LBU_DL_B_RideSafe_f

Government of Western Australia
Department of Transport
Ride Safe
A handbook for Western Australian road users
A message from the Chief Executive Officer of the
I am pleased to present the Western Australian community with a Ride Safe handbook.
This handbook is intended as a learning tool for potential riders, as well as a reference
guide for the wider motorcycle community.
This handbook has been published in response to the need for an enhanced rider training
and licensing scheme in WA. This need was expressed during public consultation
conducted by the Department of Transport in the metropolitan and regional areas.
The information in this handbook aligns with Towards Zero, the State Government road
safety strategy 2008-2020. The strategy means that we, in the WA community, do not
accept that any person should die or be seriously injured on our roads.
The Towards Zero strategy uses a globally recognised “Safe System” approach.
This is an all-encompassing approach that seeks to manage the interaction between

road users, roads and roadsides, and travel speeds and vehicles.
The Safe System approach underpins the National Road Safety Strategy 2011-2020.
In addition to promoting safe road use, safe speeds and safe vehicles, the Ride Safe
handbook also encourages motorcycling as a fun, economical and environmentally
friendly means of transportation.
It is my belief that this, and subsequent editions of the Ride Safe handbook, will play an
important role in developing the skills and knowledge of future generations of riders who
are committed to safety on our roads.
Chief Executive Officer

Prepared and published by Department of Transport, Driver and Vehicle Services.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this publication is provided in good faith and believed to
be accurate at the time of publication. The State shall in no way be liable for any loss sustained or
incurred by anyone relying on the information.
Revised edition date 10 October 2023.
Also available, Drive Safe handbook for other road users.
1
Acknowledgements
The Department of Transport (DoT) acknowledges the input of the following authorities,
sponsors and groups in developing this handbook:
• The Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) of New South Wales as the original developer
of the Motorcycle Riders’ Handbook.
• The Department of Transport and Main Roads (Queensland) for granting permission
to use parts of the Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide handbook, as well as the
Tasmanian Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources being the primary
source of the Queensland Motorcycle Riders’ Guide.
• VicRoads for granting permission to use The Victorian Rider Handbook*.
• The Road Safety Council of WA for sponsoring the Graduated Rider Training and
Licensing (GRTL) project this handbook is a part of.
• WA Police for providing first-hand insights into motorcycle crashes on WA roads.
• The motorcycle community for taking part in the public consultation and providing
valuable feedback during the development of this handbook.
• Colleagues from various areas of DoT for providing valuable technical support and
feedback throughout the production of this handbook.
This handbook is owned and maintained by the Western Australian DoT. Any requests
to reproduce information or images contained in the Ride Safe handbook must be
made in writing to the Executive Director, Driver and Vehicle Services, Department of
Transport, GPO Box R1290, Perth WA 6844.
The Ride Safe handbook is NOT the law, but a simplified version of the road rules
contained in the Road Traffic Code 2000 and the Regulations. The Ride Safe handbook
will be reviewed and updated following changes in policy, legislation and/or road rules
and traffic regulations. This publication and subsequent editions are available online at
www.transport.wa.gov.au/dvs.
*VicRoads is not responsible for the accuracy of information contained in Ride Safe.
Any re-use of materials from VicRoads by a third party requires the express permission
in writing from VicRoads.
Contacting us:
Should you have any enquiries regarding to this publication you can contact us by
telephone on 13 11 56.
Ride Safe is also available online at www.transport.wa.gov.au/dvs.
2
Contents
A Message from the Chief Executive Officer of the Department of Transport
Terms used in this guide 6
Part 1. Purpose 8
1.1. Who is this Handbook for? 9
1.2. Benefits 10
1.3. Content 10
Part 2. The Licensing System in WA 13
2.1. Classes of Vehicles and Licence Authorisations in Australia 15
2.2. Your Eligibility to Apply for a Licence to Drive an R Class Vehicle 16
2.2.1 Novice Drivers 16
2.2.2 Licence Holders Seeking Authorisation to Drive an Additional
Class of Vehicle 17
2.2.3 R-E Licence Holders Seeking to Remove the E (Engine)
Restriction 17
2.3 Common Types of Motorcycles 18
2.4 Licensing Process for Novice Drivers 20
2.4.1 Riding a Moped as a Novice Driver 21
2.4.2 Riding a Motorcycle as a Novice Driver 22
2.5 Licensing Process for obtaining an Additional Licence Class 23
2.5.1 Riding a Moped when you are Authorised to Drive a C Class
Vehicle (Car) or Higher 23
2.5.2 Riding a Motorcycle when you are Authorised
to Ride an R-N Class Vehicle (Moped) only 24
2.5.3 Riding a Motorcycle when you are Authorised
to Drive a C Class Vehicle (or Higher) 25
2.5.4 Riding a Larger Motorcycle 26
2.6 Detailed Steps in the WA Licensing Process for Novice Drivers 27
Part 3. Your Licence and the Law 34
3.1 What is a Driver’s Licence? 35
3.2 Disobeying the Law 36
3.2.1 Disqualification 37
3.2.2 Suspension and Cancellation 38
3.2.3 Demerit Points Scheme 39
3.2.4 Other Penalties for Traffic Offences 41
Part 4. Licences from Interstate or Overseas 44
4.1 Interstate Licence Holders 45
4.2 Overseas Licence Holders 45
Part 5. Motorcycle Rules and Regulations 47
5.1. Motorcycle Specific Rules 48
5.1.1. Carrying Passengers, Loads and Animals 49
5.1.2. Differences in Riding in Metropolitan and Regional Areas 51
5.2 Licensing Recreational Motorcycles (Quad Bikes and Trail
Motorcycles) 52
3
Part 6. Your Safety 55
6.1 Actions you can Take to Ensure your Safety 56
6.1.1 Maintaining Concentration 56
6.1.2 Staying Alcohol and Drug Free 57
6.1.3 Checking the Effect of Medications 59
6.1.4 Ensuring you are Seen by Other Road Users 59
6.1.5 Wearing Protective Gear 59
6.1.6 Riding a Roadworthy Vehicle 62
6.1.7 Riding a Borrowed Motorcycle 67
6.1.8 Maintaining Appropriate Riding Posture 68
6.1.9 Adapting your Riding to Hazardous Weather Conditions 68
6.1.10 Planning your Route 70
6.2 Riding at Night 70
Part 7. Safe Riding Skills 72
7.1. Rider’s Attitude and Safe Riding 74
7.2. Roadcraft 75
7.3. Safe Riding Skills 76
7.3.1. Observation 76
7.3.2. Speed Management 78
7.3.3. Reaction and Response Time 79
7.3.4. Survival Space (Maintaining Space to the Front) 80
7.3.5. Effective Use of Signals 82
7.3.6. Road Positioning and Buffering 83
7.3.7. Hazard Perception and Response 92
7.3.8. Braking 95
7.3.9. Steering and Counter Steering 95
7.4. Benefits of Professional Training 97
Part 8. Riding in Regular Traffic 99
8.1. Other Road Users 100
8.1.1. Pedestrians 100
8.1.2. Cyclists 101
8.1.3. Emergency Vehicles 101
8.1.4 Passing incident response vehicles (emergency and breakdown vehicles) 102
8.1.4.1 Two-way carriageway 103
8.1.4.2 Multi-lane carriageway 103
8.1.5 Large and Oversize Vehicles 103
8.2. Traffic and Road Signs 104
8.2.1. Regulatory Signs 104
8.2.2. Warning Signs 105
8.2.3. Guide Signs 105
8.2.4. Signs and Devices for Road Works and Special Purposes 106
8.3. Traffic Control Signals 108
4
5
Terms used in this guide
Australian Driver Licence
A driver’s licence issued in WA under the Road Traffic (Authorisation to Drive) Act 2008
and/or a licence granted to a person in another jurisdiction authorising them to drive
excluding authorisations for learning. Note: The Road Traffic (Authorisation to Drive) Act
2008 (the Act) uses the term “driver’s licence”. The Act does not differentiate between a
driver’s or rider’s licence. Therefore, the term “driver’s licence” will be used throughout
this handbook.
Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)
The concentration of alcohol in a person’s blood, expressed in grams of alcohol per
100 ml of blood.
Full licence
The term used to describe a driver’s licence issued at the end of the provisional licence
period.
LAMS Approved Motorcycle
A motorcycle (with or without a sidecar) that:
• has a power-to-weight ratio up to 150 kilowatts per tonne (kW/t) and a maximum
engine capacity up to 660cc; or
• is powered by an electric engine with a power output up to 25kW.
This does not include a moped.
Moped
A motorcycle that:
(a) is designed so as not to be capable of a speed exceeding 50 km/h;
(b) and either
(i) has an engine capacity not exceeding 50 cc; or
(ii) is not powered by a piston engine, whether or not it is also capable of being
propelled by pedaling, but does not include a power assisted pedal cycle.
Motorcycle
Unless stated otherwise, a motorcycle includes mopeds and motor scooters.
A motorcycle means a motor vehicle that is not equipped with a permanent cab and
cab roof and that:
(a) is designed to travel on two wheels or, with a sidecar attached, three wheels; or
(b) has three wheels arranged so that the axis of rotation of two wheels lies on the
same straight line and each of those two wheels is equidistant from the third,
except that it does not include a motorised wheelchair and does not include a
motor vehicle built or modified to be used primarily to carry goods or materials
used in any trade, business or industry.
Note: Unless distinctly specified, the term “motorcycle” will be used throughout the
handbook in relation to mopeds, motor scooters and motorcycles.
6
Motor trike
A motor vehicle with three wheels, but does not include a two wheeled motor vehicle
with a sidecar attached to it that is supported by a third wheel.
Novice Driver
A person until they have held a driver’s licence for at least two years or periods
adding up to two years. This may include:
- a first time learner’s permit holder
- the holder of a provisional driver’s licence
- the holder of an extraordinary driver’s licence
Pillion passenger
The person occupying the seat of a motorcycle; moped or motor carrier located behind
the rider’s seat. In WA a pillion passenger must be at least 8 years old and be able to
keep their feet on the foot rests or in the case of a side car, confined within the sidecar.
Returning rider
A concept to describe anyone who is authorised to ride motorcycles but who has little
recent riding experience and resumes riding after years of absence.1 This includes
someone who:
(a) previously rode and covered no less than 20,000 km in those years;
(b) stopped riding for a period of five years or more; and
(c) has returned to riding in the past six months and has ridden between 500 and
1,000 km in that period.2
Rider
A person who is learning to ride, or a person who holds the authorisation to ride a
motorcycle.
Road crash
Is any crash:
(a) resulting in bodily injury or property damage;
(b) occurring on a road, and the road was open to the public at the time of the crash;
(c) involving at least one moving vehicle; and
(d) was not a result of a medical condition, a deliberate act or a police chase.3
Roadcraft
A system of vehicle control.
1
Dr Ron Christie, 2004, Review of Best Practice in Motorcycle Licensing, Office of Road Safety, Perth, Western Australia, p. 4.
2
Motorcycle Awareness Training Education Safety, 2010, Monash University Safety Study Into Returning Riders,
http://www.mates.org.au/2010/02/10/monash-university-safety-study-into-returning-riders/
3
The Road Safety Council, 1999, Crash Statistics: Motorcycle & Scooter Safety Action Group Forum, Government of Western
Australia, Perth, p. 7.
7
PART 1
Purpose
The primary purpose of the Ride Safe handbook is to educate motorcycle
riders so that they gain a greater appreciation of their responsibilities on
WA roads.
This aim will be achieved by:
n educating motorcycle riders on their obligations to comply with all WA driving laws,
road rules and regulations;
n informing motorcycle riders of their responsibilities in respect of their own safety
and the safety of other road users;
n providing clear information on safe riding skills to enable new and returning riders
to ride safely;
n encouraging riders to promote safety by engaging in low risk riding;
n helping potential riders to prepare for the Motorcycle Theory Test (the theory test),
the Motorcycle Hazard Perception Test (HPT) and Practical Driving Assessment
(PDA);
n informing interstate and overseas riders of the requirements to apply for a grant of
a WA motorcycle licence; and
n encouraging motorcycle riders to make informed and appropriate decisions when
riding.
Reading this handbook will help you to learn the theory component of
riding a motorcycle. What you learn from this book should be supported
by practical riding experience.
1.1 Who is this Handbook for?

