Traffic signsUruguay
Traffic rules
Uruguay
151. Engine oil
Engine oil is a lubricant used inside an internal-combustion engine to reduce friction and wear between moving components. It also helps remove heat, keep internal surfaces clean and protect components against corrosion.
The oil level and condition should be checked according to the vehicle manufacturer's instructions. Only oil with the correct specification and viscosity should be used, and the oil and oil filter should be replaced at the recommended maintenance intervals.
Wikimedia.org • Dvortygirl • CC BY-SA
How do you check the engine oil level?
Depending on the vehicle, the level is checked with an oil dipstick or an electronic oil-level system. The vehicle manufacturer's instructions should be followed because the required procedure can vary between engines.
Can you use any engine oil?
No. Engine oils have different viscosity grades and technical specifications. Only oil meeting the requirements specified by the vehicle manufacturer should be used.
152. Coolant
Coolant is a fluid that circulates through a vehicle's cooling system to remove excess heat from the engine or other components. It usually contains water mixed with antifreeze and corrosion inhibitors so that the cooling system can operate safely across a wide range of temperatures.
The coolant level should be checked according to the vehicle manufacturer's instructions. The correct coolant specification must be used, and the cooling system should only be opened when it is safe to do so because hot coolant can be under pressure.
Wikimedia.org • Gasper12345 • CC BY-SA
What does engine coolant do?
Coolant absorbs heat from the engine and carries it to the radiator, where the heat can be released. It also helps protect the cooling system against freezing, corrosion and excessive temperatures.
🔗 hella.com • HELLA, engine cooling, Engine cooling; 🔗 cdn.group.renault.com • Dacia, Sandero / Stepway / Jogger owner manual, Coolant reservoir safety instructions
Should you open the coolant reservoir when the engine is hot?
No. A hot cooling system can be pressurised and opening it can release hot coolant or steam. Allow the system to cool and follow the vehicle manufacturer's instructions before opening the reservoir.
🔗 hella.com • HELLA, engine cooling, Engine cooling; 🔗 cdn.group.renault.com • Dacia, Sandero / Stepway / Jogger owner manual, Coolant reservoir safety instructions
153. Maintenance
Maintenance is the regular inspection, servicing and repair of a vehicle to keep it safe, reliable and in good working condition. It includes tasks such as checking fluids, tyres, brakes, lights and other components and replacing worn parts when necessary.
Maintenance should follow the vehicle manufacturer's recommended service schedule. Regular maintenance can help prevent breakdowns, reduce wear, maintain safety systems and identify defects before they become more serious.
Wikimedia.org • Nigel Sandridge • CC0
Why is regular vehicle maintenance important?
Regular maintenance helps keep safety-critical and mechanical systems working correctly, reduces the risk of breakdowns and can identify worn or damaged components before they cause larger problems.
🔗 volvocars.com • Volvo, engine oil checking/filling; model-specific example
🔗 hella.com • HELLA, engine cooling system function
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, vehicle maintenance; national guidance example
How often should a vehicle be serviced?
Service intervals depend on the vehicle, engine, mileage, age and operating conditions. Drivers should follow the maintenance schedule provided by the vehicle manufacturer.
🔗 volvocars.com • Volvo, engine oil checking/filling; model-specific example
🔗 hella.com • HELLA, engine cooling system function
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, vehicle maintenance; national guidance example
154. Spare tyre
A spare tyre is an additional tyre, usually already mounted on a wheel, carried in a vehicle so that a damaged or punctured road wheel can be temporarily replaced. Vehicles may carry a full-size spare wheel, a compact temporary spare or a tyre-repair kit instead.
A temporary spare wheel is normally intended only for emergency and short-term use. Drivers must follow the manufacturer's restrictions concerning speed, distance, tyre pressure and installation and should replace or repair the damaged normal tyre as soon as possible.
Wikimedia.org • Mike-fiesta • CC BY-SA
What is a spare tyre?
A spare tyre is an additional tyre, normally mounted on a wheel, that can temporarily replace a punctured or damaged road wheel.
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, tyre sidewall markings and sizing
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, winter tyres, conditions and markings
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, tyres and pressures; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 228–231, snow and ice; national guidance example
What should you do after fitting a spare wheel?
