Hazard Perception

Anticipation and Planning

This is the "art" of looking ahead as you drive to identify hazards in advance, so that you can deal with them comfortably in a structured and planned way.
A "Hazard" is any situation or feature that may or will require you to carry out a manuoevre, in other words require you to change your speed or direction.
You should scan the near, middle and far distance for real or potential hazards, and then devise a plan to deal with them using the MSM routine.
Your actions should be based on how you see the problem developing by using your experience as a driver. This may involve anticipating the actions of other road uers, analysing a road or traffic situation, and allowing for conditions such as the weather and road surface.
Always act in good time and make sure other road users are aware of your actions by giving appropriate signals where necessary.

Hazard Perception Test

As part of your Theory Test you will have to complete a hazard perception test. This is based on video clips and you will need to click on a mouse button each time you identify a hazard. The sooner you click the button, the higher score you will acheive. This test is only concerned with moving hazards, so is more specific than the hazard perception you will need to use on the move which should also include static hazards such as parked cars and road junctions.

The best way to prepare for the theory test is to use one of the DVDs available which let you practise the hazard test using the actual video clips.

Real World hazard perception

"Real World" hazard perception will be covered at length and in detail on your lessons. You will need to develop a good sense for danger, and a rather strange state of mind! Very suspicious, a bit paranoid and rather pessimistic. Sounds odd, but you will soon develop the right approach to your driving, and be able to keep yourself safe as you drive. Generally, assume situations will work against you, or things will go wrong, and you'll do all right.