DVSA theory topic

Breakdowns and Incidents Rules theory test questions

Handling breakdowns, accidents, tunnels and level crossings calmly and legally. Practise 43 questions free, each with the correct answer and a plain-English explanation mapped to the Highway Code.

What you need to know

  • On a motorway breakdown, leave the vehicle and wait behind the safety barrier.
  • In a tunnel breakdown, switch off the engine, use hazard lights and call for help.
  • If your vehicle stalls on a level crossing, get everyone out and clear, then phone the signal operator.

Sample question

You are at the scene of an accident. What should you NOT do?

  • Ask other drivers to switch their engines off.
  • Use your hazard lights to warn other drivers that there is a problem.
  • Offer someone who is involved a cigarette to calm them down.
  • Call the emergency services.

Why

The question is about what you should NOT do. The answer to that is 'Offer someone who is involved a cigarette to calm them down.' In fact, you should never offer someone a cigarette (or have one yourself) at the scene of an accident because lighting it could cause an explosion if there has been a fuel leakage.

Common mistake

Staying in the car on a hard shoulder or level crossing — get out and to safety first.

Exam tip

For any breakdown question, prioritise 'get people to safety, then warn others'.

Practise another topic