Drive cautiously, respect any temporary-wheel restrictions and have the damaged tyre repaired or replaced as soon as reasonably possible.
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, tyre sidewall markings and sizing
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, winter tyres, conditions and markings
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, tyres and pressures; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 228–231, snow and ice; national guidance example
Is carrying a spare tyre compulsory?
This depends on the country and vehicle category. Some jurisdictions require particular breakdown equipment, while others allow vehicles to operate without a spare wheel.
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, tyre sidewall markings and sizing
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, winter tyres, conditions and markings
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, tyres and pressures; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 228–231, snow and ice; national guidance example
155. Flat tyre
A flat tyre is a tyre that has lost enough air pressure that it can no longer support the vehicle or operate safely. It can result from a puncture, damaged valve, damaged wheel, tyre failure or a gradual air leak.
A flat tyre can seriously affect steering, braking and vehicle stability. The driver should reduce speed smoothly, avoid sudden steering or braking and stop in a safe place as soon as possible rather than continuing to drive on the damaged tyre.
Wikimedia.org • Stian Martinsen • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a tyre becomes flat while driving?
Keep control of the vehicle, reduce speed gradually and move to a safe stopping place. Avoid sudden braking or steering because the vehicle's handling may be significantly affected.
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, tyre sidewall markings and sizing
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, winter tyres, conditions and markings
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, tyres and pressures; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 228–231, snow and ice; national guidance example
What can cause a flat tyre?
Common causes include punctures or damage to the tyre or wheel assembly. Have unexpected pressure loss or damage after an impact checked. Regular pressure and condition checks can help reveal a problem before the next journey.
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, tyre sidewall markings and sizing
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, winter tyres, conditions and markings
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, tyres and pressures; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 228–231, snow and ice; national guidance example
156. Jack
A jack is a portable lifting device used to raise part of a vehicle off the ground, commonly when changing a wheel. Vehicle jacks can be mechanical, hydraulic or electrically operated.
A jack should only be used at the lifting points specified by the vehicle manufacturer and on a firm, stable surface. The parking brake should be applied and the vehicle secured against movement before lifting.
Wikimedia.org • Santeri Viinamäki • CC BY-SA
Is it safe to work underneath a vehicle supported only by a jack?
No. A jack is primarily a lifting device and should not be relied upon as the sole support when working underneath a raised vehicle. Appropriate supporting equipment should be used for work beneath the vehicle.
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, tyre sidewall markings and sizing
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, winter tyres, conditions and markings
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, tyres and pressures; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 228–231, snow and ice; national guidance example
157. Vehicle inspection
A vehicle inspection is an official check to determine whether a vehicle is safe, roadworthy and compliant with applicable technical and environmental requirements. Depending on the country and type of vehicle, inspections may check the brakes, tyres, steering, suspension, lights, emissions, identification and other safety-related components. Inspection rules and intervals vary between countries: some vehicles require regular periodic inspections, while others may also need an inspection after major modifications, an accident, importation or a change of ownership.
Wikimedia.org • Roman Zázvorka • CC BY-SA
What is a vehicle inspection?
A vehicle inspection is an official examination of a vehicle to check whether it meets applicable safety, technical and environmental requirements.
🔗 europa.eu • Your Europe, registration and roadworthiness documents; EU example
What is checked during a vehicle inspection?
The inspection may include the brakes, tyres, steering, suspension, lights, vehicle identification and emissions. The exact inspection points depend on the country, vehicle type and type of inspection.
🔗 europa.eu • Your Europe, registration and roadworthiness documents; EU example
How often does a vehicle need to be inspected?
The inspection interval depends on the country and type of vehicle. Some countries require annual inspections, while others use longer intervals based on the vehicle's age, use or condition.
🔗 europa.eu • Your Europe, registration and roadworthiness documents; EU example
158. Key
A key is a device used to unlock a vehicle and authorise its operation. Traditional vehicle keys use a mechanical blade, while modern vehicles commonly use electronic transponders, remote-control key fobs or keyless systems that communicate electronically with the vehicle.
Many modern keys work together with an immobiliser that prevents the engine or propulsion system from being activated unless an authorised key is detected. Replacement or duplicate keys may therefore need to be electronically programmed to the vehicle.
Wikimedia.org • chen chin • CC BY
What does a modern car key do?
