Theory course Class B - preparation for the theory test

This is a complete theory course for driving license class B. If you want to pass the theory test, you can read through this course and take free theory tests at teoriprove.com .

Requirements for practice driving

The requirements for those who will be doing the practice drive are:

• You must be 16 years old.
• You must have completed a basic traffic course, and bring proof of completion of the course. If you take a basic traffic course between March 16 and October 31, without dark driving, you can practice driving until October 31. To drive after that, you must take dark driving.
• You must bring identification.
• You should be fit when you practice driving.

Illegal practice driving is punishable by a driving ban . If you receive a driving ban, you cannot practice driving and cannot get a driver's license.

You are exempt from parts of the basic course if you are over 25 years of age or have another driver's license. However, you must take the dark driving and first aid sections before the start. You must bring your other driver's license, for example for a moped, when you practice driving.

Basic traffic course

The basic traffic course consists of 17 hours of mandatory training that will give you an introduction to the most important aspects of being a driver.

Suitability

Being fit means that you are alert, healthy and alert, and not under the influence of alcohol, other drugs or dangerous drugs.

The Road Traffic Act states that you must not drive or attempt to drive a vehicle when you are in such a condition that you are not considered fit to drive safely.

The companion

You must have a companion when you practice driving. Most people drive with their parents, or someone they know well. The companion is not allowed to charge you for practice driving. Other requirements for a companion are:

• Companions must be 25 years of age or older.
• The companion must have had a valid driving license for class B continuously for the last 5 years.
• Companions must be fit.

Who is responsible?

The accompanying person is considered the responsible driver of the car, and can therefore be punished. The person who is driving the practice car can also be punished.

The car

Most people practice driving in their family car. It is legal, as long as it has the required equipment:

• The car must be marked at the rear with a clearly visible red L on a white background. The mark must be removed when the car is not being used for practice driving.
• In order for the companion to have a good enough view to the rear, the car must be equipped with an extra mirror on the companion's side. You can buy a mirror with a suction cup, which the companion can attach to the top of the front window.

Where can you practice driving?

You can practice driving anywhere in the country, as long as you do not pose a danger or unnecessary inconvenience to other traffic.

Who can get a driver's license?

• Age requirements: You can take the theory test no earlier than 6 months before you turn 18 and the driving test when you have turned 18.
• Health requirements: When you apply for a class B driver's license, you must fill out a self-declaration about your health and take a vision test.
  
• Mandatory training: You must have completed all mandatory training before the run-in. If you drive up between March 16 and October 31, you do not need to have completed the dark driving before you drive up. However, you must take it before January 31 of the year following the run-in.
• You must apply for a driving license before taking the theory test. You can do this on the Norwegian Public Roads Administration's website.
• If you drive a car with an automatic transmission, you will receive a note on your driver's license showing that you are only entitled to drive a car with an automatic transmission, and not with a manual transmission.

Lock-in period

If you have been given a driving ban by the police, you cannot drive. A driving ban is a postponement of the time when you are allowed to get a driver's license. There are several offenses that can result in you being given a driving ban.

When people with a driver's license commit a traffic offense, the police can confiscate their driver's license. But if you don't have a driver's license, the police have to come up with another punishment - and then they often use a disqualification period. The disqualification period lasts at least as long as the driver's license confiscation would have, if you had had a driver's license.

Rules for lockout period:

• The blocking period lasts from the time you turn 18. So if you get a 6-month blocking period before you turn 18, it lasts until you are 18 years and 6 months old.
• You are not allowed to practice driving if you have been banned, unless you receive special permission from the police.

If you are under a suspension period, you cannot practice driving.

Probation

When you get a driver's license, you start with a two-year probationary period. When you are on probation, you do not have quite the same rights as those who have had their license for many years and are not on probation. Offenses and misdemeanors have greater consequences:

• If your driving license is revoked during your probationary period, you must take both the theory test and the driving test again to get your license back. You will then enter a new probationary period of 2 years.
• When you are on probation, you get twice as many points for traffic violations.

A speeding violation that gives 2 points will give 4 points during the probationary period.

Dot load

In Norway, we have a penalty system where certain violations result in a penalty.

• Anyone who receives eight points or more within a three-year period loses their driver's license for at least 6 months.
• Drivers with a probationary period for a class B driving license (2 years) shall be registered with double the number of points for each violation committed during the probationary period.

The theory test

On the theory test, you must prove that you have the knowledge you need to drive a car safely. 45 questions must be answered in 90 minutes. If you get more than 7 wrong answers, you fail and must wait at least 2 weeks before you can try again. To avoid failing, you should remember the following:

• Be well prepared - Make sure you have read through the syllabus so that you have control and test yourself beforehand so that you have some practice with this type of assignment.
• Read the task carefully - Make sure you understand what the task is asking for and that you understand the difference between the different answer options.
• Use your time well - Many people rush through and submit answers full of sloppy mistakes on tasks they actually knew the answer to.

The run-up

During the run-up, you will have to prove to the examiner during an hour of driving that you can drive a car in a sufficiently responsible and safe manner. Many people are nervous before and during the run-up. To be well prepared, the following is important:

• Quantity training - Practice really makes perfect. The sensor notices very well if you have many hours of experience from traffic.
• Thinking aloud - By explaining how you think and act, the examiner can form a more nuanced picture of your maturity as a driver.
• Practice your safety check - You won't necessarily fail just because you fail the safety check on the way in. But it helps your confidence if this is something you have complete control over.

Driving license classes

Driving license class B

With a class B driving license you have the international right to drive...

• vehicles with a maximum permissible total weight of 3500 kg and a maximum of 8 passengers
• car with a trailer of max. 750 kg. Under some conditions you can tow a heavier trailer – we will look at this in more detail later
• four-wheeled motorcycle
• moped

Passenger car and moped.

In Norway, a class B driving license gives you the right to drive...

Motor vehicles, such as tractors, with a maximum permissible total weight of 3500 kg. They may have trailers if the design speed of the vehicles is no more than 40 km/h.

Tracked vehicle with or without trailer sled, and trailer for four-wheeled motorcycle with a displacement of over 125 cm³, when the permitted total weight of the trailer is no more than 750 kg.

Permissible total weight

The permissible gross vehicle weight is the maximum weight your vehicle can carry. It is stated in the vehicle registration document.

Power tools

Mobile machines/self-propelled work equipment, which have wheels and/or tracks when the machine or equipment is separate from other motor vehicles for the transport of goods or people, or tractors.

Other driver's license classes

The curriculum also requires that you have knowledge of what the different driver's license classes allow you to drive.

Motorcycle is a driving license class A.

• Class A, A1 and A2 – motorcycle
• Class AM – moped
• Class C – truck
• Class C1 – light truck
• Class D – bus
• Class D1 – minibus
• Class E – trailer, where for example CE is a truck with a trailer
• Class S – snowmobile
• Class T – tractor

Technical information about the car

It is your responsibility to ensure that the car you drive does not pose a danger to yourself or other road users. Therefore, you need to know a little about how the car is put together, what safety systems are in the car and how you can check that the car is safe to drive. We will look at that now.

We will also look at the rules for driving with a trailer.

In Chapter 2 we will go through

• 2.1 Proper and compliant condition
• 2.2 Brakes
• 2.3 Management
• 2.4 Tires and wheels
• 2.5 Light and visibility
• 2.6 Engine and battery
• 2.7 Security
• 2.8 Car selection
• 2.9 Driver support systems
• 2.10 Trailer, weight and load
• 2.11 Summary

2. Technical information about the car

Safe and proper condition

You are responsible for ensuring that the car is in proper condition and in compliance with regulations. This is stated in the Road Traffic Act.

The car must always be in proper condition.

Regulatory condition

A car that is in proper condition means that it meets all technical requirements set by various rules and regulations. The ones you are expected to check yourself are reviewed in more detail in this chapter.

Decent condition

In practice, a car that is in good condition means that it is safe for the driver, passengers and other road users. If the car is not in good condition, it cannot be used, and you must stop driving as soon as possible.

Example!

You drive to the shop in the middle of the day and discover that one of the headlights has stopped working. This means that the car is no longer in proper working order.

But since it's light outside, it's still safe to drive – it's still in good condition.

Then it becomes evening, and it is dark outside. Now it is no longer safe to drive the car. It is no longer in proper condition, and you have to leave it.

The next day, when it is light, it is safe again. You should drive to have the light repaired now that it is daylight and visibility is good.

Security check

There are many different safety checks you can perform to check the individual parts of the car – these are reviewed in more detail later in the chapter.

In general, you should always investigate further or contact a workshop if your car's handling changes, or you hear noises while driving. Often, such noises can be a warning that a part needs to be replaced or repaired.

There are many things you can check yourself.

Gauges and warning lights

On the car's dashboard you will find a number of instruments that indicate, among other things, speed, rpm, engine temperature and fuel level - information that is relevant to your driving.

You will also find a number of warning lights that come on when errors occur in various systems. It is important to know what the different lights indicate and what to do when one of them lights up when starting or while driving.

The lights vary somewhat in design and color from car to car - familiarize yourself with what the lights for your car indicate by reading the car's instruction manual.

You need to know what the different lights on the dashboard mean. Here is a small selection.

All warning lights are on!

If the warning lights are working properly, they will all light up when you start the engine and turn off automatically after a few seconds.

RPM

RPM tells you how many revolutions the engine makes in one minute.

The warning lights

2. Technical information about the car

Foot brake and parking brake

All cars are equipped with a foot brake and parking brake.

Foot brake

The foot brake is operated with a brake pedal and must meet several requirements:

• The brakes should work fully with one application.
• The further the brakes are depressed, the stronger the braking effect should be. Full effect should be achieved before the pedal is depressed 2/3 of the way down.
• The pedal must be able to withstand a pressure of at least 100 kp.

You can check that the brake can withstand the pressure it is supposed to withstand. While the car is stationary, press the brake pedal as far as it will go for five seconds. Only press the brake pedal, not the clutch or accelerator. If the brake suddenly gives way and sinks all the way in, it cannot withstand the pressure. The car may be leaking brake fluid.

Parking brake

The parking brake is operated with a handbrake, or with a switch that is located between the front seats on most cars. The parking brake is designed to keep the car from rolling when it is parked. You must turn it on when you park and off when you start. Some new cars have an automatic parking brake that turns on and off by itself.

Brakes are important!

It is of course very important that the car can brake.

It is never safe to drive if your brakes are not working properly – so if a brake circuit stops working, or if there is a fault with the brake booster, you must stop driving as soon as possible.

The parking brake is intended to ensure that the car does not roll away when you have parked the car.

kp

Kilopond is a term from physics. A pressure of 1 kilopond (kp) is in practice the same as the pressure from a 1 kg weight.

Clutch

A clutch is a mechanical device that allows one rotating part to be disengaged from another. Such clutches are found in the drivetrain of cars, where they are located between the engine and the gearbox. Most car clutches are operated with a pedal.

The braking system

Brake circuits

The brakes at the wheels are activated by the brake pedal. The connection between the brakes and the pedal is called the brake circuit.

All cars have at least two brake circuits that are independent of each other. This means that the car still has brakes even if one of the circuits is damaged.

Brake booster

The brake booster increases the force you apply to the brake pedal, giving the brakes at the wheels extra power to brake. If the brake booster is not working, the brakes will not get the extra power, and you will have to press the brake much harder to get enough braking effect. You will notice that the brake booster is damaged by the pedal becoming very hard to press.

You can check that the brake booster is working by turning off the engine and depressing the brake pedal 5–6 times. Feel the pedal become completely hard. Then hold the pedal down while starting the engine. The pedal should then spring inwards.

To check that the brake booster is working, pump the brake pedal 5-6 times until it feels hard.

Brake fluid

Brake fluid is important for the pedal to activate the brakes. Without brake fluid, the brakes will not work.

You can check if you have enough brake fluid by doing a pressure test, where you press the foot brake pedal in as far as it will go. The pedal should not give way. If it does, and suddenly sinks in quickly, it cannot withstand the pressure it is supposed to – and this may mean that you have too little brake fluid.

You can also check the brake fluid level by checking the brake fluid reservoir in the engine compartment. The level in the reservoir should be between MIN and MAX.

The car does not use up brake fluid, so if the brake fluid is low, there may be something wrong with the car, such as worn brake pads or a leak in the circuit. The car should be taken to a workshop.

Brake fluid reservoir.

Distribution of braking force and bias pull

The brakes should apply more force to the front wheels than the rear wheels. Wheels on the same axle, i.e. both front wheels or both rear wheels, should have approximately the same braking force, to prevent the car from "pulling" to one side during heavy braking.

You can check if the brakes are pulling unevenly by driving straight ahead at about 30 km/h, then braking firmly while letting the steering wheel turn by itself, without holding it back. The car should then stay on a straight course. Abrasion is usually caused by the brakes not wearing evenly on both sides. The problem can be fixed at a workshop.

Let the steering wheel turn by itself, and see what happens.

Skewness

Pulling is when the car pulls to one side when you brake. Pulling is usually caused by the brakes not wearing evenly on both sides. The problem can be fixed at a workshop.

Anti-lock braking system (ABS)

All cars are now equipped with anti-lock brakes. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) prevents the wheels from locking during heavy braking and gives the driver the ability to steer while braking for full effect. However, please note that the braking distance is not affected by whether the car is equipped with ABS brakes.

It is safe to continue driving even if an ABS fault occurs, but the car is no longer in proper condition.

Brake warning lights

Brake failure

This light indicates a fault with the car's braking system and you should stop the car immediately to check the car's brakes. On some cars, the light may also indicate that the car's handbrake is on. If the light continues to illuminate after you have released the handbrake, this indicates a fault in the brake system.

The reasons why the lamp comes on while driving may be that the dual-circuit system is not working properly, that there is too little brake fluid, that the handbrake is defective, that the control unit is defective or another technical fault.

Brake failure warning light.

ABS

If this light is on, it indicates a fault in the ABS system. The brakes still work, but you no longer have any guarantee that the wheels will not lock up during heavy braking.

ABS warning light.

Control unit

The control unit reads parameters from sensors in the engine and controls injection, ignition, etc. The newer the car, the greater the responsibility the control units usually have, and multiple control units for different components such as ABS, ESP, and the like are becoming more and more common.

2. Technical information about the car

The steering

In order for the car to be road safe, the steering system must meet the following requirements:

The car should be easy to control

All modern cars have power steering. Power steering amplifies the force you apply to the steering wheel when you turn it, making it easier to turn the wheels. If the power steering stops working, it will be much harder to steer the car, but it will still be in good condition.

To check the power steering, the engine must be off. Turn the steering wheel until you feel resistance, then start the engine. When you start the engine, the steering wheel should become easier to turn.

The car must be directionally stable

The car should be directional stable. This means that it drives in the direction you steer it, without pulling to one side or the other. If the car pulls to one side when you are driving straight ahead, you may have uneven tire pressure or a faulty front end alignment. A faulty front end alignment can also cause the steering wheel to shake when you are driving fast.

You can check that the car is directional stable by driving straight ahead at low speed with a “light” grip on the steering wheel. If the car is directional stable, it should go straight ahead.

The car should be self-righting

Self-righting means that the car will straighten itself out if you let go of the steering wheel when driving in a curve. You can check this by practical testing, at low speed and in a safe place. Drive forward and turn the steering wheel so that the car turns. Hold the turn for a while and let go of the steering wheel while you are still driving. The steering wheel should automatically turn back and straighten the car.

There should not be too much play in the steering wheel.

Free play is how many cm you can turn the steering wheel before the wheels react. Too much free play makes the steering inaccurate, and no more than 3 cm of free play is allowed. This means that the wheels should start turning no later than when you have turned the steering wheel 3 cm to one side.

Decent condition

If a vehicle is to be used, it must be in a safe condition. Safe condition means that the vehicle is safe to drive. For example, if you have a serious brake failure or the brake lights are not working, the vehicle is not in a safe condition.

The vehicle may be in good condition even if it is not in proper condition. For example, you can drive a car with a broken headlight during the day and in good light, even if such a car is not in proper condition. But – fix the headlight as soon as you can.

Air pressure

Tire pressure affects traction. Too much air means the tires have less contact with the ground, and thus less grip. Too little air gives a larger contact surface, but it also increases rolling resistance, and thus fuel consumption.

Correct air pressure ensures that the tires function as they should, with a contact patch that provides good grip and environmentally friendly driving.

Performance

The front suspension means the front wheels of the car, including the axle, suspension, steering mechanism, brakes, suspension, etc.

Steering warning lights

Electronic stability control

Electronic Stability Control, or ESP, helps you steer precisely and maintain traction. ESP has its own warning light.

A flashing ESP light means that the car is struggling with traction and that the ESP system is trying to help. If the warning light is constantly on, there is a fault with the ESP. It could also mean that it has been switched off.

ESP warning light.

2. Technical information about the car

deck

For your car to have good traction, it must have tires that are suitable for the road surface. It is your responsibility to ensure this.

It may be a good idea to switch to winter tires in the fall and summer tires in the spring, as most people do. However, you also need to make your own judgments based on where you will be driving. If you are going to drive over a plain with winter conditions, you must have winter tires – even if it is the middle of July.

You must decide for yourself when to change to winter tires and summer tires, and whether to have studded or non-studded winter tires. If you often drive in difficult terrain, for example at the cottage, you should also consider having chains in your car.

Wear and tear and damage

You are also responsible for ensuring that your tires and rims are in good condition. Damage can be dangerous.

Look for tears, bubbles or blisters on the side of the tire, and for dents in the rim. You can also see if the tires have even wear on the contact patch with the ground. If they have more wear on the sides or in the middle, they may have the wrong air pressure. If they are worn on one side, the front end may be out of alignment.

It is not safe to continue driving with such damage to the tire.

Performance

The front suspension means the front wheels of the car, including the axle, suspension, steering mechanism, brakes, suspension, etc.

Tire dimensions

By tire "dimensions" we mean the size of the tire. The tire dimensions and load capacity your car must have are stated in the vehicle registration document. The load capacity is called min. Li, which stands for minimum load index.

You can check that the tire is correct for the car by checking the stated dimensions and load capacity of the tire against what is stated in the car's registration document.

What does this tire marking mean?

What do the different numbers mean?

Look at the picture of the tire marking. The first part, 225/50 R 17, indicates the tire dimensions.

• 225 – tire width in millimeters at correct air pressure
• 50 – the height of the tire as a percentage of the tire width
• R – radial (alternative is D for diagonal)
• 17 – tire rim diameter in inches
• M+S – stands for Mud and Snow and means the tire is intended for winter driving

The last part, 98 R, indicates the tire's load and speed class.

Air pressure

Tire pressure affects grip. Too much air means the tires have less contact with the ground, and thus less grip. Too little air gives a larger contact surface, but it also increases rolling resistance, and thus fuel consumption.

Correct air pressure ensures that the tires function as they should, with a contact patch that provides good grip and environmentally friendly driving.

How do you check if the tires have the correct air pressure?

The correct tire pressure for your car can be found in a chart on the fuel filler cap, or on a sticker on the door frame. For some cars, you can also find information about this in the car's instruction manual.

Newer cars have automatic tire pressure monitoring that warns of incorrect air pressure.

Tire wear pattern

The part of the tire that rolls on the ground is called the tire tread. It receives wear directly from the surface. What this wear looks like, i.e. the wear pattern, can tell you something about the air pressure in the tire.

Pattern depth

All regular car tires have a tread pattern. The tread pattern is there to ensure traction: if there is water, snow or mud on the road, it settles inside the tread pattern, instead of getting stuck between the tire and the ground. This gives the tire good contact with the ground, and thus good traction.

Tread depth is how deep this pattern is, indicated in millimeters. There are requirements for tread depth:

• Winter tires must have at least 3 mm of tread depth. During the winter period, you must have tires with at least 3 mm of tread.
• Summer tires must have at least 1.6 mm of tread depth. You can use summer tires in the winter, if there is weather. However, they must still have 3 mm of tread depth.

Winter period

During the winter period, a minimum tread depth of 3 mm is required, and it is permitted to use studded tires.

The winter period is:

• Northern Norway: Oct. 16 – April 30
• Rest of Norway: Nov. 1 – Monday after Easter Monday

Studded tires

Studded tires provide much better grip on slippery roads. However, since the studs wear down the road surface and create particulate matter that pollutes the environment, they are only allowed during the winter. In some cities, you have to pay a fee to use studded tires.

If the weather requires it, you can use studded tires during the summer period. But then you must be able to argue that the weather makes it absolutely necessary.

Studded tires!

If you use studded tires, you must have studded tires on all wheels.

Summer period

During the summer period, a minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm is required. Studded tires are not permitted unless the road conditions require it.

The summer period is:

• Northern Norway: May 1 – Oct. 14.
• The rest of Norway: the Monday after Easter Monday – Oct. 31.

2. Technical information about the car

Light

In this film we look at which lights all cars should be equipped with, as well as some optional ones.

Front

Daytime running lights and low beam

In Norway, it is mandatory to use daytime running lights, even during the day. Daytime running lights are yellow or white lights at the front that are designed to make you more visible to other road users. Some cars are equipped with their own daytime running lights, and some cars use the dipped headlights as daytime running lights.

The car's dipped beam should shine white or yellow, at least 40 meters ahead. The right dipped beam should shine a little longer than the left. The height of the lights is also important: if the light is too high, it dazzles oncoming traffic. If it is too low, it hits the ground instead of shining 40 meters, as it should.

You can check that the low beam is working and at the correct height by driving up to a wall, for example in a parking garage. The light should then shine straight ahead on the wall.

Many cars use the dipped headlights as daytime running lights.

High beam

The car's high beams should shine white or yellow, at least 100 meters in front of the car. High beams are often used when driving on roads without street lights.

The high beams are very bright and dazzle oncoming cars. You must turn them off well in advance every time you encounter a car.

Cornering and fog lights

The cornering and fog lights at the front of the car should be white or yellow, and the rear lights should be red. Fog lights are smart when visibility is poor, and you can use them as daytime running lights. However, if the weather is clear, they can dazzle other road users.

It is not permitted to use fog lights and dipped beam at the same time.

You can check the fog lights by visual inspection, i.e. by turning them on and seeing if they work.

Cornering and fog lights.

Directional lights and emergency lights

Directional light

Directional lights are often called turn signals. The car should have an orange direction indicator on each corner.

Emergency signal light

Your car's hazard warning lights are when all four turn signals flash at the same time. Hazard warning lights should be used to make you extra visible during an emergency stop, or to highlight your car in situations where you need attention – for example, if you are driving into a sudden traffic jam and want to warn the car behind.

If you use your hazard warning lights in connection with an emergency stop, you must also use your parking lights. This will allow you to be seen without dazzling others.

Check the emergency signal lights and direction indicators by visual inspection.

Some cars also have turn signals integrated into the side mirrors.

Emergency stop

An emergency stop is when you have to stop due to technical problems in your car. It could be an error message from a red warning light that tells you to stop, or it could simply be that the car won't drive anymore.

Taillights and brake lights

Taillight

The car's taillights should be red.

It is not mandatory to have taillights on when it is light, but most cars have them on all the time. Newer cars have taillights that turn on when it gets dark.

The taillights are checked by visual inspection.

Brake light

The car's brake lights should also be red.

The brake lights turn on when you apply the brakes, so that cars behind you can see that you are slowing down.

