Chapter 5-2: Hazard perception

The ICBC driver’s knowledge test features a key section called Hazard Perception, designed to assess your ability to recognize and react to potential dangers on the road.

BC Driving Test - Chapter 5-2: Hazard perception

1 / 20

What are space margins?

The distance between intersections

Areas of space you keep around your vehicle

The space between parked cars

The painted lines on the road

2 / 20

Why is a skateboarder near the road a potential hazard?

They might suddenly dart onto the road

They always stay on the sidewalk

They are required to stay in parks

They must follow the same rules as cars

3 / 20

Which of the following is an example of a sudden change in road surface that is a hazard?

A smooth highway with clear markings

A dry city street with new pavement

A parking lot with painted lines

A paved road that suddenly changes into a gravel one

4 / 20

What is a vision block?

A type of road sign

Anything that prevents you from seeing the whole driving scene clearly

A clear, open view of the road

A type of vehicle

5 / 20

What should you do about passing when your vision is blocked?

Pass only when going uphill

Never pass when you cannot see the whole driving scene

Pass only large trucks

Pass quickly to get ahead of traffic

6 / 20

Which of the following is an example of a space conflict?

A vehicle pulling into your path

A car stopped at a red light

A parked car in a parking lot

A pedestrian standing on the sidewalk

7 / 20

Which of the following is an example of a hazard involving pedestrians?

A pedestrian inside a building

A pedestrian walking away from the road

A pedestrian sitting on a park bench

A pedestrian stepping onto the road in front of your vehicle

8 / 20

What is a hazard in driving?

Only pedestrians crossing the street

Anything in the driving environment that could harm you or other road users

Only bad weather conditions

Only other vehicles on the road

9 / 20

Which situation could cause a space conflict behind you?

A vehicle parked well off the road

A driver following too closely when you need to stop suddenly

A pedestrian standing at a bus stop

A vehicle stopped in a driveway

10 / 20

Which of the following is an example of a surprise hazard?

A bus stopped at a bus stop with no one around

A vehicle driving steadily in its lane

A poorly loaded pickup truck where something might fall

A car parked in a driveway

11 / 20

Which of the following is an example of a vision block?

A clear straight road on a sunny day

A small car in the next lane

A bus that blocks your view of people about to cross the street

A bicycle lane beside you

12 / 20

The driving environment includes:

Only the lane you are driving in

Everything around you that might affect your driving

Only the weather conditions

Only the road surface

13 / 20

What is hazard perception?

The skill of reading traffic signs

The ability to drive fast in heavy traffic

The ability to use mirrors correctly

The skill of identifying hazards in the driving environment

14 / 20

In which situation should you be very careful because of limited visibility?

When driving on a straight road with no traffic

When stopped at a red light

When parked in your driveway

When a curve or hill prevents you from seeing what’s ahead

15 / 20

Which road condition can cause loss of control if you are not prepared?

Recently swept and cleaned roads

Freshly painted lane markings

Dry pavement with good traction

Loose gravel, ice, or rain on the road

16 / 20

What is a space conflict?

When a vehicle parks at the side of the road

When traffic lights turn red

When a driver changes lanes with a signal

When two road users try to move into the same space at the same time

17 / 20

Why is a driver weaving back and forth considered a hazard?

Because they always obey traffic rules

Because they are easy to predict

Because they are driving slowly

Because their unpredictable movement can cause a surprise

18 / 20

To share the road safely, you should train yourself to look for:

Only vehicles that are directly in front of you

Only vehicles behind you

Only traffic signals and signs

Other road users and all objects or surfaces that might cause problems

19 / 20

Why are poor road surfaces a hazard?

They make the road look unattractive

They can affect your traction and steering

They make your vehicle quieter

They reduce fuel consumption

20 / 20

What is a potential hazard after a rainstorm?

Completely dry road surfaces

Large puddles that may affect traction and control

Empty parking lots

Clean, debris-free shoulders of the road

Your score is

This section tests your awareness of hidden or unexpected risks, such as pedestrians stepping onto the street, sudden stops by other vehicles, or obstacles in your path. You’ll learn to identify situations that require extra caution and quick decisions, including poor weather or road conditions. Developing strong hazard perception skills is vital for preventing collisions and keeping everyone safe. Success in this section demonstrates readiness for real-world driving in British Columbia.