Exam 3 Mod 3 Motorways

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Questions and Answers

What should emergency response vehicles try to avoid when travelling to incidents?

Driving at high speed

Driving without flashing lights

Parking near the scene

Travelling in convoy (correct)

Ambulances should position themselves behind the incident when arriving at the scene.

False

What should crews perform when arriving on the scene of an incident?

Risk assessment

If the first emergency vehicle is arriving at an unprotected scene on the hard shoulder, how far should it stop before the incident?

50 meters Signup and view all the answers

When should police or Highways England vehicles be parked at the rear of the scene?

To provide rear-facing warning lights Signup and view all the answers

In fever cases of emergencies on motorways, it is advisable to provide a situation report to control detailing your exact _______.

location Signup and view all the answers

Drivers should not stop at the scene of an incident if they are operating non-emergency vehicles.

True Signup and view all the answers

What should be activated when parking at the scene of any emergency?

Maximum visual warning lights Signup and view all the answers

Which term is NOT recommended when referring to lanes on the carriageway?

Middle lane Signup and view all the answers

When rejoining traffic after attending an incident, your rear blue lights should remain _______.

activated Signup and view all the answers

What may dictate the need for an ambulance to have a police escort?

To ensure a smooth and uninterrupted journey to the hospital Signup and view all the answers

Why is personal protective equipment essential when attending incidents on a multi-lane carriageway?

It protects emergency responders from hazards and ensures their safety in high-risk environments. Signup and view all the answers

What is 'scene preservation' and why is it important?

Scene preservation involves securing an incident area to prevent contamination of evidence, ensuring investigations can be carried out effectively. Signup and view all the answers

Which lanes should be used when approaching an incident on a motorway or dual carriageway in flowing traffic?

The appropriate lane is typically the lane closest to the incident, while ensuring safety and following traffic regulations. Signup and view all the answers

What precautions should be taken when approaching an incident on a motorway or dual carriageway by driving on the hard shoulder?

Ensure that safety lights are activated and proceed with caution, checking for any oncoming traffic. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the dangers of using sirens when responding in slow moving traffic on the hard shoulder of a motorway.

Using sirens may cause confusion and panic among drivers, which can lead to accidents or obstructed paths. Signup and view all the answers

Why should a number of emergency vehicles responding to a single incident avoid travelling in a convoy?

Travelling in a convoy can create congestion and may impede response times, as it limits maneuverability. Signup and view all the answers

Where is the correct place to park at an incident on a motorway or dual carriageway that is already being attended by another emergency service?

Park in a safe location that does not obstruct ongoing operations and allows access for other emergency vehicles. Signup and view all the answers

What are 'fend-off', 'fend-in' and 'in-line' parking positions and when would you use them?

'Fend-off' positions are used to protect the incident area from oncoming traffic, 'fend-in' positions are used to shield other vehicles, and 'in-line' parking positions are used for straightforward access. Signup and view all the answers

What information should be relayed to control in a SITREP?

Key details about the incident, including location, type, severity, and any resources required. Signup and view all the answers

What information should be relayed to control in subsequent SITREPs?

Updates on any changes in the incident status, additional resources needed, and any risks identified. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the procedure for leaving the scene of an incident on a motorway or dual carriageway, if the path ahead of you is clear.

Check mirrors, signal intentions, and merge safely into traffic to exit the scene. Signup and view all the answers

What procedure should you follow if you come across an incident while driving a vehicle that is not fitted with emergency warning equipment?

You should ensure safety first, then report the incident to the relevant emergency services. Signup and view all the answers

In what circumstances might you request a police escort?

When transporting patients at high speed or if there are specific safety concerns while navigating traffic. Signup and view all the answers

An ambulance solo responder can provide an escort for another emergency ambulance vehicle in some circumstances.

False Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are traffic management measures used on smart motorways? (Select all that apply)

Motorway service areas (MSAs) Signup and view all the answers

Emergency response on smart motorways initially prefers flowing traffic to approach incidents.

True Signup and view all the answers

What do the red 'X' signals indicate on a smart motorway?

Lane closure for incident access Signup and view all the answers

The _______ is responsible for enhancing traffic management at an incident scene.