A modern car key can unlock and lock the vehicle and authorise the engine or electric propulsion system to start. It may use a mechanical blade, electronic transponder, remote-control functions or a keyless system.
What should you do if you lose a vehicle key?
Use a spare key if available and arrange a replacement through an appropriate dealer, locksmith or vehicle specialist. Modern replacement keys often need to be programmed to the vehicle's electronic security system.
159. Dashboard
The dashboard is the area in front of the driver that displays important information about the vehicle and provides access to controls and warning indicators. It commonly includes the speedometer, fuel or battery level, warning lights, indicators and information about the engine, brakes and safety systems. Modern vehicles may use a digital instrument display instead of traditional gauges. Drivers should understand the main dashboard symbols and respond appropriately when a warning light appears.
Wikimedia.org • Petar Milošević • CC BY-SA
What information is shown on the dashboard?
A dashboard may show the speed, fuel or battery level, engine information, warning lights, turn indicators and safety-system status. The exact display depends on the vehicle.
What do dashboard warning light colours mean?
Colour is a clue, not a complete diagnosis. Red or amber can indicate a warning or operating state, while green or blue commonly identifies an active function. Read the exact symbol and vehicle instructions before deciding what action is safe.
160. Windscreen wiper
A windscreen wiper is a device that removes rain, snow, dirt and other moisture from a vehicle’s windscreen to maintain a clear view of the road. Most vehicles use electrically powered wipers with replaceable rubber blades and several operating speeds, often together with a windscreen washer system. Drivers should replace worn or damaged wiper blades when they leave streaks, skip across the glass or no longer clean the windscreen effectively.
Wikimedia.org • Lothar Spurzem • CC BY-SA
What is a windscreen wiper?
A windscreen wiper is a device that moves across the windscreen to remove rain, snow, dirt and moisture so the driver can maintain a clear view of the road.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, clear windows and wipers; national guidance example
Why are windscreen wipers important?
Windscreen wipers help maintain clear visibility in bad weather and when the windscreen becomes dirty. Poor visibility can make it harder to detect traffic, pedestrians, signs and hazards.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, clear windows and wipers; national guidance example
When should windscreen wiper blades be replaced?
Wiper blades should be replaced when they are worn, cracked, damaged or no longer clean the windscreen effectively. Common signs include streaking, skipping, squeaking or areas of the windscreen remaining wet.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, clear windows and wipers; national guidance example
161. Doors
Doors provide access to the vehicle and help protect occupants while the vehicle is moving. They must open and close correctly, remain securely closed during driving and have functioning hinges, catches and locking mechanisms. Damaged or loose doors can create a serious safety risk, especially if they can open unexpectedly or cannot be closed properly.
Wikimedia.org • Guyon • CC BY
Why are vehicle doors important for safety?
Vehicle doors help protect occupants and keep them safely inside the vehicle. They should close securely and must not open unexpectedly while driving.
What parts of a vehicle door should work correctly?
The door, hinges, catches, locking mechanism and surrounding structure should be secure and in good condition so the door can open and close properly.
Can you drive with a door that does not close properly?
A door that cannot remain securely closed can be dangerous and may make the vehicle unroadworthy. It should be repaired before the vehicle is used.
162. Glovebox
A glovebox, also called a glove compartment, is a storage compartment built into the dashboard in front of the passenger seat. It is commonly used to keep vehicle documents, the owner’s manual and other small items within easy reach. The glovebox should be kept closed while driving so that it does not obstruct passengers or allow loose objects to fall into the vehicle. Avoid storing valuables or items that can be damaged by the high temperatures that may develop inside a parked car.
Wikimedia.org • Q4RadioGuy • CC BY
Should the glovebox be closed while driving?
Yes. Toyota’s owner-manual guidance says to keep the glovebox closed: during sudden braking or swerving, an occupant could be struck by the open compartment or its contents. Follow the instructions for your vehicle.
🔗 assets.sia.toyota.com • Toyota owner manual OM21046U, glove box safety
Where should I check how to open or lock my glovebox?
Use your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Latches and locks differ. The retrieved Toyota manual, for example, describes a lever to open the glovebox and a key or mechanical key to lock it, depending on the vehicle’s key system.