It is not safe to drive without working brake lights. To check them, you can ask a helper to look at the lights at the back when you apply the brakes.

Parking lights and license plate lights

Parking lights

The car's parking lights should be white. They come on automatically when you turn on the car, and are always on when the low beams, high beams, tail lights, license plate lights or fog lights are on.

Parking lights make you visible when you are parked in the dark, without dazzling other road users.

Check the parking lights by visual inspection.

Sign light

The car's license plate lights must be white and must automatically illuminate the car's license plates when the engine is running.

Sign lights are checked by visual inspection.

In the vehicle regulations, the registration plate is called the license plate and the license plate light is called the license plate light.

Backlight

Reverse lights are white or yellow lights at the back of the car that are designed to make it easier to see when you are reversing. New cars have reverse lights, but they are not mandatory.

Warning lights

High beam

This light indicates that the main beam is on.

High beam warning light.

Driving lights

The green light indicates that the daytime running lights are on.

The green warning light is for daytime running lights.

2. Technical information about the car

Sight

You should always have good visibility to all sides. Stickers on the windows or decorations on the dashboard reduce your visibility and can hide an entire pedestrian. You should also remove ice, snow and fog when they obstruct your view.

Windshield wipers

Windshield wipers wash dust and dirt from the windows, and they provide better visibility when it rains. Windshield wipers are important for visibility, and if there is a lot of rain or particulate matter, it is simply not safe to drive without them.

The windshield wipers have several speeds. You can check that they are working by turning them on and seeing that they work as they should.

You also need to check that the wiper itself is in good condition. Then, flip the wiper up and see that there are no loose parts or nicks or tears in the rubber. Finally, you need to see that the rubber strip is tight against the windshield. Bad wipers can create streaks of dirt across the windshield – and then they can actually make visibility worse.

Window washers

If there is dust or mud on the windshield, the wipers alone will not do the trick – you need windshield washer fluid.

Most cars will warn you when they are running low on windshield washer fluid, but you can also check to see if you have any left by trying to flush a little. If it is empty, nothing will come out. You can see how much windshield washer fluid you have in the tank under the hood.

You buy windshield washer fluid at the gas station and fill it up yourself.

Windshield washer fluid containers usually have a blue lid.

Ice and dew

Go over the outside of the car windows with an ice scraper, and brush off as much snow as possible before you start driving. Ice and fog on the inside must also be removed. Remember that you are not allowed to let the car idle to do this. If you have heating wires on the rear window and side mirrors, turn them on as well.

All windows must be scraped free of ice.

2. Technical information about the car

Engine

The engine produces the power that makes the car move forward. The engine uses fuel or electricity.

Faults and damage that occur in the engine can be very expensive to repair, so it's smart to keep an eye on the warning lights in your car. They warn of faults or things that need to be done.

Engine oil

Engine oil lubricates the engine, and driving without oil can completely destroy the engine.

All cars have a warning light that warns of low oil levels, and in new cars you can monitor the level constantly. Despite this, it can be smart to check the level yourself.

The engine oil level is checked with the dipstick in the oil tank. It is accessible from under the hood, and usually has a plastic ring that you can pull on. Pull the dipstick out, wipe the oil off with a paper towel, and put the dipstick back in. Pull it out again and check that the oil level is between the MIN and MAX marks on the dipstick.

It might be smart to check the oil level at regular intervals.

Oil dipstick

An oil dipstick is a stick that sticks into the oil tank. You can pull it out of the tank and see how high the oil level is. The stick is marked with MIN and MAX, and the oil level should be between these marks.

Battery

The car battery supplies power to everything in the car that is powered by electricity, such as lights, electric windows, heating, air conditioning and windshield wipers. The car also needs a battery to start.

The car's battery is rechargeable and gets power from the alternator, which creates electricity when the engine is running. Therefore, it rarely runs out of power.

If you use a lot of power in your car without driving, for example if you leave the car with the lights on, the battery can die. Then you don't have power to start the car – and you have to use jump leads. Jump leads allow you to borrow power from the battery of another car to start your own car. You must be very careful when using jump leads, and read the instructions carefully.

Some new cars can neither give nor receive jump start assistance.

Battery on the left and fuses on the right.

Dynamo

The power sources for the car's electrical system are the battery and the alternator.

The alternator supplies power as long as the engine is running. The battery supplies power when the engine is not running, and its most important task is to start the engine.

The alternator is driven by a drive belt from the engine shaft.

Jumper cables

Sometimes you run out of power and need a jump start from a neighbor or passerby who has jump leads in their car. But it's important to do things in the right order. Here are some important tips if you need a jump start:

1 - Turn off the ignition on both cars

2 - Connect the red cable first to the positive terminal of the donor battery - and then to the positive terminal of the car.

3 - Connect the black cable to the negative terminal of the donor battery - and then to the car's engine block - as far away from the battery as possible.

4 - Start the car with the fresh battery.

5 - Start the car with the flat battery.

6 - Finish by loosening the clamp that is on the engine block, and then the rest in reverse order:

Never use the negative terminal of the receiving vehicle as a contact point. This is very important because the discharged battery can produce explosive gas and sparks can occur when the circuit is closed. These sparks can ignite the explosive gas and cause serious injury.

Engine and battery warning lights

Engine temperature

The engine contains coolant that is supposed to prevent the engine from overheating. If it does, it can suffer major damage that is expensive to repair.

The temperature of the engine is displayed on a small gauge on the dashboard, and if the engine gets too hot, the engine temperature warning light will turn red. You must stop the car immediately.

Engine temperature gauge and warning light.

If the engine is overheating, the coolant level may be too low. You can check the coolant level by looking at the reservoir under the hood.

You can top up the coolant yourself, but never open the coolant reservoir while the engine is hot. Due to the pressure, boiling steam and coolant may spray out of the reservoir.

When filling, you should check that the coolant is not leaking anywhere. If there is nothing wrong with the coolant level, but the engine has still become hot, you must call a workshop.

Coolant reservoir.

Oil pressure

If the oil pressure warning light comes on, you must stop as soon as possible, turn off the engine and check the oil. If the oil level is low, you can usually just top up the oil and continue driving. However, if the level is not low, the car must be serviced. You should not continue driving.

Oil pressure lamp.

Charging

This light comes on when there is not enough power being generated for the battery. If the battery runs out, you will not be able to start the car again.

Battery warning light.

Engine failure

This light comes on when there is a general fault with the engine. The light is orange, which means you can continue driving. You should still get to a workshop at the first opportunity to have the fault checked.

Engine fault warning light.

Coolant

Coolant, also known as antifreeze, is used to prevent overheating due to the high temperatures associated with internal combustion engines. It also ensures that the engine's cooling system does not freeze in freezing temperatures.

Engine temperature

The correct engine temperature should normally be between 80 and 92 degrees on most cars. This is the best temperature for optimal fuel combustion. Both too low and too high temperatures can be harmful to the engine.

Oil pressure

Oil pressure is related to the amount of oil in the engine system. Too low oil pressure can cause the engine to seize up in just a short time.

2. Technical information about the car

Active and passive safety

When we talk about car safety, we tend to divide it into two different forms of safety.

Active safety

By active safety we mean equipment or structures in the car that are designed to help you act correctly and prevent accidents. ABS brakes and anti-skid are examples of active safety systems.

Passive safety

By passive safety we mean equipment or structures in the car that are intended to protect the driver, passengers and other road users in the event of an accident. Airbags and seat belts are examples of passive safety devices.

Airbags are one of the car's passive safety devices.

ESP

ESP stands for Electronic Stability Control, and many people call it anti-skid. It is a system that helps the driver maintain control of the vehicle.

The system monitors the wheels, steering and brakes, helping the car maintain traction in difficult situations.

The name of anti-skid varies between brands, and other names are ESC, VSC and DCS.

Airbag

Also known as an airbag. An airbag is a safety device for cars that is intended to supplement seat belts. The device consists of a sensor and a cushion that is filled with air or another gas when the sensor detects a collision.

Safety equipment

Mandatory safety equipment!

It is mandatory to have at least one reflective vest and warning triangle in the car.

Reflective vest

The reflective vest should be easily accessible from the driver's seat and can, for example, be located under the seat, in the glove compartment or in the side door.

In the event of an emergency stop, you should put on your reflective vest before getting out of the car. This also applies to passengers, so it may be a good idea to have more than one reflective vest available.

The reflective vest must be CE approved.

The reflective vest should be easily accessible.

Warning triangle

When you have to use the warning triangle, do this:

• Find the warning triangle and mount it in a safe place. Remember to put on your reflective vest before getting out of the car.
• Walk with the reflective side of the warning triangle facing away from you so that oncoming traffic can see you.
• Place the warning triangle so that it is clearly visible to other road users. In built-up areas, you must consider the conditions to determine how far behind the warning triangle to place it. Outside built-up areas, the warning triangle should be placed somewhere between 150 and 250 meters behind the car.
• If your car poses a greater danger to oncoming traffic, you may want to consider placing the warning triangle in front of the car instead.

Seat belts

It is mandatory to wear a seat belt in a car, where one is available. Both the driver and passengers can be fined for not wearing a seat belt.

For the belt to work properly, it must be in good condition, without damage. You must check this. You must also check that the belt tensioner is working properly.

The belt should be free of tears and wear.

Airbag

Airbags are standard on all newer cars.

The airbag light should come on for a few seconds when you start the engine, then go out. If the light does not go out, or if the light comes on while driving, there may be a fault with the airbags. In that case, they may not deploy in the event of a collision.

If the car has an airbag, it is prohibited to have a rear-facing child seat in the front seat, unless the airbag can be deactivated. Child seats, children and short people who are under 140 cm tall should sit in the back.

The airbag light illuminates if a fault occurs with the airbags.

CE approved

The CE mark can be found on a wide range of products, from toys to machinery, medical equipment and construction materials. CE approved means that the product is considered to meet the requirements of the authorities as set out in a directive or regulation.

Densely built-up area

A densely populated area is an inhabited area where there are not large distances between houses. It is the speed limit sign authority that initially determines what is considered a densely populated area within the meaning of the Road Traffic Act.

2. Technical information about the car

What kind of car should you choose?

Maybe you're thinking of buying a car? Most cars are pretty similar in terms of design and functionality. However, there are some things you should consider before you buy one.

• Electric car or fossil fuel car - What is more profitable for you, financially and in terms of the environment?
• Automatic or manual transmission - If you choose a fossil-fuel car, you must also consider whether you want to drive with an automatic transmission or a manual transmission.
• Own or rent - Do you actually need a car in everyday life, or can you get by with a loan or rental from time to time? And if you are going to have a car permanently, is leasing or buying a car best?

Fossil car

By fossil fuel car we mean a car that uses gasoline or diesel as fuel. Although more electric cars are sold today than fossil cars, fossil cars will still make up the majority of the car fleet in Norway in 2021.

Advantages of a fossil-fuel car

• It usually has a much longer range than electric cars.
• Easy access to fuel and good gas station coverage throughout the country.
• Larger selection of older, affordable used cars.

Disadvantages of fossil fuel cars

• Pollutes more than electric cars.
• The price of fuel is increasing.
• You miss out on some of the tax exemptions that electric car owners enjoy.
• It can be difficult to sell the car.

Hybrid car

A hybrid car has the combustion engine of a fossil-fuel car, but with an additional electric motor that contributes to the propulsion in various situations. The electric motor is partly charged by energy from engine braking, which is converted into electricity.

Electric car

In Norway, the electric car has long since taken over as the most common type of car when buying a new car. In September 2021, 9 out of 10 new cars sold were electric cars. However, if you look at the total car fleet, it will still be many years before electric cars are the majority on Norwegian roads.

Advantages of electric cars

• Cheap to operate.
• Exemption from some fees.
• Discounts on parking, ferries and toll passes.
• Can be charged at home.
• Less complicated engine - easier maintenance.

Disadvantages of electric cars

• Currently not as environmentally friendly as many people think.
• Varying access to charging stations.
• Partly short range.
• Electric cars are heavy because of the battery.

Range anxiety

The range of your electric car can be significantly reduced in cold winter weather. Familiarize yourself with your car's consumption and plan charging well in advance of when you need it.

2. Technical information about the car

Manual and automatic transmission

In 2010, 2 out of 3 new cars had a manual transmission. Today, over 97% of all cars are equipped with automatic transmissions. Electric cars don't actually have a transmission, but they are still referred to as cars with automatic transmissions.

Disadvantages of manual transmission

It takes longer to learn to drive with a manual transmission. Not least, you need to practice the interaction between the clutch pedal, accelerator pedal and gear lever, and practice driving smoothly and in control.

The use of manual transmission must be automated so that you can pay enough attention to the traffic around you. City driving can be particularly tiring, with frequent gear changes and heavy use of the clutch pedal.

Run-up

If you complete the run-in in a car with an automatic transmission, you are not allowed to drive a car with a manual transmission. To do so, you must complete an extended run-in in a car with a manual transmission at a later date.

If you complete the run-in with a manual transmission, you will also be allowed to drive cars with automatic transmissions.

The car in 2023

2. Technical information about the car

Driver assistance systems

New technology

Technology such as ABS brakes, electronic stability control and anti-spin are now standard on most modern cars. New systems are constantly being developed that will increasingly take over driving for the driver. The goal is self-driving cars.

But can we rely solely on this technology, or will new issues arise?

Examples of new driver support systems

• Adaptive Cruise Control - Using radar/laser technology, the car can measure the distance to the vehicle in front and adjust its speed accordingly. The system is also known as adaptive cruise control.
• Lane Keeping Assist - This system detects lane markings using a digital camera and keeps the car in the correct lane using small steering wheel movements. The system takes over the steering so you don't have to steer.
• Parking assist - Cameras in the car measure whether it is possible to park the car in a hatch or in a parking space. The car then does the work itself with steering wheel turns, gas and brakes. On some cars, you can get out of the car and let the car do all the work itself.

Rear view camera.

Limitations of driver assistance systems

Who is the boss?

On the road to the future of self-driving cars, a number of problems have emerged that we had not initially imagined. Will we ever be able to let the car control its own driving 100%? How does the car know what is the best solution in all situations?

The more advanced the technology becomes in today's cars, the more we need to think about its use. Here are some issues that are already relevant:

New challenges:

• Snowy weather and road markings - How can the car use lane keeping if there are no clear road markings to read? When lane keeping is activated, the driver today must follow just as closely as if he were driving himself.
• Speed ​​limit - The car reads a speed limit sign of 80 km/h and sets the speed. But is the road or visibility good enough to follow the signs?
• Who's in control - What happens if the car reads an evasive maneuver you make as a mistake and tries to correct it. Against your will?

What happens if one of the pedestrians suddenly runs a red light? Does your car stop by itself?

2. Technical information about the car

Car and trailer

With a class B driver's license you are allowed to tow a trailer or caravan. Now we will look at the rules for weight.

Trailer

A trailer is a vehicle that is attached to a vehicle. The trailer is designed to provide the vehicle with additional load capacity.

Driving license class B: what can you pull?

With a class B driving license you can drive a car with a permissible total weight of up to 3,500 kg. And as the film showed, you can also...

• towing a trailer with a permitted total weight of up to 750 kg. The permitted total weight for the car and trailer is then 4250 kg.
• tow a trailer with a permitted total weight of over 750 kg, as long as the permitted total weight for the car and trailer does not exceed 3,500 kg in total.

Even heavier trailer!

If you want to tow a trailer with a higher total weight, you can extend your driver's license to a class B driver's license code 96, or class BE.

Check the vehicle registration document

Car and trailer restrictions

The permitted total weight for the vehicle combination, i.e. car and trailer combined, is 4250 kg if the trailer is 750 kg or less, and 3500 kg if the trailer is over 750 kg.

Permitted vehicle combination weight and permitted trailer weight

The limit of 4250 kg or 3500 kg for a truck is determined by the Norwegian Public Roads Administration. But the car also has restrictions on the truck weight. It is stated in the vehicle registration document, as the permitted truck weight.

The car also has restrictions on the weight of the trailer, depending on whether it has brakes or not. They are stated in the vehicle registration as permitted trailer weight with brakes and permitted trailer weight without brakes.

Current weight!

Current weight is what your car weighs when you drive it on a scale. Driver, cargo, passengers and other things. You should make sure that your current weight never exceeds the permitted weight.

The current weight is not listed on the vehicle registration certificate. Your vehicle registration certificate cannot know how much your car weighs at any given time.

Carriage card

A vehicle registration card is a document that contains information about a vehicle and its owner.

Part 2 mainly contains information related to the identity of the vehicle and the owner. In addition, this part contains a notification of change of ownership (sales notification). This part should be kept in a secure place separate from the vehicle.

Part 1 contains the same information as Part 2, but also has some technical information about the vehicle. This part must be in the vehicle while driving.

How to stay within the permitted total weight?

You must ensure that the weight of the car, trailer, driver, cargo and passengers does not exceed the permitted total weight. This means you must be careful not to overload.

Self-weight

Part of the permitted total weight goes to the weight of the vehicles. What's left can be used for cargo and passengers.

To find out how much is left, subtract the vehicle weight from the permissible total weight. The vehicle's weight is stated in the vehicle registration document and is called the kerb weight.

For the car, you use the number that stands for the curb weight with driver and for the trailer, you use the number that stands for the curb weight.

Coupling load

The coupling load is the weight that the trailer presses down on the towbar. In both vehicle registrations you will find a limitation on how large it can be. The lowest value applies!

Self-weight

The kerb weight of a vehicle is what the vehicle weighs. It is stated in the vehicle registration document.

How do I know what the car weighs?

It is rare to have the opportunity to weigh the car, so you are not expected to know the car's current weight.

But you should know that there are weight restrictions for both cars and trailers. And you need to take this into account when transporting – for example, when you are at IKEA, when you are going to the recycling station or when you are transporting large items such as boats, motorcycles and other heavy equipment.

So, the most important thing is that you are aware of the weight restrictions and use common sense when transporting. You should also know what the permitted total weight and current total weight are, and you should know that you can find information about weights in the vehicle registration document.

Trailer requirements

In addition to restrictions related to weight, there are also some technical requirements for the trailer itself.

Trailer requirements

• The trailer must be equipped with at least two red, triangular reflectors at the rear.
• All lights on the trailer must function properly.

Speed!

There is one more thing you have to think about when towing a trailer – namely speed.

When towing a trailer, you cannot drive faster than 80 km/h, even if the speed limit is higher. If you get a Tempo 100 approval for your trailer or caravan, you can drive up to 100 km/h.

2. Technical information about the car

Securing goods

As a driver, you are responsible for ensuring that goods/load are secured and positioned so that they do not impede safe driving.

• Goods must be secured so that they do not cause damage or danger, drag on the road, fall off the vehicle or generate unnecessary noise. The same applies to chains, ropes, tarpaulins or other fastening means.
• Goods must be placed so that you have sufficient visibility and are not prevented from maneuvering safely.
• Neither the mandatory lights nor the license plate must be covered.
• Goods must not extend more than 15 cm beyond the sides of the vehicle.
• Goods must not protrude more than 1 meter in front of the vehicle.
• During transport, goods on trailers must be secured so that no part of the goods can shift or fall off.

Loose objects

An unluckily placed soda can can become a deadly projectile if you have to make an emergency brake at high speed. Studies conducted by NAF show, among other things, that a thermos can increase in weight from 1.5 kg to 45 kg in a collision at 50 km/h! Therefore, take great care to secure all loose objects properly.

Hallmark

Also known as license plate, license plate or registration number.

Loose objects

In this film we look at why it is so important to secure loose items in the car.

Marking of protruding loads

All goods that protrude from the front of the vehicle must be marked. Goods that protrude more than 1 meter from the rear of the vehicle must also be marked. This is stated in the regulations on the use of vehicles. The marking must be attached to the outer edge of the load, so that it is easy to see that it protrudes outside the vehicle.

The marking shall:

• have alternating red and white colors, where the red material must be light-reflective
• have a visible area of ​​at least 250 cm² from all sides
• be positioned so that it is clearly visible
• be visible in the driving conditions in which it will be driven. If visibility is particularly poor, due to fog or darkness, the load must be marked with lights.

Random transport

If you regularly transport long distances, for example for work, you must comply with the requirements for marking. However, for occasional and private transport, you can mark the load with something else, as long as it is visible enough. For example, you can use a plastic bag that stands out from the surroundings. You should always carry out the transport as safely as possible.

If you don't have access to red and white markings, you can, for example, use a colored plastic bag.

Random transport

Sporadic transport that does not occur very often and is not part of a regular, planned transport operation.

For example, transporting a plank you bought at the lumber store.

Bicycle transportation

When transporting a bicycle across a car with a width of 180 cm or less, the bicycle must be mounted so that the vehicle, including the bicycle, is no wider than 180 cm. If the bicycle protrudes beyond the side of the car, it must be secured in the middle, so that approximately the same amount protrudes on each side.

If the bicycle obscures the car's lights or license plate, you must use a light bar clearly marked with the car's license plate number in black lettering of approximately the same size as the license plate. The background must be white or aluminum-colored.

The light bar must have a tail light, stop light, direction indicator light and reflector.

Overload

Driving with a trailer or a heavily loaded car can affect the car's handling. If you load your car or trailer beyond the weight limits in your vehicle registration, it can be downright dangerous to drive the car.

What disadvantages can a heavily loaded car cause?

• Driving characteristics deteriorate.
• The braking distance increases.
• The headlights on the car are raised, which in turn can cause a glare hazard for other drivers.

What can happen if you drive with a trailer that is too heavy?

• The front wheels' grip is significantly reduced.
• The braking distance increases.
• Directional stability is reduced.
• The headlights on the car are raised, which in turn can cause a glare hazard for other drivers.

Driving characteristics

How the car behaves on the road, how easy it is to control.

Braking distance

The distance the car travels from the time you start braking until the car has stopped is called braking distance. Braking distance is affected by the tire grip, the car's kinetic energy and how hard you press the brake.

Danger of glare

Glare is a temporary reduction in vision that occurs when the eyes are exposed to light that is significantly brighter than they are used to. This typically occurs when looking directly into the high beams of an oncoming car.

Directional stability

Directional stability is the vehicle's ability to stay on course and not pull to one side.

Summary

• The fact that the car is in proper condition means that the car meets all the requirements set by the authorities.
• A car that is in good condition means that it is safe to drive. If the car is not in good condition, you must stop driving immediately.
• You can drive with a trailer with a permitted total weight of up to 750 kg (if the permitted total weight of the vehicle combination does not exceed 4,250 kg).
• If the permitted total weight for the vehicle combination does not exceed 3,500 kg, you can also drive with a trailer with a permitted total weight of over 750 kg.
• The car and trailer must also be approved to withstand the weight. Make sure that the current total weight of the trailer is not higher than the permitted trailer weight stated in the car's registration document. You need to know whether the trailer has brakes or not.
• As a driver, you are responsible for ensuring that goods/load are secured and positioned so that they do not impede safe driving.
• During the theory test, you may be asked about technical details about the car, so you just have to memorize a lot of this. In addition, you will be tested in various safety checks of the car on the drive-up.

In the next chapter, we will look at our physical and mental characteristics and limitations as drivers. We will look at how we experience traffic situations and how the driving process works, among other things.

Regulatory condition

A vehicle being in proper condition means that it meets the requirements of the vehicle regulations. That is, that all functions work and are as they should be – for example, lights, tire pressure and mirrors.

