Trucks
Avoiding accidents
You’ve just practiced recognising risks: those moments in traffic where something could go wrong.
Now it’s time to take it further. Avoiding accidents isn’t just about reacting quickly. It’s about making smart choices BEFORE things go wrong.
Think ahead: everyday safety scenarios
In this part of the learning you’ll explore everyday situations where small adjustments can prevent big consequences. You’ll be asked to reflect, observe, and think ahead – because the safest road users aren’t just aware, they’re proactive.
Let's look at a few common situations, go through them together, and learn how to sharpen your awareness before something goes wrong.
1. The green light trap
You’re cycling through the city and pull up next to a large truck at a red light. You’re waiting for the green light, assuming the truck will go straight ahead like you. But when the light turns green, you hesitate. Is the truck turning? Does the driver see you?
Which of these statements feels like the smartest choice in that moment?
Select an answer
I have a green light, so I’m safe to go.
I'll give the truck room and wait, in case the truck turns left.
Since I’m so close to the truck the driver can easily see me.
Not quite...
Having a green light doesn’t always mean it’s safe to cross. You can't be sure that the driver has seen you or knows that you’re there.
The smartest choice is to give the truck room and wait: it’s a proactive way to manage uncertainty. By waiting, you’re reducing the chance of a collision and giving yourself time to react if the truck does turn.
Before crossing the street, always check that the light is green. But don’t rely on a green light alone.
Look at the truck:
- Is it turning or stopping?
- Make sure that the driver has seen you.
Correct
This is the smartest choice. Giving the truck room and waiting is a proactive way to manage uncertainty. By waiting, you’re reducing the chance of a collision and giving yourself time to react if the truck does turn.
The driver may not be aware of your presence, even if you’re nearby. Before crossing the street, always check that the light is green. But don’t rely on a green light alone.
Look at the truck:
- Is it turning or stopping?
- Make sure that the driver has seen you.
Not quite...
Assuming the driver sees you just because you’re close to the truck can be misleading. You can’t be sure that the driver has seen you or knows that you’re there.
The smartest choice is to give the truck room and wait: it’s a proactive way to manage uncertainty. By waiting, you’re reducing the chance of a collision and giving yourself time to react if the truck does turn.
Before crossing the street, always check that the light is green. But don’t rely on a green light alone.
Look at the truck:
- Is it turning or stopping?
- Make sure that the driver has seen you.