Highways England Signup and view all the answers

How is reverse access utilized on smart motorways?

Vehicles approach from the rear entering the lane of flow Signup and view all the answers

Match the types of closures on smart motorways with their purposes:

Red 'X' lane closure = Access route for incident response Variable speed limit signs = Control vehicle speed during incidents Motorway service areas = Provide breaks for road users Emergency roadside telephones = Direct line to operators Signup and view all the answers

What is one factor that affects fuel consumption on fast-moving roads?

Higher speeds Signup and view all the answers

Which lane on a traditional three-lane motorway is closest to the hard shoulder?

Lane 1 Signup and view all the answers

Motorway collisions are more likely to be fatal due to high speeds involved.

True Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary hazard associated with the absence of a hard shoulder on some motorways?

Stranded vehicles Signup and view all the answers

The nearside lane is lane ______ on a motorway.

1 Signup and view all the answers

What should drivers aim to do when driving at higher speeds?

Drive well within their own competence Signup and view all the answers

The hard shoulder is intended for emergency use only.

True Signup and view all the answers

What should you do before moving off the hard shoulder?

Build up vehicle speed to match vehicles in lane 1 Signup and view all the answers

Stopping on the hard shoulder is _____ for both occupants of the stationary vehicle and other motorway users.

dangerous Signup and view all the answers

What should you be extra vigilant for when using the hard shoulder on smart motorways?

Stationary vehicles in live lanes Signup and view all the answers

When is the hard shoulder allowed to be used for overtaking?

When assigned to an emergency incident Signup and view all the answers

What factors increase human risks when driving on motorways?

Tiredness, boredom, frustration, complacency, and the behavior of other drivers. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are features of motorways? (Select all that apply)

Speed limit of 70mph Signup and view all the answers

The speed limit on motorways is 80 mph.

False Signup and view all the answers

On a multi-lane carriageway, slow-moving vehicles should be watched for at ______.

junctions Signup and view all the answers

What should a driver do when joining a motorway?

Observe traffic, signal right, adjust speed, check mirrors, and avoid driving over solid white lines. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a requirement during a breakdown on a motorway?

Use a warning triangle Signup and view all the answers

Always stop on the opposite carriageway to an incident.

False Signup and view all the answers

What safety equipment must be worn when approaching a road traffic incident?

High-visibility clothing and a hard hat. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are types of smart motorways? (Select all that apply)

Dynamic Signup and view all the answers

Match the following actions with their appropriate context when driving on motorways:

Use hazard warning lights = During a breakdown Signal before changing lanes = When preparing to overtake Scan frequently = To maintain awareness Check mirrors regularly = To ensure safety behind Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Attending Incidents