🔗 assets.sia.toyota.com • Toyota owner manual OM21046U, glove box safety
163. Visibility
Visibility is the ability of a driver to see the road, other road users and potential hazards clearly, while also making the vehicle visible to others. Visibility can be reduced by darkness, fog, rain, snow, dirty or misted windows, glare and objects that obstruct the driver’s view. Drivers should keep windows, mirrors and lights clean, remove anything that blocks their field of vision and use the appropriate vehicle lights when visibility is reduced.
Wikimedia.org • Rick Doble • CC BY-SA
What does visibility mean when driving?
Visibility describes how clearly a driver can see the road, traffic and hazards and how easily other road users can see the vehicle.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
What can reduce visibility while driving?
Visibility can be reduced by darkness, fog, rain, snow, glare, dirty or misted windows and objects that obstruct the driver’s view.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
What should you do when visibility is poor?
Reduce your speed, increase your following distance and use the appropriate lights. Make sure you can see far enough ahead to react safely to traffic and obstacles.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
164. Rain
Rain can reduce visibility, tyre grip and vehicle control while increasing stopping distances. Water on the road can also cause aquaplaning, where the tyres lose contact with the road surface. Drivers should reduce speed, increase their following distance, avoid sudden steering or braking and use the appropriate lights when visibility is reduced. Extra care is needed during heavy rain and when water collects in wheel tracks or on poorly drained roads.
How does rain affect driving?
Rain can reduce visibility and tyre grip, increase stopping distances and make it more difficult to control the vehicle safely.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
How should you drive in heavy rain?
Reduce speed, increase your following distance and use smooth steering, acceleration and braking. Use the appropriate lights and be prepared for reduced visibility and standing water.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
Why should you increase the following distance in rain?
Wet roads can increase the distance needed to stop. A larger following distance gives you more time and space to react safely.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
165. Fog
Fog can greatly reduce visibility and make it difficult to judge speed, distance and the position of other road users. Drivers should reduce speed, increase their following distance and use the appropriate lights without dazzling others. Avoid relying only on the vehicle ahead as a guide, and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility. When fog is very dense, stopping in a safe place may be the best option.
Why is fog dangerous when driving?
Fog can greatly reduce visibility and make it harder to judge speed, distance and the movement of other road users.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
How should you drive in fog?
Reduce speed, increase your following distance and use the appropriate lights. Drive so that you can stop safely within the distance you can clearly see.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
Should you use high-beam headlights in fog?
Usually not. High beams can reflect from the water droplets in fog and make visibility worse. Use the lighting permitted and recommended under local traffic rules.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
166. Hail
Hail can reduce visibility, make the road slippery and create sudden hazardous driving conditions. Hailstones may accumulate on the road and reduce tyre grip in a similar way to ice or loose material, while larger hailstones can also damage windscreens and vehicle bodywork. Drivers should reduce speed, increase their following distance, avoid sudden steering or braking and, when conditions become severe, consider stopping at a safe place until the hailstorm passes.
Why is hail dangerous when driving?
Hail can reduce visibility and tyre grip, make the road slippery and distract drivers because of the sudden noise and impact of hailstones.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
How should you drive during a hailstorm?
Reduce speed, increase your following distance and use smooth steering and braking. If the hail becomes severe or visibility is very poor, consider stopping at a safe place away from moving traffic.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
Is it safer to stop during severe hail?
If visibility or road conditions become too dangerous, it may be safer to stop at a suitable place away from moving traffic and continue when conditions improve.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
167. Sunlight
Sunlight can reduce visibility when the sun is low in the sky or when bright light reflects from wet roads, snow, buildings or other vehicles. Sun glare can make traffic lights, signs, pedestrians and other road users difficult to see. Drivers should reduce speed when necessary, keep the windscreen clean, use the sun visor or suitable sunglasses and leave extra space to react to hazards that may be temporarily hidden by glare.
Wikimedia.org • Frank Contreras Cardenas • CC BY-SA
Why can sunlight be dangerous when driving?
Bright or low sunlight can cause glare and temporarily reduce visibility, making traffic lights, signs, pedestrians and other road users more difficult to see.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
When is sun glare most likely to cause problems?