Decent condition

If a vehicle is to be used, it must be in a safe condition. Safe condition means that the vehicle is safe to drive. For example, if you have a serious brake failure or the brake lights are not working, the vehicle is not in a safe condition.

The vehicle may be in good condition even if it is not in proper condition. For example, you can drive a car with a broken headlight during the day and in good light, even if such a car is not in proper condition. But – fix the headlight as soon as you can.

Current total weight

The current total weight is the weight of the vehicle at a weighbridge. That is, what the vehicle actually weighs, with everything included.

Human

Our physical and mental characteristics and limitations have a lot to do with driving. In this chapter, we will take a closer look at the challenges we face in traffic and how our senses and ways of thinking affect our ability to drive safely and confidently.

In Chapter 3 we will go through:

• 3.1 The driving process
• 3.2 Assessing speed and distance
• 3.3 The fit
• 3.4 Reaction time and inattention time
• 3.5 Summary

3. Man

Traffic situations and the driving process

Traffic situation is an important concept in traffic training. A traffic situation consists of you and your vehicle, other road users, the road, the signage, visibility and driving conditions, and the interaction between these factors.

Traffic situations vary from the very simple and clear to the complicated and confusing. In a complicated traffic situation, there is a lot going on that you have to deal with and large amounts of information that your brain has to process.

We call this process the driving process and it describes what you as a driver do in traffic from the moment something happens until you have reacted and responded:

The driving process

• You sense – Your eye receives information, but your brain has not processed it yet.
• You perceive what you have sensed – The brain recognizes what you see and what is happening.
• You decide what to do – You consider different solutions for further action and choose.
• You act – You implement what you have decided to do.

The driving process

In this film we take a closer look at the driving process.

Sense

When you drive, you need to be aware of what is happening around you to detect potential hazards and plan your driving as best as possible. You are constantly receiving sensory impressions from your surroundings, and in this regard, vision is the most important sense. Vision accounts for almost 90% of the sensory impressions when we drive.

You FEEL that something is wrong. But it takes a few milliseconds before you PERCEIVE what is actually happening!

Central vision/sharp vision

• looks forward and has a viewing angle of approx. 3–5 degrees
• discovers details
• works best in good light

The peripheral vision

• looks out to the sides with a viewing angle of almost 180 degrees when we are standing still
• perceives movements and changes in light
• perceives the surroundings, shadows and silhouettes

Fixation (focusing on a point)

• Fixing your gaze on a point takes 2–3 tenths of a second.
• When you fixate on things that are not relevant to the driving process, you remove important attention from the traffic situation. You then travel many meters before your attention is directed back to the traffic situation.

Sharp vision and peripheral vision.

Perceive

Perceiving means interpreting and understanding the sensory impressions you receive in the traffic situation.

To be able to interpret and understand, you must have knowledge and acquire experience. Experience allows you to recognize situations and thus be able to more quickly predict how the situation will play out and how you yourself should act in the situation.

If you find yourself in a complicated traffic situation with many – and perhaps unclear – sensory impressions (for example, if you are driving in fog), you will take longer to perceive the situation and what you need to do. Therefore, adapt your speed to the conditions so that you have enough time to perceive what is happening.

The brain processes the visual impression – and PERCEIVES what is happening.

Decide

Once you have perceived the traffic situation, your brain can begin to consider the various options for further action.

• You assess the situation based on previous experiences and must consider different options and what outcome you think they will have.
• You decide which actions you want to take.

You will also benefit from previous experience in the decision-making process. The more similar situations you have experienced in the past, the easier and faster you will make good decisions.

Should you brake or steer away? If you have extensive experience in traffic, there is a good chance that you know what you should do and thus DECIDE faster.

Decision-making process

When you decide what to do, you go through a decision-making process. This can be both conscious and unconscious.

Shop

Once you have decided what you want to do, the next step is to carry out the action.

The execution of the action is sometimes easy and sometimes difficult. If something happens when the speed is high or the road is bad, we will often not be able to act correctly.

To become a good driver, it is necessary to practice automatic actions. When you have done something many times, such as changing gears or stopping the car, you eventually perform the action automatically – without having to think about how to do it. Then you will spend less time and concentration on acting and you free up capacity to follow the traffic and avoid dangerous situations.

You need to know that different cars react differently to different actions. For example, if the car has ABS brakes, you will be able to control it even if you press the brakes all the way down. On the other hand, if the car does not have ABS brakes, you will not be able to control it when you brake hard.

Factors such as weight, engine power and steering systems also affect how the car responds to your actions. For example, a heavy car will have longer braking distances than a lighter car. You need to take this into account when driving.

You decide to brake and ACT by stepping on the brake.

3. Man

Assessing the speed and distance of others

Studies show that as drivers we tend to believe that the distance to oncoming vehicles is longer than it actually is. This is something you should especially take into account when overtaking or turning left at an intersection.

It can be difficult to assess the speed of oncoming vehicles.

We also believe that the speed of oncoming vehicles is much lower than it actually is. At distances of more than 300 meters, we are actually unable to distinguish between a car driving slowly and a car driving at 80 km/h.

Remember!

• We often believe that oncoming vehicles are further away than they actually are.
• We often believe that oncoming vehicles are traveling at a slower speed than they actually are.
• It is particularly difficult to judge the speed and distance of motorcycles (because motorcycles are relatively small).
• We also tend to believe that vehicles we observe in our car's mirrors are further away than they actually are.

Your own speed

Speed ​​blindness is when you drive faster than you realize. This is especially dangerous because you risk having significantly less time than expected to observe and react if something unexpected happens first.

What causes speed blindness?

When you maintain a high and steady speed for a long time, you get used to the speed to such an extent that your brain is tricked into thinking that the speed is lower than it actually is. If the road you are driving on is also wide, clear and the landscape is open or monotonous, the chance that your brain will be exposed to this optical illusion increases.

If the noise level is low or you play loud music, this can also help to dampen the feeling of your real speed.

You can prevent speed blindness by:

• check your own speed on the speedometer
• brake firmly down to a new speed when the speed limit changes
• control speed by looking to the side

On clear, wide roads, you can lose the sense of speed.

Tunnel vision

The faster you drive, the smaller your field of vision becomes. This phenomenon is called tunnel vision.

The limitations of the sense of sight

3. Man

Am I fit?

Your ability to perceive the traffic situation correctly and act in time is significantly impaired if you are tired, ill, stressed or under the influence of drugs or medication. If you feel unwell due to medication, illness or other things, you may overlook important information in traffic and make the wrong decisions.

That's why the Road Traffic Act states that you must leave your car if you are not fit to drive safely. Fitness is about how you feel, and whether you are able to perceive traffic and make good traffic decisions.

The typical reasons for lack of fitness can be divided into two categories:

• Alcohol, other drugs and dangerous drugs. Dangerous drugs have a red warning triangle on the package.
• Fatigue, illness, uneasiness, stress and mood

If you don't feel comfortable, you might want to leave the car.

Road Traffic Act Section 21

No one may drive or attempt to drive a vehicle when he is in such a condition that he cannot be considered fit to drive safely, whether this is due to him being under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating or narcotic substances, or to him being ill, weakened, tired or fatigued, or due to other circumstances.

Road Traffic Act

The provisions of the Road Traffic Act apply to all motor vehicle traffic in Norway. The provisions also apply to cyclists and others who travel in traffic when they are on a road or area where cars or other motor vehicles normally drive.

The Road Traffic Act contains many important provisions that regulate our behavior in traffic. Of particular importance is the "Basic Rules for Traffic", which is the main provision on behavior in traffic.

Alcohol, other drugs and dangerous drugs

Alcohol limit

In Norway, the blood alcohol limit is 0.2 and it is illegal to drive a motor vehicle if your blood alcohol level exceeds this. It is also illegal to drive with a blood alcohol level lower than this if your blood alcohol level makes you unfit to drive.

Alcohol in the blood burns at a rate of 0.10–0.15 per mille per hour. The burn cannot be accelerated by coffee, physical activity or other factors. Only time can reduce the blood alcohol level.

The risk of being killed in traffic is almost a thousand times higher at a blood alcohol level above 1.5 compared to a blood alcohol level of 0.5.

Drugs and medicines

It is obvious that the use of narcotics and dangerous drugs does not belong with driving, but the problem is still quite large. Note that drugs that affect the central nervous system are most often marked with a red triangle on the packaging.

In 2012, driving under the influence of drugs was a contributing factor to 24% of fatal accidents on Norwegian roads (the average for the last 8 years was 22%). Source: Norwegian Public Roads Administration's in-depth analyses of fatal accidents.

Mandatory abstinence

Some professional groups have strict rules about alcohol, such as police, healthcare personnel, military, aviation and professional drivers. The rules are called mandatory abstinence. Professional drivers are required to abstain not only while they are at work, but also 8 hours before they go to work.

Fatigue and illness

Fatigue

Lack of sleep can significantly impair your driving skills, just like alcohol. Being awake for over 20 hours is equivalent to a blood alcohol level of 0.8. Sleep is the only thing that helps when you're tired, so take a 15-minute "power nap" rather than putting yourself and others in traffic at unnecessary risk.

Accident statistics show that fatigue is a contributing factor in around 15% of fatal traffic accidents (Source: Norwegian Public Roads Administration's in-depth analyses of fatal accidents)

Driving when you are tired can be dangerous. Stop the car and take a 15-minute rest.

Disease

A cold, headache, nausea or other everyday ailments can make it difficult to concentrate. In that case, it may be a good idea to leave the car parked.

Can I drive?

Distractions

Distractions are various things that disturb you while driving and cause you to lose focus on driving and become inattentive in traffic. In the worst case, distractions can lead to accidents.

Typical things that bother you as a driver

• Talk on the phone, even when using hands-free.
• Check your mobile phone.
• Fiddle with Spotify or radio.
• Eating and drinking.
• Restless children.
• Setting and using GPS.

Checking text messages while driving is deadly!

3. Man

Reaction time

Reaction time is the time it takes from the moment you sense a danger until you have perceived it and decided how to act. Reaction time consists of the first three of the four steps we looked at in the driving process – sensing, perceiving and deciding.

We estimate that the reaction time is usually about one second, but the following factors can significantly extend the reaction time:

• The traffic situation is complex and you have to keep track of many factors at the same time.
• Visibility is poor (darkness, fog, snow).
• You lack experience or experience the situation as unfamiliar.
• You are getting distracted.
• You are under the influence of drugs or feel tired and unmotivated.

Are you able to react to what might be lurking around the bend?

Inattention time

There is a period of time between the time a potential danger arises and when you notice it. This phase is called the inattention period.

In a simple traffic situation, the inattention period should be short, but if you are unfocused and not paying attention – or find yourself in a complex traffic situation where there is a lot to keep track of – it can take quite a while from the time a danger arises until you notice it.

Example

You are driving at 80 km/h and spot a moose in the road 100 meters ahead of you. If your inattention time is 1.5 seconds and your reaction time is 1.5 seconds, you move for 3 seconds and thus about 66 meters before you decide how to act. You just have time to swerve away.

If you were talking on a cell phone, your attention span would probably be much longer, and you wouldn't have time to act in time.

How long does it take you to discover important things in traffic?

3. Man

Summary

The main points of Chapter 3

• The traffic situation consists of you and your vehicle, other road users, the road, the road system and signage, visibility and driving conditions, and the interaction between these factors.
• The driving process describes what you as a driver do in traffic and consists of the following four steps: 1) sense, 2) perceive, 3) decide and 4) act. In a complicated and confusing traffic situation, you spend more time on the different steps in the driving process than in a simple situation.
• The Road Traffic Act states that you must not drive or attempt to drive a vehicle when you are in such a condition that you cannot be considered fit to drive safely.
• In Norway, it is illegal to drive a car if your blood alcohol concentration is over 0.2 per mille.
• Being awake for over 20 hours is equivalent to a blood alcohol level of 0.8.
• Reaction time is the time that passes from when you sense a danger until you have perceived it and decided how to act, while inattention time is the time from when a possible danger arises until you sense it.
• Alcohol, illness, stress or lack of sleep can greatly prolong reaction time.
• Distractions, such as checking your mobile phone or turning the radio off, make you lose concentration and can make it take longer for you to notice a danger.

In the next chapter, we will look at the responsibilities that come with being a driver.

Suitability

Being fit means that you are alert, healthy and alert, and not under the influence of alcohol, other drugs or dangerous drugs.

The Road Traffic Act states that you must not drive or attempt to drive a vehicle when you are in such a condition that you are not considered fit to drive safely.

Responsibility

Driving a car comes with great responsibility and requires that you know your duties as both the owner and driver of a vehicle. You must be familiar with the content of relevant laws, regulations and rules, and know what the consequences may be if you do not follow them.

In Chapter 4, we will specifically review the following topics about responsibility:

• 4.1 Condition and use of the car
• 4.2 Registration and change of ownership
• 4.3 Financial responsibility and insurance
• 4.4 Sanctions
• 4.5 Summary

4. Responsibility

Car condition

Before driving

According to the Road Traffic Act, you have a responsibility to know that the car is in a safe and proper condition before driving.

While driving

You are also responsible for ensuring that the car is in a safe condition while driving. If a fault occurs while driving, you can continue as long as the fault does not affect road safety.

If you lend your car...

• You are responsible for ensuring that the car is in good condition when you borrow it from us.
• You are also responsible for ensuring that the person borrowing your car has a valid driver's license and is fit to drive.

Decent condition

If a vehicle is to be used, it must be in a safe condition. Safe condition means that the vehicle is safe to drive. For example, if you have a serious brake failure or the brake lights are not working, the vehicle is not in a safe condition.

The vehicle may be in good condition even if it is not in proper condition. For example, you can drive a car with a broken headlight during the day and in good light, even if such a car is not in proper condition. But – fix the headlight as soon as you can.

Regulatory condition

A vehicle being in proper condition means that it meets the requirements of the vehicle regulations. That is, that all functions work and are as they should be – for example, lights, tire pressure and mirrors.

Suitability

Being fit means that you are alert, healthy and alert, and not under the influence of alcohol, other drugs or dangerous drugs.

The Road Traffic Act states that you must not drive or attempt to drive a vehicle when you are in such a condition that you are not considered fit to drive safely.

Safe and proper condition

EU control

The owner of a vehicle, or the person who has control over it on the owner's behalf, is obliged to ensure that the vehicle is presented for periodic vehicle inspection, also known as EU inspection.

Passenger cars must be inspected for the first time in the fourth calendar year after the year of registration and then every other year. Information on when the car was first registered can be found in the car's registration certificate.

When is the next check-up?

The deadline for the next EU inspection is calculated based on the date of your previous inspection. As long as the vehicle is approved by the deadline, it is up to you how early you want to carry out the EU inspection. If you take the inspection less than two months before your deadline expires, the original deadline will remain as the starting point for the next EU inspection again.

If you are unsure when your car is due for inspection next, you can check at Vegvesen.no. They have a service where you enter your car's registration number and you will be informed of the date of the next inspection.

On the Norwegian Public Roads Administration website you can check when you have to hand in your car for inspection.

4. Responsibility

Securing children in cars

The driver is responsible for ensuring that all children under the age of 15 use the correct safety equipment (child seats and seat belts) and that this is used correctly. Correct child restraint depends on the child's age, weight and height:

• It is mandatory to secure children who are shorter than 135 cm or weigh less than 36 kg with an approved child seat.
• Children under 140 cm tall should not be placed in the front seat if the airbag cannot be deactivated.
• Where there is no approved child restraint equipment, children who are between 135 cm and 150 cm tall can use a regular seat belt.

It is recommended that children sit in a rear-facing seat until they are 4 years old.

Responsibility when towing a car

If you find yourself in a situation where you have to tow a car, there are some special rules you need to know:

• Only one motor vehicle can be towed at a time.
• The car being towed must be able to brake properly.
• Towing ropes, stays or other devices must be properly and clearly marked.
• If the car does not have plates, you must have trial plates in order to tow it.

When towing, the usual regulations regarding the use of lights apply. This means that you should not use warning lights/emergency lights.

Also be aware that some cars should not be towed because it can cause damage. If you are towing a car with an automatic transmission, you must check the car's instruction manual to find out how far and at what speed it can be towed.

4. Responsibility

Motor vehicle registration

Basically, all passenger cars and passenger car trailers must be registered in order to be used.

To register a vehicle for the first time in Norway, you must go to a traffic station. You must take out traffic insurance and prove that customs and fees have been paid before you can have the vehicle registered.

Vehicles that are registered have a license plate (the letter code in the registration number) and a vehicle registration certificate.

The vehicle card consists of two parts:

• Part 1, which should always be carried when driving.
• Part 2, which should not be kept with the vehicle. You should keep it safe at home, you will need it if you are going to sell your car.

Traffic insurance

Also called liability insurance.

Traffic insurance is a mandatory insurance that you must have on almost all vehicles. If you are at fault in a traffic accident, traffic insurance covers damage to other people and other people's property. It also covers damage to yourself.

The insurance does not cover damage to your own belongings. For that, you must have comprehensive insurance.

Change of ownership

When you buy or sell a car, the Norwegian Public Roads Administration must be notified of the new owner. In this regard, there are a number of rules that are important to familiarize yourself with:

• The change of ownership must be reported to the Norwegian Road Administration no later than three days after the change of ownership takes place.
• The previous owner (seller) is responsible for submitting the sales notification. Otherwise, all future fees/claims will still go to the previous owner.
• The sale notice can be submitted online or on paper. If the sale notice is submitted online, both the buyer and seller must use the online service. The seller must identify themselves.
• If you do not use the online service, the Norwegian Road Administration recommends that part 2 of the vehicle registration document be used as a sales notification.
• Both the buyer and seller must sign the sales notice. If it is delivered online, both must approve the sales notice.
• Once the sale notice has been submitted and registered, the new owner will receive a letter stating what needs to be arranged, requirements for traffic insurance fees, toll requirements, any fines, etc.
• The new owner cannot use the vehicle until a new vehicle registration certificate has been received.

The easiest way is to submit a sales notification at vegvesen.no

Sales announcement

You must always submit a sales notification when you sell a vehicle. The sales notification must be submitted to the Norwegian Public Roads Administration and is easiest to do digitally.

4. Responsibility

Traffic insurance

All drivers are basically financially responsible for the damage caused by the vehicle, regardless of whether the driver was unlucky or careless.

To ensure that anyone who is injured receives compensation, all cars must have traffic insurance (often referred to as liability insurance).

Traffic insurance covers damage to

• other people
• other vehicles (if the driver of the other vehicle cannot be held responsible for the damage that has occurred)
• other people's property (for example, if you drive into a house or a fence)
• the driver (i.e. yourself, if you are the driver)

Motor vehicle insurance does not cover damage to your own car. To insure against damage to your own car, you must take out comprehensive vehicle damage insurance (also called comprehensive insurance).

Vehicle damage insurance

To insure yourself against damage to your own car, you must take out comprehensive vehicle insurance. This is perhaps better known as comprehensive insurance.

Insurance and recourse

If the insurance company has to make an insurance payment due to damages that you are responsible for, they can demand money back from you. This is called recourse.

The insurance company may claim recourse if you

• caused the injury intentionally or was very careless
• was under the influence of alcohol or other drugs
• had stolen the car or used it in connection with a crime
• drove without a valid driver's license
• practice run illegally

Passengers in the car may also have their rights to compensation reduced or lost if they know, for example, that the car has been stolen.

4. Responsibility

Sanctions

As a driver, you must know – and comply with – all relevant laws and regulations issued by the authorities.

In the event of a violation of laws and regulations, the authorities may react with

• verbal warnings
• fees
• simplified penalties, fines and prison sentences
• points and driver's license revocation
• Sanctions related to the vehicle, such as debarment and prohibition of use, towing of the vehicle and detention, as well as a lien on the vehicle

Fee

A fine is not a criminal sanction and can be imposed by the police, the Norwegian Public Roads Administration at the regional road office or by municipal parking guards. A fine can be imposed for a number of less serious violations of traffic laws. It is imposed, among other things, if a driver's license is left at home, for failure to use a seat belt, for driving with tires with too little tread depth, and for overloading.

Simplified penalty notice

Simplified fines can be imposed by the police for various traffic offenses such as speeding, driving in violation of certain traffic signs/road markings, and driving against a red light.

Mortgage

If someone has a lien on your vehicle, it means they can demand that you sell the vehicle to pay what you owe.

Drunk driving

It is illegal to drive a car with a blood alcohol level above 0.2 in Norway. The Road Traffic Act contains separate criminal provisions regarding drink-driving.

If you are convicted of drunk driving, you may receive...

• fine, if the blood alcohol concentration is between 0.2 and 0.5 per mille. In some cases also loss of driving privileges for a maximum of one year.
• fine and conditional or unconditional imprisonment, as well as loss of driving privileges for at least one year, if the blood alcohol concentration is between 0.5 and 1.2 per mille
• fine and unconditional imprisonment, as well as loss of driving privileges for at least one year, if the blood alcohol concentration is above 1.2 per mille

Abstinence after driving

If you are involved in an accident or other incident that you believe, or should have known, could lead to a police investigation, you may not consume alcohol or other intoxicants for the first six hours after driving. Once the blood or breath test has been taken, or you are told by the police that they will not take samples, this prohibition no longer applies.

Mandatory abstinence

Professional drivers are subject to the mandatory abstinence law. The law states that you must not drink alcohol if there are 8 hours or less until you are supposed to go to work. Of course, you should also not drink alcohol while you are at work.

ATTENTION!

You can be convicted of driving under the influence with an alcohol concentration below 0.2 per mille if you have shown great carelessness while driving.

Dot load

In Norway, we have a penalty system where certain violations result in a penalty.

If you get eight points or more within 3 years, you will lose your driver's license for at least 6 months.

During the probationary period – the first 2 years after you have obtained your class B driver's license – double the number of points will be recorded for each violation.

Example

Running a red light gives you 3 points. But during the probationary period, it gives you a total of 6 points.

4. Responsibility

Summary

The main points of Chapter 4

• As the owner of a vehicle, you are responsible for knowing that the car is in proper and proper condition before driving, and as the driver, you are also responsible for ensuring that the car is in proper condition while driving.
• The owner of a vehicle is obliged to present the vehicle for periodic vehicle inspection (EU inspection) for the first time in the fourth calendar year after the year of registration and then every other year.
• As a driver, you are responsible for ensuring that children under the age of 15 use the correct safety equipment. It is mandatory to secure children with an approved child seat until they are 135 cm tall or 36 kilograms in weight.
• All passenger cars and passenger car trailers must be registered in order to be used.
• All cars must have traffic insurance (often referred to as liability insurance).
• Driving under the influence can be punished with a fine, suspended or unconditional imprisonment and loss of driving privileges, depending on the alcohol level. Alcohol levels above 1.2 result in a fine and unconditional imprisonment.

In the next chapter, we will look at the traffic system and the basic rules of behavior in traffic.

The traffic system

The traffic system consists of four parts: traffic management, the road, the vehicles and the road users. Your behavior in traffic and the interaction between the different parts of the traffic system are largely governed by laws and regulations in the Road Traffic Act and the traffic rules. In addition, traffic is controlled through road markings, signs and traffic lights.