Convoy Travel: Emergency vehicles should avoid traveling in convoys as it can be difficult for other road users identify the number of approaching vehicles.
Parking: Ambulances are typically positioned in front of an incident, allowing for safe loading of casualties and a quick exit.
Scene Protection: Ambulances should park in a safe area that does not obstruct traffic or access to the scene.
Visual Warnings: Blue lights and flashing headlights should be turned off when parked in a safe area to avoid distracting other drivers.
Hard Shoulder Incidents: When arriving on the hard shoulder, the ambulance should stop 50 meters before the incident, turn the front wheels towards the nearside (unless a barrier is present, then turn the wheels outwards), and switch off forward-facing blue lights and flashing headlights.
Main Carriageway Incidents: Parking procedures for incidents on the main carriageway vary depending on local ambulance service policies, but they can include fend-off, fend-in, and in-line parking positions.
In-line Positioning: The ambulance is parked parallel to the running lanes of a carriageway to allow for optimal visibility of rear-facing lights and markings.
Fend-in Positioning: The ambulance is angled towards the nearside in the direction of passing traffic, blocking the lane and acting as a visual reinforcement of the cone taper.
Fend-off Positioning: The ambulance is angled towards the carriageway in the direction of passing traffic, blocking the lane and acting as a visual reinforcement of the cone taper.
General Guidelines: An ambulance should park 50 meters before the incident, turning the front wheels in a safe direction, and activating all rear-facing visual warnings (blue lights, rear-flashing red lights, sidelights, fog lights, and hazard lights).
Lane Positioning: An ambulance should position itself within the lane of the incident without encroaching into adjacent lanes.
Leaving the Scene: When leaving an incident, the ambulance should proceed straight in the lane or on the hard shoulder until enough speed has built up to match traffic conditions before changing lanes.
Urban and Rural Roads: When attending any incident, remember that crew and vehicle safety must be paramount. Parking should facilitate safe egress and minimize the danger caused by passing vehicles.
Parking Considerations: Parking should consider patient loading and the potential for deploying ramps or tail lifts, and the use of warning lights should be appropriate to the density of potential hazards.
Solo Responders: Solo responders should carefully consider parking positions, especially in residential areas, ensuring accessibility and safety for both the responder and the patient.
Situation Reports (SITREPs): The first emergency vehicle on scene should provide a SITREP to control, detailing the exact location, direction of travel, number and types of vehicles involved, the number of casualties, and whether further assistance is required.
SITREP Information: The SITREP should include: location (using a marker post or driver location sign), direction of travel, the number and types of vehicles involved, which lanes of the carriageway are involved, and whether any hazardous loads are involved.
Subsequent SITREPs: Subsequent SITREPs should include: number of casualties, types of injuries sustained, any requests for additional vehicles, requests for an air ambulance, assistance needed from other agencies, and notification to hospitals.
Police Escorts: A police escort may be requested for an ambulance, usually approved by ambulance control, if a smooth, slow, and uninterrupted journey is vital or to reduce journey time, but should only be used if police resources are available and deemed necessary.
Police Escort Procedure: A police escort typically consists of three motorcycles: one in front maintaining speed, one on the offside, and one blocking traffic at the next hazard.

### Smart Motorways

Smart motorways utilize various traffic management tools
- Variable mandatory speed limits (VMSLs) with enforcement
- Driver information through gantry signs and signals
- Motorway service areas (MSAs) and other roadside facilities
- Emergency roadside telephones (ERTs)
- Gantries with variable message signs (VMS) and signals
- Motorway Incident Detection and Automatic Signalling (MIDAS) system
Access for emergency vehicles
- Emergency response in normal traffic flow
- Red 'X lane' closure signals
  - Activated by the Regional Control Centre (RCC)
  - Establishes access lane before incident scene
  - Lane 1 for nearside lanes and Lane 4 for offside lanes
Reverse access
- Tactical option when normal flow access is problematic
- Emergency vehicles report to a rendezvous point (RVP) at the reverse flow access point
Scene management
- Responsibility of police or traffic officers for scene safety
- Fire service responsible if police/traffic officers aren't present
- Lane closures and VMS/signal changes communicated to RCC by responders
- Highways England's role is to enhance traffic management
- Devolved nations have own organisations supporting police in traffic management
- Scene management involves using signs and signals, temporary traffic management, and interventions on the approach to the incident

Driving on Multi-Lane Carriageways

Focus on road safety with added risks compared to regular roads
High speeds require more attention to avoid accidents
Motorway collisions are more likely to be fatal due to higher speeds

Fast-Moving Multi-Lane Roads

Similar hazards to motorways including junctions, roundabouts, and slow-moving vehicles
Dual carriageways have added hazards like no hard shoulder

Motorway Features

Slip roads: for entering and exiting motorways, not always present on other multi-lane carriageways
Hard shoulders: potential danger depending on location
Absence of hard shoulders: could cause stranded vehicles on the carriageway or vehicles pulling into or out of emergency areas
Legal restrictions: determine which types of vehicles can use motorways, including lane restrictions and speed limits

Lane Numbering System

Used by police and emergency services to identify lanes on motorways and multi-lane carriageways
Nearside lane: Lane 1
Next lane: Lane 2, and so on
Hard shoulder: Not counted as a carriageway lane

Using the Hard Shoulder

The hard shoulder is not a lane, but a shoulder
It's used as a safe place to stop in an emergency

Assessing Speed and Distance

Difficult to assess accurately in a fast-moving environment
Drive within your capabilities and develop experience gradually