This handbook is for anyone who is involved in any aspect of riding, including:
n prospective motorcycle riders, current learner’s permit holders, provisional licence
holders or full licence holders, and returning riders;
n members of the public who are concerned about safety on our roads;
n parents, carers or friends of riders;
n riding groups;
n anyone who has an interest in motorcycles;
n persons who are, or will, provide supervision to learner riders;
n riders from other Australian jurisdictions or riders from overseas who wish to legally
ride on WA roads;
n riding instructors; and
n driving assessors.
If you belong to any one or more of the groups listed above, then you should read this
handbook.
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1.2 Benefits
n If you are applying for a learner’s permit, by reading this handbook you will increase
your chance of passing the theory test. It is important to note that the questions
in the theory test are based on the content of this handbook. This handbook also
provides you with an opportunity to test your knowledge by providing review
questions at the end of each section. These are similar to questions that are
included in the theory test. You can verify whether your responses to the review
questions are correct against the answers that are listed in the last section.
n If you are assisting a person to obtain a driver’s licence, whether in a professional
or private capacity, by reading this handbook you can become better informed and
more able to support your student, child, spouse or friend throughout the licensing
process.
n If you are concerned about safety on WA roads and improving rider safety, by
reading this handbook you will become more knowledgeable to voice an informed
opinion in debates on these issues.
n If you are an experienced rider, by reading this handbook you can refresh your
knowledge of the road rules, road safety and low risk riding.
n If you are a non-rider, by reading this handbook you may decide to become one.
1.3 Content
A variety of specific terms are used throughout this book. These are explained at the
beginning of the handbook in the ‘Terms’ section. You will encounter these terms in the
theory test and later you will hear them being used by your riding instructor. It is a good
idea to become familiar with these terms so you will not have to refer to the handbook
repeatedly. The handbook is divided into 10 parts:
Part 1 Purpose
Provides an overview of the purpose, target audience and content of this book.
Part 2 The Licensing System in WA
This section is essential reading for people who wish to obtain a WA driver’s licence.
After reading this section you will become familiar with:
n the reason for having a graduated licensing system;

n the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS);
n vehicle classes and authorisations on driver’s licences;
n types of motorcycles;
n licensing system for novice drivers and existing licence holders;
n conditions respective to stages of the licensing system and the types/classes of
vehicles you are authorised to ride/drive; and
n requirements you need to meet to apply for the grant of a WA driver’s licence.
10
Part 3 Your Licence and the Law
This section will briefly explain the link between the law and the licensing system in WA.
After reading this section you will become familiar with:
n the State legislation that underpins the licensing system;
n the legal obligations you must comply with as a driver’s licence holder; and
n the consequences of not complying with the law.
Part 4 Licences from Interstate or Overseas
This section outlines the steps that riders from interstate or overseas must follow to
ensure they comply with WA licensing laws, whether they are visiting or intend to
permanently reside in WA.
Part 5 Motorcycle Rules and Regulations
This section outlines the current road rules and regulations that are of particular interest
to motorcycle riders using WA roads. After you read this section you will become
familiar with:
n road rules and signs specific to motorcycles;
n regulations for carrying passengers and loads;
n restrictions on where to ride;
n the differences between riding in metropolitan and regional areas;
n penalties for violating road rules; and
n action you might take if your licence is cancelled.
This section also outlines penalties applied to riders who do not comply with road rules
and regulations.
Part 6 Your Safety
This section explains your responsibilities in ensuring your own safety, including your
physical condition, wearing of protective clothing and the roadworthiness of your
motorcycle.
11
Part 7 Safe Riding Skills
This section explains the link between riders’ attitudes, skills and knowledge, and safe
riding. After you read this section you will become familiar with:
n attitudes and behaviours that will increase your safety;
n the critical role of observation, attention and reaction in safe riding and avoiding
crashes; and
n critical safe riding skills that you will be required to master while learning to ride.
It is important to realise that reading this section alone will not guarantee your safety.
Having read this section you will become aware that the combination of on-the-road
riding experience, as well as your attitude and behaviour is critical to becoming a safe
rider.
Part 8 Riding in Regular Traffic
This section describes challenges arising from riding in regular day-to-day traffic.
It draws riders’ attention to the most commonly occurring situations and provides hints
on how to avoid them.
Part 9 Managing Emergencies
This section provides a guide on what you should do in an emergency arising from a
crash or other road incident.
Part 10 Answers to the Review Questions
12
PART 2
The Licensing System
in Western Australia
This section provides the answers to all the review questions throughout this section
of the handbook.
Graduated Driver Training and Licensing System
Like other Australian jurisdictions, WA has adopted a Graduated Driver Training and
Licensing (GDT&L) system. The GDT&L system requires first time driver’s licence
applicants to complete each stage of the licensing process relevant to the class of
vehicle for which they apply for the authorisation to drive. The three main stages are
learner, provisional and full. These stages include various aspects of training and/or
assessment. The intent of the GDT&L system is to provide:
n an opportunity to progressively gain knowledge and practical riding skills in a

controlled environment before obtaining a driver’s licence; and
n a learning environment that provides a wider range of driving experience before

being granted a provisional driver’s licence.
Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS)
WA implemented the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) on 14 January

2013. Under the LAMS scheme, all persons authorised to ride an R-E class vehicle
are subject to LAMS. This means R-E class learner’s permit applicants, novice riders
and holders of a provisional or full R-E class driver’s licence must ride a LAMS
approved motorcycle only. The introduction of LAMS has increased the range, frame
size and style of suitable motorcycles available to inexperienced riders.
A LAMS approved motorcycle is a motorcycle (with or without a sidecar) that:

n has an engine capacity not exceeding 660cc; and
n has a power-to-weight ratio up to 150 kilowatts per tonne (kW/t).
All LAMS approved motorcycles are listed in the publication ‘LAMS Approved
Motorcycles’ published on the DoT website at https://transport.wa.gov.au/licensing/
licence-to-ride-a-lams-approved-motorcycle.asp
Any motorcycle that does not appear on the list is not a LAMS approved motorcycle
and thus can only be ridden by holders of unrestricted R class authorisation. This list
is periodically updated to include new motorcycle models.
LAMS motorcycles must be in their original factory form as produced by the

manufacturer. Any motorcycle that has been derestricted or modified in any way to
enhance its performance is not LAMS approved regardless of whether it appears on
the LAMS approved motorcycles list.
If you hold a learner’s permit or an authorisation to ride an R-E class