In Chapter 5 we will go through:

• 5.1 Traffic rules and the Road Traffic Act
• 5.2 Road and road markings
• 5.3 Signs
• 5.4 Traffic lights
• 5.5 Police
• 5.6 The pyramid of authority
• 5.7 Road users
• 5.8 Summary

Traffic rules

Actually "Regulations on driving and pedestrian traffic." The traffic rules include rules on positioning, the duty to give way, special speed regulations, overtaking, stopping and parking.

5. The traffic system

What controls traffic?

Without a set of rules that everyone follows, traffic would be chaotic and life-threatening. That's why we have laws, rules, and regulations that regulate how all the elements of the traffic system should function and how we should behave in traffic.

Through legislation, the authorities have given us both general and specific rules regarding behavior in traffic, requirements for vehicles, requirements for the design of the road environment, and traffic management.

Traffic regulation

The largest and perhaps most important topic in class B is traffic regulation . Traffic regulation covers everything within the traffic system - that is, everything from signs, traffic markings, laws and rules for traffic. You should therefore read this chapter several times.

Traffic management

The traffic rules and the Road Traffic Act give us guidelines for how we should drive and behave in traffic. We can say that they are part of traffic management.

Important laws and regulations

Matters such as the duty to give way, stopping and parking, speed, lane changes, use of lights and signals, etc. are governed by several different laws and regulations. The most important of these are the Road Traffic Act and the traffic regulations.

Road Traffic Act

The Road Traffic Act contains many important provisions that regulate our behavior in traffic. Of particular importance is the "Basic Rules for Traffic", which is the main provision on behavior in traffic.

The provisions of the Road Traffic Act apply to all motor vehicle traffic in Norway. The provisions also apply to cyclists and others who travel in traffic when they are on a road or area where cars or other motor vehicles normally drive.

Road Traffic Act

The Road Traffic Act has provisions on speeding, intoxication, obligations in the event of traffic accidents, practice driving, violations and penalties, among other things.

The Road Traffic Act is included in the laws of Norway.

Traffic rules

"Regulations on driving and pedestrian traffic" – better known as the traffic rules – contain provisions on behavior in traffic.

Traffic rules apply on public or private roads, streets or spaces open to general traffic.

Traffic rules

The traffic rules contain provisions regarding the use of the roadway, the position of the vehicle in the roadway, lane changes, the duty to give way, obligations towards pedestrians, reversing and turning, special speed regulations, stopping and parking, among other things.

Which lane you should use is regulated in the traffic rules.

Motor vehicle

Motor vehicle is a collective term for all vehicles that are propelled by their own engine.

Cars, mopeds, tractors, motorized lawn mowers and balance bikes such as Segways are all considered motor vehicles. Electric bicycles are not defined as motor vehicles.

General traffic

That a place is open to general traffic means that there is normally traffic there, even though it may not be open to everyone at all times.

The basic rule of traffic

Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act lays the foundation for all behavior in traffic, and is therefore also called the basic rule of traffic. You should always keep the basic rule in mind when you are in traffic. When someone does not follow the basic rule, dangerous traffic situations easily arise, and a violation of this section is therefore often grounds for losing your driver's license for a period of time.

The basic rule of traffic says:

"Everyone shall travel with consideration and be alert and cautious so that no danger arises or damage is caused and so that other traffic is not unnecessarily obstructed or disturbed."

"Road users should also show consideration for those who live or stay by the road."

When you drive, it is your basic duty to be:

• Considerate – Take into account the needs of other road users and not just your own.
• Be alert – Be focused and attentive and pay close attention to traffic.
• Careful – Drive in a manner that reduces the risk of accidents and injuries. Adjust your speed to the conditions and show your fellow road users clearly, and in good time, what you intend to do.

You must be careful when passing pedestrians.

The basic rule of traffic

In this film, we take a closer look at 3 different situations that show the basic rule of traffic in practice.

5. The traffic system

The road

The road is an important part of the traffic system.

In the traffic regulations, a road is defined as "a public or private road, street or space that is open to general traffic." Road markings distinguish between different parts of the road and provide important information about which rules apply.

General information about road markings

• Longitudinal markings are used to divide the roadway into lanes/indicate the outer edge of the roadway.
• Transverse markings are used, among other things, to mark stop lines, yield lines and pedestrian crossings.
• Yellow markings separate traffic in the opposite direction.
• White markings separate traffic in the same direction.

General traffic

That a place is open to general traffic means that there is normally traffic there, even though it may not be open to everyone at all times.

The components of the road

In addition to the definition of road, the traffic rules contain definitions of many other important concepts about the road and the road environment.

• Roadway – The part of the road designated for normal driving.
• Lane – Each of the longitudinal lanes into which a roadway is divided by markings, or which is wide enough for traffic with a single line of vehicles.
• Road shoulder – The part of the road that lies outside the curb line.
• Cycle lane – A lane designated for cyclists by public traffic signs and markings.
• Median/Traffic island – Physical obstacle between two lanes of traffic.

• Sidewalk – A "facility" for pedestrians that is separated from the roadway by curbs.
• Footpath and cycle path – A road designated by public traffic signs for pedestrians, cyclists or combined pedestrian and cyclist traffic. Such a road is separated from other roads by a lawn, ditch, fence, kerbstone or in some other way.

5. The traffic system

Road markings in the middle of the roadway

Lane line

A lane line warns that overtaking is safe as long as there is no oncoming traffic and visibility is good. The lane line consists of short yellow/white lines with long gaps. The gap should be 3 times as long as the line. When the speed limit is 50 km/h or lower, the line will be 1 meter and the gap will be 3 meters. When the speed limit is 60 km/h or higher, the length is increased to 3 meters for the line and 9 meters for the gap.

Alert line

A warning line warns that overtaking will be risky, often because you will not be able to see far enough. It is therefore permissible to overtake, but it requires that you have full control. The line itself consists of long yellow/white lines with short gaps, where the lines are 3 times as long as the gaps. When the speed limit is 50 km/h or lower, the gap will be 1 meter and the line will be 3 meters, but when the speed limit increases to 60 km/h or higher, the length increases to 3 meters for the gap and 9 meters for the line.

Combined lines

In cases where you and oncoming traffic have different forward visibility, you will often see combined lines. In the case of combined lines, you should follow the line closest to you. In the image, oncoming traffic should follow the warning line, while traffic in your direction should follow the lane line.

Barrier line

A barrier line consists of an uninterrupted line that warns that overtaking is not possible. If you cross the barrier line, you risk having your driving license revoked. In the example image on the right, you see a combined line with two barrier lines, one for each direction of travel. We call this combination a double barrier line.

Restricted area

A restricted area is a shaded area that must not be crossed. Such restricted areas are often used at intersections or to separate traffic on motorways. As with the restricted line, crossing a restricted area is strictly prohibited and can, in the worst case, result in the loss of your driving license for a period of time.

Arrows

The arrows indicate that the lane is to be used by road users who are going to drive in the direction or directions indicated by the arrow. Before major intersections, these arrows will also be displayed on information signs hanging above the road, as they are easily hidden by road users in front or under snow and slush in winter.

5. The traffic system

Road markings on the side of the roadway

Dividing line

A dividing line consists of equal-length lines and spaces and often separates lanes from, for example, bicycle lanes or bus lanes. Dividing lines are also used to separate lanes intended for public transport and taxis from the other lanes.

A solid edge line is white and runs along the outer edge of the roadway. A solid edge line is used on both two-way and one-way traffic roads.

Border – dotted

On roads with a width of less than 6 meters, the roadway is not divided into lanes and therefore there is no line in the middle of the roadway. Instead, dotted lines are used on the side that consist of equal length lines and spaces.

Transverse road markings

Yield line

A yield line is a transverse road marking consisting of triangles that mark the stopping point for yielding at an intersection. Yield lines are also used when entering roundabouts.

Stop line

A stop line is a solid line that marks the stopping point at traffic lights and at stop signs.

Pedestrian crossing

A pedestrian crossing is marked with thick white stripes and equal spaces. You must give way to pedestrians who want to cross the road across the crosswalk. When you approach a crosswalk where a pedestrian is waiting, you must clearly slow down to show that you want to give way to the pedestrian.

Be aware that not all pedestrian crossings are marked with crosswalk signs and that some crosswalks may be elevated.

Road markings

5. The traffic system

Sign

You must know the different groups of signs and what each individual sign means for your further driving.

We will now look at the different sign groups, but for a complete overview of all signs, you should go to Chapter 10, “Sign Overview.”

Important!

On the official theory test, your knowledge of road signs will be thoroughly tested. Some tasks are simply about knowing the meaning of a particular sign, while in other tasks you are shown a situation where you have to consider several signs at the same time.

In the last chapter of the course you will find a complete list of all signs used in Norway today.

You need to know what all the signs inform about.

The sign groups

In this film we take a look at the sign groups.

Danger sign

Danger signs warn of particular dangers on a stretch of road. They may warn of irregularities in the road such as sharp bends, slippery road surfaces or uneven roads. Danger signs also warn of road users you need to watch out for, animals that may be in the road or other possible hazards.

All hazard signs are shaped with a red triangle on the outside and a white background. The exception is when such signs are put up for a short period, typically in connection with road works, in which case a yellow background color is used.

Often, danger signs will have sub-signs that provide information about the distance, extent or period for which the sign applies. The sub-sign may also have symbols, arrows or text with important additional information to the danger sign.

Dangerous turn.

The location of the danger sign depends on the speed limit in the area:

• If the speed limit is 60 km/h or lower, the sign is placed between 50–150 meters from the hazard.
• The sign is placed 150–250 meters from the hazard when the speed limit is 70 km/h or higher.
• At speeds of 90 km/h or higher, danger signs are often placed 400 meters from the danger.

Yield and right-of-way signs

Yield and right-of-way signs regulate yielding at intersections or on a stretch of road. The signs in this category have varying designs based on their purpose. You can read more about these signs in chapter 7.1, which deals with yielding rules.

Yield and right-of-way signs may have sub-signs indicating, for example, distance or the course of a right-of-way.

Duty to yield.

5. The traffic system

Prohibition sign

Prohibition signs are signs that prohibit something on a stretch of road or in a place, or that cancel a prohibition. Basically, prohibition signs apply in the direction of travel from where the sign is located to the next intersection (but some prohibition signs apply until they are canceled by other signs). The sign that shows the speed limit on a stretch of road is also a prohibition sign.

Prohibition signs are round with a red border and a white background. The exception is temporary signage where the background is yellow, and signs prohibiting stopping and parking where the background is blue.

Prohibition signs may also have sub-signs describing the time, extent, etc.

Prohibited for motor vehicles.

Mandatory sign

Mandatory signs apply to a road section or location. The requirement usually applies to which lane to use or which direction you can drive at an intersection.

Mandatory signs are round with a blue background and may have sub-signs that inform which road users the sign applies to.

Mandatory lane.

Information sign

Information signs indicate that special rules, including prohibitions and orders, apply or cease to apply to the road section or location in question. Most information signs are square with a blue background. Information signs that provide information about the continuation of the lanes have a white background.

Like most other sign groups, information signs can also have sub-signs that provide more detailed information about the main sign.

Pedestrian crossing.

5. The traffic system

Service sign

Service signs provide information about emergency assistance, roadside assistance, points of interest, and more. Two or more symbols can be combined on the same sign. Distance and further information about the service location can also be indicated on the sign.

Service signs that provide information about emergency assistance and roadside assistance are square, with a blue border and a black or red symbol. Signs that provide information about attractions, nature experiences or outdoor activities are square, with a brown border and brown symbols.

Service sign.

Directional signs

Road signs provide information about place names, businesses, road routes, lane selection, road selection and distance to destination. Unlike the other types of signs, road signs do not have sub-signs. Instead, text, numbers and symbols can be on the road sign itself. If public traffic signs are reproduced on road signs, it means that a corresponding sign is set up on the road to which it refers.

Color codes for road signs

• Geographical targets motorway – blue background and white text
• Geographical targets other roads – yellow background and black text
• Other measurements – white background and black text
• Temporary signage – orange background and black text
• Tourist destination – brown background and white text

This combination is a lane guidance system.

Sub-sign

Sub-signs are only valid when they are used in conjunction with a main sign, and provide further clarification, expansion, completion or limitation of the main sign's meaning or scope of validity.

Sub-signs for main signs used for temporary signage in connection with road works may have a yellow background color.

Marking sign

Marking signs provide information about the further course of the road or about obstacles on or near the roadway. Curb posts and traffic cones also fall within this category.

Temporary marking signs may have a red background color and yellow or white symbols.

Directional marking.

5. The traffic system

Traffic light

At intersections where there is a steady flow of road users, traffic is often regulated by traffic lights. In recent years, many traffic lights have been replaced with roundabouts to improve traffic flow, but we still find a number of traffic lights in the larger cities in this country. We will now look at what the different traffic lights mean:

• Green light – means you can pass the signal or stop line if the road is clear.
• Yellow light – warns that the light will soon turn red and that you must stop. If you do not have time to stop because you are going fast and are close to the intersection, it is usually better to drive through the intersection than to brake suddenly just before.
• Red light – means you must not pass the signal or stop line.
• Red light together with yellow light – indicates that it will soon turn green.
• Flashing yellow light or no light – means that the traffic light is out of order and then signage or the general yield rules apply.

Pedestrian signal and arrow signal

Pedestrian signal

• The light shows a green or a red man.
• Red means that pedestrians must not begin crossing the roadway if this would obstruct drivers or pose a danger. Pedestrians who have already entered the roadway may continue crossing.
• Green means that pedestrians can cross the roadway.
• A flashing green signal warns that the signal will shortly change to red, and has the same meaning as a red signal.

Arrow signal

• The signal applies to those who want to drive in the direction the arrow is pointing.
• Arrow signals can have one, two or three light openings. If the arrow signal is not lit, you should follow the main traffic light. If both are lit, but you are going in the direction indicated by the arrow, you should follow the arrow.

Other traffic lights

Lane signal

• A red cross indicates a prohibition on using the field in the direction of the signal.
• Green arrow indicates that the field can be used.
• A yellow arrow indicates that the lane will be closed, and that drivers must immediately change lanes in the direction the arrow points.

Flashing signal in front of railway

• A flashing red signal indicates that road users must stop at the stop line or at a safe distance in front of the signal.
• A white flashing signal indicates that the level crossing can be passed in accordance with the provisions of the traffic regulations. A white flashing signal also indicates that the signaling system is in operation.

Flashing light arrow

• The arrow marks which side is to be passed.
• Flashing light arrows are usually set up in connection with road works.

Public transport signal

• Public transport signal.
• S stands for stop and means the same as the red light in a regular traffic light.

5. The traffic system

Police and traffic controllers

Rules, signs and lights are not always enough to ensure safe and efficient traffic flow. In some cases, such as traffic accidents or roadworks, there will be a need to regulate traffic manually – that is, for a person to direct traffic on site. At other times, you may be waved in for an inspection by the police or the Norwegian Public Roads Administration.

Persons with authority to give directions in traffic

• Police – Direct traffic when there has been a traffic accident, or when other reasons cause the flow of traffic to stop. In addition, the police also carry out various types of checks, such as speed checks, seat belt use and breathalyzer checks.
• Customs – Customs officers can wave down road users for inspection. Such inspections usually take place at border crossings, where the first and foremost thing is to check that you are not carrying contraband, but the car can also be impounded if the papers are not in order.
• The Norwegian Public Roads Administration – The Norwegian Public Roads Administration carries out some of the same checks as the police; technical inspections, seat belt use, etc.
• Roadworks – During roadworks, there will usually be one or more people directing traffic past the area in question. These people will often have orange or other self-luminous clothing and lights to direct traffic with. Temporary signage may also be set up, with a yellow background.

Duties during traffic control

You are obliged to stop at a traffic control and follow instructions until the control is completed or until you have been given permission to leave the area. You are also obliged to present required documents and comply with any requirements.

Traffic flow

When there is a lot of traffic, there will often be a lot of congestion and we will have poor traffic flow. During rush hour, traffic flow is often at its worst.

Directions at a traffic light

When the police are at a traffic light directing traffic, you should follow the police's instructions rather than traffic rules, signs and traffic lights.

You see the policeman from the side.

If the police officer is standing with his side facing you, this is considered a green light and you can drive through the intersection. The police officer will often use his hands to wave both you and oncoming traffic through the intersection. Traffic from the side must wait until the police officer turns his side toward them.

The policeman raises an arm in the air

An arm in the air means the same as a yellow light and applies to everyone approaching the intersection. Traffic already in the intersection can exit, while everyone else must stop before the intersection.

You see the policeman from the front/back

If the police officer is standing with his body facing towards or away from you, this is considered a red light and you cannot enter the intersection.

5. The traffic system

The pyramid of authority

The pyramid of authority

You will often encounter situations in traffic where traffic rules, road markings, signs and traffic lights conflict with each other. In order to know what to follow, it is important that you learn the hierarchy between these, the so-called "pyramid of authority".

The authority pyramid tells you that the police are at the top. For example, if a police officer tells you to drive, you should drive regardless of what any yield signs or traffic lights indicate.

Under the police are traffic lights. This means that as long as the traffic lights are active, they take precedence over any yield signs. If you come to a traffic light and you have a green light, but there is also a yield sign there, the traffic light applies. If the traffic light is out of order, however, you must yield after the yield sign.

There are signs and road markings under traffic lights. So if a yield sign tells you that you must yield to traffic on an intersecting road, you must yield even if the general yield rules of the traffic regulations actually say that traffic from the left has the right of way.

At the bottom of the authority pyramid are traffic rules and other relevant regulations.

Tip!

On the theory test, you will not necessarily be given tasks about the authority pyramid directly, but you will usually be asked questions about situations where you must use the authority pyramid to find the correct answer.

5. The traffic system

Road users

The Road Traffic Act and traffic regulations require that you, as a driver, must take other road users into account. As a driver, you have a great moral and legal responsibility and the requirements placed on you are strict – much stricter than the requirements placed on other road users.

The traffic rules contain separate provisions that require us to show extra caution in relation to pedestrians, children, the elderly and people with disabilities.

To achieve efficient and safe traffic flow, you as a driver must also pay special attention to some other road user groups, especially larger vehicles and two-wheelers.

Different road users.

Soft road users

Vulnerable road users are non-motorized road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, scooter users, skiers, etc. Vulnerable refers to the fact that vulnerable road users are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents and collisions.

Two-wheelers

By two-wheelers we mean motorcycles, mopeds and bicycles.

The soft road users

By vulnerable road users we mean cyclists, pedestrians and other non-motorized road users – those road users who are at greatest risk of serious injury in an accident. Some vulnerable road users require extra attention, and to avoid accidents between vehicles and particularly vulnerable vulnerable road users, the following provision is included in the traffic rules:

As a driver, you are particularly obliged to maintain a sufficiently low speed and, if necessary, stop immediately when passing

• children staying on or by the road
• school patrol
• person who uses a white cane or guide dog for the blind
• another person who may be presumed to suffer from a defect or illness that hinders him/her in traffic
• tram or bus that has stopped or is about to stop at a stop

Cycling

Although more and more places are building dedicated cycle paths, it is not uncommon to encounter cyclists on the road. Sharing the road with pedestrians requires that you as a driver take extra care. In addition, there are some specific provisions regarding cyclists in the traffic rules.

To improve the interaction between drivers and cyclists

• Keep a safe distance from cyclists on the road. When passing cyclists, you should have a safety margin of 1.5-2 meters. A good tip is to move as far to the side as you would for a car.
• Bike lanes are for cyclists; driving in the bike lane is not permitted.
• If you are going to turn, you must yield to cyclists going straight ahead. Signal and check your blind spot before turning.
• Although cyclists are also expected to follow traffic rules, you cannot assume that all cyclists know the rules. Be prepared for cyclists who may turn without signaling, and cyclists who ride against the direction of traffic on one-way streets.

Blind spot

The blind spot is the area you cannot see in the mirrors from the driver's seat.

In a car, there are two large blind spots on each side of the mirror, which you must check by looking out the window. You must be aware of these when changing lanes.

Walking

The traffic rules also contain a separate provision that requires you to show extra caution towards pedestrians in traffic.

As a driver, you must:

• Give pedestrians sufficient space on the road.
• Give way to pedestrians if you are crossing a walkway or sidewalk and when driving in a pedestrian zone or street corner.
• Give way to pedestrians who are in a crosswalk or are about to enter it (applies to crosswalks that are not regulated by traffic lights or police).
• Stop and give way to passengers who are getting off or about to get on a tram at a stop without a traffic island if you are passing a tram on the right.
• Avoid stopping at pedestrian crossings.

Free way

To facilitate the movement of certain road users, traffic rules require that we give them the right of way. Giving them the right of way means that you should do what you can to let them pass and reduce the risk of accidents by swerving to the side and possibly stopping.

5. The traffic system

Child

You are obliged to maintain a sufficiently low speed and, if necessary, stop immediately when passing children who are on or near the road.

The background to this rule is mainly that:

• Children are impulsive and do unexpected things.
• Children's field of vision is much smaller than that of adults (lacking the same wide angle).
• Children's hearing is also underdeveloped, including children's inability to hear where a sound is coming from.
• Children's ability to judge distance and speed is poorer than adults'.
• Children do not understand how traffic works and have no concept of reaction times and braking distances.

Since children are small, you must be especially attentive in relevant areas, and adjust your speed to avoid accidents as a result of children being hidden behind parked cars.

Elderly and disabled

As mentioned, you are obliged to maintain a sufficiently low speed and, if necessary, stop immediately when passing a person using a white cane or a guide dog for the blind and for people who have disabilities or illnesses that hinder them in traffic.

Old age naturally leads to impaired vision and hearing and often reduced mobility. Therefore, it becomes more difficult for older people to get a good overview of the traffic situation and it also becomes more difficult to navigate in traffic, something you as a driver must take into account.

Blind and disabled people will naturally also often have difficulty navigating traffic.

Horses

Accidents involving horses and cars occur very rarely, but the consequences can often be serious.

As a driver, you have a great responsibility to ensure that passing a horse is safe. To pass a horse safely, you should:

• Reduce speed as you approach.
• Make sure that the horse and rider have spotted you.
• Stop and wait if the horse seems frightened or out of control.
• Avoid sudden movements – drive past the horse quietly and calmly.

5. The traffic system

Motorcycles and mopeds

Accident statistics show that most collisions between two-wheelers and cars occur as a result of the driver of the car not noticing the two-wheeler.

Because two-wheelers are small and therefore harder to spot than cars, there are some situations where things go wrong more often. Be especially aware of any two-wheelers coming from the right at an intersection, or that are on your side when you are about to turn. Also, watch out for oncoming two-wheelers going straight ahead at an intersection where you are about to turn left.

This is what you should do to spot two-wheelers in traffic:

• Look especially for two-wheelers.
• Position yourself correctly in the roadway and signal well in advance so other road users see what you plan to do.
• Use the mirrors actively.
• Check the blind spot before turning and when moving sideways.

Signs and signals

Signs and signals are used to provide information to other road users.

• Signals are turn signals and brake lights. You give signals to inform other road users of what you are doing.
• Signaling means using the car's horn or flashing lights (flashing the high beams/turning on the hazard warning lights). Signaling is only used to warn or avert danger.

Blind spot

The blind spot is the area you cannot see in the mirrors from the driver's seat.

In a car, there are two large blind spots on each side of the mirror, which you must check by looking out the window. You must be aware of these when changing lanes.