Glare is often strongest when the sun is low in the sky, particularly around sunrise and sunset, and when sunlight reflects from wet roads, snow, glass or other bright surfaces.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
What should you do when sunlight makes it difficult to see?
Reduce speed and increase your following distance so you have more time to react. Use the sun visor where helpful and avoid continuing at a speed that is too high for the available visibility.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
168. Sunglasses
Sunglasses can reduce glare and improve visual comfort when driving in bright sunlight, especially when the sun is low or reflects from wet roads, snow or other surfaces. Drivers should choose lenses that allow traffic lights, signs and other road users to remain clearly visible. Very dark lenses can reduce visibility in tunnels, at night or in changing light conditions, so sunglasses should be removed when they make it harder to see the road safely.
Wikimedia.org • Vancouver 125 • CC BY
Can sunglasses help when driving?
Yes. Sunglasses can reduce glare and improve visual comfort in bright sunlight, making it easier to see the road and surrounding traffic.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
When are sunglasses most useful while driving?
They are particularly useful when the sun is low in the sky or when bright light reflects from wet roads, snow, glass or other surfaces.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
Are very dark sunglasses suitable for driving?
Very dark lenses can reduce the amount of light reaching the eyes and may make it difficult to see in tunnels, shade, poor weather or at night. Sunglasses should not interfere with safe visibility.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
169. Salt
Salt is commonly used for deicing and anti-icing roads in winter. It lowers the freezing point of water, helping to prevent ice from forming or to melt existing snow and ice. Road authorities may spread dry salt, wet salt or brine before or during freezing conditions. Salt improves road safety, but drivers should still reduce speed and adapt to slippery conditions because treated roads can remain hazardous, especially during heavy snowfall, freezing rain or very low temperatures.
Why is salt used on roads in winter?
Salt helps lower the freezing point of water, making it harder for ice to form and helping existing snow or ice melt.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
What is the difference between deicing and anti-icing?
Anti-icing means treating the road before ice forms, while deicing means applying salt or another treatment after snow or ice is already present.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
Does salt make an icy road completely safe?
No. Salt can improve grip by reducing snow and ice, but treated roads can still be slippery. Drivers should continue to reduce speed and increase their following distance.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
170. Air conditioning
Air conditioning helps control the temperature and humidity inside a vehicle and can improve comfort and visibility. In hot weather it cools the passenger compartment, while in damp conditions it can help remove moisture from the air and clear mist from the windows more quickly. Drivers should use the system in a way that keeps the interior comfortable without creating large temperature differences, and the system should be maintained so that it continues to work effectively.
Wikimedia.org • Mattes • CC0
What does air conditioning do in a car?
Air conditioning cools and dehumidifies the air inside the vehicle, helping improve comfort and reduce moisture on the windows.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
Can air conditioning help demist the windscreen?
Yes. Because air conditioning removes moisture from the air, it can help clear condensation from the windscreen and windows more quickly.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
Should air conditioning be used in winter?
Air conditioning can help demist windows in winter when the vehicle system permits it. Use the handbook’s demisting or automatic-climate settings. Operation can depend on temperature and system conditions, so do not assume the compressor will always run.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
171. Hydroplaning
Hydroplaning, also called aquaplaning, occurs when a layer of water builds up between a vehicle’s tyres and the road surface, causing the tyres to lose contact with the road. Steering, braking and acceleration can then become much less effective. The risk increases with speed, standing water and worn tyres. Drivers should reduce speed in heavy rain, avoid sudden steering or braking and make sure their tyres are in good condition with sufficient tread depth.
What is hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning occurs when water separates the tyres from the road surface, reducing or temporarily removing normal tyre grip.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
What should you do if your vehicle starts hydroplaning?
Remain calm, ease off the accelerator and avoid sudden braking or steering. Keep the steering movements smooth and controlled until the tyres regain contact with the road.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
At what speed does hydroplaning occur?
There is no single speed at which hydroplaning always begins. The risk depends on speed, water depth, tyre condition, tyre pressure and the road surface.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, adverse weather; national guidance example
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, freezing rain formation
🔗 weather.metoffice.gov.uk • Met Office, frost, transparent glaze and black ice
🔗 ops.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, anti-icing chemistry and treatment timing
172. Distraction
Distraction is anything that takes a driver’s attention away from safely controlling the vehicle and observing the road. Common distractions include mobile phones, navigation systems, passengers, eating, adjusting controls or looking away from traffic. Distraction can be visual, manual or mental and may significantly increase reaction time. Drivers should keep their attention on the road, prepare navigation and other settings before moving and avoid activities that interfere with safe driving.