vehicle, it is your responsibility to ensure that your motorcycle is LAMS
approved.
14
2.1 Classes of Vehicles and Licence Authorisations in Australia
In Australia a person can only hold one driver’s licence granted by an Australian
jurisdiction. The ability to hold licences in various jurisdictions is no longer possible.
In WA, state legislation defines:
n requirements that must be met in order to be granted a licence; and
n the process for granting authorisations to a licence holder so they may drive/ride a
certain type of vehicle (a class).
Nationally, the vehicle class for motorcycles (including mopeds) is class “R”. The table
below shows how different authorisations are identified for different motorcycles by
applying restrictions to the licence:
Vehicle
Authorisation Specification
Class
A moped
A motorcycle that is:
A. designed so as not to be capable of a speed exceeding
50 km/h; and
N
B. either:
(or N-A)
i. has an engine capacity not exceeding 50 cc; or
ii. is not powered by a piston engine, whether or not it is
also capable of being propelled by pedalling, but does
not include a power assisted pedal cycle.
R
Smaller motorcycle
E A LAMS approved motorcycle listed in the publication ‘LAMS
(or E-A) Approved Motorcycles’ list published on the Department of
Transport website at https://transport.wa.gov.au/licensing/
licence-to-ride-a-lams-approved-motorcycle.asp
Unrestricted Larger motorcycle
(open)
Motorcycles with a power-to-weight ratio exceeding 150 kw/t
(or R-A) or an engine capacity exceeding 660 cc (with automatic or
manual transmission)
In Australia, the most common class of vehicles which drivers are authorised to drive is
a class ‘C’ vehicle (a motor vehicle with a maximum gross mass of 4.5 tonnes).
Vehicle
Authorisation Specification
Class
A motor vehicle other than a motorcycle that has a gross
C mass not exceeding 4.5 tonne and that is equipped to seat
C
(or C-A) no more than 12 adults including the driver with a manual or
automatic (C-A) transmission
You should now be familiar with the vehicle classes R and C. You should also be
familiar with the licence authorisations to drive different classes of vehicles. There
are authorisations for higher classes of vehicle available which are not listed here.
For information on applying for these other authorisations, please refer to the DoT
handbook ‘Drive Safe’ at www.transport.wa.gov.au/dvs.
15
2.2 Your Eligibility to Apply for a Licence to Drive an R Class
Vehicle
The current GDT&L system is intended to develop safe driving behaviour by exposing
riders to a series of successive stages and gradually removing restrictions as they
become more experienced. For example, inexperienced riders cannot ride larger
motorcycles (i.e. motorcycles with an engine capacity exceeding 660 cc and power-to-
weight ratio exceeding 150 kw/t) early in the licensing process. Therefore, the eligibility
to apply for any given authorisation depends on your age and riding experience.
The WA licensing system stipulates different eligibility criteria depending on the age
and driving experience of the applicant. For example, the options available for novice
drivers are different to those for experienced drivers applying to drive a vehicle of
another class or those applying to remove a restriction from a driver’s licence.
2.2.1 Novice Drivers
In accordance with the Road Traffic (Authorisation to Drive) Act 2008, “a person is a
novice driver unless the person has, for the period of at least 2 years or periods adding
up to at least 2 years, held:
(a) an Australian driver’s licence; or
(b) a licence or other authorisation granted to the person by an external licensing
authority authorising the person to drive a motor vehicle other than solely for the
purpose of learning to drive it”.4
The diagram below presents the eligibility for novice drivers to apply for the authorisation
to ride a motorcycle.
If you are a Novice Driver
If you are 15 years and 6 months or older If you are 16 years or older
OR
You are eligible to apply for an R-N (moped) You are eligible to apply for an R-E
authorisation i.e. a motorcycle that: (i.e. a LAMS approved motorcycle) authorisation
(a) is designed so as not to be capable of a
speed exceeding 50 km/h; and
(b) either:
(i) has an engine capacity not
exceeding 50 cc; or
(ii) is not powered by a piston engine,
whether or not it is also capable of
being propelled by pedalling, but
does not include a power assisted
pedal cycle
4
The Road Traffic (Authorisation to Drive) Act 2008, Part VIA, Division 1, s.104A
16
2.2.2. Licence Holders Seeking Authorisation to Drive an Additional Class of
Vehicle
The graduated system recognises prior learning and experience. This means that some
components (for example completing a log book) may not be required in order to obtain
authorisation to drive an R class vehicle.
At present, drivers authorised to drive C class vehicles are automatically eligible to ride
mopeds (R-N) even though it may not be displayed on the driver’s licence. Drivers who
are authorised to drive C class vehicles can also apply for the authorisation to drive an
R class vehicle with an E condition as shown below:
If you hold the authorisation to drive a

‘C’ class or higher vehicle
You are already authorised to ride

unsupervised on an R-N (moped) class AND You are eligible to apply for the
vehicle (i.e. a motorcycle with an engine authorisation to ride a LAMS approved
capacity not exceeding 50 cc & designed so motorcycle for an R-E class driver’s licence
as not to be capable of exceeding 50 km/h)
2.2.3 Removing the E (Engine) Restriction from R-E Licence Holders
The graduated system also recognises prior learning and experience when applying
to remove restrictions, for example if you hold the authorisation to ride an R-E class
vehicle:
If you hold the authorisation to drive an ‘R-E’ class vehicle
You are already authorised to: Once you have held the authorisation to
• Ride a moped (unsupervised); drive an R-E (or R-E-A) LAMS approved
AND motorcycle for at least 2 years and you have
• Ride a LAMS approved motorcycle; and
• Learn to ride an unrestricted motorcycle passed a practical driving assessment
providing you are supervised and follow on a motorcycle with an engine capacity
any other learner driver conditions that exceeding 660 cc or the power-to-weight
apply. ratio exceeding 150 kw/t, you may be
granted the authorisation to drive any R
class vehicle (unrestricted motorcycle).
17
2.3 Common Types of Motorcycles
There are three main categories of motorcycles included under the R class
2.3 Common Types ofincluding:
authorisation, Motorcycles
There are two main
Mopedtypes of motorcycles included under the R class authorisation
including:
These are small light motorcycles equipped with a propelling engine that do
Moped exceed 50 cc in capacity. These vehicles are designed so as not to be capa
speed exceeding 50 km/h.
These are small light motorcycles equipped with a propelling engine that does not
exceed 50 cc in Scooter
capacity. (Motor
These Scooter)
vehicles are designed so as not to be capable of a
speed exceedingThese
50 km/h.
are commonly described as motorcycles that have a step-through sty
Moped Scooter
Motorcycle
They generally have smaller wheels than a conventional motorcycle, and an
A motorcycle meanspositioned
a motorcloser
vehicletothat
theisrear wheel. When
not equipped with a the engine cab
permanent capacity or top speed
and cab
roof so it also includes mopeds and for
the specifications motor scooters.
a moped, theAmotorcycle
motorcycle is
is designed to travel
often referred to as a scoo
on two wheels or, withcan
They a sidecar attached, three
vary considerably wheels.size
in engine They can varyfrom
(upwards considerably
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in engine size andby can be powered
electric motors. by electric
Petrol motors.
engines Petrol
come in 2engines
stroke can come in formats
or 4-stroke 2 and
stroke and 4 stroke formatstransmission.
automatic and manual or automatic transmission. Some models of
motorcycles that have a step-through style frame and an engine positioned closer to
the rear wheel, such as Vespa, are called motor scooters. However, for the purposes of
Motorcycle
this handbook, they will be referred to as motorcycles.
A motorcycle means a motor vehicle that is not equipped with a permanent
cab roof so it also includes moped and motor scooters. A motorcycle is des
travel on two wheels or, with a sidecar attached, three wheels. Similar to th
pictured, they can vary considerably in engine size and can be powered by
motors. Petrol engines can come in 2 stroke and 4-stroke formats and man
automatic transmission. The pictures to follow present popular types of mot
18
19
19
19
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oftenfeature back
back
feature back
rests, large
Touring
rests,
rests, large
large windscreens
motorcycles
windscreens
windscreens areand
andlarger
and largerfairings.
designed
larger for
fairings.
fairings. Fairings
long-distance
Fairings
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arebody
comfort,
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body panels
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feature
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produce
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smooth
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rests, large
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andreduce
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and reduce
reduce drag.
and
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larger
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fairings. protect
Fairings
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rider from the
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produce
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and
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rain and from
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outline debris.
and
other reduce
debris.
rain and from other debris. drag. They may also protect the rider from the wind and
rain and from other debris.
Naked
Naked
Nakedmotorcycles lack body work or a fairing that would normally hide the engine and
Naked
Naked
Naked motorcycles
motorcycles lack body work orora afairing that
thatwould normally hide the
theengines
inner workings. Also lackknownbodyas work
a “standard”fairing would
or “street normally
bike”, its basic hide
form isengines
stripped
and
and inner
Naked workings.
motorcycles
inner workings. Also
lackknown
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known asasa a
work “standard”
or a fairing or
“standard” “street
that
or wouldbike”,
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basicform
the
form isis
engines
down to its fundamental parts. The emphasis is on functionality, performance and
stripped
and inner
stripped down
down totoitsitsfundamental
workings. Also known parts.
fundamental as The
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a “standard”
parts. isisononbike”,
or “street
emphasis functionality,
its basicperformance
functionality, form is
performance
ergonomics.
and
and ergonomics.
stripped down to its fundamental parts. The emphasis is on functionality, performance
ergonomics.
and ergonomics.
19
20
20Road/Trail
Road/Trail
These are
These aredual purpose
dual motorcycles
purpose and
motorcycles can
and bebe
can used both
used on on
both andand
off off
road.
road.
Road/Trail
These are dual purpose motorcycles and can be used both on and off road.
Cruiser
performance; Cruisers are designed for laid-back riding. These motorcycles
powerfulCruiser
engines, Cruiser
mimic the style of American motorcycles from the 1930s to the
sometimes
Cruiser called
y for performance; early
Cruisers areThe
1960s. riding position
designed always
for laid-back places
riding. Thesethe feet forward.
motorcycles
acceleration,Cruisers
Cruisers
ture, powerful engines, are are designed
designed
Usually thefor laid-back
hands riding.
are up riding.
andThese
the These motorcycles
mimic the style of American motorcycles from the 1930s tothe
for laid-back motorcycles
spine erect or mimic
leaning mimic
thestyletheof style of
s of
arethis,
American
American
there
sometimes are motorcycles
motorcycles
called back from from
slightly,
early the
1960s.
the
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which
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some
riding
to early
the thefind
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position
early
1960s.
always to 1960s.
be
places The
more the
The
riding riding
comfortable
feet forward.
position
position alwaysalways
Cruiser
places the feet forward. Usually the hands are up and the spine erect or leaning back
cles ofplaces the feet
thisCruisers
type
ed, acceleration, are forward.
designed Usually
for Usuallyforthe
long-distance the
laid-back
hands hands
riding.
riding.
are upSomeare up spine
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and the and the
motorcycles
cruisers may spine
erecthave mimicerectthe
limited
or leaning orstyle
leaning
of back
slightly,
slightly, which
American
which some
some riders
riders findfindto to
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comfortable for for long-distance
long-distance riding.
riding. Some
cause
erformanceof this, there aremotorcycles
engines back from
performanceslightly,the
and 1930s
which
turning toability
some the early
riders find1960s.
becauseto be The
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a low-slung design. always
cruisers
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feet Cruisers
forward. performance
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hands turning
are up and ability because
the have
spine ofora leaning
erect low-slung
torcycles
binationSomeof
of this
thesetype for long-distance
are sometimes riding. Some
called cruisers
custom
cruisers may have limited performance and turning ability because may
even in the limited
absence of of aback
low-slung
gh
design. Cruisers
slightly, which are
some sometimes
riders find called
to be custom
more even
comfortable in the
for absence
long-distance of aftermarket
design. of Some
riding.
sis performance
design.
rigidity. engines
Braking
modifications.
cruisers
Cruisers
may have
performance
are sometimes
aftermarket and turning
modifications.
limited performance
called ability
custombecauseeven of ainlow-slung
the absence
and turning ability because of a low-slung
aftermarket
e combination
pads and of these
modifications.
multi-
design.
Cruisers are sometimes called custom even in the absence of
Cruisers are sometimes called custom even in the absence of aftermarket
chassis rigidity. Braking
modifications. aftermarket modifications.
ented rotors.
brake pads and multi-
of adjustments and
zed vented rotors.
lity. Fairings may
erms of adjustments and
e. When used, the
urability. Fairings may
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orcycle. muchused,as the
ection
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d protection for the rider.
Naked
2.4 LicensingNaked
Process for Novice Drivers
2.4
2.4
You Licensing
Naked
Licensing
are now Process
a novicefor
motorcycles
aware that Process
as lack
for Novice
bodywork
Novice
driver Drivers
oreligible
you are a fairingtothat
Drivers would
apply for the following
Naked motorcycles lack bodywork or a fairing that would
You are nowtoaware that as
normally hidea their
novice driver and
engines you inner
are eligible to apply
workings. Also for the following
known
authorisations ride:
authorisations
You to normally
ride: hide their engines andyou
innerare
workings. Also known
• R-N (moped) – when you meet the age requirement of 15 years andfor
are now aware
as a that as
“standard” a novice
or driver
“street bike” this is eligible
the basic to
form apply
of sixthe following
months;
• or R-N (moped) as a “standard”
–motorcycle
when or “street
you stripped
meet thedown
agebike” this is the of
requirement basic
15 form
yearsof
authorisations tothe
ride: to its fundamental parts.and
Thesix months;
• R-Eor(a LAMS approved motorcycle
the motorcycle strippedordown
scooter) when you meet
to its fundamental parts. the
The age
R-E(moped)
(a LAMSemphasis
approvedis on functionality,
motorcycle performance,
when and ergonomics
• R-N
n requirement –emphasis
of 16 when
years.you meet
is on the or
age
functionality,
scooter)
requirement
performance,
you
and
meet the age
ofergonomics
15 years and six months; or
requirementrather
of 16than
years.
aerodynamic body panels and exaggerated riding
rather than
The following two diagrams aerodynamic
illustrate body panels
the process youand exaggerated
need to followriding
to obtain a driver’s
n The R-E (a LAMS
following two approved
diagrams
positions motorcycle)
thatillustrate
are mostthe when
process
common you
onyou meet
need
sports the age
to follow
motorcycles. requirement
to obtain a driver’sof 16
licence with
licence an appropriate
positionsauthorisation.
with an Current
appropriate
that are most common on sports motorcycles.
authorisation.
long-distance years. naked motorcycles are usually given a modern, more-
ly for long-distance Current naked motorcycles are usually given a modern, more-
arge 2.4.1
windscreens,2.4.1
windscreens, Riding
and a or-less
Riding
and Moped
a Moped
or-lessasasa aNovice
sporting
sporting Novice Driver
suspension, unless
unless they
Driver
suspension, they are intended
intendedtotohave
have
The following two diagrams illustrate the process youare
need to follow to obtain a driver’s
ation The
systems andand
diagram “retro” styling.
navigation systems
The
licence withopposite
diagram shows
“retro”
anopposite thethesteps
styling.
shows
appropriate stepsrequired
required to
authorisation. to obtain your first
obtain your firstlicence
licencewith
withanan
authorisation to ride
authorisation anan
to ride R-N class
R-N classvehicle
vehicle(moped)
(moped)
20
2.4.1 Riding a Moped as a Novice Driver
This diagram shows the steps required to obtain your first licence with an
authorisation to ride an R-N class vehicle (moped).
Apply for
Age Requirement: Minimum 15 years and 6 months of age
a learner’s permit
Pass a
theory test Permit valid for 3 years. Conditions that apply:
- zero BAC while a novice driver
- display ‘L’ plates
- must be accompanied by supervisor at all times*
Receive
- must not ride in areas where learners are not permitted,
a learner’s permit
e.g. Kings Park
- must not ride on the freeway
- must ride a vehicle designed not to exceed 50 km/h speed
- must ride a vehicle with an engine capacity not exceeding 50cc
Learn to ride - must wear an approved helmet
- subject to the graduated demerit points scheme (4 or 8 points)
Pass the
Hazard Perception Test
Pass the
practical driving Age Requirement: Minimum 16 years of age
assessment
Licence valid for 1 years. Conditions that apply:

