-on collision or other accidents. Road markings are critical safety indicators that drivers must obey.
Question 26: If you are caught speeding through a road work zone you will:
- Not receive any penalty as road works speed limits are only advisory.
- Receive a warning letter in the mail.
- Be liable for a speeding fine and loss of demerit points. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Be liable for a speeding fine and loss of demerit points.
Speed limits in road work zones are legally binding and are put in place to protect workers and drivers in potentially hazardous areas. Disregarding these limits is a serious offense that carries significant penalties, including fines and the loss of demerit points. These penalties serve as a deterrent to ensure driver compliance and enhance safety in vulnerable work environments.
Question 27: If you are convicted of driving with a blood alcohol level that is over the limit for your licence, you could lose your driver's licence. You may also
- Be sent to prison. (Correct answer)
- Be restricted to driving an automatic vehicle.
- Have a personal speed limit imposed on you.
Correct answer: Be sent to prison.
Driving with a blood alcohol level over the legal limit is a severe offense due to the high risk it poses to public safety. Conviction can lead to substantial penalties, including imprisonment, significant fines, and lengthy licence disqualification. These strict measures reflect the seriousness of impaired driving and its potential for catastrophic consequences.
Question 28: When driving through temporary road work you should:
- Slow down and look out for hazards. (Correct answer)
- Maintain current speed if the road is clear.
- Sound your horn.
Correct answer: Slow down and look out for hazards.
When driving through temporary road work, it is essential to slow down and be vigilant for potential hazards. These areas often have changed road conditions, temporary lane configurations, and workers present, all of which require increased caution. Reducing speed allows for more reaction time and helps ensure the safety of both drivers and road workers.
Question 29: If you are convicted a second time for street or drag racing, which one of the following penalties applies?
- You will not be able to register your vehicle again.
- You will have to pay for the storage of your vehicle.
- Your vehicle may be taken away and sold. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Your vehicle may be taken away and sold.
Street or drag racing is an extremely dangerous and illegal activity that puts lives at risk. Repeat offenses are met with very severe penalties to deter such behavior. For a second conviction, authorities can confiscate and sell your vehicle, demonstrating the legal system's strong stance against these reckless actions.
Question 30: When entering or leaving a driveway you must:
- Blow your horn to warn other road users.
- Give way to bicycles, vehicles and pedestrians. (Correct answer)
- Stop and give way only to vehicles.
Correct answer: Give way to bicycles, vehicles and pedestrians.
When entering or leaving a driveway, you are moving from a private area onto a public road, which requires you to give way to all existing road users. This includes pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles already on the road or footpath. This rule ensures that movements from driveways do not disrupt traffic flow or endanger others.
If you have been convicted for street or drag racing, which of these penalties may apply?