Lateral displacement

A lateral movement means any change in the vehicle's position on the road in a lateral direction, for example when changing lanes, pulling off the side of the road, driving around an obstacle in the road or similar.

When moving sideways, you are required to give way to road users who are already in the lane you wish to enter.

Large vehicles

As a driver of a passenger car, you must take into account the limitations of large vehicles in relation to small vehicles and help facilitate efficient traffic flow.

Consider in particular the following differences between large and small vehicles:

• Speed. Large vehicles accelerate more slowly.
• Weight. Higher weight leads to longer braking distances.
• Wheelbase. A larger wheelbase leads to a larger turning radius.
• Visibility. It can be difficult/impossible to see what is happening in front/behind/to the side of a large vehicle.

By acting in the following way, you contribute to better traffic flow:

• Give large vehicles the necessary space to complete turns.
• Feel free to give up your right of way to avoid forcing a large vehicle to slow down or stop (heavy vehicles that have to brake will take a long time to regain cruising speed, which will affect everyone driving behind).

Wheelbase

The distance between the front axle (front wheels) and rear axle (rear wheels) of a vehicle. In the example image you see the wheelbase of a car.

Tram

If you drive in areas with trams, there are several things you need to consider. The tram is large and heavy, and can have a long braking distance. At the same time, it also does not have the ability to swerve out of the way if something happens. Therefore, the tram is also exempt from many of the traffic rules. As a driver, you have a duty to give way to the tram in most situations, regardless of whether it is coming from the right or left. The tram only has a duty to give way when it is entering a roundabout.

As a driver, you must remember that:

• You have a duty to give way to the tram.
• In addition to the left side, it is permitted to pass trams on the right side, but be aware of the part of your vision that is restricted by the tram.
• You are obliged to keep your speed low, and if necessary stop, when passing a tram at a stop. When passing on the right side at a stop without a traffic island, you must stop and give way to any passengers.
• The tram takes longer to brake and needs more space when cornering, so always keep a good distance.

5. The traffic system

Summary

The main points of Chapter 5

• The traffic system consists of four parts: traffic management, the road, the vehicles and the road users.
• In the Road Traffic Act we find the basic rules for traffic: "Everyone shall travel with consideration and be alert and cautious so that no danger arises or damage is caused and so that other traffic is not unnecessarily obstructed or disturbed. Road users shall also show consideration for those who live or stay by the road."
• The traffic rules contain provisions on, among other things, the position of the vehicle on the roadway, the duty to give way, stopping and parking, and apply to all roads. A road is defined as “a public or private road, street or place open to general traffic.”
• According to the Road Traffic Act, "everyone must be aware of public traffic signs, signals and markings and must comply with the prohibitions and orders given in this way." It is therefore important that you are familiar with signs and traffic lights, as well as the meaning of different types of road markings.
• The traffic rules also contain separate provisions that require us to show extra caution towards pedestrians, children, the elderly and the disabled.
• The authority pyramid tells you what applies when traffic rules, road markings, signage, and traffic lights conflict with each other.

In the next chapter we will look at basic observation techniques and how to best make yourself understood by other road users. You will also gain knowledge of how the car behaves physically in terms of speed, grip and braking.

The drive

Before you go out and drive in traffic for the first time, you should practice basic observation techniques and think about how to best make yourself understood by other road users. You should also know how the car behaves physically in terms of speed, grip and braking.

In Chapter 6 we will go through:

• 6.1 The Se rules
• 6.2 Interaction
• 6.3 Speed
• 6.4 Road grip
• 6.5 Braking and braking distances
• 6.6 Summary

6. The drive

The Se rules

When you are driving in traffic, you must constantly obtain information about the traffic situation. A full 90% of this information is obtained through your vision. You interpret the behavior of other road users and adapt your own driving accordingly. But in order for others to be able to interpret your behavior correctly and have the opportunity to adapt their own driving, it is also important that you are clear and act in good time. If you follow the rules of seeing, it will be easier to both see and be seen.

The Se rules

• Look far ahead.
• Move your gaze.
• Take an overview.
• Always look for a way out.
• Be seen and understood.

Use the sight rules actively to get a full overview when approaching traffic lights.

The Se rules

6. The drive

1. Look far ahead

Look far ahead to detect and perceive situations as early as possible, so you can adapt your driving in good time.

Looking far ahead also makes it easier to stabilize the car's course and to position the car correctly on the road.

How far ahead should you look?

• In densely populated areas, you should look as far ahead as the street can reach.
• On country roads, speeds are often high, and you should therefore try to see at least 400 meters ahead to drive safely and avoid dangerous situations.
• In the dark, you should try to see further ahead than your car's headlights can reach. Even high beams only illuminate the road about 100 meters ahead, but you can spot a pedestrian with a reflector from a full 300 meters away.

Country road

By country road we usually mean roads outside densely populated areas and with a speed limit above 50 km/h.

2. Move your gaze

To get a full overview of the traffic situation, even at higher speeds, you must be careful to move your eyes frequently. As mentioned in Chapter 3, your visual acuity only covers a small part of your field of vision. As speed increases, it is more difficult to see and detect things that are happening outside your visual acuity, and we have an easier time getting tunnel vision. By using your eyes actively, you can see what is happening on side roads further ahead, the traffic behind you and to the sides.

You have to watch to get an overview and to understand what is going to happen.

Move your gaze frequently to gain control over potential hazards that may arise.

Forward and to the sides

• Move your gaze often.
• Look at each page several times to make sure you get all the important information.

Backwards and to the sides

• Look in the mirrors frequently.
• When braking, you must glance in the mirror to check that the traffic behind is also able to stop.
• Check your mirrors and blind spot before turning at an intersection, changing lanes or making any other lateral movement.

The blind spot

The blind spot, also known as the blind spot, is the area to the side and behind the vehicle that cannot be seen in the side mirrors or the center mirror. Before changing lanes or turning at an intersection, you should therefore glance into the blind spot to check that there are no other vehicles there.

The sight

Our field of vision can be divided into two parts – central vision and peripheral vision. Central vision, or sharp vision, has a viewing angle of about 3-5 degrees, and detects details in the environment. Peripheral vision has a viewing angle of almost 180 degrees, and perceives movements and changes in light outside of sharp vision.

Peripheral vision warns of events that should be checked more closely with sharp vision. This is called the eye's warning reflex.

The sight

Our field of vision can be divided into two parts – central vision and peripheral vision. Central vision, or sharp vision, has a viewing angle of about 3-5 degrees, and detects details in the environment. Peripheral vision has a viewing angle of almost 180 degrees, and perceives movements and changes in light outside of sharp vision.

Peripheral vision warns of events that should be checked more closely with sharp vision. This is called the eye's warning reflex.

Blind spot

The blind spot is the area you cannot see in the mirrors from the driver's seat.

In a car, there are two large blind spots on each side of the mirror, which you must check by looking out the window. You must be aware of these when changing lanes.

Cross

A place where a road crosses or ends at another road.

Lateral displacement

A lateral movement means any change in the vehicle's position on the road in a lateral direction, for example when changing lanes, pulling off the side of the road, driving around an obstacle in the road or similar.

When moving sideways, you are required to give way to road users who are already in the lane you wish to enter.

Observation in mirrors and blind spots

3. Take an overview

Take a look at the traffic situation to get an overview of the entire situation and try to predict how the traffic situation will develop. Basically, you should be able to predict what might happen in the next 10 seconds of traffic.

At a speed of 50 km/h you are driving at approx. 14 m/s. To predict how traffic will develop in the next 10 seconds means you have to predict what will happen in the next 140 meters.

4. Always look for a way out

Unforeseen incidents and dangerous situations can always occur, no matter how well you monitor. Always look for an escape route or alternative solution so you have a plan for what to do if something happens.

To know what options you have, it is advisable to keep a good distance from the vehicle in front so that you have good visibility. If you detect potential hazards, you should take emergency braking action so that you are ready if something happens.

5. Be seen and understood

As a driver, it is of course very important that you are seen and understood. You should therefore always drive in a way that allows other road users to take you into account as much as possible and understand what you are planning to do.

In the interaction section, we will look more at how you can act to make yourself as understood as possible in traffic.

Tips for being seen and understood

• Position yourself correctly in the roadway well in advance. For example, on a multi-lane road, you should move into the left lane early when turning left.
• Adjust your speed well in advance. For example, you should slow down well in advance of a pedestrian crossing so that pedestrians can see that you intend to comply with your duty to yield.
• Give signals in good time. You give signals using your turn signals and brake lights.
• Try to make eye contact with other road users whenever possible to make sure they have seen and understood you (motorcycle drivers are specially trained for this).
• Signal with a light horn (high beam) or sound horn (horn) to contact or inform others of dangers (according to traffic regulations, unnecessary use of sound and light horns is prohibited).

Signs and signals

Signs and signals are used to provide information to other road users.

• Signals are turn signals and brake lights. You give signals to inform other road users of what you are doing.
• Signaling means using the car's horn or flashing lights (flashing the high beams/turning on the hazard warning lights). Signaling is only used to warn or avert danger.

6. The drive

Interaction

One of the most important things in traffic is to make yourself well understood by your fellow road users and to be able to interpret how they think and act.

If you assume that all road users largely follow the guidelines given in the traffic rules, you can make many judgments based on other road users' signaling, speed choices, and position on the road. You will also be able to form an opinion about whether other road users have actually observed you, and act accordingly. This forms the basis for much of the interaction in traffic.

First and foremost, we use the car's turn signals and brake lights to signal in traffic, but we start by looking at how the choice of speed and position on the road affects the interaction in traffic.

Accessibility

Good interaction between road users through speed selection, lane selection and lane changes, overtaking and a clear driving style, provides good traffic flow. When interaction is poor, traffic flows more slowly and traffic flow is reduced.

Good interaction

Choose a speed that makes you understood

You can give a lot of information to other road users through your choice of speed. When you slow down towards an intersection, this will be interpreted by your fellow road users as a sign that you are either going to turn at the intersection or that you intend to yield to another road user who is going through the intersection.

When you approach a roundabout (where you have a duty to give way), you are required to slow down well in advance of the roundabout to show that you will comply with the duty to give way.

When driving towards a pedestrian crossing, you are also obliged to slow down well in advance of the pedestrian crossing to show pedestrians that you will stop for them.

Position yourself so that others understand you

You can also provide a lot of information to other road users just through your location in the lane.

For example, if you pull up to the right shoulder/curb before an intersection, you are sending a signal that you plan to turn right at the upcoming intersection.

However, if you move all the way to the left in your own lane before an intersection, this could be interpreted as you planning to turn left at the intersection.

It is at least equally important to maintain a neutral position in the lane, meaning stay in the middle of the lane if you are going straight ahead at the intersection so that you avoid confusing other road users.

Give clear signs

What are signs?

You signal by using your turn signals when you are turning at an intersection or making a lateral move. When you brake, the rear brake lights will signal that you are braking.

When do you use characters?

The traffic rules state that you must signal when turning and other significant changes in the vehicle's lateral position (for example, when changing lanes or when turning around a car parked on the side of the road).

In order for other road users to understand you – and adapt their own driving – you must give clear signals in good time.

By clear signals, we mean that the signals you give should not be misunderstood. For example, if you are going to turn right at an intersection, you should signal by using both your brake lights (lightly press the brake pedal a few times) and your turn signals.

If possible, turn on your turn signal 5–8 seconds before turning or moving sideways. However, be aware that turning on your turn signal too early can be misinterpreted and confuse other road users. For example, it is not appropriate to turn on your turn signal 5 seconds before changing from the inner to the outer lane of a roundabout.

Give a signal when you are going to make a lateral movement.

Use signal to warn of danger

What is signal?

By giving a signal, we mean using the car's horn or flashing lights (flashing the high beams/turning on the hazard warning lights).

When do you use signal?

You use your signal to warn other road users of a dangerous situation you have just passed, so that they may slow down. Many people also flash their high beams to warn other road users that they have forgotten to turn on their daytime running lights, or that one of their lights has stopped working.

You should still be careful not to give unnecessary signals in traffic. There is a separate provision in the traffic rules that states that "unnecessary or reckless use of sound or light signals is prohibited."

If an oncoming car flashes its high beams, you should be extra vigilant.

6. The drive

Speed ​​limits

Speed ​​limits

There are some main rules about speed in the Road Traffic Act and in the traffic regulations.

In Norway, we have two general speed limits, which apply unless traffic signs state otherwise. When specific speed limits are lifted, the general speed limits will apply.

General speed limits

• In built-up areas: 50 km/h.
• Outside built-up areas: 80 km/h.

The term "built-up area" is not defined in the law, but there are usually 50 km/h signs when you enter a built-up area.

Adjust your speed to the conditions.

The most important rule about speed is that you must assess for yourself how fast you can safely maintain.

The driver of a vehicle must adjust the speed to the location, road, visibility and traffic conditions so that no danger or inconvenience to others can arise, and so that other traffic is hindered or disturbed as little as possible. The driver must always have full control of the vehicle.

Drivers must be able to stop on the stretch of road that the driver has a clear view of, and in front of any foreseeable obstacle.

The rules mean that you as a driver must always make your own assessment of whether you can maintain the speed limit or whether you must choose a lower speed.

Road section

A part of a road. Can be anything from the part of the road you see in front of you to a stretch between two places.

What speed should you actually maintain?

Speed ​​limits and signage

The general speed limits for built-up areas and outside built-up areas apply unless signs state otherwise.

Speed ​​limit sign

The Speed ​​Limit sign applies on the road on which it is placed and until the speed limit is changed by another sign. Signs for new speed limits and the lifting of speed limits are placed on both sides of the road. If the sign is only on the right side of the road, it is a reminder of the current speed limit.

The sign End of special speed limit means that the new speed limit is 80 km/h.

Zone sign

In residential areas there is a separate type of speed limit sign, so-called zone signs.

Zone signs apply on all roads until they are repealed. Unless otherwise indicated, the general speed limit is 50 km/h when you pass the "End of speed limit zone" sign.

Danger signs and recommended speed

Hazard signs along the road inform you of potential hazards, and normally require you to adjust your speed to avoid dangerous situations.

In many places, there is a combination of a warning sign and a speed limit sign. Typically, such signs will be found on a very sharp bend outside a built-up area.

Special rules about speed

There are also several specific provisions regarding speed in different situations/circumstances:

Drivers are particularly obliged to maintain a sufficiently low speed and, if necessary, stop immediately when passing:

• children staying on or by the road
• school patrol
• people who are visually impaired or blind
• persons who may be presumed to have a disability or suffer from an illness that hinders them in traffic
• tram/bus that has stopped or is about to stop at a stop

Other important special rules about speed

• On a pedestrian street or street corner, you must not drive faster than walking speed (5-10 km/h).
• If you are driving with a trailer, you cannot legally drive faster than 80 km/h, even if the speed limit in the area is higher. The exception is if you get a Tempo 100 approval for your trailer or caravan, then you can drive up to 100 km/h.

If you are driving with a trailer, you must also check what speed the trailer is approved for. For example, if the trailer is approved for speeds up to 50 km/h, that is what applies.

6. The drive

Road grip

Grip is the contact between the tires and the surface you are driving on. In order to have good control of your car, you need to have good grip at all times. There are mainly two things that affect how good your grip is:

• The kinetic energy of the car – This is the energy your car has due to the speed you are maintaining and the weight of the vehicle. The higher the kinetic energy, the worse the grip will be when you try to turn or brake with a heavy car at high speed.
• Grip between tires and surface – The quality of your tires, as well as the type of surface you are driving on, is the other factor that is crucial to your grip. If you drive on icy roads around zero degrees with worn summer tires, you will have little grip and the chance of the car sliding in a different direction than the one you are driving is high.

You determine your own grip by choosing good tire equipment and by maintaining a reasonable speed based on the surface and weather conditions.

Road grip

Kinetic energy and speed

Kinetic energy depends on your speed. If you change your speed, your kinetic energy changes. But kinetic energy changes much more than speed changes: if you double your speed, your kinetic energy quadruples. That's because kinetic energy changes with the square of the change in speed. The square of the change in speed is the change in speed multiplied by itself.

When you double your speed, you quadruple the kinetic energy of the car. That is, it takes four times as much energy to stop a car traveling at 60 km/h as it does a car traveling at 30 km/h. And if you increase your speed to 90 km/h, the kinetic energy increases to nine times what it was at 30 km/h.

The square!

We say that kinetic energy increases with the square of the change in velocity. The square of a number is the number multiplied by itself. The square of 2 is 2 x 2 = 4, the square of 3 is 3 x 3 = 9, and so on.

Grip and steering

You need grip when you turn and when you change speed. To maintain grip when driving around a corner, you must therefore slow down before turning. Otherwise, you risk the car's kinetic energy sending it out of the corner.

When traction is lost, the wheels spin and you can no longer control the vehicle. When the wheels are locked, they cannot be controlled either. The wheels lock when you brake hard in a car without ABS brakes.

In winter conditions, the car's grip can be reduced to 1/4 of what is normal. Good winter tires contribute to increased grip, but it is still necessary to drive more carefully than in summer conditions. It may be advisable to test the surface carefully before driving out into traffic.

Hydroplaning

Aquaplaning is a phenomenon that you can experience on wet roads and that you need to be aware of. Aquaplaning occurs when there is so much water between the tire and the road that the tire does not make contact with the road. The tire then floats on the water and you will lose control of the vehicle. The risk of aquaplaning increases with the speed of the vehicle. It usually occurs at speeds higher than 60 km/h.

Danger of aquaplaning.

6. The drive

Braking and braking distances

In order for you to truly understand the benefits of being concentrated and driving at the correct speed, the curriculum requires you to be able to calculate the change in reaction distance and braking distance in meters.

Of course, road users are not expected to calculate these lengths at all times while driving. However, being able to calculate this makes you much more aware of the forces at work when you are driving and how much the braking distance increases with just a small increase in speed.

Reaction distance, braking distance and stopping distance

You are driving and notice a danger ahead on the road. You decide to brake quickly to stop before the danger. How long does it take from the time the danger occurs until you stop the car? How far does the car travel before it stops?

You may remember the elements from the driving process – detect, perceive, decide and act. Let’s use these as a starting point as we look further at braking.

• Detect – It takes time from the time a hazard occurs until you actually detect the hazard. We call this time the inattention time and the distance you cover here we can call the inattention length. There are many factors that affect the inattention length and we therefore do not usually include this in tasks about braking. A driver who actively uses the rules of sight while driving will be able to detect and perceive hazards earlier than other drivers.
• Perceive and decide – It takes a certain amount of time from when you have detected the danger until you decide how to act. This time is called reaction time and the corresponding distance is called reaction distance. Reaction distance is influenced by factors such as the driver's level of experience, alertness and maturity.
• Handle – It takes time from when you start braking until the car has stopped. The distance covered is called braking distance. Braking distance is affected by the grip of the tires, the car's kinetic energy and how hard you press the brakes.

Reaction length + braking length = stopping length

If you combine reaction distance with braking distance, we find the car's stopping distance. Many people confuse the terms braking distance and stopping distance, so make sure you understand the difference between them.

Calculating reaction length

To calculate reaction distance, you need to know your reaction time and your speed. Since reaction time is given in seconds, it is helpful if speed is given in meters per second (instead of km per hour). To convert speed from km/h to m/s, divide speed by 3.6. Multiply the answer by reaction time to find reaction distance.

How do you calculate the change in reaction length?

To calculate how much the reaction length changes when the speed changes, you must first find the change in speed. You find this by calculating how many times faster or slower the new speed is compared to the old one: New speed / old speed = change in speed

The reaction length changes by the same amount as the speed, so to find the new reaction length, multiply the change in speed by the original reaction length: Change in speed x original reaction length = new reaction length

6. The drive

Calculating braking distance

How do you calculate braking distance?

It is much more difficult to calculate braking distance than reaction distance at a given speed because there are so many different things that come into play.

Braking distance is a function of speed, surface, road, weight, how hard you brake and the quality of the brakes, among other things. Because of this, you are not expected to be able to calculate braking distances based solely on a given speed.

Instead, there are a number of tables for braking distances. You may want to memorize these, but if you learn that the braking distance (at maximum braking) on ​​dry asphalt at 20 km/h is 2 meters, then you can calculate the braking distances for other speeds. And for different roads. We'll look at how.

How do you calculate the change in braking distance?

The change in braking distance is due to the car's kinetic energy. Just as kinetic energy changes with the square of the change in speed, braking distance changes with the square of the change in speed. Braking distance changes much more than the change in speed!

To calculate the change in braking distance, you must first find the change in speed. As mentioned, you find the change in speed by dividing the new speed by the old speed. Since the braking distance changes with the square of the change in speed, you must multiply the change in speed by itself.

To find the braking distance after the speed change, multiply the braking distance before the change by the square of the speed change, which you just calculated.

Braking distances for emergency braking on dry asphalt.

Calculating stop length

The stopping distance is the sum of the reaction distance and the braking distance. The stopping distance tells you how long you travel from the time you notice a danger until the car has stopped completely. For example, if the reaction distance is 10 meters and the braking distance is 20 meters, the stopping distance is 30 meters.

When calculating the increase in stopping distance from one speed to another, you must remember that

• reaction time increases with the change in speed
• braking distance increases with the square of the change in speed

6. The drive

Summary

The main points of Chapter 6

• The rules of seeing make it easier to both see and be seen: Look far ahead, move your gaze frequently, take stock of the situation, always look for a way out, and drive so that you are seen and understood.
• Good traffic coordination is an important basis for safe and efficient traffic flow.
• Choose a speed that makes you understood: Slow down well in advance to show your intentions.
• Position yourself so that others understand you: move to the side if you are going to turn, stay in the middle of the field if you are going straight ahead.
• Give clear signals: Use your turn signals when turning at an intersection or making a lateral move. When you brake, the rear brake lights will signal that you are braking.
• Unnecessary or reckless use of sound or light signals is prohibited! Only use signals (sound or light horns) to warn other road users of a dangerous situation.
• Unless another speed limit is set by public traffic signs, the speed limit in built-up areas is 50 km/h, and 80 km/h outside built-up areas.
• Adjust your speed to the location, road, visibility and traffic conditions: You must be able to stop on the stretch of road you have a clear view of, and in front of any foreseeable obstacle.
• Grip is the contact between the tires and the surface you are driving on. By choosing good tire equipment, and by maintaining a reasonable speed in relation to the surface and weather, you can greatly influence grip yourself.
• Inattention Length: The distance you travel from a hazard occurring until you actually notice the hazard.
• Reaction time: The distance you travel from the time you detect danger until you decide how to act. You find the reaction time by multiplying the reaction time by the speed in meters per second.
• Braking distance: The distance you travel from when you start braking until the car has stopped. Braking distance changes with the square of the change in speed. On wet roads it can be twice as long – on winter roads it can quickly be 4 times as long.
• Stopping distance: The sum of the reaction distance and the braking distance.

In the next chapter, we will look at the duty to yield and location, and correct behavior in various situations you may encounter when driving in urban areas.

Driving in the city

In the city, traffic is often heavy, with many intersections, roundabouts, one-way streets, and many cars changing lanes. There are also many pedestrians who you must constantly be aware of.

Therefore, you must have a good knowledge of the yield rules and how to deal with buses, trams and other pedestrians. In addition, you must pay particular attention to the distance to other road users and your position on the road.