- display white ‘P’ on red plate (first 6 months) then green plate
(18 months)
- must not ride between midnight and 5.00 am for first 6 months
- must not ride on the freeway
Receive a - must ride a vehicle designed not to exceed 50 km/h speed
provisional (P) licence - must ride a vehicle with an engine capacity not exceeding 50cc
- must wear an approved helmet
- subject to the graduated demerit points scheme (4 or 8 points)
Receive full licence on completion

of provisional period Age Requirement: Minimum 19 years of age
(min 2 years)
*The Road Traffic Act 1974 and Road Traffic (Authorisation to Drive) Regulations 2014 stipulate several aspects of the law
applicable to learner riders. Other relevant laws are also displayed on the learner’s permit itself. When learning to ride
any R class vehicle you must always ride under supervision with a person who:
a. holds an instructor’s licence issued under the Motor Vehicle Drivers Instructors Act 1963; or
b. is an instructor in a youth driver education course conducted or supervised by a body authorised by the Chief
Executive Officer (CEO) for that purpose; or
c. is authorised to perform any driving of a kind for which the driving instruction is to be given (i.e. a licensed driver
authorised to ride R class vehicles) and has held that authorisation for a period of, or periods adding up to:
> In the case of riding a moped, at least 2 years; or
> In any other case, at least 4 years; and
d. is riding on another motorcycle or on the pillion seat behind the learner or in a side car attached.
21
2.4.2 Riding a Motorcycle as a Novice Driver
The diagram below shows the steps required to be granted your first licence and the
authorisation (R-E) to ride a LAMS approved motorcycle.
Step 1
Age Requirement: Minimum 16 years of age
Learner’s permit
Pass the motorcycle theory test and

choose the printed or electronic A fee is payable for the printed Learner Log Book or you can use the Learn&Log™
Log Book App, which is available for free from the App Store and Google Play
In this stage you must begin to complete 50 hours of supervised riding

(including 5 night time hours):
Receive a - must correctly display ‘L’ plates
learner’s permit - must be accompanied by supervisor or instructor at all times*
(valid for 3 years) - must not ride in areas where learners are not permitted, e.g. Kings Park
- must not exceed 100 km/h at any time
- must ride a LAMS approved motorcycle
Step 2 - must wear an approved helmet
Learn to ride - subject to the graduated demerit points system (4,8 or 12 points)
Step 3 Age and Duration Requirement:

Motorcycle - Minimum 16 years and 6 months of age
Hazard Perception Test (HPT) - Minimum 6 months after issue date of learner’s permit
In this stage you must continue to complete 50 hours of supervised riding.

Step 4
(Including 5 night time hours).
Gain experience
During this stage you are subject to the same conditions as listed in Step 2
Step 5 Age Requirement: Minimum 17 years of age

Practical driving assessment To sit a PDA, you must present with a LAMS approved motorcycle. If you have
(PDA) used the printed Log Book you must bring it with you. If you have used the
Learn&Log™ App to record all supervised driving hours, submit the declaration of
completion in the App at least 24 hours prior to the PDA
Licence valid for 1 year. The following conditions apply:

Step 6
Provisional (P) licence
- display white ‘P’ on red plate (first 6 months) then green plate (18 months)
- subject to the graduated demerit points system (4,8 or 12 points)
Receive full licence on

completion of provisional period Age Requirement: Minimum 19 years of age
(min 2 years)
Executive Officer for that purpose; or
22
2.5 Licensing Process for Obtaining an Additional Licence Class
This section explains the licensing process for existing driver’s licence holders who
intend to:
n obtain the authorisation to ride an R class vehicle in addition to the vehicle class(es)
they are already authorised to drive; and/or
n upgrade the authorisation to ride a motorcycle, for example from R-N to R-E or
from R-E to R (unrestricted).
The licensing system recognises that full licence holders have had more experience
of road and traffic conditions than novice drivers. Therefore, the licensing process
to obtain the R class authorisation for full licence holders differs from the process for
novice drivers.
The diagrams in the following pages explain the eligibility criteria for full licence
holders depending on which R class of vehicle they wish to apply to ride and which
authorisation/s they already hold.
2.5.1 Riding a Moped when you are Authorised to Drive a C Class

Vehicle (Car) or Higher
As your licence already authorises you to drive C class vehicles (or higher) you are
automatically authorised to ride an R-N class vehicle (moped). No further steps are
required in terms of training or licensing for you to legally ride a moped. However, it
is highly recommended that, not only you familiarise yourself with the contents of this
handbook, you also seek professional training and advice before riding a moped on
public roads.
23
2.5.2 Riding a Motorcycle when you are Authorised to Ride an R-N Class
Vehicle (Moped) only
The following diagram describes the process to progress from the authorisation to drive
an R-N class vehicle (moped) to the authorisation to drive an R-E class vehicle (a LAMS
approved motorcycle).
Step 1
Learner’s permit
Pass the motorcycle theory test and

A fee is payable for the printed Learner Log Book or you can use the Learn&Log™
choose the printed or electronic
App, which is available for free from the App Store and Google Play
Log Book
In this stage you must begin to complete 50 hours of supervised riding

(including 5 night time hours). The following conditions apply:
Receive a - must correctly display ‘L’ plates
learner’s permit - must be accompanied by supervisor or instructor at all times*
(valid for 3 years) - must not ride in areas where learners are not permitted, e.g. Kings Park
Step 2 - must wear an approved helmet
Learn to ride - subject to the graduated demerit points system (4,8 or 12 points)
Step 3 Age and Duration Requirement:

Motorcycle - Minimum 16 years and 6 months of age
Hazard Perception Test (HPT) - Minimum 6 months after issue date of learner’s permit
In this stage you must continue to complete 50 hours of supervised riding

Step 4
(including 5 night time hours).
Continue to gain experience
During this stage you are subject to the same conditions as listed in Step 2
Step 5
Practical driving assessment
To sit a PDA, you must present with a LAMS approved motorcycle. If you
(PDA)
have used the printed Log Book you must bring it with you. If you have used
the Learn&Log™ App to record all supervised driving hours, submit the
declaration of completion in the App at least 24 hours prior to the PDA
Licence valid for 1 year. Conditions that apply:

Step 6
Authorisation granted and
- display white ‘P’ on red plate (first 6 months) then green plate (18 months)
added to licence record and if
provisional period incomplete:
receive provisional (P) licence
- subject to the graduated demerit points system (4,8 or 12 points)
Receive full licence on

completion of provisional period Age Requirement: Minimum 19 years of age
(min 2 years)
24
2.5.3 Riding a Motorcycle when you are Authorised to Drive a C Class Vehicle
(or Higher)
The diagram below illustrates the process to add the authorisation to ride a class R-E
vehicle to your licence (or R-E-A for automatic). It will authorise you to ride a LAMS
approved motorcycle and permit you to learn to ride a larger (unrestricted) motorcycle
(with a power-to-weight exceeding 150 kw/t and an engine capacity exceeding 660 cc)
under qualified supervision.
Apply for Prerequisite: Applicant must be currently authorised to drive C

a learner’s permit class or higher vehicles
Pass the motorcycle

theory test
Permit valid for 3 years. Conditions that apply:

