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For drivers

Introduction

Every time you drive, be careful and considerate to other drivers, road users and pedestrians. Treat other road users as you would like them to treat you.

• Don't drive aggressively.
• If another driver has made a mistake, and we all do, try to be understanding.
• If you are threatened by a road rage driver, keep calm, ignore the driver, hang back and don't retaliate.

Pedestrians

Look out for pedestrians, especially in residential areas and town centres. Be ready for them to step out between parked vehicles. Drive slowly. Hitting a pedestrian at 40mph is almost always fatal. Look out especially for young children who may dash out into the road and for elderly pedestrians who may not see or hear you.

Cyclists

Cyclists are very vulnerable. They do not have the protection a driver has, so take care when you pass cyclists and give them plenty of room. Look for cyclists on your left if you are turning into a side road. At roundabouts and large junctions, be patient as cyclists need more time.

Horse riders

Watch out for horses being ridden or led. Take extra care on left hand bends and on country roads. Drive slowly past them. Give them plenty of room and be prepared to stop. Don't scare them by using your horn or by revving your engine. Riders of horses and ponies are often children so take extra care.

Older drivers

Please make extra allowance for older drivers. Their reactions may not be as fast as they once were. Be prepared for them to do the unexpected. Don't tail gate them.

Learner drivers and younger drivers

Most young drivers are often very inexperienced. Their understanding of hazards on the road is not as good as more experienced drivers, so don't get too close. Be especially patient with learner drivers: Remember you were once a learner as well.

Large vehicles

Large vehicles can hide the road in front of you. Drop well back so that you can see any hazards and be able to overtake if it is safe. Remember, on approaching a roundabout, large vehicles may need to use all the road space. Hang back and give them plenty of room.

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