In Chapter 7 we address the following topics:

• 7.1 Duty to yield
• 7.2 Lanes and location
• 7.3 Cross
• 7.4 Roundabouts
• 7.5 Backing and turning
• 7.6 Stopping and parking
• 7.7 Summary

7. Driving in the city

Duty to yield

What is the duty to yield?

The duty to yield is the obligation to hold back for other road users. We will take a closer look at what the duty to yield involves and who has the duty to yield when meeting road users in different situations. Let's first see what we actually mean by yielding.

The road user who must yield must not be obstructed or disturbed.

Having the duty to yield means that you do not obstruct or interfere with the road user to whom you have the duty to yield, and the duty to yield arises precisely when your continued driving would obstruct or interfere with another road user. If you do not risk interfering with another road user, you also do not have the duty to yield.

The person who has the duty to give way must clearly demonstrate that they will comply with the duty to give way.

Slow down in good time so that other road users understand that you will comply with the duty to yield. If the person you have the duty to yield to has to slow down because they are unsure of what you are going to do, you have disturbed the road user and thereby violated the duty to yield.

The right-wing rule

The main rule for the duty to yield is the right-of-way rule. The right-of-way rule means that:

• Unless signs or other rules indicate otherwise, you are required to give way to traffic coming from the right.
• The same applies if you are going to turn left at an intersection and because of the turn you will have road users on your right.

Everyone must step aside!

Sometimes you will find yourself in a situation where everyone has to give way to everyone else. Who should go first?

This is cooperation in practice: In principle, the person who arrives at the intersection first in such a situation should take the initiative to drive first, but it is absolutely crucial that you have clearly shown your intentions and that the other road users show signs of giving way.

Since the white car is turning left, it will have to give way to the blue car, which will then come to the right of the white car.

7. Driving in the city

Duty to yield – other rules

In addition to the right-of-way rule, there are a number of rules that apply in specific places or in certain situations.

Duty to yield when coming from a parking lot, bus stop, etc.

When you come from a parking lot, private road, street corner or similar place, you always have the duty to give way to all other road users. This also applies if you come from a footpath, cycle path, pavement or shoulder of the road and are about to enter the road.

Bus yield

On roads with a speed limit of 60 km/h or lower, you have a duty to give way to buses when the driver signals that the bus is leaving the stop.

Duty to yield when cars meet

If the road is too narrow for cars in the opposite direction to easily pass each other, drivers who meet should give way sufficiently to the right and drive slowly or stop in good time.

On narrow roads where cars cannot pass each other, meeting points are often set up. If you are standing at a meeting point, you should normally be able to see the next meeting point. You should then know that you can reach the next meeting point without any obstacles before you drive.

If part of the road is blocked (e.g. by a parked car, cyclist, or other obstacle), the person on whose side the obstacle is located has the duty to give way. The person giving way must then wait until oncoming traffic has passed.

Oncoming cars have the obligation to give way because the obstacle is on their side.

Duty to give way when coming from specific locations

You are required to give way to other road users when coming from the following places:

• Parking space
• Stop
• Square
• Property
• Gas station
• Pedestrian street
• Street yard or similar area
• Farm road or other road that is not open to general traffic

Duty to give way when changing lanes

When changing lanes, you must yield to traffic in the lane you are entering. The same applies when pulling off the side of the road or making any other lateral movement. Note that this rule does not apply when the number of lanes is reduced by merging.

When to change fields

• Use your turn signals to alert other road users, and check your mirrors and blind spot before turning. Remember that you have a duty to yield to traffic behind you when changing lanes.
• Turn out in good time to improve visibility and to let others understand what is happening. The rules on yielding require you to clearly indicate to other road users that you will comply with the yielding obligation. Therefore, you must be confident that you can change lanes or move sideways without obstructing others or creating dangerous situations.

If you are going to change lanes, you have the obligation to give way.

Duty to yield

The duty to yield is a duty not to obstruct or interfere with traffic to which you have a duty to yield. If you have a duty to yield, you also have a duty to show that you will comply with your duty to yield. Who has the right to drive and who must yield is defined in the traffic regulations.

Lateral displacement

A lateral movement means any change in the vehicle's position on the road in a lateral direction, for example when changing lanes, pulling off the side of the road, driving around an obstacle in the road or similar.

When moving sideways, you are required to give way to road users who are already in the lane you wish to enter.

Blind spot

The blind spot, also called the blind spot, is the area around the vehicle that cannot be seen in the mirrors or by looking out the window from the driver's cab.

Pedestrians must give way

Pedestrians are particularly protected by various provisions of the traffic regulations. These provisions are strictly enforced by the police.

Important rules regarding the duty to give way to pedestrians and cyclists:

• At pedestrian crossings where traffic is not regulated by police or at traffic lights, drivers must give way to pedestrians who are in – or are entering – the crosswalk. Drivers must also avoid stopping at the crosswalk.
• Drivers who want to turn must give way to pedestrians or cyclists who are going straight ahead on the roadway or shoulder of the road.
• Drivers who want to turn onto a sidewalk must give way to pedestrians and cyclists who are traveling on the sidewalk.
• Drivers crossing a walkway or sidewalk must give way to pedestrians. You also have a duty to give way to pedestrians when driving in a pedestrian zone or on a street corner.

You should be extra careful of pedestrians.

Traffic rules

Actually "Regulations on driving and pedestrian traffic." The traffic rules include rules on positioning, the duty to give way, special speed regulations, overtaking, stopping and parking.

Free way

To facilitate the movement of certain road users, traffic rules require that we give them the right of way. Giving them the right of way means that you should do what you can to let them pass and reduce the risk of accidents by swerving to the side and possibly stopping.

When driving, you must give way to

• emergency vehicles with blue lights on (police, ambulance and fire department)
• tram and train (but the tram must give way to other traffic where separate yield signs have been set up)

You must always give way to emergency vehicles during an emergency.

You shall also not obstruct or interfere with

• Walking in a group under the supervision of a leader
• Processions and funeral processions
• Military vehicle columns or civil defense columns

ATTENTION!

Emergency vehicles are exempt from many traffic rules. They may therefore be coming at high speed or from roads with red lights, so pay close attention and be careful if you see blue lights or hear sirens.

7. Driving in the city

Yield and right-of-way signs

Traffic rules do not always provide the most appropriate traffic flow. From the authority pyramid, you may remember that signs take precedence over traffic rules, and you must therefore be familiar with the various yield and right-of-way signs that override traffic rules.

Duty to yield

• When you reach this sign, you must yield to traffic coming from both the right and left. Very often there will be a yield line marking where you should stop at the intersection.
• Be aware that a yield sign does not necessarily mean that the intersecting road is a right-of-way. On intersecting roads, the sign yielding intersection (210) will usually be posted.

Duty to yield to crossing vehicles.

Stop

• This sign informs you that you must come to a complete stop before the intersection. You must stop at the stop line – or as close to the intersecting road as possible if there is no stop line or it is not visible due to snow/ice, etc. Please note that you must come to a complete stop before you can enter the intersecting road.
• The sign also indicates that you have the right of way for road users coming from both the right and left.
• The sign is used at particularly dangerous or confusing intersections.

Stop for crossing road.

Yield line

A yield line is a transverse road marking consisting of triangles that mark the stopping point for yielding at an intersection. Yield lines are also used when entering roundabouts.

Driveway

A right-of-way is a road marked with the sign "right-of-way". If you are driving on a right-of-way, drivers coming from a side road or intersecting road are required to give way through a right-of-way sign or stop sign.

Stop line

A stop line is a transverse line that indicates where vehicles must stop when a public traffic sign or traffic light signal requires stopping. The line is solid.

Right-of-way and right-of-way intersection

On larger and more congested roads, it will be advantageous to dispense with the usual right-of-way requirement, as this will provide a much better flow of traffic. Such roads are marked with the sign "right-of-way" and are simply called right-of-way.

Driveway

• This sign indicates that road users coming from a side road or intersecting road are required to give way through a yield sign or stop sign. The sign is normally repeated after each intersection so that road users coming from a side road are informed that they are now driving on a right-of-way.
• A right-of-way is terminated by the sign "End of right-of-way" or by a yield sign or stop sign.
• Even if you are not required to yield to road users coming from a side road, you are still required to yield to oncoming traffic if you are turning left from the right-of-way.

Right-of-way intersection

• The sign warns of a dangerous intersection and informs that drivers from a side road or intersecting road are required to give way through a yield sign or stop sign.
• The sign only applies to the next intersection and says nothing about whether you are driving on a right-of-way or not.
• The distance between the sign and the intersection is determined by the speed limit at the location. The higher the speed limit, the longer the distance – just like with the danger signs.

Driveway

A right-of-way is a road marked with the sign "right-of-way". If you are driving on a right-of-way, drivers coming from a side road or intersecting road are required to give way through a right-of-way sign or stop sign.

Oncoming traffic and the duty to yield

On stretches of road where the road is too narrow for two cars to pass each other safely, signs are often posted regulating who can drive first. A red arrow shows the direction of travel that has the right of way.

Duty to yield to oncoming traffic

• The sign indicates a prohibition against driving onto a narrow stretch of road if such driving results in oncoming traffic being obstructed.
• Note that the sign is also shaped like a prohibition sign.

Oncoming traffic has the right of way

• The sign indicates that oncoming traffic is required to yield by sign.
• Note that the sign is also shaped like an information sign.

Sub-sign for yield and right-of-way signs

Course of the right-of-way

• In places where the right-of-way follows a different course than what might be expected, there are often signs below showing where the right-of-way goes.
• A thick line indicates the right-of-way, while a thin line indicates roads that have a right-of-way (and where there is a right-of-way or stop sign).

7. Driving in the city

Location in the roadway

Proper positioning on the roadway gives other road users good information about what you plan to do and helps avoid conflicts with other road users.

How you should position yourself in the roadway is partly regulated in the traffic rules:

• As far as conditions allow, vehicles should be driven on the right side of the road (if there is an obstacle on the right side of the road, you are of course allowed to drive on the left side of the road, but then you have the obligation to give way to oncoming traffic).
• Vehicles must be kept well within the lane (i.e. you are allowed to use your entire lane).
• On a road with two or more lanes in the direction of travel, the right lane must be used when traffic regulations do not require or permit the use of the left lane.
• When turning, you should generally stay on the side you are turning into. On roads with multiple lanes in the same direction, this means that you should choose the rightmost lane when turning right, and the leftmost lane when turning left. On roads with traffic in both directions, when turning left, you should stay as close to the center of the road as possible.
• Bicycles or other vehicles that are not motor vehicles can be driven on the right shoulder of the road.

Correct location.

Vehicle

A vehicle is a "device intended to travel on the ground without rails". Consequently, both bicycles, mopeds, motorcycles and cars are vehicles. Note that mopeds, motorcycles and cars are also defined as motor vehicles (vehicles that are propelled by an engine).

Lane

A lane is each of the longitudinal lanes into which a roadway is divided by markings, or which is wide enough for traffic with a single line of vehicles.

Carriageway

The carriageway is the part of the road that is designated for normal driving (the area between the curb lines).

Motor vehicle

Motor vehicle is a collective term for all vehicles that are propelled by their own engine.

Cars, mopeds, tractors, motorized lawn mowers and balance bikes such as Segways are all considered motor vehicles. Electric bicycles are not defined as motor vehicles.

Road shoulder

The shoulder is the part of the road that is outside the curb line. The shoulder is not intended for motorized vehicles. Pedestrians should generally walk on the shoulder and cyclists may choose to ride on the shoulder.

Distance

In addition to your position on the road, it is also important how you position yourself in relation to other road users.

Why should you keep your distance in traffic?

To reduce the risk of accidents in traffic, it is important that you keep the necessary distance from your fellow road users.

A good distance will also give you a better overview and give you more time to react if something unexpected happens, such as the car in front of you braking suddenly.

How much distance should you keep?

The traffic rules contain a general provision regarding the distance to the vehicle in front that states:

• The distance to the vehicle in front should be large enough that there is no risk of collision if the vehicle in front slows down or stops.
• The distance should be such that overtaking vehicles can enter between the vehicles without danger.

The red car has plenty of room to pull in between the cars in the right lane.

Traffic rules

Actually "Regulations on driving and pedestrian traffic." The traffic rules include rules on positioning, the duty to give way, special speed regulations, overtaking, stopping and parking.

The 3-second rule

Exactly how much distance you need to maintain must be assessed from situation to situation. A rule of thumb is that you should have at least 3 seconds of distance to the vehicle in front.

In many situations you will need more than 3 seconds of distance:

• On slippery roads, braking distance increases dramatically and the need for distance increases.
• If your speed is higher than 80 km/h, increased braking distance will mean you need more than 3 seconds of distance to the vehicle in front.
• If you have heavier vehicles behind you, or vehicles behind you are unreasonably close, you yourself need a greater distance than 3 seconds since you would not be able to perform an emergency brake without risking being hit from behind.

7. Driving in the city

Multiple lanes in the same direction

The traffic rules state that, as a general rule, you should use the right lane on roads with two or more lanes in the direction of travel.

When required or permitted by traffic regulations, you may still use the middle or left lane. As signs and road markings take precedence over traffic regulations (remember the authority pyramid), you must comply with these if signs and/or road markings on the spot permit or require the use of the middle or left lane.

Remember that the yield rules for lateral movement also apply when changing lanes in the same direction of travel.

Traffic regulations allow or require the use of the left or middle lane in some cases:

• The middle or left lane can be used when overtaking.
• The middle or left lane can be used when traffic is heavy, to improve traffic flow.
• Before turning left, the left lane must be used.

Collective field

You cannot use the right lane if this is a public transport lane. The exception is if you are driving an electric/hydrogen car or a two-wheeler (unless otherwise specified by a sign).

Lane

A lane is each of the longitudinal lanes into which a roadway is divided by markings, or which is wide enough for traffic with a single line of vehicles.

The pyramid of authority

Traffic flow is regulated through traffic rules, signs, markings, light regulation and manual traffic control. This hierarchy is called the authority pyramid, and tells what/who decides if regulations are missing or conflict with each other. The authority pyramid is as follows:

• Police
• Light signal
• Traffic signs and road markings
• Traffic rules

Lateral displacement

A lateral movement means any change in the vehicle's position on the road in a lateral direction, for example when changing lanes, pulling off the side of the road, driving around an obstacle in the road or similar.

When moving sideways, you are required to give way to road users who are already in the lane you wish to enter.

One-way streets

On one-way streets, there is often room for two cars in the same direction. In this case, the placement rules for multi-lane roads apply.

If you are turning left from a one-way street, you should therefore position yourself in the left lane of the road well in advance. As usual, you have the duty to give way when moving sideways, even when there are no two lanes marked on the road.

If the road is too narrow for two cars to pass, you should follow the general rule of thumb for positioning. This means that you should stay on the right side of the lane when turning right or straight ahead, and stay on the left side of the lane when turning left.

When driving in the left lane on a one-way street, you must be aware that:

• Pedestrians and cyclists may not be aware that the street is one-way, and therefore not be prepared for you coming driving in the left lane.
• where the one-way street ends at an intersection, traffic from the left may not be prepared for you coming in the left lane

Lateral displacement

A lateral movement means any change in the vehicle's position on the road in a lateral direction, for example when changing lanes, pulling off the side of the road, driving around an obstacle in the road or similar.

When moving sideways, you are required to give way to road users who are already in the lane you wish to enter.

7. Driving in the city

Signage and field selection

Location will in some cases be controlled by signs that instruct you to choose a specific lane.

Mandatory lane

This sign shows which lane you must choose. The sign is very often used on small medians to emphasize which side they should be passed on.

Optional lane

This sign informs you that you can freely choose which lane you want to use and is typically used on one-way streets with multiple lanes.

Mandatory driving direction

This sign shows in which direction you must leave the intersection. If there are multiple lanes in the same direction, you must orient yourself in relation to the lane you are in. The sign is usually placed together with road markings that show the same corresponding arrows for the intersection, but both the sign and the arrows can also stand alone.

Mandatory roundabout

This sign indicates that the rules for roundabouts apply, and the arrows show which direction you must take in the roundabout. The sign is almost always accompanied by a yield sign, which warns that you must yield to drivers already in the roundabout.

Normally, you should stay in the right lane if you are going right or straight ahead, and in the left lane if you are going left, but signs may require or allow otherwise.

Lane

A lane is each of the longitudinal lanes into which a roadway is divided by markings, or which is wide enough for traffic with a single line of vehicles.

7. Driving in the city

Cross

An intersection is defined in traffic regulations as a place where one road crosses or merges into another road.

When turning at an intersection, you should show your fellow road users in good time what you plan to do. The main rule for positioning is that you should stay to the right if you are going to turn right, and to the left if you are going to turn left. If you are going straight ahead, stay in the middle of your lane, and in the right lane if there are multiple lanes in the same direction. Signs and road markings may give different directions, so be aware of this when approaching an intersection.

Traffic light

At intersections and pedestrian crossings in areas with high traffic, traffic is often regulated by traffic lights.

When the traffic light is flashing yellow or when the traffic light is out of order, signs or the general yield rules apply. If there are yield signs at the intersection in question, you must comply with the yield signs. If there are no yield signs, the general yield rules apply. When the light is flashing yellow at a pedestrian crossing, you always have the right of way for pedestrians in – or on their way out of – the pedestrian crossing.

Intersection with arrow signal

The arrow signal applies to those who want to drive in the direction the arrow is pointing. If you are going to turn in the direction of the arrow signal, you are not required to yield to anyone (the pedestrians in the road you are going to turn into will be given a red light).

7. Driving in the city

When turning left at an intersection

• Inform other road users by signaling, positioning yourself towards the center of the roadway and reducing your speed well in advance of turning.
• Do not position yourself so far to the left of the roadway that you obstruct oncoming traffic.
• When both you and the oncoming car are going to turn left, turn before passing the car, so that you have the car on your right. This facilitates traffic flow.
• Pay particular attention to any vehicles behind the first oncoming car. Unfortunately, it happens all too often that a car turns left at an intersection without spotting an oncoming two-wheeler going straight ahead (which has been hidden behind another vehicle).
• If oncoming vehicles are going straight ahead, you have the obligation to give way to them and must wait to turn until the oncoming vehicle has passed.
• Be aware of any pedestrians crossing the street you are about to enter. When you have a green light but are about to turn left, you must yield to pedestrians crossing the road you are about to enter.

Signs and signals

Signs and signals are used to provide information to other road users.

• Signals are turn signals and brake lights. You give signals to inform other road users of what you are doing.
• Signaling means using the car's horn or flashing lights (flashing the high beams/turning on the hazard warning lights). Signaling is only used to warn or avert danger.

When turning right at an intersection

• Inform other road users by signaling, positioning yourself against the shoulder/curb and reducing your speed well in advance of turning.
• When you position yourself right next to the shoulder or curb, you avoid having two-wheelers on the inside of you. This eliminates the risk of conflict (if the two-wheeler is going straight ahead at the intersection where you are going to turn right, you risk the two-wheeler driving into you when you turn).
• Be sure to make the right turn so tight that you do not obstruct oncoming traffic in the road you are turning into.
• Be aware of any pedestrians crossing the street you are about to enter. When you have a green light but are about to turn right, you must yield to pedestrians crossing the road you are about to enter.

Signs and signals

Signs and signals are used to provide information to other road users.

• Signals are turn signals and brake lights. You give signals to inform other road users of what you are doing.
• Signaling means using the car's horn or flashing lights (flashing the high beams/turning on the hazard warning lights). Signaling is only used to warn or avert danger.

7. Driving in the city

Roundabout

Many people are unsure about the rules for driving on roundabouts. It may be a little easier for you to know that in traffic regulations, a roundabout is considered a regular intersection.

Just like at regular intersections, it is important that you send clear signals to your fellow road users:

• Give signs in good time
• Position yourself correctly before the roundabout
• Adjust your speed to gain an overview and to show others that you will comply with the duty to yield.

Duty to yield at roundabouts

Roundabouts are marked with yield signs. This means that you have a duty to yield to traffic inside the roundabout. As usual, yield means that the person you are giving way to should not be obstructed or disturbed.

Adjust your speed well in advance of the roundabout. This will make it easier to observe any pedestrians before and after the roundabout and will show road users in the roundabout that you will comply with your duty to give way.

In roundabouts with multiple lanes, you must also remember that you have the right of way when changing lanes and other lateral movements. Therefore, you must check your mirrors and blind spots carefully before moving between lanes in a roundabout.

Signs and signals

Signs and signals are used to provide information to other road users.

• Signals are turn signals and brake lights. You give signals to inform other road users of what you are doing.
• Signaling means using the car's horn or flashing lights (flashing the high beams/turning on the hazard warning lights). Signaling is only used to warn or avert danger.

Blind spot

The blind spot, also called the blind spot, is the area around the vehicle that cannot be seen in the mirrors or by looking out the window from the driver's cab.

When going straight ahead in a roundabout

Straight ahead at a roundabout with one lane in the direction of travel

• Position yourself on the right in your own lane and slow down to gain an overview and to show others that you will comply with the duty to yield.
• Enter the roundabout when you have a large enough gap.
• Turn on your right turn signal as you pass the first exit from the roundabout. This will allow everyone else to see that you are about to turn out of the roundabout and allow oncoming traffic to enter the roundabout.
• Be aware of any pedestrians in the crosswalk when exiting the roundabout.

Straight ahead at a roundabout with two lanes in the direction of travel

• As a general rule, you should position yourself in the right lane towards the roundabout. Lane orientation signs and road markings tell you whether you can also use the left lane.
• If you choose the left lane (when going straight ahead), you must change lanes in the roundabout before you exit the roundabout. Remember that you are then required to give way when changing lanes. Also remember that you must use your turn signals (as you must always do when changing lanes).

When turning right at a roundabout

When turning right at a roundabout, you should always stay in the right lane – regardless of whether there is one or two lanes in the roundabout.

How to drive:

• Turn on your right turn signal well before you reach the roundabout. This will let other road users know that you are turning right at the roundabout.
• Position yourself on the right in your own lane and slow down to gain an overview and to show others that you will comply with the duty to yield.
• Enter the roundabout when you have a large enough gap and then turn straight out of the roundabout.
• Be aware of any pedestrians in the crosswalk when exiting the roundabout.

When turning left at a roundabout

Left at a roundabout with one lane in the direction of travel

• Turn on your left turn signal well before you reach the roundabout. This will let other road users know that you are going through the roundabout and turning left.
• Position yourself on the left in your own lane and slow down to gain an overview and to show others that you will comply with the duty to yield.
• Enter the roundabout when you have a large enough gap.
• Turn on your right turn signal when you have passed the second-to-last exit.
• Be aware of any pedestrians in the crosswalk when exiting the roundabout.

Left at a roundabout with two lanes in the direction of travel

• When turning left in a roundabout with two lanes, you should position yourself in the left lane facing the roundabout.
• When you pass the second-to-last exit, you must change from the left lane to the right lane to exit the roundabout. Remember that you are then required to give way when changing lanes.

Signaling at roundabouts

7. Driving in the city

Backing

When you reverse or turn, you have the obligation to give way to all other road users.