Receive - must display ‘L’ plates
a learner’s permit - must be accompanied by supervisor at all times*
- must not ride in areas where learners are not permitted,
e.g. Kings Park
Learn to ride - must ride a LAMS approved motorcycle
Pass the Motorcycle Prerequisite: Applicant must have held a learner’s permit for a
Hazard Perception Test (HPT) minimum period of six months
Pass the
practical driving
assessment
Conditions that apply:

Receive authorisation to ride
R-E class vehicles
25
2.5.4 Riding a Larger Motorcycle
The diagram below shows the process to upgrade from the authorisation to ride an R-E
class vehicle (a LAMS approved motorcycle or R-E-A for automatic) to an unrestricted
R class vehicle. As an existing licence holder with an R-E (or R-E-A) you don’t need
to apply for a learner’s permit before you learn to ride. Also, in recognition of previous
learning and on-the-road experience, applicants for an R class are not required to sit
a theory test. You will need to provide both primary and secondary identification when
applying.
Learn to ride Prerequisite:

*learner’s permit not required - Must hold the authorisation to drive an R-E (or
R-E-A) class vehicle before you can learn to ride an
unrestricted motorcycle.
- Must hold current and valid licence

- must display ‘L’ plates
- must be accompanied by supervisor at all times*
- must learn to ride on a motorcycle with an engine
capacity exceeding 660 cc or exceeding a power-to-
weight ratio of 150 kw/t
- must not ride in areas where learners are not permitted
e.g. Kings Park
Apply for the authorisation to
- must not exceed 100km/h at any time
drive any R class vehicle
(unrestricted motorcycle)
Pass the
Duration Requirement: Must have held class R-E (or R-E-A) for
practical driving
not less than 2 years
assessment
Variation of your driver’s licence

to record the authorisation to
drive any R class vehicle
26
2.6 Detailed Steps in the WA Licensing Process for novice drivers
Step 1 – Learner’s permit
In order to apply for the grant of a learner’s permit to ride an R-N or R-E class vehicle
you must meet the prescribed age requirements. You must be at least:
n 15 years and six months old to apply for a licence to ride a moped (with an engine
capacity not exceeding 50 cc); or
n 16 years of age to apply for a licence to ride a LAMS approved motorcycle.
Application Process
You must complete an application form at a Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) centre,
regional DoT office or participating DVS agent. Locations are available online at
www.transport.wa.gov.au/dvs. As part of the application process you are required to:
Provide proof of identification, age and residency in WA
When applying for the grant of a Western Australian driver’s licence for the first time
you will need to provide evidence of your date of birth, identity and residential address.
One of the documents produced must contain your signature and one must
show your Western Australian residential address. All documents must
be originals. A photocopy of a certified document will not be accepted. A full
list of documents you must provide can be found in Appendix 1 or online at
Pay the application fee
This fee covers an entitlement to undertake one PDA. Fees for the application for the
grant of a driver’s licence are subject to change. It is advised that you check current
fees at www.transport.wa.gov.au/dvs.
Pass the required tests
You will be required to pay for and pass a motorcycle theory test.
At the time you apply for a grant of a learner’s permit, you will be required to undertake
an eyesight test. If you need any visual aids to pass the eye test, your licence will be
endorsed to show that you must wear visual aids when riding.
Please Note: When applying for your learner’s permit you must declare whether you
have any medical conditions and/or take any medication. You may be required to
undertake a medical examination prior to the grant of your learner’s permit.
Select a Log Book: paper or electronic
If you pass the required tests, you need to pay for and be issued a Learner Log Book
or elect to use the Log Book App Learn&Log™, which is available for free from the App
Store and Google Play. You must hold a DoTDirect account to access the App.
27
Step 2 - Learning to ride
This is the stage where learners gain on-road riding experience and develop the skills
required to control a motorcycle, identify and respond to hazards and practice safe
riding. You can now begin learning to ride with an authorised instructor/supervisor (see
section 2.4 for more information regarding authorised supervisors).
While you are learning to ride under supervision you need to complete and record a
minimum of 50 hours driving experience (including five hours of night time driving) in
an approved Log Book (unless exempt). If you are already authorised to drive a C (car)
class vehicle you are exempt from the log book stage. Supervised driving hours may
be recorded in the Learner Log Book, the Learn&Log™ App or a combination of both.
While learning to ride you must:
n Be accompanied at all times by an approved supervisor;

n Have zero Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) while a novice driver;
n Ride at a speed not exceeding 100 km/h (where permitted);
n Learn to ride on a motorcycle that meets the industry standards for the relevant
class of vehicle you are applying to drive. For example, if you want to hold a licence
to drive an R-N (moped), you must learn to ride on a motorcycle with an engine
capacity not exceeding 50 cc and not capable of exceeding 50 km/h or if you
applied for an R-E class you must ride a LAMS approved motorcycle;
n Display L plates at all times;
n Adhere to the graduated demerit point system; and
n Not ride in Kings Park or on freeways if riding a moped.
Your instructor/supervisor must sign off each of the riding sessions you have completed.
You should gain as much riding experience as you can in various road conditions and
environments.
To help you learn to ride and pass the practical driving assessment you should read the
Driving Techniques for Safer Drivers book, which is available from all DVS centres and
regional DVS agents or online at www.transport.wa.gov.au/dvs.
If you are completing the licensing process for the authorisation to drive/ride both a
car and a motorcycle at the same time, you must record a minimum of 50 supervised
driving (including five night time) hours in the class of vehicle in which the first practical
driving assessment (PDA) will be attempted. A Learner Log book - Supervised driving
record for secondary learner’s permit class held is available free of charge upon request
at any DVS centre or Regional Agent.
Step 3 – Motorcycle Hazard Perception Test (HPT)
Six months from the issue date of your learner’s permit, and once you have reached
16 years and six months of age, you can sit the HPT. This test is designed to assess
your ability to respond to different traffic situations and to make safe driving decisions.
28
The test features a series of moving traffic scenes. You are required to respond to each
scene by clicking a mouse to indicate when it is safe to commence a manoeuvre or
when it is necessary to take appropriate action to reduce the risk of a crash.
In some situations there may not be any hazards and therefore no response will be
required.
Your answer is compared to the recommended response (or no response) times

required to pass the test.
To assist you in preparing for the HPT you can try the test online at
You can undertake the HPT at any DVS centre, regional DoT centre or agent. Remember
to take your learner’s permit or primary and secondary indentification.
You will be charged a fee prior to sitting the HPT. Current fees for undertaking the HPT
are available online at www.transport.wa.gov.au/dvs. If you do not pass the HPT you
will be required to pay for, and undertake a subsequent HPT on another day.
Step 4 – Gain Experience
Prior to sitting your PDA, you are required to complete and record a minimum of 50
hours of supervised riding (including five hours of night time riding) in an approved Log
Book. This provides an opportunity for prospective riders/drivers to further develop
hazard perception and road craft skills.
While completing the log book you must abide by the following conditions:
n be accompanied by an approved supervisor at all times;

n make sure you are riding a LAMS approved motorcycle;
n display L plates;
n observe zero BAC if you are a novice driver;
n observe the graduated demerit points system if you are a novice driver;
n do not exceed 100 km/h; and
n do not ride in places where learner riding is prohibited.
Your instructor/supervisor must sign off each of the riding sessions you have completed.
Although you will need to record only 50 hours (including five hours of night time riding)
of supervised riding experience to satisfy the minimum requirements of getting your
licence, you are encouraged to get as much supervised driving in as many different
road, weather and traffic conditions as you can. For more information on the benefits
of increased riding experience please visit the Road Safety Commission website at
www.rsc.wa.gov.au.
29
Step 5 - Practical Driving Assessment (PDA)
When you have reached the age of 16 years (for a moped) or 17 years (for a LAMS
approved motorcycle), have passed your motorcycle HPT, met log book requirements
(R-E) and have developed the skills necessary to control your motorcycle, you can
undertake a PDA.
The purpose of the PDA is to determine whether your riding skills, your response to
road hazards, and your ability to apply road rules deem you to be a competent rider.
Examples of the manoeuvres you will be asked to perform are:
n performing a quick stop under full control without locking either wheel. You need
to be able to stop within 12 metres from 50 km/h on a dry-surfaced road or within
16 metres from 50 km/h on a wet-surfaced road;
n balancing the motorcycle at low speeds by riding around a figure ‘0’ without
putting either foot on the ground. You are required to perform a series of U turns
approximately 5-10 metres apart demonstrating correct use of accelerator, clutch
(if fitted) and rear brake, while your motorcycle needs to be as near to full lock as it
is safe to perform this manoeuvre; and
n correctly parking and starting on a hill.
These are only some examples of the skills you will need to demonstrate to successfully
pass the PDA. When you are ready to undertake your PDA, you will need to make a
booking online at www.transport.wa.gov.au/dvs, by attending a DVS centre, regional
DoT office or agent that conducts PDAs or calling 13 11 56.
If you wish to change or cancel an appointment you must give more than two full
working days notice not including the day of the test, otherwise you will forfeit your
PDA and have to pay for another one. To cancel or change an appointment for an
assessment, use the online booking system or please phone 13 11 56.
On the day of your PDA:
n arrive at least 10 minutes before the appointed PDA time;

n provide a roadworthy vehicle of the correct class for your PDA;
n as soon as you arrive, inform the staff that you have an appointment to sit a PDA;
n wear appropriate protective gear consisting of enclosed footwear, an approved
helmet, long trousers and a long-sleeved shirt or fully-sleeved jacket. Gloves and eye
protection are also highly recommended (see section 6.1.5 for more information);
n if you have used the printed Log Book to record any hours, you must bring it with
you. The assessor will check that you have completed the minimum 50 hours
(including a minimum of five supervised night time driving hours) of supervised
driving before taking you for your PDA;
n if you have used the Learn&Log™ App to record all supervised driving hours, submit
the declaration in the App at least 24 hours prior to the PDA; and
n you must produce your learner’s permit card or one form of primary and one form of
secondary ID, prior to taking the PDA.
30
Once you pass your PDA, your result will be recorded at a DVS centre, regional DoT
office or agent.
If you fail the PDA you will receive feedback from the assessor and be encouraged to
further develop your skills. You will need to book and pay for another PDA.
Step 6 - Provisional Licence
When you have successfully completed the PDA you will be granted a provisional
driver’s licence. To complete the application process for a provisional driver’s licence
you will need to have your photo taken and pay your driver’s licence fee. Your photo will
be taken at the DVS centre, regional DoT office or agent where you passed your PDA.
During your provisional licence period, you must display P plates in a visible position at
the front and back of your motorcycle at all times. Once you are granted a provisional
driver’s licence you must:
n Display plates with a white letter P on a red plate P for the first six months of
your provisional period. During this period riders are subject to night-time driving
restrictions between midnight and 5:00 am. For more information on night-time
riding restrictions please visit www.transport.wa.gov.au/dvs.
n Display plates with a white P on green plate P for the remaining 18 months of
your provisional period. Have a blood alcohol content (BAC) NOT exceeding 0.00%
when riding a motorcycle as a novice.
Your provisional period ends when you have held a driver’s licence for a period of two
years or periods adding up to two years and you have reached the age of 19 years.
It is important to remember that during the provisional period young riders are more
prone to being involved in road incidents due to their lack of experience, judgment and
overconfidence about their own ability to safely control a motorcycle.
31
You must comply with all the conditions that apply throughout the learner
and provisional periods.
The table below provides an overview of the key information, rules and conditions for
novice drivers during the learner and provisional stages.
Criteria Learner (L) Riders Provisional (P) Riders
Driving under supervision At all times N/A
Zero Blood Alcohol

