Car Basics & Safety Essentials for Learners

Driving is not only about passing tests. This page summarizes practical pre-drive checks and safe driving fundamentals.

Pre-drive Checks Dashboard Alerts Wet-weather Driving Defensive Driving

60-second pre-drive check

Exterior

Visual tyre condition, signs of leakage, and nearby obstacles.

Seat & visibility

Adjust seat, headrest, mirrors and pedal reach for stable control.

Dashboard indicators

If engine, brake or battery warning lights appear, inspect before driving.

Common Hong Kong road situations

Rain and wet roads

  • Increase following distance and avoid abrupt braking.
  • Complete speed reduction before bends, not mid-corner.
  • Use headlights earlier for visibility.

Night driving

  • Focus on controllable road zone ahead, not oncoming headlights.
  • Anticipate pedestrian movements and door-opening hazards.
  • Read signs early and avoid late lane switching.

Three defensive driving principles

  1. Anticipate: assume other road users may act unexpectedly.
  2. Create space: maintain distance and escape options.
  3. Create time: slow down, observe and decide earlier.

For full legal guidance, refer to the Transport Department Road Users' Code.

Official reference

  1. Transport Department - Road Users' Code
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