Important rules and recommendations about reversing and turning

• If you cannot check yourself that no damage or danger can occur when reversing or turning, it is forbidden to reverse or turn unless you have another person take care of it (assistant). The assistant should stand behind the car, preferably on the left side, so that he has a full view of the area behind the car and can still make eye contact with the driver via the mirror.
• Reversing and turning is prohibited on motorways and expressways or on the entrance or exit road to motorways and expressways.
• Keep your speed low when reversing.
• Don't just look back, you also need to look forward, because the front of the car moves sideways when you reverse and turn at the same time.

Children in the blind spot

Because children are small and unpredictable, it doesn't take much for them to disappear into the blind spot behind the car. Many modern cars have small rear windows that sit high and in some cases you get a blind spot of 7 - 15 meters behind the car.

Therefore, don't always rely on what you can see from the driver's seat in the car, but take an extra check around the car if you are unsure.

Motorway

A motorway is a road designed for high speeds and heavy traffic. To avoid dangers and problems with traffic flow, a motorway must meet a number of requirements.

Motorway

A motorway is a road designed for high speeds, but does not have the same quality and safety level as a motorway.

The same traffic rules apply to both motorways and expressways, but there are different design requirements. For example, traffic in opposite directions does not have to be separated by physical barriers, and there may be fewer than two lanes in each direction.

For both motorways and expressways, there is a requirement that properties along the road do not have direct access to the road.

The blind spot

There is an area next to the vehicle that you cannot see in your mirrors. This applies to both moped riders and drivers. The area is called the blind spot, and to see what is happening in the blind spot, you simply have to look around.

Turnaround

Due to the risks involved in reversing, it is recommended that, as far as is practical, you try to turn/turn around without having to reverse.

It is best if you have the opportunity to make a U-turn on the side of the road (e.g. a wide shoulder). If this is not possible, you should consider making a U-turn.

Basically, you are allowed to turn around and turn around everywhere except on motorways and expressways and the entrances to them.

It is of course also forbidden to turn around and turn around where there is a no-turn sign. The no-turn sign then applies until the next intersection.

7. Driving in the city

Stopping and parking

Stopping and parking on public roads are usually regulated through provisions in traffic regulations, as well as signage.

What is considered parking?

In the traffic regulations, parking is defined as any parking of a vehicle, even if the driver does not leave it. The exception is the shortest possible stop for getting on or off, or loading or unloading.

What is considered a stoppage?

When you stop your car, it is considered a stop. If you stopped because a traffic situation, signs, traffic lights or traffic rules required you to stop, we call it a traffic stop.

All stopping is prohibited here.

Example of stopping and parking

• If you stop to drop off a person, this is considered stopping according to traffic regulations, but not parking. You are therefore allowed to stop to drop off a passenger in a place where a No Parking sign is in effect.
• However, you are not allowed to stop to drop off a person where a No Stopping sign applies.

Remember!

In addition to the traffic regulations' provisions regarding parking, you must also take into account the basic rules of traffic when stopping or parking.

You should therefore not stop or park in such a way that it could create a hazard or in such a way that you unnecessarily obstruct or disrupt other traffic.

You are also required to “take appropriate measures” to prevent unauthorized use of the vehicle. This means, among other things, that you must lock the vehicle when you leave it.

Traffic stop

A traffic stop is a natural stop as a result of the traffic situation, such as stopping at a yield point, red light, traffic jam, etc.

Basic traffic rules

Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act is called the basic rules for traffic. The law states:

Everyone must travel with consideration and be alert and cautious so that no danger arises or damage is caused and so that other traffic is not unnecessarily obstructed or disturbed.

Road users must also show consideration for those who live or stay by the road.

This is the basis for all traffic behavior. Many people are punished for violating it.

Traffic rules about stopping

It is prohibited to stop in the following places:

• In a blind curve, in a tunnel, on a hilltop or in another blind spot.
• At intersections or closer than 5 meters from the intersection. The distance is calculated from the point where the curb, edge or road edge begins to curve.
• Entirely or partially on sidewalk, walkway or cycle path.
• At pedestrian or bicycle crossings or closer than 5 meters in front of such places.
• On a motorway or expressway or on an entrance or exit road to a motorway or expressway.
• Closer than 5 meters from a level crossing.
• In public transport lanes, shared use lanes or cycle lanes, except for buses or trams at stops.
• On a road widening for a bus, taxi or tram stop or closer than 20 metres from a public traffic sign for such a stop. An exception is getting on or off when it does not obstruct a bus, taxi or tram.

It is prohibited to stop on the top of a hill.

Confusing curve

A turn where you can't see very far due to obstructions such as forests, buildings, the shape of the turn, etc.

Motorway

A motorway is a road designed for high speeds and heavy traffic. To avoid dangers and problems with traffic flow, a motorway must meet a number of requirements.

Motorway

A motorway is a road designed for high speeds, but does not have the same quality and safety level as a motorway.

The same traffic rules apply to both motorways and expressways, but there are different design requirements. For example, traffic in opposite directions does not have to be separated by physical barriers, and there may be fewer than two lanes in each direction.

For both motorways and expressways, there is a requirement that properties along the road do not have direct access to the road.

Traffic rules regarding parking

In addition to the fact that it is prohibited to park where stopping is prohibited, there are some separate prohibition rules regarding parking.

Parking is prohibited.

• in front of entrance or exit
• at the meeting point across the entire width of the road as far as the carriageway is widened
• in the pedestrian zone
• on the street outside of specially designated areas
• in the carriageway on a main road with a speed limit higher than 50 km/h

Please note that there is no prohibition against parking on the left side of the road, but the basic rules of traffic apply as always – and therefore it is only permitted to park on the other side of the road if it cannot cause danger or obstruct other road users.

It is prohibited to park on a road with a speed limit exceeding 50 km/h.

Meeting place

On narrow roads where there is no room for oncoming traffic, the road may be widened in some places with so-called meeting points. Such meeting points are specially signposted.

Carriageway

The carriageway is the part of the road that is designated for normal driving (the area between the curb lines).

Pedestrian street

A pedestrian zone is a street that is marked with special pedestrian signs. In a pedestrian zone, you can only drive at walking speed, and parking is only allowed in specially marked spaces.

Street garden

A street in a residential area, primarily intended for pedestrians. Streets often have demarcated common areas with planting, a playground, and benches. Streets are marked with special street signs.

On the street, drivers must maintain walking speed and always give way to pedestrians.

Driveway

A right-of-way is a road marked with the sign "right-of-way". If you are driving on a right-of-way, drivers coming from a side road or intersecting road are required to give way through a right-of-way sign or stop sign.

No stopping here.

7. Driving in the city

Signage

Parking prohibited

This sign indicates that parking is prohibited on the side of the road where it is posted. You are allowed to stop for a short period of time to drop off or pick up passengers and you are also allowed to load or unload goods.

The sign is valid until the nearest intersection or until it is replaced with a new sign of the type "Parking prohibited" or a sign of the type "Stopping prohibited", "Parking zone", "End of parking zone" or "Parking".

Stopping prohibited

This sign indicates a prohibition on stopping on the side of the road where the sign is placed. The prohibition applies until the next intersection, or until a parking sign or a no parking sign.

All stopping is prohibited, even short stops for getting on and off.

Allowed parking

The parking sign indicates that parking is permitted on site, provided that the parking does not violate the traffic regulations regarding stopping or parking.

If the sign below indicates that parking is reserved for specific vehicle or road user groups, parking is prohibited for others.

If the sign is placed on or near a specially demarcated area, e.g. a parking lot, the sign applies to the entire area. Otherwise, the sign only applies to the side of the road where it is placed. The sign is then valid until the nearest intersection or until it is replaced by a new sign ("Parking", "Stopping prohibited", "Parking prohibited" or "Parking zone").

Subscript - time determinations

A parking sign will often have a sub-sign that defines the time period during which parking is permitted. However, if the sign is accompanied by "Parking prohibited" or "Stopping prohibited", the sub-sign defines the period during which the prohibition applies.

Note that:

• Times that apply from Monday to Friday (excluding holidays) are written in black characters without brackets.
• Saturdays, excluding holidays, are written in black characters with brackets around them.
• Sundays and other holidays are written in red letters.

7. Driving in the city

Summary

The main points of Chapter 7

• The duty to yield is the obligation to hold back for other road users when your continued driving will obstruct or interfere with another road user. The person who has the duty to yield must clearly demonstrate that he/she will comply with the duty to yield by slowing down in good time.
• The main rule for yielding is the right-hand rule, which means that you have the right-hand rule for traffic coming from the right.
• As far as conditions allow, vehicles should be driven on the right side of the road. On roads with two or more lanes in the direction of travel, you should therefore be in the right lane unless the traffic rules require or allow the use of the left lane.
• The middle or left lane can be used when overtaking, or to improve traffic flow when traffic is heavy.
• When turning, you should generally keep to the side you are turning to. Inform other road users by giving signals (turn signals and brake lights, if applicable), by positioning yourself correctly and by reducing your speed well in advance of turning.
• To reduce the risk of accidents in traffic, it is important that you maintain the necessary distance from your fellow road users. A rule of thumb is that you should have at least 3 seconds of distance to the vehicle in front.
• When you change lanes, you are required to give way to traffic in the lane you are about to enter. The same applies when you are about to pull off the side of the road or make another lateral movement.
• Roundabouts follow the same rules as regular intersections. When you enter a roundabout, you are usually required to give way to other road users already in the roundabout. Remember that you are required to give way as normal when changing lanes inside the roundabout.
• When you are reversing or turning, you have a duty to yield to all other road users. If you cannot ensure that no damage or danger can occur, you must have another person help you (an assistant).
• In the traffic regulations, parking is defined as any parking of a vehicle, even if the driver does not leave it. The exception is the shortest possible stop for getting on or off, or loading or unloading.

In the next chapter we will look at situations that are more typical of high-speed traffic than city driving. We will look in particular at road facilities such as motorways, tunnels and level crossings. We will also look at overtaking, driving at night and driving abroad.

Driving on the country road

When driving on a country road/motorway, a number of situations arise that are more typical of high-speed traffic than city driving.

Driving in the dark and overtaking are situations that require extra driver skills.

In Chapter 8 we will go through:

• 8.1 Motorway
• 8.2 Right-of-way
• 8.3 Overtaking
• 8.4 Driving after dark
• 8.5 Tunnel
• 8.6 Level transition
• 8.7 Abroad
• 8.8 Summary

8. Driving on the highway

Motorway

A motorway is a road designed for safe driving at high speeds and to increase the capacity of car traffic. Statistically, the chance of getting into an accident is less on a motorway than on other roads.

There are requirements for how motorways are designed:

• Traffic in different directions is physically separated by medians or a large distance.
• There are at least two lanes in each direction.
• All intersections are level-free, meaning that the highway is only crossed by a bridge or tunnel.
• No properties along the road have direct access to the highway.
• All entry or exit onto the motorway occurs either at the start or end point or via on- and off-ramps with exit lanes and speed bumps.

In addition to the characteristics of the motorway itself, the traffic regulations have their own provisions regarding the use of motorways:

• All traffic must be carried out by vehicles that can legally drive at least 40 km/h on level ground.
• Mopeds are prohibited on highways because mopeds can be difficult to see and because wind suction can cause accidents.
• It is prohibited to walk or cycle on the motorway.
• It is prohibited to turn, reverse, stop or park on a motorway.

Centerpieces

A physical separation between opposing directions of traffic on roads, formerly often called a "median divider". The main function of the median is to separate the directions of traffic to reduce head-on accidents.

Exit lane

Also called deceleration lane or speed reduction lane. Exit lanes direct traffic from a main road onto a secondary road. Traffic first enters the deceleration lane, which then transitions into an exit ramp that directs traffic onto the secondary road. The lane makes it possible to leave a main road without disrupting the flow of traffic, thereby adapting the speed to the speed level on the secondary road.

Speed ​​increase field

Also called acceleration lane or on-ramp. Speed ​​increase lanes direct traffic from a secondary road onto a main road. From the secondary road, traffic first drives onto an on-ramp that directs traffic to the same level as the main road. When the on-ramp is at the same level as the main road, the speed increase lane begins. Here, traffic can increase its speed in accordance with the speed level on the main road and then merge with the main road traffic.

Motorway

A motorway is also a road that is designed for relatively high speed driving, but does not have the same high standards as a motorway. Among other things, there is no requirement for more than one lane in each direction and there is no requirement for median dividers.

Motorways do not have many special characteristics other than that the quality of the road should be high, and that no properties have direct access onto the motorway (just like on a motorway).

Motorway. Note that there is only one lane in each direction and that oncoming traffic is not physically separated.

Many of the same traffic rules apply to dual carriageways as to motorways:

• All traffic must be carried out by vehicles that can legally drive at least 40 km/h on level ground.
• Mopeds are prohibited on motorways.
• It is prohibited to walk or cycle on motorways.
• It is prohibited to turn, reverse, stop or park on a motorway.

Speed ​​limits on motorways and expressways

Normally, the speed limit is posted. The highest speed limit in Norway today is 110 km/h. If no specific speed is posted, the general speed limit outside built-up areas applies – 80 km/h.

When towing a trailer, you cannot drive faster than 80 km/h, even if the speed limit is higher. If you get a Tempo 100 approval for your trailer or caravan, you can drive up to 100 km/h.

On some motorways the speed limit is 100 km/h.

8. Driving on the highway

Speed ​​increase field

On motorways, entry is via a dedicated speed increase lane. Such speed increase lanes are also used on selected expressways and high-speed roads.

The merging rule also applies to speed bumps.

The traffic rules state that "drivers in speed increase lanes must adjust their speed to the traffic in the lane they are about to enter."

The traffic rules also state that other drivers must ease the exit from the speed limit. You do this by:

• speed adjustment
• Sufficient distance to the vehicle in front to create room for entering
• to shift to the left lane if appropriate

Use the speed increase field to set yourself at the same speed as the road you are about to enter.

Braiding

When the rule for merging applies, drivers in the right lane and the acceleration lane have a mutual duty to give way. This means that drivers in both lanes must give way to road users in front of them when the two lanes merge into one lane.

Speed ​​adjustment

Also called speed adaptation. To adapt the speed to the conditions and traffic situation.

Exit lane

On motorways, exits are always made via a separate exit lane (except where the road ends). Such exit lanes are also occasionally used on other types of roads.

Use of exit lanes

The traffic rules state that "on a roadway with two or more lanes in the direction of travel, drivers must enter the rightmost lane in good time when turning right." This means

• that you should move into the right lane in good time (before you reach the exit lane)
• that you should enter the exit lane as quickly as possible when you reach it. Remember to check your blind spot before changing lanes!
• that unless the traffic situation requires otherwise, you should wait to brake until you are in the exit lane (so that you do not obstruct traffic behind or create dangerous situations)

In the exit lane, you can reduce speed without obstructing traffic behind.

Blind spot

The blind spot is the area you cannot see in the mirrors from the driver's seat.

In a car, there are two large blind spots on each side of the mirror, which you must check by looking out the window. You must be aware of these when changing lanes.

Acceleration lanes and exit lanes

The film shows both how the person driving in the speed limit and the person driving on the highway should drive in such a situation.

Narrowing to fewer lanes

Narrowing by braiding

The general yield rules for lane changes do not apply when the number of lanes in the same direction of travel is reduced by two lanes merging into one.

In such cases, drivers must adjust their speed so that they can continue alternately without unnecessarily obstructing or interfering with each other (merging).

However, remember to give signals in good time, and to check your mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes.

Lane ends

Sometimes the number of lanes is reduced by one lane ending.

When a lane ends, road users in this lane are required to give way as when changing lanes.

Tip!

A good rule of thumb is that the red arrow on the sign indicates who has the right of way. If both arrows are red, both have the mutual right of way, and then the rules for merging apply.

Blind spot

The blind spot, also called the blind spot, is the area around the vehicle that cannot be seen in the mirrors or by looking out the window from the driver's cab.

8. Driving on the highway

Driveway

To ensure the flow of traffic on major roads with occasional heavy traffic, they are often made into priority roads. Such roads are marked with the sign Priority Road. If you are driving on a priority road, drivers coming from a side road or intersecting road are required to give way through a priority road sign or stop sign.

The sign is usually repeated after each intersection to inform new road users that they are now driving on a right-of-way, and is cancelled at the End of Right-of-way sign or at a yield or stop sign.

When you come from a side road and are about to enter a right-of-way, you have the duty to give way to traffic on the right-of-way. The duty to give way means that those driving on the right-of-way should not be obstructed or disturbed by you. Therefore, you should check your interior mirror and increase your speed decisively when entering the right-of-way, so that road users on the right-of-way do not have to slow down because of you.

Some special rules apply on the right-of-way:

• It is prohibited to park on a road with a speed limit higher than 50 km/h.
• Overtaking directly in front or at intersections is permitted on the right-of-way.

Contribute to the flow

During rush hour traffic, there will often be a steady flow of road users on a right-of-way, and it may be difficult for drivers coming from a side road to get onto the road without violating the duty to yield. As a driver on the right-of-way, you should show a willingness to cooperate and let a road user from the side road pass.

Driving onto a driveway

If you are going to enter a right-of-way, you must be aware that drivers on the intersecting road are allowed to overtake at the intersection. This means that even if you are going to turn right at the intersection, you must check on both sides that it is clear before entering the right-of-way.

8. Driving on the highway

Overtaking

As a driver, you will often find yourself in situations where you have to consider overtaking. Therefore, it is important to understand the dangers of overtaking and to establish good routines for considering whether and how to overtake.

Basically, it is only allowed to overtake on the left side, no matter what type of road you are driving on. Even three-lane highways.

Overtaking on the right side

In some situations you can overtake on the right:

The driver in front must turn left.

If the vehicle in front is turning left at the upcoming intersection and is stopped and waiting for the lane to clear, you may pass on the right side. Provided there is sufficient space to complete the overtaking. Please note that if the vehicle you are passing is large, it may be difficult for oncoming traffic to see you.

Heavy traffic in both lanes

If there is heavy traffic in both lanes in the same direction, it is permissible to overtake in the right lane, if this follows the flow of traffic. This typically happens during rush hour traffic on the entrance and exit roads to the larger cities, or on the major departure days during the holidays.

Situations where overtaking is prohibited

Overtaking is prohibited.

• when visibility is obstructed, for example at hilltops and sharp bends (the prohibition does not apply to overtaking in lanes where oncoming traffic is not permitted)
• at pedestrian crossings, when visibility is partially obstructed
• when signs prohibit overtaking or warn of conditions where overtaking is particularly risky
• when road markings prohibit it

Overtaking at intersections

According to the traffic rules, the main rule is that overtaking is prohibited directly in front of or at intersections. However, there are quite a few exceptions to the main rule where you are actually allowed to overtake at or in front of intersections. You can overtake when:

• Traffic on the intersecting road is required to yield at public traffic signs.
• there are two or more lanes in the direction of travel
• the vehicle in front is turning left or is clearly preparing to do so, and you are passing on the right side
• traffic at the intersection is regulated by traffic lights or police

8. Driving on the highway

Before you make an overtaking move

Before overtaking, make sure that:

• Overtaking is allowed
• the road is clear of oncoming traffic and obstacles so that you have sufficient space and time to make a safe overtaking move
• the vehicle in front does not show lane change signs
• vehicle behind has not started, or is about to start, an overtaking manoeuvre
• you will be able to quickly rejoin the traffic flow if necessary

You must also take into account road markings:

• A lane line warns that overtaking can be carried out safely as long as there is no oncoming traffic.
• A warning line warns that overtaking is risky, often because you will not be able to see far enough.
• A barrier line warns that overtaking is not possible. If you cross the barrier line, you risk having your driver's license revoked.

Lane line

A lane line consists of short yellow/white lines with long gaps (3 times as long as the lines). The line warns that overtaking is safe as long as there is no oncoming traffic.

Yellow lane lines separate lanes with opposite directions of travel. White lane lines separate lanes with the same direction of travel.

Alert line

A warning line consists of long yellow/white lines with short intervals (1/3 of the length of the lines). The line warns that overtaking is risky, often because you will not be able to see far enough.

Barrier line

A barrier line consists of an uninterrupted line that warns that overtaking is not possible. If you cross the barrier line, you risk having your driver's license revoked. Barrier lines can often be double, as in the picture.

To overtake and be overtaken

When you are going to overtake, you should:

• signal with a turn signal
• check mirrors and blind spots
• Keep a safe distance when passing the person you are passing.
• signal that you want to end the overtaking
• turn back into your own lane when you can see the front of the car you have passed in the center mirror

When you are overtaken, you are obliged to make the overtaking as safe as possible:

• Keep well to the right.
• Do not increase your speed so that the overtaking distance becomes longer for the person driving over you.
• Slow down or pull over if necessary.
• Use your mirrors and remember to check your blind spots.

8. Driving on the highway

Bypass section

The overtaking distance is the distance you travel when overtaking. From the time you drive your car out of your lane until you are back in your lane.

How many meters the overtaking distance will be is difficult to calculate since there are many factors that come into play. How close you are to the vehicle in front when you cross into the oncoming lane, what speed you maintain as you pull out, how fast you turn into the oncoming lane, etc.

You are not expected to be able to calculate this, but you are expected to understand how the difference in your speed and the speed of the car you are passing affects the overtaking distance.

We call this difference relative speed. If relative speed is doubled, the overtaking distance is halved.

Example

You are going to overtake a car that is going 70 km/h while you are going 80 km/h. The relative speed will then be 10 km/h, the overtaking distance will be approximately 500 meters.

If the person you are about to pass slows down to 60 km/h while you are still going 80 km/h, the relative speed will be 20 km/h. That is, double.

Since the overtaking distance is halved when the relative speed doubles, the overtaking distance then becomes 250 meters if the relative speed increases to 20 km/h.

Free road section

One of the most important and difficult assessments you have to make before overtaking is to calculate how long the overtaking will take and whether you have enough free road space to make the overtaking safe.

Free roadway consists of three elements:

• the overtaking lane
• a safety margin equal to the overtaking distance
• oncoming traffic's distance traveled

Assuming that oncoming traffic will maintain approximately the same speed as you, we simplify this to: overtaking distance x 3 = free road distance

This means that if the overtaking itself will take 250 meters, you will need a clear stretch of road of 750 meters to be able to carry out the overtaking in a safe manner.

8. Driving on the highway

Driving after dark

Considering that up to 90% of all information you obtain while driving comes through your sense of sight, it perhaps goes without saying that a lot of important information is lost in the dark. And accident statistics show that the risk of accidents is considerably greater in the dark than in daylight.

In particular, the risk of being hit by pedestrians is far greater in the dark than in daylight.

Do you see the third person?

What you see in the dark depends on how much light the car emits and how much of this is reflected back to your eye:

• Dark clothing reflects little of the light from car headlights (about 5–10%).
• Light-colored clothing can almost act like a reflector and reflect up to 80% of the light.
• A good reflector reflects almost all the light emitted by the car's headlights.

Correct speed = your responsibility!

Remember that both the Road Traffic Act and traffic regulations require you to adjust your speed to the conditions. In the dark, this means you often have to slow down to drive safely.

Driving in the dark

The limitations of the eye

The human eye works well in the dark, but only through gradual adaptation. It takes about 30 minutes for the eye to adjust to the dark after being in daylight. If you are exposed to bright light in the dark, your night vision deteriorates again and you need another 30 minutes to be able to see as well.