While a novice While a novice
Content (BAC)
Maximum Speed 100 km/h 110 km/h

Not within Kings Park and
Boundaries wherever signs prohibit N/A
learner drivers/riders
At all times
Upon being granted a provisional

‘L’ plate (black letter licence you must display a white
on yellow background) ‘P’ on a red plate for six months
Displaying Plates
measuring 15 cm x 15 cm
visible at all times
After the expiry of six months you
must display a white ‘P’ on a green
plate for the remainder of your
provisional period
Period between issue
date of learner’s permit 6 months N/A
and attempting HPT
Validity Three years One year
Riding between midnight and 5.00
Night time riding
N/A am is prohibited for the first 6
restrictions
months*
Four or more demerit points in the

Four or more demerit first year of holding a licence =
points cancellation of your licence for a
minimum of 3 months
Driving offences and = three months
demerit points suspension of your
learner’s permit Eight or more demerit points
in the second year of holding a
licence = cancellation of your
licence for a minimum of 3 months
* Provisional riders can ride between midnight and 5.00 am in the first 6 months
of holding a driver’s licence only if:
- They are riding to and from their home to their place of work by the shortest route;
- Riding is required as part of their work duties; or
- They are riding to or from a place of education or training where they are enrolled
in tuition.
32
REVIEW QUESTIONS
One form of
If you are unable to produce
One form Two forms of Primary and
your learner’s permit card on
Q1 of Primary Secondary one form of
the day of your PDA, what else
Identification Identification Secondary
may be produced?
Identification
What is the minimum number

of hours that are required in
Q2 20 50 30
the log book prior to sitting the
PDA for your first licence?
Sit a Practical
Riding
Nothing, you will
Assessment Pay a fee to
What do you need to remove a automatically
Q3 on an upgrade the
LAMS motorcycle restriction? progress from an
unrestricted licence
R-E to R licence
R class
motorcycle
Display ‘L’ Wear a
Whilst learning to ride, you
Q4 plates at all Display P plates fluorescent
must?
times vest
33
PART 3
Your Licence
& The Law
As in other states, every person in WA who is granted a driver’s licence must comply
with the relevant State and National laws related to using public roads. In WA the
legislative provisions relating to the road rules, licensing of motorcycle riders and their
vehicles are provided for in the form of Acts, Regulations and Codes. These include:
n Road Traffic Act 1974;
n Road Traffic (Administration) Act 2008;
n Road Traffic (Vehicles) Regulations 2014;
n Road Traffic (Authorisation to Drive) Regulations 2014; and
n Road Traffic Code 2000.
The Department of Transport (DoT) is the licensing authority for vehicles and drivers in
WA. Among other responsibilities, DoT is responsible for:
n recording of demerit points on the Demerit Point Register;
n serving notices of excessive demerit points (disqualifications);
n prosecution for licensing offences, for example a failure to return number plates on
demand; and
n vehicle safety and standards.
These services are carried out state-wide. The legislative provisions relating to
vehicle and driver licensing can be viewed online at the State Law Publisher
website www.legislation.wa.gov.au.
3.1 What is a Driver’s Licence?

In accordance with the Road Traffic (Authorisation to Drive) Act 2008,
an Australian driver licence means a licence issued in WA or another
Australian jurisdiction authorising the person to drive a motor vehicle on a
road but does not include a learner’s permit.
When you are granted your driver’s licence, it is important you look after it. You must
notify DoT of a change of name or address within 21 days, stating your full name,
date of birth, driver’s licence number and/or vehicle plate number (relevant forms are
available online at www.transport.wa.gov.au/dvs). If you abuse the privilege of holding a
licence by committing traffic offences, you might lose it. You will continue enjoying the
benefits of your driver’s licence when:
n you have a valid and current driver’s licence*;
n you show that you understand the road rules;
n you show the skills necessary to ride safely;
n you obey the relevant State and national traffic laws; and
n you ride responsibly and safely.
*It is very important to have a valid licence, which is a licence that is not expired, cancelled
or suspended. It is also very important that you only ride the type of vehicle that your licence
authorises you to ride.
35
To hold a driver’s licence is not a right - it is a privilege.
Your privilege to hold a licence may be reviewed if:
n you are convicted of certain traffic offences;
n you are involved in a crash; or
n you have a medical or physical impediment that may affect your ability to ride.
It is a serious offence to offer any gift or remuneration (a bribe) in order

to obtain a driver’s licence. Any person who makes such an offer will be
liable for prosecution.
3.2 Disobeying the Law

Like other jurisdictions around the world there are laws in Australia that govern what
a person can and cannot do when driving a vehicle on a public road. Each State
applies a different legislative framework, as well as slightly different rules, regulations,
rider licensing process, and the way of dealing with people who disobey the law. The
information provided below refers only to Western Australia.
There are a variety of penalties that can be imposed on riders and drivers who commit
traffic offences. They include:
n fines – these are imposed for a range of traffic offences which are often significant
and can at times incur demerit points;
n disqualifications – a rider may be disqualified from holding or obtaining a driver’s
licence due to either excessive demerit points or committing certain offences;
n vehicle impoundment;
n licence suspension or cancellation; and in some cases
n imprisonment.
Penalties can be imposed by a Court or by way of an infringement notice. The fines

imposed by infringement notices are fixed and can also incur a traffic conviction.
Fines imposed by a court can incur additional costs.
You may also be disqualified from driving without incurring demerit points in situations
when:
n you are convicted of a serious drink or drug related driving offence;
n you are convicted of a serious offence;
n you are a repeat offender; or
n you have a provisional licence and are convicted of certain traffic offences. (You
will be required to re-apply for your licence when the disqualification period has
finished and you may be required to undertake further assessments).
36
3.2.1. Disqualification
The full and correct term is ‘disqualified from holding or obtaining a driver’s licence’.
When disqualified a person is not permitted to:
n hold a driver’s licence;
n apply for a driver’s licence; or
n be granted a driver’s licence.
The disqualification therefore applies to the person not to the licence.
A disqualification can occur in two ways:

n by a Court; or
n by the operation of the law.
Court imposed disqualification
When a person is convicted of certain traffic offences the Court may disqualify the
person from holding or obtaining a driver’s licence. For example a person convicted of
a first offence of driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol (Section 63 of the the Road
Traffic Act 1974) is liable to a minimum disqualification period of six months.
Disqualification by operation of the law
In some situations a person may be disqualified by operation of the law rather than
requiring them to go to Court, for example:
n when a full licence holder accrues 12 or more demerit points they will be subject to
an excessive demerit points disqualification; and
a novice driver will be disqualified if they accrue:

n four or more demerit points when holding a learner’s permit or when holding a
licence for less than one year; and
n eight or more demerit points when holding a licence for more than one year but less
than two years.
In these situations when the person has been served with an Excessive Demerit
Points Notice (EDPN) they will be disqualified for the period stated in the notice.
Further information on demerit points can be found in section 3.2.3.
Immediate Disqualification Notices
Drivers who commit certain drink driving offences may be served a disqualification
notice and will be immediately disqualified from holding or obtaining a drivers licence
for a period of 2 months.
37
Immediate disqualification notices can be served on a driver for the following offences:
n driving or attempting to drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of, or above 0.08.
That is, a BAC equal to or greater than 0.08 but not more than 0.14;
n driving or attempting to drive under the influence of alcohol. That is, driving with a
(BAC) equal to or greater than 0.15; or
n failure to comply with requirement as to the provision of a breath or blood sample
for analysis.
A driver who is served an immediate disqualification notice and who is charged with
one of the drink driving offences listed above, will still have their charges heard in Court
and will, if convicted, also receive a Court imposed disqualification period.
3.2.2 Suspension and Cancellation
Suspension
When a person is disqualified from holding or obtaining a driver’s licence, as outlined
above, their driver’s licence may be suspended under the provisions of Section 17 of
the Road Traffic (Authorisation to Drive) Act 2008 or Regulation 53C of the Road Traffic
(Authorisation to Drive) Regulations 2014, dependant on the nature, and/or number, of
offence(s) that led to the disqualification.
Cancellation
When a person is disqualified from holding or obtaining a driver’s licence, as outlined
above, their driver’s licence may be cancelled under Section 16 of the Road Traffic
(Authorisation to Drive) Act 2008 or Regulation 53B of the Road Traffic (Authorisation
to Drive) Regulations 2014, dependant on the nature , and/or number, of offence(s) that
led to the disqualification.
Examples below demonstrate how disqualifications, suspensions and cancellations

apply:
Example One
A provisional licence holder becomes subject to an Excessive Demerit Points
Disqualification. The person is disqualified by operation of the law and their driver’s
licence is cancelled by the operation of section 16 of the Road Traffic (Authorisation
to Drive) Act 2008. When the disqualification period ends the person has to make an
application for the grant of a new driver’s licence.
Example Two
A person with a driver’s licence, which is not a provisional licence, is convicted
by a Court for a first offence of driving at reckless speed and is given a six month
disqualification. The person is disqualified for six months and their driver’s licence is
suspended by the operation of Regulation 53C of the Road Traffic (Authorisation to
Drive) Regulations 2014. When the disqualification period ends so will the suspension
of their driver’s licence and they can recommence driving (provided the licence has not
expired and is not subject to any other period of suspension, e.g. fines suspension).
38
3.2.3 Demerit Points Scheme
The Demerit Points Scheme is a national program that is currently in place in all
Australian jurisdictions. Demerit points are a form of penalty that may be imposed for a
range of driving offences. The number of demerit points accrued will vary according to
the type of offences committed. If you accumulate too many demerit points it will result
in you being disqualified from holding or obtaining a driver’s licence and the suspension
or cancellation of your driver’s licence.
Novice Drivers - Graduated Demerit Point Scheme
The Novice Driver Graduated Demerit Point Scheme was introduced to encourage
inexperienced drivers to adopt good driving practices.
The scheme is underpinned by research findings that confirm the number of

