The answer options
- To prevent splattering on the pavement when pedestrians are present
- To stop the motorbike from slipping on the metal drain coversCorrect
- To prevent the tyres from being punctured along the drain cover edges
- Using the drain covers as reference points, one can judge the bend more accurately.
Why that is the answer
Metal drain covers become exceptionally slippery in wet weather, offering far less grip than tarmac. When cornering, a motorcycle leans and relies heavily on tyre traction to stay upright. Crossing wet metal can cause the tyres to lose grip instantly, leading to a skid or crash. While avoiding puddles helps prevent splashing pedestrians, maintaining vehicle stability on low-grip surfaces is the primary safety concern highlighted in DVSA guidance.
How this comes up in the real test
Questions from vehicle handling appear throughout the 50-question multiple-choice section, and the wording changes between versions. Learn the rule rather than the sentence: the DVSA can ask the same point from the opposite direction, and a memorised answer falls over the moment the phrasing moves.
The pass mark is 43 out of 50, so seven wrong answers is your entire margin. If a whole category is shaky, run the topic practice below until you are getting every question right for the right reason, then go back to full mocks under the clock.
More vehicle handling questions
- A lot of snow has fallen recently. When driving in these conditions, what are some things to think about?
- After fog has cleared, it can be dangerous to leave your rear fog lights switched on. What is the reason for this?
- What colour are the reflective studs along the left-hand edge of the motorway?
- During the day, when should dipped headlight be used?
- How can you regulate your speed with the engine of your car?
- How should you deal with this hazard?