Responsible Road Behaviour - Driver theory Test

Driver action required when encountering a stop sign

Come to a complete stop and proceed when safe.: A stop sign requires drivers to come to a complete halt, regardless of whether other vehicles are present. This means the vehicle must stop moving entirely slowing down is not sufficient. Drivers must then observe traffic and proceed only when it is safe to do so, giving way to vehicles with the right of way.

The indication of a yellow traffic light to drivers

Prepare to stop stop if you can do so safely.: A yellow traffic light signals an imminent change to red. Drivers must prepare to stop and do so if they can without risk. If a driver is too close to the intersection to stop safely when the yellow light appears, they may proceed through with caution.

Driver action at a flashing red traffic light

Treat it as a stop sign.: A flashing red traffic light is treated the same as a stop sign. Drivers must come to a complete stop, and yield the right-of-way to other vehicles and pedestrians before proceeding. This indication is used at intersections where a full stop is always necessary before proceeding and is often used to control traffic flow during off-peak hours or temporary situations.

How drivers should treat pedestrians

Give them space and the right of way.: Drivers must give pedestrians the right of way, not only in marked crosswalks but also when they are crossing the road at any point. Drivers should anticipate pedestrian movements and be prepared to stop. Honking to alert pedestrians is only acceptable in urgent situations to prevent an accident.

The required lateral distance drivers must leave when overtaking cyclists

1 meter in urban areas, 1.5 meters outside urban areas.: The traffic law specifies the minimum safe distance drivers must maintain when overtaking cyclists. This distance is 1 meter in urban areas and 1.5 meters in rural areas. This rule aims to protect cyclists from side collisions and the turbulence created by passing vehicles, especially at higher speeds.

Approaching motorcyclists

Give them adequate space and assume they are less visible and proceed with extra caution.: Motorcyclists, like cyclists, are considered vulnerable road users. Drivers must treat motorcyclists with the same respect and consideration as any other vehicle, providing them with adequate space and maintaining a safe following distance.

An example of a risky driving maneuver

Tailgating the vehicle in front.: Tailgating, or driving too closely behind another vehicle, is a dangerous and illegal practice. It reduces the drivers reaction time to stop and greatly increases the risk of a rear-end collision.

The rule regarding sudden braking

It is acceptable in emergencies only.: Sudden braking is considered a risky maneuver and should be used only in emergency situations to avoid an imminent collision. Unnecessary or abrupt braking can startle other drivers, particularly those behind, and can lead to rear-end collisions.

Driving under the influence of alcohol

It is illegal for all drivers, with specific blood alcohol content limits.: Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal for all drivers. France has specific legal limits for blood alcohol content (BAC), and exceeding these limits can result in severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment.

When drivers should use dipped headlights

When passing other vehicles.: Drivers must use dipped headlights when passing other vehicles at night to avoid dazzling the oncoming drivers. Dipped headlights provide sufficient illumination for the driver while minimizing glare for others.

When drivers are permitted to use fog lights

Only when visibility is reduced due to fog, snow, or heavy rain.: Fog lights are designed to improve visibility in adverse weather conditions such as fog, snow, or heavy rain. Their use is restricted to these conditions because using them in clear weather or at night can cause glare and actually reduce visibility for other drivers. Drivers must switch them off when visibility improves.

Responsible course of action when running late and the car in front is driving at the speed limit, but you feel it is too slow

Maintain a safe following distance and accept the delay.: Driving laws, and responsible driving practices, emphasize patience and avoiding aggressive behavior. Tailgating, honking, and frequent lane changes are dangerous and can lead to accidents. The safest approach is to drive calmly, respect other road users, and if necessary, communicate the delay to your appointment.

Action to take when driving on a long journey and beginning to feel very tired

Stop at a designated rest area. If needed, take a short nap before continuing.: Driving while fatigued is a significant risk factor in accidents. While coffee might provide a temporary boost, it is not a substitute for rest. Pulling over at a designated rest area and taking a break or a short nap is the safest way to manage fatigue and prevent accidents.

Action to take after consuming a couple of glasses of wine and needing to drive home

Ask a sober friend to drive you home or take a taxi/public transport.: Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal and extremely dangerous. Even small amounts of alcohol can impair judgment and reaction time. The safest and most responsible choice is to avoid driving altogether and find an alternative means of getting home, such as a sober driver, taxi, or public transport.