infringements and convictions received as a novice driver is a good predictor
of future road behaviour. This is especially true for the involvement in crashes.
The time immediately after obtaining a licence is the best time for riders/drivers to
develop safe driving behaviours. Influencing driver behaviour at an early stage of the
driving experience will help novice drivers to develop safe riding practices.
All novice drivers are subject to lower demerit point limits. The demerit point limit
applied to novice drivers is dependant on the length of time a person has held a driver’s
licence.
For the purposes of the Novice Driver Graduated Demerit Point Scheme a person is a
novice driver until they have held a drivers licence for a period of two years, or periods
adding up to two years. This includes:
n first time learner’s permit holders;
n holders of a provisional driver’s licence;
n drivers from overseas who have not held a driver’s licence for at least two years;
and
n holders of an extraordinary licence (who have not held a driver’s licence for at least
2 years).
There are two types of novice drivers:
Novice Driver Type 1 is any person until they have held a driver’s licence for a period
of one year or periods adding up to one year. A Novice Driver Type 1 also includes
first time learner’s permit holders and persons who have never held a driver’s licence.
These drivers will be disqualified from driving for a minimum of three months if they
accrue a total of four or more demerit points.
Novice Driver Type 2 is a person who has held a driver’s licence for at least one year,
but less than two years or periods adding up to two years. A Novice Driver Type 2 will
be disqualified from driving for a minimum of three months if they accrue a total of eight
or more demerit points.
39
As a novice driver if you are disqualified for exceeding the demerit point limit:
n you will not be eligible to apply for an extraordinary licence;
n you will not be able to elect for the Good Behaviour Period;
n you will not be able to lawfully drive at all, even if it is critical for your work or study;
and
n your driver’s licence will be cancelled or learner’s permit suspended.
For more information about the Graduated Demerit Point Scheme please visit
Full Licence Holders - Demerit Points
Demerit points that are accrued by a rider expire after 3 years from the date the
offence was committed. Under the provisions of the Road Traffic (Authorisation to
Drive) Act 2008, a person who holds a full licence and who accrues 12 or more demerit
points is liable to a disqualification from holding or obtaining a driver’s licence.
Demerit points are always recorded against a person not a driver’s licence.
The recording of demerit points on DoTs demerit point register will always reflect the
date the offence was committed, not the date the points were placed on the register.
The offence date is important as it determines the validity of the demerit points against
the 12 point limit.
The length of the disqualification period is determined by the number of points accrued.
If you accumulate more than 12 demerit points in a three year period the length of the
disqualification period increases, as shown below.
Demerit points accrued Disqualification period

12 to 15 3 months
16 to 19 4 months
20 + 5 months
You can find out how many Demerit Points you have accrued online at
www.transport.wa.gov.au/dvs or by ringing the automated Demerit Point Hotline on
1300 720 111.
Good Behaviour Period (GBP)
GBP is an option where eligible drivers who have accrued 12 or more demerit points
can elect a GBP rather than be disqualified from driving. To elect a GBP you must first
be served with an Excessive Demerit Points Notice (disqualification notice) and make
your election within 21 days. By electing the GBP you can continue to ride but you
must agree to driving for a period of 12 months without committing any further driving
offences.
40
The GBP does not apply to novice drivers and provisional licence holders.
If during the 12 month GBP a driver accrues more than one demerit point or they
commit an offence which leads to a court conviction, they will be disqualified for
double the original disqualification period. In summary, WA licence holders can elect to
undertake the GBP, unless;
n they are novice drivers;
n they hold a provisional driver’s licence;
n their licence is already cancelled;
n their licence is invalid for any other reason; and/or
n their licence is under fines suspension. If the fines are paid to clear this suspension
within the 21 day election deadline a driver may elect to drive on a GBP.
Double Demerit Points
This rule applies to all road users. However, it is especially easy for novice drivers to
exceed the lower demerit point limits and be disqualified during the periods of double
demerit points.
At certain holiday periods, like Easter, Christmas and long weekends,

demerit points for certain traffic offences are doubled.
For more information on the periods of double demerit points please visit the Road
Safety Commission website at www.rsc.wa.gov.au.
3.2.4 Other Penalties for Traffic Offences
Other than demerit points, penalties may include fines or confiscation of vehicles
depending on the type of offence. Other common offences and the penalties applied
can be viewed online at www.transport.wa.gov.au/dvs.
Fines are based on Penalty Units. The value of a Penalty Unit (PU) at the time of
publication is $50.
Speeding and other Minor Traffic Offences
Every state or territory in Australia has penalties for speeding and for minor road traffic
offences. The penalty for these offences may include the accrual of demerit points
and/or a monetary fine or both, depending on the offence. The extent of the penalty
is determined by the severity of the offence, for example a driver exceeding the speed
limit by less than 9 km/h could incur a fine of 1.5 penalty units (PU). In contrast, a
driver exceeding the speed limit by more than 40km/h could incur a fine of 20 PU and
7 demerit points.
41
Speeding at or above 45 km/h over the speed limit or in excess of 155 km/h is
considered as reckless driving. The police will impound your vehicle for this offence and
on conviction you will be disqualified for six months or more.
Confiscation/Impoundment of a Vehicle
‘Anti-Hoon’ legislation in the Road Traffic Act 1974 provides police with the power to
impound any motor vehicle driven recklessly or where a person drives while disqualified
from holding or obtaining a driver’s licence or whose licence is cancelled or suspended.
Drivers who drive without a licence will have their vehicle impounded for 28 days.
Police may apply for a further three month impoundment for a second offence and
confiscation of the vehicle after three or more offences.
Riders or drivers who do burnouts, drive recklessly or exceed the speed limit by more
than 45 km/h will have their vehicles impounded at the roadside for 28 days for the first
offence, and three months for a second or subsequent offence. The police can also
apply for confiscation of the vehicle used in the offence if you are convicted of three or
more offences.
All costs associated with the impoundment are the responsibility of the driver.
You can find further information about vehicle impoundment online at

www.police.wa.gov.au.
Alcohol/Drug Related Offences
Novice drivers who drive or ride with any detectable Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)
commit an offence.
For drivers with a full licence the penalties for driving with a BAC exceeding 0.05
percent include fines, demerit points or disqualification from driving/riding. A driver
may have their licence cancelled if convicted for a second or third offence.
For further information on penalties for drink driving offences please go to

42
REVIEW QUESTIONS
Q1 What is the Ban from Prosecution A letter of caution

penalty for re-applying
attempting to
bribe an officer of
the department in
order to obtain a
licence?
Q2 Complete the Are not permitted Have failed Need to book
sentence: to - hold a driver’s your practical another practical
“Disqualification” licence; apply for assessment assessment to
means you… a driver’s licence, requalify
or be granted a
driver’s licence
Q3 Complete the Can recommence Must inform the Must apply for
sentence: If your driving at the Department that a new driver’s
driver’s licence is end of the an error has licence when the
“cancelled” you… disqualification occurred and can disqualification
period (provided drive again once it ends in order to
the licence is still is fixed ride again
current/valid)
Q4 Complete the Can only drive Can recommence Can never drive
sentence: If your for work related driving at the end again
driver’s licence is activities of the suspension
‘suspended’ you… period (provided
the licence is still
current/valid)
43
PART 4
Licence from
Interstate or Overseas
4.1 Interstate Licence Holders
If you are a visitor to Western Australia with a valid driver’s licence issued by your home
state/territory you are not required to obtain a Western Australian (WA) driver’s licence,
unless you have been usually resident in WA for a period exceeding 3 months.
If your interstate driver’s licence is not expired and you are required to obtain a WA
driver’s licence you may be issued a WA driver’s licence free of charge. You will not be
required to sit a theory test or undertake a practical driving assessment. The new WA
driver’s licence granted will be valid to either the expiry date of your interstate licence
or up to a maximum of five years.
You are only authorised to drive on your interstate licence for as long as it remains valid,
and you must comply with all conditions endorsed on your licence whilst driving in WA.
You must carry your licence document with you while you are driving and produce that
document for inspection at the request of any member of the Police Force. To apply for
a WA driver’s licence you will need to present your interstate driver’s licence and proof
of identity - see Part 11 for further information.
4.2 Overseas Licence Holders

If you are a visitor to WA with a driver’s licence to drive issued by your country of
residence, you are not required to obtain a WA driver’s licence. You can drive on the
licence for as long as it is remains valid.
You must carry your licence with you while driving, and comply with any conditions
endorsed on your licence document. If your licence is written in a language other
than English then your licence must be accompanied by an approved translation. An
overseas permit to learn to drive is not recognised in WA, so you will not be able to
drive on WA roads.
The authorisation to drive in WA on an overseas licence will cease when:

n Your overseas licence expires or is disqualified; or
n You hold a permanent visa issued under the Migration Act 1958 of the
Commonwealth and you have usually resided in Western Australia for three months
since the granting of the visa.
You are required to present the following documents when applying for the grant of a
WA driver’s licence:
n Your overseas driver’s licence.
n If your licence is not in English you must provide an approved official translation.
This translation may be from:

a) accredited translators;
b) an overseas consulate; or
c) Department of Social Services (DSS) contracted translation service providers.
For further information in relation to approved translation services please visit
www.transport.wa.gov.au.
45
Applying for a WA driver’s licence
To apply for a C or R class licence, you must be at least 17 years old to obtain a WA
driver’s licence. Your application process will depend on whether your driver’s licence
was issued in a ‘recognised’, ‘experienced driver recognised’ or ‘non-recognised’
country.
Certain overseas countries have assessing standards that are recognised by WA and
may allow holders of those licences to be exempt from theory or practical driving
assessments when applying for the grant of a WA driver’s licence.
To find out if your licence has been issued by a ‘recognised’, ‘experienced driver
recognised’ or ‘non-recognised’ country please visit www.transport.wa.gov.au/dvs.
Any person applying for the grant of a WA driver’s licence must produce evidence of
their identity (Appendix 1).
Holders of non-English driver’s licences must produce an approved translation along

with their current valid driver licence. Translations will only be accepted from:
n the appropriate Consulate; or
n accredited Translator, Advanced Translator or Advanced Translator (Senior) level
translators approved by the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and
Interpreters (NAATI).
Note: Faxes and photocopies of licence documents are NOT acceptable.
REVIEW QUESTIONS
There are no review questions for this topic.
46
PART 5
Motorcycle Rules
& Regulations
Whether you are a learner rider, novice rider, experienced rider, riding
instructor, riding assessor, or other road user, it is your responsibility to
keep up-to-date with changes in road rules and regulations.
5.1 Motorcycle Specific Rules