Driving Competence

Develop skills before moving on to higher speeds
Planning is crucial to safely address hazards on the road
Steady development of skills and experience is key to safe driving

Fuel Efficiency

Smooth acceleration and braking reduce fuel consumption
High speeds lead to higher fuel usage

Hard Shoulder Use on Motorways

The hard shoulder on a traditional motorway is for emergency use only.
Drivers should only use it in accordance with the Highway Code and professional guidelines.
Stopping on the hard shoulder is dangerous due to the risk of collision.
Never use the hard shoulder for overtaking unless responding to an emergency.
On smart motorways, the hard shoulder may be used as a running lane (ALR motorways).
When using the hard shoulder on an ALR motorway, be extra vigilant for stationary vehicles in live lanes and vehicles pulling into or out of emergency areas.
When driving on the hard shoulder or in an emergency area, be aware of loose gravel and debris that could reduce grip.
Before leaving the hard shoulder or emergency area, observe traffic approaching from behind and choose a safe moment to move off.
When leaving the hard shoulder, build up speed to match vehicles in lane 1 before moving into the carriageway.

Human Factors and Motorway Driving

Motorway driving presents unique challenges, increasing human factor risks.
Tiredness or boredom during long journeys can lead to reduced concentration.
Frustration from stop-and-go traffic can also negatively impact focus.
Complacency in low-density traffic can make drivers less alert to potential hazards.
Driver behavior while entering or exiting motorways from service stations or slip roads can pose a risk.

Motorway Features and Considerations

Motorways have specific features, some of which apply to multi-lane carriageways.
Slip roads are used for entering and exiting motorways.
Hard shoulders (or their absence) create specific hazards.
Legal restrictions exist on which types of vehicles can use motorways, and designated speed limits apply.
Junctions are always numbered.
Signs are always blue.
Right-hand lanes are for overtaking.
Entering and exiting a motorway almost always involves a slip road.
Speed limit is 70 mph (unless otherwise indicated).
Hard shoulder is available for emergencies.
Overhead gantries provide information and traffic control.

Multi-lane Carriageway Hazards

Junctions to the right and left present risks.
Roundabouts require careful navigation.
Slow-moving vehicles can disrupt traffic flow.
Hard shoulder may be unavailable, and pedestrians or cyclists could be present.

Carriageway Layout

Hard shoulder provides a safe area for stopped vehicles.
Overhead gantry displays information and signals.
Slip road provides access to and from the motorway.
Central reservation separates opposing lanes of traffic.
Hazard line marks the beginning of a hazardous area.
Lane markings guide drivers to stay within their lanes.
Reflective road studs provide visibility at night.

Joining the Carriageway

Observe traffic speed and density before entering.
Choose an entrance point and signal right.
Adjust speed based on the chosen entrance point.
Check mirrors and perform a shoulder check.
Avoid driving over solid white lines or chevron road markings.
Access the carriageway in the left lane.

While on the Carriageway

Allow time to adjust to traffic speed and volume.
Look ahead and behind, scanning frequently.
Use mirrors regularly to be aware of traffic behind.
Understand and anticipate other drivers' blind spots.
Adjust your position for improved visibility.
Monitor vehicle instruments, speed, and potential engine or road noise.
Anticipate and plan maneuvers early to achieve a safe following distance.
Use all controls smoothly, especially at high speeds.
Signal before making any maneuvers.
Only use headlights to warn of presence in emergencies.
Maintain good lane discipline.
Overtake on the right, except when traffic is queued or slower to the right.

Breakdown Procedures

Multi-lane carriageway:
- Go left to the verge, lay-by, or hard shoulder.
- Exit the vehicle by the side furthest from traffic, wearing high-visibility clothing.
- Place a warning triangle 45 meters behind the vehicle.
- Call for assistance using a mobile phone.
- Consider using hazard warning lights.
Motorway:
- Go left to the hard shoulder or emergency refuge area.
- Exit the vehicle by the side furthest from traffic, wearing high-visibility clothing.
- Do not place a warning triangle.
- Call for assistance using the emergency telephone provided.
- Consider using hazard warning lights.