Wikimedia.org • Melissa Wenger • CC0
What is distracted driving?
Distracted driving occurs when a driver's visual, manual or mental attention is diverted from driving and the surrounding traffic.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 159–169, observation; national guidance example
What are common driving distractions?
Common distractions include mobile phones, navigation systems, passengers, eating, adjusting vehicle controls and looking away from the road.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 159–169, observation; national guidance example
Why is using a phone while driving dangerous?
Using a phone can combine visual, manual and mental distraction, reducing the driver's ability to notice hazards and react quickly.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 159–169, observation; national guidance example
173. Emotions
Emotions can influence attention, judgement and driving behaviour. Anger, stress, fear, sadness or excitement may cause a driver to become distracted, impatient or more likely to take risks. Strong emotions can also affect concentration and reaction time. Drivers should recognise when their emotional state is interfering with safe driving and, if necessary, slow down, take a break or stop in a safe place until they feel able to continue calmly and attentively.
Wikimedia.org • Raysonho • CC0
Can emotions affect driving?
Yes. Strong emotions can affect attention, judgement, reaction time and decision-making, which can make safe driving more difficult.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 159–169, observation; national guidance example
Why is anger dangerous when driving?
Anger can lead to impatience, aggressive manoeuvres, speeding or reduced attention. Drivers should avoid reacting emotionally to other road users.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 159–169, observation; national guidance example
What should you do if you are too emotional to drive safely?
If your emotional state is affecting concentration or judgement, stop or delay the journey when possible and continue only when you feel able to drive safely.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 159–169, observation; national guidance example
174. Road rage
Road rage is aggressive, hostile or intimidating behaviour by a road user toward others in traffic. It can include excessive honking, tailgating, shouting, threatening gestures, blocking another vehicle or making deliberately aggressive manoeuvres. Anger can reduce judgement and increase risk-taking, turning a minor traffic conflict into a dangerous situation. Drivers should avoid confrontation, remain calm, keep a safe distance and never retaliate against aggressive behaviour.
Wikimedia.org • DaleHulm • CC BY-SA
What is road rage?
Road rage is aggressive, hostile or intimidating behaviour directed at other road users, often caused by anger or frustration in traffic.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 159–169, observation; national guidance example
What should you do if another driver becomes aggressive?
Stay calm, avoid confrontation, maintain a safe distance and do not retaliate or copy the other driver's behaviour. If necessary, move away from the situation when it is safe to do so.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 159–169, observation; national guidance example
Should you stop to confront an aggressive driver?
Do not stop simply to confront an aggressive driver. Avoid retaliation, keep a safe distance and move away to a safe place when possible. If you feel threatened, contact the police as soon as you can do so safely.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 159–169, observation; national guidance example
175. Health
Health can affect a person’s ability to drive safely. Illness, injury, poor vision, reduced mobility, fatigue, certain medical conditions and some medicines can interfere with concentration, reaction time, judgement or vehicle control. Drivers should recognise when their physical or mental condition may make driving unsafe and should seek medical advice when necessary. In some countries, specific health conditions must be reported and may require a medical examination or restrictions on the driving licence.
Wikimedia.org • Shixart1985 • CC BY
How can health affect driving?
Health problems can affect vision, concentration, reaction time, judgement, coordination and vehicle control, making safe driving more difficult.
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, health conditions and driving; GB reporting example
🔗 nei.nih.gov • US National Eye Institute, low vision and night blindness
Should you drive when you are ill?
Not if the illness makes it difficult to concentrate, react quickly or control the vehicle safely. Drivers should delay the journey or seek medical advice when necessary.
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, health conditions and driving; GB reporting example
🔗 nei.nih.gov • US National Eye Institute, low vision and night blindness
Can medication affect driving?
Yes. Some medicines can cause drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision or slower reactions. Always follow the instructions provided with the medicine and advice from a healthcare professional.
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, health conditions and driving; GB reporting example
🔗 nei.nih.gov • US National Eye Institute, low vision and night blindness