Since it takes time for the eye to achieve optimal night vision, you must be especially aware that your vision is impaired when you

• driving from daylight into a dark tunnel or into a dark parking garage
• comes from a place with a lot of light, such as a gas station or grocery store
• has been blinded by the lights of oncoming vehicles

Bright lights at a gas station impair night vision.

Night vision

The ability of the eye to adapt to low-light environments. The human eye works well in the dark, but only through gradual adaptation. It takes about 30 minutes for the eye to adjust to the dark after being in daylight. If you are exposed to bright light in the dark, your night vision deteriorates again and you need another 30 minutes to be able to see as well.

Dazzling

When your eye is exposed to bright light, you become dazzled.

In traffic, you experience this especially when you have low sun, or when it is dark and passing cars are shining their headlights on you. You can prevent glare by avoiding looking directly at light sources. Place your eyes slightly to the right of the road, instead of in the middle of the road.

If you are dazzled, you must slow down.

Avoid looking directly at the headlights of oncoming cars.

Stopping and parking in the dark

When stopping or parking on the road, in poor visibility conditions, the parking lights on the car should be on.

It is prohibited to use high and low beams when stopping or parking. Such lights are dazzling and reduce visibility for oncoming traffic.

8. Driving on the highway

Use of lights when driving at night

In the dark, correct use of your car's lights is crucial. As we saw in Chapter 2, dipped headlights should illuminate the road at least 40 meters in front of the car, while high beams should illuminate at least 100 meters in front of the car. In the dark, you should therefore preferably use high beams, as far as possible.

Because high beams are more powerful and aimed higher up, you must still switch to low beams when you risk dazzling oncoming or oncoming traffic with your lights.

When two cars meet on a road in the dark, both drivers should

• switch from high beam to low beam only when the distance between the cars is 200-300 meters
• reduce speed (because visibility is reduced when you get oncoming traffic's lights in your eyes)
• look along the right edge of the road (to avoid being dazzled and to look for pedestrians and animals along the road)
• switch back to high beams about two car lengths before meeting (since the high beams shine straight ahead, you will not dazzle each other)

When the cars are approximately 200-300 meters apart, both cars must switch to low beams.

When the cars are approximately 2 car lengths apart, you can switch to high beam without dazzling anyone.

Sight distance

How far you can see.

Overtaking in the dark

Overtaking in the dark is extra risky. You must especially take into account that there may be pedestrians and animals on the side of the road – on both sides of the road.

When passing in the dark

• The person driving past should switch to low beam when the high beam begins to illuminate the car in front. This happens when the distance is 100-200 meters (depending on how far the high beam shines).
• After turning left to start overtaking, the overtaking vehicle switches back to high beam again when the vehicle is approximately two car lengths behind the vehicle in front.
• The person being overtaken must keep their high beams on until the other car has just passed. Then the car being overtaken must switch to low beams.

When the red car is approximately 2 car lengths behind the white car, the red car should switch to high beam.

A white car switches to low beam after a red car has passed.

8. Driving on the highway

Tunnels

Before you drive into a tunnel, there are a number of potential dangers you should be aware of so that you can drive with the lowest possible risk.

From 2016, training and testing in tunnel driving is mandatory, both for the theory test and the driving test. You must also have knowledge of what to do if an accident occurs in a tunnel.

Dangers in tunnels

• Visibility may be poor.
• It can be slippery in the tunnel.
• In some areas, there may be animals (sheep, goats, cows) in the tunnel opening seeking shelter from the sun or bad weather.

Safe driving in tunnels

• Slow down towards the tunnel.
• Be ready to demist. For example, you can heat the windshield when it's cold to remove mist from the inside of the window. Or use the windshield wipers to remove mist from the outside of the window.
• Avoid overtaking in the tunnel. The exception is if there are multiple lanes in the same direction.
• Use high beams when you can, but be careful not to dazzle others.

Tunnel safety

Traffic accidents in tunnels are rare, but when they do occur, the extent of the damage and the consequences are significant. That is why the authorities are making major investments in tunnel safety, and it is important that you as a driver know what to do if an accident does occur.

• Do not drive into a tunnel closed with a barrier or red light.
• Pay attention to signage showing where the nearest escape route is, as well as the location of emergency telephones and fire extinguishers.
• If you have a stalled engine, a flat tire, or for other reasons cannot continue driving, drive into the nearest emergency shelter if possible. Put on a reflective vest and get out of the car to find the nearest emergency telephone.
• Use an emergency telephone, where available – the operator will then automatically know exactly where you are and can more easily take action and help you further.
• Use the fire extinguishers in the tunnel – these will also trigger the fire alarm.

Keep your distance!

If you notice a queue forming in front of you in the tunnel, turn on your hazard lights and make sure to stop with enough distance to the vehicle in front to turn around if necessary. If there has been an accident and you have to leave the car, leave the keys in the ignition so that emergency personnel can easily move the car if necessary.

Emergency pocket

Widening of the roadway where a vehicle that would otherwise obstruct other traffic can be placed. Not to be used for regular parking.

Emergency phone

An emergency telephone is a telephone installed along the road, primarily on motorways and in tunnels. The telephone is intended for use in emergencies or when roadside assistance is needed, and has a direct connection to a traffic information center or emergency center.

8. Driving on the highway

Level crossings

A level crossing is a place where a road and train or tram tracks cross at the same level.

It is very rare for accidents to occur at level crossings, but if accidents do occur they are often very serious. Therefore, many level crossings are specially secured and all level crossings must be signposted.

Level crossings are usually secured with

• barrier/gate
• own type of light signal
• sound signal

Level crossing signage

Crossing a level crossing always involves a certain amount of risk. In addition to securing the level crossing itself, level crossings are therefore clearly signposted well in advance of the crossing.

The signage tells you a lot about the crossing itself. First, you will see a danger sign, which tells you whether the crossing is secured with a barrier/gate.

Remember that there may be several trains on the way, so never drive over until you have made sure it is safe – even if a train has already passed.

Distance sign

Many level crossings are also marked with distance signs indicating how far away the level crossing is.

The distance signs start from where the danger sign is and count down towards the level crossing, so that you first see the sign with three lines, then the sign with two lines, and finally the sign with one line. The lines tell you how much of the distance remains, e.g. when you see the sign with two lines, 2/3 of the distance remains towards the crossing.

Light and sound signals at level crossings

Light signals

The traffic lights at level crossings have two lights – a red, flashing light at the top and a white, flashing light at the bottom. It is possible that the signal system is out of order or there may be a fault with the signal system, so always check carefully before crossing the level crossing.

• Red, flashing light means you must stop at the stop line or at a safe distance from the signal.
• White, flashing light means you can pass. White, flashing light also indicates that the signaling system is operating.

Audio signals

Sometimes there will also be separate sound signals installed at the level crossing. The sound signal sounds when the light flashes red.

Passing a level crossing

You must take this into account when approaching a level crossing:

• Pay attention to the signs and distance signs so that the level crossing doesn't suddenly come at you.
• Adjust your speed well in advance so that you can stop if a train or tram approaches.
• Even if the barrier is up and the white light is flashing, you must always look ahead before crossing the level crossing. If a train or tram is approaching, you still have a duty to give way.

Remember!

It is prohibited to stop (and thus park) closer than 5 meters from a level crossing. The reason for the rule is that parked cars reduce visibility for other road users.

8. Driving on the highway

Driving abroad

When you drive a Norwegian car abroad, the car must be marked with a nationality mark. You must obtain your own mark if the nationality mark is not on the license plate. Before driving abroad, it is a good idea to check that your insurance also applies outside Norway.

Also remember that the risk of accidents is often much greater than in Norway.

Traffic rules are quite similar in many countries, but there are some important exceptions:

• Many countries use white lines to separate oncoming traffic (for example, this applies to Sweden, Denmark and Finland).
• Speed ​​limits vary from country to country.
• On high-speed roads, you must be especially careful when changing lanes as cars can come very fast.
• Rules for yielding can vary, so don't assume that others will yield because you are coming from the right.
• Daytime running lights are prohibited in several countries.
• Alcoholic drink regulations vary from country to country.

You don't have to go any further than Sweden before both the sign colors and the color of the road markings are different.

Left-hand drive

In some countries, driving is done on the left side of the road, the most well-known being the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, Thailand, Pakistan, Indonesia and India. In these countries, the cars have the steering wheel on the right side. It is perfectly legal to drive a car with the steering wheel on the left side, but you will have a reduced view of oncoming traffic.

Nationality mark

Letter code that informs which country the car is registered in.

Left-hand drive

In some countries, people drive on the left side of the road. The most well-known are the United Kingdom, India, Australia and Japan.

8. Driving on the highway

Summary

The main points of Chapter 8

• Motorways and expressways are designed for high speeds. To avoid hazards and problems with traffic flow, the quality of the road is high, and properties along the road do not have direct access to the road. There are several requirements for motorways, including that traffic in different directions must be physically separated by medians.
• On motorways and expressways, all traffic must be carried out by vehicles that can legally drive at least 40 km/h – it is prohibited for mopeds, cyclists and pedestrians. It is prohibited to turn, reverse, stop or park on motorways and expressways.
• If you are going to overtake, you must consider whether and how the overtaking can be carried out safely and legally. As a general rule, overtaking should take place on the left side.
• The overtaking distance is the distance you travel when overtaking, and depends on the relative speed between you and the road user you are about to overtake. If the relative speed is doubled, the overtaking distance is halved.
• Clearance is how far ahead there must be clear space for overtaking to be safe. Clearance consists of the actual overtaking distance, how far oncoming traffic is traveling, and a safety margin, and is calculated as approximately three times the overtaking distance.
• It takes about 30 minutes for the eye to adjust to the dark after being in daylight.
• In the dark, you should use high beams as much as possible. To avoid dazzling other road users, you must still switch to low beams when you are closer than 100–200 meters to the car in front, or when the distance to oncoming traffic is 200–300 meters. When overtaking, you can switch back to high beams when the front of your car is in line with the rear of the car in front.
• Tunnels can have poor visibility, so slow down before entering the tunnel. Be aware of slippery roads and animals that may have wandered into the tunnel.
• Level crossings are clearly signposted well in advance of the crossing, and are usually secured with a barrier/gate, and special light and sound signals. Even if the barrier is up and the white light is flashing, you must always look ahead before crossing a level crossing. Remember that you have the duty to give way to trains and trams.

In the next – and last regular chapter – we will look at traffic accidents, first aid and motoring from an environmental perspective.

Traffic accidents and the environment

There are many requirements for you as a driver regarding what to do if you are involved in an accident or you arrive at the scene of an accident. In this chapter, we will look at the duties you have in such cases and take a closer look at the topic of first aid.

We will also look at accident statistics and what you especially need to think about as a new driver.

Finally, we will look at how driving affects the environment and what you can do yourself to drive in an environmentally friendly way.

In Chapter 9 we will go through:

• 9.1 Duties in the event of a traffic accident
• 9.2 First aid
• 9.3 Statistics and accidents
• 9.4 Driving and environment
• 9.5 Summary

9. Traffic accidents and the environment

Duties in the event of a traffic accident

Failure to assist in a traffic accident is a criminal offense under Norwegian law. You are obligated to stop and assist even if you are not involved in the accident, if this is necessary. Therefore, you should know what is expected of you if you are unfortunate enough to experience a traffic accident.

It is not easy to keep a cool head when you are involved in an accident and often you will find that there is chaos at the scene of the accident. It is your responsibility to ensure that the right actions are taken and that they are taken in the right order.

If you fail to try to help an injured person, you can be punished with imprisonment for up to 3 years and you risk losing your driving license forever.

As the first person at the scene of an accident, you must:

• Start by securing the scene of the accident. It is important that you ensure that the scene of the accident is properly secured to avoid further accidents and incidents. Set out warning triangles correctly. If possible, you should position your car with the hazard lights on so that you effectively warn other road users approaching the scene of the accident. If possible, you should move vehicles that are obstructing or pose a risk of further accidents. Remember to wear a high-visibility vest when you get out of the car.
• Get an overview. Who is injured and who needs attention first?
• If you have a telephone available, you should call 113.
• Practice first aid.

Orange signs

If one of the vehicles involved has orange plates on the front and back, you need to be extra careful. Orange plates mean that the vehicle is carrying dangerous goods, which may be flammable, corrosive or otherwise harmful. You need to inform the emergency services about this and give them the number on the plate, if you can.

Dangerous goods

A number of hazardous substances can pose a safety challenge to life, health, the environment or materials, making them risky to handle and transport. The transport of dangerous goods is therefore subject to both national regulations and international safety requirements through various transport regulations.

At the scene of the accident

In this film, we take a closer look at how you should act as the first person at an accident scene.

Other duties in the event of a traffic accident

Fortunately, most traffic accidents are of a less serious nature, with minor injuries or only material damage. Since the likelihood of you ending up in such a situation is quite high, you should know what is expected of you.

• Everyone involved in a traffic accident is obliged to provide their name and address to each other, and to the police if they ask.
• If you are driving a car that you do not own, you must provide the owner's name and address.
• You are obliged to report the accident to the police if it has resulted in personal injury, unless it is completely insignificant.
• You have a duty to report it to the police if there is no one present who can look after the interests of the injured party, for example if you hit a parked car and cannot reach the owner.

Good documentation!

To ensure that the issue of fault is handled properly, it is smart to ensure good documentation. Use a damage report and write down what happened. Feel free to illustrate with pictures and drawings, find witnesses, and note down names and addresses.

Minor personal injury

Injuries that do not need to be checked by medical personnel. For example, small abrasions, bruises, etc.

Material damage

Damage to vehicles, luggage and infrastructure such as fences, signs and buildings.

9. Traffic accidents and the environment

First aid

First aid is the first aid you can provide in the event of a car accident. After securing the scene of the accident, you should begin with first aid. As a first step, call 113 if you have a phone available. 113 will then help you through what to do.

If you arrive at an accident scene without a phone available or outside of the coverage area, you need to know what to do.

Before you can perform first aid, there are three questions you need to find answers to:

1. What is the condition of the injured person?

Is the injured person conscious, does he have a clear airway and how is his breathing? Look for visible injuries and check skin color and temperature.

2. What does the injured person say?

Does the injured person have pain and, if so, what kind of pain is it? Also ask if there are other things that feel abnormal.

3. What can you do?

Based on what you see and what the injured person(s) says, you must decide what kind of treatment to provide.

What can you do?

The person is conscious.

If the person is conscious, you should ask about their condition, any pain, etc. to get a picture of the person's condition. Also be aware of how you appear and try to act calmly and firmly so that the person feels safe.

The person is unconscious.

First, try gently shaking the person to see if you can wake them up. If this is unsuccessful, ensure that the person has a clear airway.

An unconscious person cannot keep their airway clear if something were to cause a blockage in their airway, so first make sure that the person has a clear airway by tilting the person's head back and placing the person in the side position if breathing appears normal.

If the person is unconscious and not breathing or breathing with gasping, short, and irregular breaths, you must perform CPR immediately.

The helmet must come off!

If a person is unconscious and wearing a helmet, the helmet should be removed to avoid the risk of the injured person choking on blood or vomit.

This was a relatively controversial topic and previously it was recommended to leave the helmet on due to the risk of worsening any neck injuries. This has now changed: An intact neck is of little use if the person is suffocating due to blocked airways anyway.

Ideally, there should be two of you when removing the helmet. One to support the person's neck and one to gently pull off the helmet.

CPR

Abbreviation for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. CPR is performed as a series of chest compressions and rescue breaths given in combination as part of the treatment of a person in cardiac arrest.

9. Traffic accidents and the environment

CPR

How to perform CPR correctly:

• Make sure the injured person is lying with their back flat on a hard surface.
• Start with 30 chest compressions and then 2 breaths.
• Compressions should be performed in the center of the chest and you should press the chest down about 1/3 of the depth of the chest. Maintain a rate of about 2 compressions per second.
• The breaths are given as follows: Lift the person's chin and pinch the nostrils closed. Blow for one second, being careful not to blow too hard. Watch for the chest to rise as you blow and after two breaths (successful or not) proceed to the next 30 compressions.
• Continue like this until paramedics have arrived and are ready to take over, or until the person actually comes back to life.

Bleeding

Light to moderate bleeding

If the wound is small and clear, with moderate bleeding, it is sufficient to clean and bandage the wound.

Pulmonary artery bleeding

If the blood comes in spurts and is bright and frothy, it may be a pulse.

In the event of a blood vessel bleed, apply firm pressure to the wound, and bandage it with a pressure bandage if possible. Elevate the injured area so that it is above the rest of the body, i.e. higher than the heart.

It may be a good idea to bring a first aid kit. This includes bandages.

Internal bleeding

Internal bleeding can be difficult to detect. Typical symptoms include the injured person being pale, having clammy and cold skin, and having reduced consciousness.

If the casualty is unconscious, ensure that the airway is clear and the person is in the side position. You should not give anything to drink to people with internal bleeding.

Circulatory failure/Shock

Typical symptoms of circulatory failure or shock are clammy and cold skin, rapid breathing, low blood pressure and abnormally low/high pulse.

There is not much you can do for a person with circulatory failure. Make sure the person is placed in the side position and if cardiac arrest occurs, CPR must be performed immediately.

Cooling

Make sure the injured person stays dry and warm, as cooling can quickly make the situation worse.

If the person is sitting in a car, you should consider not moving the person unless it is absolutely necessary, as there may be a risk of back and neck injuries that will be worsened by moving.

Circulatory failure

Is the same as shock. A condition in which blood circulation is insufficient to meet the body's needs. The reduced blood circulation leads to cold and clammy skin and blurred consciousness.

9. Traffic accidents and the environment

Accident statistics

Fewer and fewer deaths

In 2020, there were fewer than a hundred traffic fatalities for the first time since 1947, with a total of 95 fatalities. Compared to 1970, when 560 people died in traffic accidents, driving is significantly safer today. In fact, the number of traffic fatalities has been halved in just the last 10 years.

The Zero Vision

In an international context, 95 fatalities are few, but one fatality is still one too many. In order to minimize the number of serious accidents, the authorities have set a target for road safety efforts: “Zero fatalities and zero serious injuries” – the so-called “vision zero.”

The Zero Vision has been adopted by the Storting, and it is the vision and guideline for all traffic safety work.

Who gets into accidents?

In the past, young, fresh, male drivers were overrepresented in accident statistics. Among the reasons for this were that they were immature, vulnerable to peer pressure, and had an excessive belief in their own abilities.

But the statistics have changed in recent years. In the latest thematic analysis conducted by TØI in 2018, we find the following:

• Male drivers are at higher risk of being killed than female drivers, and an important reason is probably that accidents involving male drivers occur at higher speeds. Many fatal accidents also involve a male driver who has been driving under the influence of alcohol.
• The oldest drivers are still at higher risk than other groups both in terms of the most serious accidents with fatalities or fatalities and serious injuries, and in the least serious accidents with only material damage.

Increased focus on knowledge and attitudes in traffic training has led to a decrease in accidents for young drivers.

Reasons for the decline

Increased focus on knowledge and attitudes about safe driving in traffic education is highlighted as one of the most important reasons for the decline in traffic accidents. Other important reasons are:

• Modern car fleet - Newer cars are equipped with the latest safety technology, both passive and active safety.
• The point system - in 2011, the point system became stricter for new drivers. This has led to less dangerous driving.
• Less weekend driving - From 2010 to 2018, the number of accidents that occur on weekends decreased by a whopping 72%. This may be due to people making arrangements on social media to drive at night, which in turn is believed to lead to fewer spontaneous trips and drunk driving.

New cars are full of technology that contributes to road safety.

Accident types and contributing causes

Accident types

The largest type of accident when measured in terms of the number of fatalities in traffic are head-on collisions. Approximately 37% of those killed in traffic in 2019 died in head-on collisions.

The second largest type of accident measured in terms of number of fatalities is run-off accidents. Approximately 34% of those killed in traffic in 2019 died in run-off accidents.

Contributing causes

The biggest contributing causes of road fatalities in 2019 were:

• Lack of driving skills - Contributing cause of 55% of fatal accidents.
• Excessive speed - Contributing cause of 40% of fatal accidents.
• Fatigue/Falling asleep at the wheel - Contributing cause to 26% of fatal accidents
• Intoxication - Contributing cause of 20% of fatal accidents.

Intoxication as a cause

In this film, we take a closer look at the influence of drugs as a cause of fatal accidents.

9. Traffic accidents and the environment

Eco-friendly choices

As a driver, there are many things you can do that are beneficial to the environment. The most environmentally friendly thing will always be to leave your car parked, but for many this is unrealistic. Therefore, it can be good to know some choices you can make that contribute to less pollution.

• Drive with studless tires if possible. A studded tire can wear out as much as 5 – 20 grams of asphalt dust per kilometer driven.
• Use an engine heater. Starting the engine cold causes large emissions of environmentally harmful exhaust gases.
• Good maintenance of the car. Regular service reduces the car's emissions and pollution.
• Drive an electric car. Fuel emissions from gasoline and diesel cars pose the biggest environmental threat from motoring.
• Avoid unnecessary short trips whenever possible. Since the catalytic converter reaches operating temperature after 6 kilometers, the car pollutes the most before the engine has warmed up properly. If possible, consider alternatives such as public transport, cycling or simply – get on your feet!

Engine heater

Many cars have a built-in engine heater that runs on diesel or gasoline, or an electric engine heater that is connected to the power supply. This helps the engine warm up faster and reach the best possible operating temperature early.

Catalyst

The catalytic converter is part of the car's exhaust system, and contributes to reduced emissions of harmful exhaust gases. Since 1989, catalytic converters have been mandatory in all new passenger cars in Norway.

Environmentally friendly driving methods

In addition to the eco-friendly choices mentioned above, your driving style will also have a major impact on the environment.

Plan your route and time of travel to avoid traffic jams.

• "Skip" gears. For example, go straight from 2nd gear to 4th gear.
• Use the highest possible gear. Drive in the highest gear that the car can "pull" in - this minimizes fuel consumption.
• Determined speed increase. Be sure not to exceed 3,000 rpm. Acceleration consumes fuel, so once you have reached the desired speed you should try to maintain a steady speed.
• Take advantage of the terrain. On downhill slopes and just before hilltops, you can save fuel by easing off the throttle to cut off the fuel supply.
• Plan your route. By avoiding long detours and roads with rush hour traffic, you can save fuel.

Bonus!

Increased focus on environmentally friendly driving also makes your driving safer and more affordable.

9. Traffic accidents and the environment

Summary

The main points of Chapter 9

• Failure to assist in a traffic accident is a criminal offense under Norwegian law. You are obligated to stop and see if anyone needs help, even if you were not involved in the accident yourself.
• When you arrive at an accident scene, you must first secure the scene and get an overview. Then call 113 and provide first aid to those who need it.
• Anyone involved in a traffic accident is required to provide their name and address. You are also required to provide the owner's name and address (if the car is owned by someone else).
• You are obliged to report to the police if there has been significant personal injury, or if there is no one present who can look after the interests of the injured party, for example if you hit a parked car and cannot reach the owner.
• To save the environment, you should avoid unnecessary short trips. Leave your car and use public transport, a bicycle or simply – get on your feet!
• If you use your car, there are several things you can do to minimize your impact on the environment. Use an engine heater and studless tires in winter. Drive in the highest gear possible, unless you can brake in the gear by selecting a lower gear. Avoiding sudden braking and unnecessary starting and stopping will make driving both more economical and environmentally friendly.