Overtaking

Avoid overtaking before an acceleration lane.
Avoid forming a third line of vehicles abreast.
Leave a one-lane gap when overtaking large vehicles.
Be aware of other drivers' blind spots.
Look for early signs that a driver might overtake:
- Head and body movements.
- Vehicles moving toward lane lines.
- Closing the gap to the vehicle in front.

Approaching Carriageway Junctions

Plan early for vehicles potentially leaving or joining the carriageway.
Consider adjusting speed or changing lanes safely.
Look for early clues that traffic may be joining.

Leaving the Carriageway

Avoid braking in lane 1 unless traffic dictates.
Use acceleration lane 1 to avoid heavy braking in the exit slip road if traffic is light.
Be alert for sharp bends at the end of slip roads.
Watch for drivers leaving from lanes 2 or 3 at the last minute.
In queuing traffic, beware of vehicles using the hard shoulder to extend the slip road.
The first exit direction sign is the recommended starting point.
If the carriageway is busy, enter lane 1 sooner rather than later.
By the half-mile direction sign, you should be in lane 1.
At the 300-yard countdown marker, check mirrors and signal if necessary.

Having Left the Carriageway

Check your speedometer regularly.
30 mph will feel much slower after being on a high-speed road.

Smart Motorways

Assist drivers: Provide information and traffic management.
Promote safer driving: Manage traffic flow and reduce collisions.
Promote more economic driving: Enable smoother, more efficient journeys.
Types:
- Controlled: Variable speed limits and lane closures.
- All lane running: Hard shoulder becomes a driving lane during peak times.
- Hard shoulder running (dynamic): Hard shoulder can be used as a driving lane when needed.
Gantries: Located every 800-1000 meters and display signals above each lane.

Road Traffic Incidents

Serious or fatal RTCs are crime scenes, but responders must still prioritize patient care.
Minimum PPE:
- High-visibility clothing (fastened).
- Hard hat.

Approaching the Incident

Traffic moving: Use only visual warnings.
Traffic stationary: Use audible and visual warnings, and be cautious of passengers exiting vehicles.

Vehicle Positioning at an Incident

If responding to an incident on a main carriageway, park in a safe, visible position, such as:
- In-line: Park 50 meters behind the incident, with wheels facing in (if no barrier), switch off forward-facing lights (where possible), use rear lights and hazard lights, keep rear doors closed, and walk behind the barrier if possible.
- Fend-off: Park 50 meters behind, using all rear visual devices, angled to afford maximum visibility of the back of the vehicle and high-visibility markings. If fending off one lane, park at a slight angle, avoiding intrusion into the adjacent lane. If fending off two lanes, angle the vehicle to obstruct both lanes without intruding into the clear one. Only return to the vehicle if absolutely necessary.
- Fend-in: Park 50 meters behind the incident, using all rear visual devices, positioned for maximum visibility of the rear of the vehicle and high-visibility markings.
Protected incident parking:
- If the scene is already protected by Highways, Fire, or Police.
- Park at the front of the incident within the coned-off area.
- Allow easy patient access and vehicle egress.

Motorway Collision

When approaching an incident on the opposite carriageway, ALWAYS continue to the next junction and return on the correct carriageway.
The ONLY exception is if directed by a uniformed police officer or Highways Agency Traffic Officer.

Safety

Always wear PPE.
Never stop on the opposite carriageway to an incident.
Never drop off a crewmate to cross the carriageway to attend an incident.

General Safety Reminders

Maintain lane discipline and a safe following distance at all times.
Ensure sufficient fuel for the journey.
Be alert, take active steps to prevent boredom and fatigue, and concentrate fully.
Use mirrors often and give signals in plenty of time.
Understand road markings, matrix signs, and gantry signs.
Do not walk or reverse on the carriageway.
Do not rubberneck but anticipate slowing traffic due to other drivers' curiosity about incidents.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the proper handling procedures for emergency vehicles at different incident scenes. This quiz covers crucial aspects such as convoy travel, parking strategies, and visual warnings to ensure safety and efficiency. Understand how to manage hard shoulder and main carriageway incidents effectively.