Module 14 of 140% complete

Vulnerable Road Users: Protect Everyone Sharing the Road

Understand the needs of pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders, and more so you can plan safe, respectful interactions.

  1. 1Overview
  2. 2DVSA Essentials
  3. 3Users
  4. 4Scenarios
  5. 5Checklist
  6. 6Test

Why Vulnerable Users Need Extra Care

People outside of vehicles have less protection and may behave unpredictably. Prioritising them keeps journeys safe and aligns with the Highway Code’s hierarchy of road users.

DVSA Essentials

  • Hierarchy of road users: those who can cause the greatest harm have the greatest responsibility to reduce danger.
  • Give cyclists at least 1.5 m clearance at speeds up to 30 mph and more when faster or in bad weather.
  • Rule 215–222: Pass horse riders slowly (max 10 mph) and with wide clearance; be prepared to stop.

Key Vulnerable Groups

  • Pedestrians: especially children, older people, and those with reduced mobility or visibility.
  • Cyclists and e-scooter riders: may wobble to avoid drains or potholes.
  • Motorcyclists: accelerate and brake quickly—check mirrors before turning or changing lanes.
  • Horse riders: animals can be startled by noise or sudden movement—follow their signals.

High-Alert Scenarios

  • Approaching zebra and parallel crossings—be ready to stop even if pedestrians have not stepped off yet.
  • Cyclists filtering on the left in traffic—check mirrors and blind spots before moving off or turning.
  • Residential streets—expect children to appear between parked cars, especially near schools.
  • Rural lanes—look for mud or horse droppings that indicate riders ahead.

Safe Communication

Use eye contact, gentle signals, and clear positioning to show your intentions. Avoid revving or using the horn unless warning of immediate danger.

Ready-for-Test Checklist

Tick each habit you can demonstrate consistently on lessons.

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Practice Tips

Tip

Crossing watch

Spend ten minutes observing a busy crossing. Notice how pedestrians communicate and how drivers show they’re yielding.

Theo’s Advice

Theo’s courtesy wave

If someone lets you pass, raise a hand to thank them. Courtesy builds goodwill and keeps stress low.

Tip

Ride or walk the route

Experience your usual driving route on foot or by bike. You’ll notice pinch points and visibility challenges to plan for when driving.

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