Study topic 9

Drivers, passengers & vehicle safety

Prepare a roadworthy vehicle, secure people and loads, and understand the Code’s core driver responsibilities.

By the end, you should be able to

Complete a useful pre-drive check
Use seat belts and child restraints correctly
Avoid distraction and insecure loads

Learners need a qualified supervisor

Learners must hold a valid provisional licence and be supervised. The supervisor must be at least 21, hold a valid licence for that vehicle category and have at least three years’ driving experience.

Zambian Highway Code · Rules 96–97

Display L plates while learning

A vehicle driven by a learner must display L plates. Remove or cover them when an experienced driver takes over. Pass the required theory and practical tests for the class and category before driving unaccompanied.

Zambian Highway Code · Rules 97–98

Carry the correct licence

Motorists must carry a valid driving licence for the class and category of the vehicle they are driving.

Zambian Highway Code · Rule 100

Restraints on every trip

The Code requires seat belts to be fitted and used, including on short trips. Fasten them before setting off. The driver must ensure that children under 10 use a belt or an approved restraint appropriate to their weight and size.

Zambian Highway Code · Rules 125–127

Use the right child restraint

A child who is under 10 and shorter than 1.5 metres must sit in the rear with a seat belt or suitable approved restraint. Fit a child restraint to its manufacturer’s instructions.

Zambian Highway Code · Rules 126(b) and 127

No hand-held phone

Do not use a hand-held phone while driving or supervising a learner. Rule 115 permits a call to 991 or 999 only for an emergency when stopping is unsafe or impractical. Hands-free calls can also distract you; find a safe place to stop if a call is necessary.

Zambian Highway Code · Rule 115

Check medicines before driving

Medicine can affect safe driving, including medicine bought without a prescription. Read its instructions or ask a doctor or pharmacist before driving. Do not drive under the influence of drugs or medicine.

Zambian Highway Code · Rule 114

Check the vehicle and its equipment

Check fluid levels and tyre condition and inflation, including the spare tyre. Carry essential equipment such as warning triangles, a first-aid kit, fire extinguisher, wheel spanner and jack. Lights, indicators and reflectors must be clean and working as required.

Zambian Highway Code · Rules 124, 130–132 and 241

Secure luggage and other loads

Secure luggage so it cannot move dangerously. Do not overload a vehicle or trailer, and secure loads so they do not protrude dangerously.

Zambian Highway Code · Rules 133 and 193–194

Topic check

Answer 10 questions on vehicle safety

Every answer includes an explanation and a Highway Code rule reference.

Practise this topic

Next study topicTopic 10 — Conditions, incidents & emergencies