Other Types of Vehicle: Share the Road Confidently

Large or specialist vehicles have different speeds, turning circles, and blind spots. Understanding them keeps you safe and professional when sharing the road.

• Give large vehicles extra room when they swing out to turn left—they need space to clear kerbs.
• Never pass a tram on the inside unless directed; follow lane signals and obey dedicated traffic lights.
• Farm vehicles or mobility scooters may travel well below the limit—be patient and only overtake when it’s legal, safe, and necessary.

• Buses and coaches: watch for signals indicating they’re pulling out from stops—give priority when you can do so safely.
• Heavy goods vehicles: longer stopping distances, large blind spots, and spray in wet weather.
• Trams: follow road markings and signals; remember they cannot steer to avoid you.
• Slow-moving vehicles: tractors, road sweepers, and gritters often travel at 25 mph or less and may turn suddenly into fields or side roads.

Check far ahead before overtaking large vehicles. You need a long, clear view, ample acceleration space, and time to move back without cutting in. If in doubt, hold back—arriving safely matters more than saving seconds.

• Expect extra spray and turbulence when passing lorries in rain—use wipers and keep both hands on the wheel.
• At night, dip headlights early to avoid dazzling lorry drivers sitting higher up.
• When following a snow plough or gritter, stay well back and be prepared for sudden stops.