In addition to the general road rules and regulations, you must also comply with specific
motorcycle rules and regulations while riding your motorcycle.
n You and your passenger(s) must wear an approved safety helmet compliant with
Australian and New Zealand Standard (AS/NZS) 1698 or United Nations Economic
Commission for Europe Regulation No 22 (UNECE22.05) as amended.
n If the motorcycle is moving, you must be correctly seated on the motorcycle,
facing forward, with at least one hand on the handlebars and both feet on the
footrests.
n Your motorcycle must have a current licence and display the number plate
(see below) - it is an offence to ride, cause or permit another person to ride an
unlicensed motorcycle on a road or road-related area.
n You can position your motorcycle anywhere within the lane providing it is safe and
reasonable.
n Where the motorcycle is equipped to carry one pillion passenger, you can carry
only one pillion passenger (an additional passenger can be carried in a side car
should the motorcycle be equipped with one).
n The number of passengers carried cannot exceed the number of seats designed
to carry passengers.
n You must ensure that pillion passengers are at least eight years of age and are able
to keep both feet on the footrests whilst facing forward.
n Passengers in sidecars and on motor trikes must be safely seated.
n Passengers must not impede your control of the motorcycle.
n Passengers must not block the display of signals to other motorists.
Riding an unlicensed vehicle on WA roads carries significant financial penalties for

the rider and licence holder of the motorcycle. This is due to the fact that motor injury
insurance is not valid when an unlicensed vehicle is driven on public roads. You could
be held personally liable to pay compensation to any person injured as a result of a
crash involving an unlicensed motorcycle. There are severe penalties for riding an
unlicensed motorcycle on the road.
n The number plate/s on the motorcycle you ride or own must be;
- issued by DoT or any other Australian jurisdiction;
- able to be seen and read clearly from anywhere within a 45 degree arc of the
motorcycle’s centre line, at a distance of at least 20 metres. That means the
plates cannot be obstructed by anything; clearly readable – not dirty, worn or
damaged;
- free of any characteristics that would prevent the detection of traffic offences;
48
- the rear number plate must have a light so that it is clearly visible at night; and
- returned to DoT after the vehicle licence of the motorcycle has expired and the
owner does not wish to renew the licence.
n It is an offence to:
- alter number plates in any way;
- attach a number plate to any vehicle other than the one to which it is licensed
by DoT;
- use a number plate cover that is not flat, clear and untinted;
- have a number plate obscured;
- bend the plate in a direction that prevents it being seen or detected by
photographic or number plate recognition devices; and/or
- use or manufacture immitation number plates.
5.1.1 Carrying Passengers, Loads and Animals
Your motorcycle will act differently when it is carrying a load, whether it is luggage or
a pillion passenger. The motorcycle will not accelerate or brake as quickly and it will
handle differently around corners and over bumps.
Remember that extra weight will require different handling. Therefore, increase your
following distance behind other vehicles and allow more time to speed up or slow
down.
Pillion Passengers
Pillion passengers who are not used to being on a motorcycle may act unpredictably.
Therefore, it is advisable to instruct your passenger to relax, hold onto the “grab rail” or
your waist and follow your lead when leaning.
Wearing protective clothing and a helmet is equally applicable to a pillion

passenger as it is to the rider. Wearing an approved helmet is required by
law.
As a rider it is advisable that prior to the ride, you:
n check the motorcycle manual on how to adjust the preload suspension to carry an
extra weight;
n add air to tyres if required; and
n adjust your mirrors with you and the pillion both sitting on the bike.
Ride smoothly, slowly and carefully. Maintain your concentration by not talking to your
passenger.
49
Never rely on a pillions judgement or advice as to whether it is clear to
proceed. You should always look and decide for yourself.
A pillion passenger must be at least eight years of age and be able to put both feet
firmly on the foot pegs. They must be seated astride of the motorcycle and facing
forwards.
Sidecars and Passengers
Since a motorcycle has totally different handling characteristics when attached to

a sidecar, it is recommended that you practise in a quiet area without traffic first.
Paying particular attention to the way the motorcycle accelerates, steers and stops.
The motorcycle rider must not ride with more sidecar passengers than the sidecar is
designed to carry.
If you are a passenger being carried in a sidecar you must wear a correctly fitted and
securely fastened approved motorcycle helmet and remain safely seated.
Carrying a Load
Motorcycles are not designed to carry large loads. Your motorcycle manual will give you
ars There
and Passengers
a total weight your vehicle is designed to carry, including rider and pillion.
are many different kinds of luggage available for motorcycles, including panniers,
or saddlebags, tank bags and seat bags. You can use more than one of these to
balance the weight of your load.
rent handling characteristics when attached to
you50 practise in a quiet area without traffic first;
When packing, keep the load:
n Low: Ideally with the use of panniers or on the seat. If a load is too high it may
unbalance your motorcycle. Avoid carrying heavy or unwieldy loads on your back;
n Forward: Place your load above or in front of the rear axle as anything behind the
rear axle can potentially have a serious effect on the handling;
n Balanced: Filling panniers evenly or strapping heavier loads onto the seat; and
n Secure: By using one or more of the options previously mentioned or strapping the
load carefully to the motorcycle. A loose load or strap could become caught in the
rear wheel or chain and cause a crash. Extreme care should be taken when using
straps with hooks as these are a major cause of eye loss.
Finally, make sure that your load does not project from the motorcycle (or side car if
fitted) in a way that is likely to injure or obstruct other vehicles or pedestrians, or cause
damage to a vehicle or anything else (including the road surface). It is also important
that you check your load periodically to ensure that it remains secure.
Carrying Animals
Animals must not be carried between the rider and the handlebars. The only exception
is if the person who rides with the animal travels a distance of no more than 500 metres
on a road for the purposes of a farming activity and that safety is not compromised.
5.1.2 Differences Riding in Metropolitan and Regional Areas
The major differences in riding in metropolitan (city) and regional areas (country) can be
grouped into three categories and are linked to the environment, the density of traffic
and the focus of the drivers’ attention.
Riding in metropolitan areas
When riding in the metropolitan area:

n you need to be aware that you can experience traffic hold ups due to higher traffic
density;
n consider other road users and be patient;
n speed limits are generally much lower than in regional areas;
n areas are mostly built up with high density housing and buildings that contribute to
high traffic levels;
n roads have far more signage and frequent traffic control measures; and
n there are far more pedestrians and bicycle riders.
51
Riding in regional areas
When riding in regional areas:

n consider other road users and be patient;
n watch out for wildlife and livestock on roads particularly at sunrise and after
sunset;
n watch out for tractors towing farm machinery, especially during seeding and
harvest times;
n plan your journey to ensure you have enough fuel and water to get you to the next
town;
n do not stop on or near bridges, floodways or on narrow sections of roadway;
n park at the forward end of roadside parking bays to allow others to enter and
leave;
n do not pull out on to the roadway when you see another vehicle approaching.
Wait until the other vehicle has passed;
n watch for loose gravel on bends; and
n leave sufficient space between your motorcycle and the vehicle in front of you
when riding on unsealed roads so that dust does not impair your vision.
5.2 Licensing Recreational Motorcycles

(Quad Bikes and Trail Motorcycles)
An off-road vehicle means a vehicle which is not licensed, deemed to be licensed or the
subject of a permit granted under the Road Traffic (Vehicles) Act 2012 in accordance
with the Control of Vehicles (Off-road Areas) Act 1978. Trail bikes can be licensed
for use on the road if desired and providing the vehicle meets the appropriate design
standards. Quad bikes are not typically licensed for use on the road.
All off-road vehicles which are used in the areas covered by the Control of Vehicles (Off-
road Areas) Act 1978, other than on private land with the consent of the owner, must be
registered at a DVS centre, regional DoT office or DVS agent.
Owners of off-road vehicles are required to:

n produce primary proof of identity and age, e.g. driver’s licence, passport or birth
certificate at the time of application;
n produce the certificate of registration, copy of transfer notice and transfer receipts
(if any) and pay the transfer fee at any DVS centre or regional DVS agent within 14
days of becoming the owner. Failure to take this action may result in prosecution;
n maintain current registration of the vehicle - the off-road vehicle registration is not
valid beyond the date of expiry and, unless renewed the number plates must be
returned to DoT within 15 days;
52
n ensure that the vehicle is driven within designated areas of operation as
required by the Control of Vehicles (Off-road Areas) Act 1978. The Act may
be obtained by contacting the Department of Local Government on (08)
6552 1500 or by contacting the relevant Shire or visit the State Law website
www.legislation.wa.gov.au;
n immediately report all accidents that cause injury to persons to a Police Station;
n notify DoT of a change of address, in writing within 21 days, stating a full name,
date of birth, vehicle plate number and driver’s licence number (relevant forms are
available online at www.transport.wa.gov.au/dvs); and
n notify DoT of a change of ownership within 7 days of ceasing to be the owner - the
seller must provide the vehicle licence and a copy of the transfer notice to the buyer
at the time of sale.
The motor injury insurance does not apply to a vehicle registered for off-road use.
Failure to comply with the regulations as per the Control of Vehicles (Off-road Areas)
Act 1978 may result in a fine of up to $1,000.
DoT currently considers each application to licence a quad bike under the Road Traffic
(Vehicles) Act 2012 on a case by case basis, with a licence being granted if:
n there is a legitimate need to access or cross one or more public roads; and
n DoT is confident that the public roads will be used safely.
With a recent increase in popularity of recreational trail bike riding and a decrease
in legal recreational riding areas due to land acquisitions and environmental issues,
a State Trail Bike Strategy has been developed to identify the issues surrounding the
use of trail bikes in metropolitan and regional areas in WA.
The WA State Trail Bike Strategy is an initiative of Motorcycling WA and the Recreational
Trail Bike Riders’ Association of WA. It is funded by the Department of Sport and
Recreation, the Department of Environment and Conservation, DoT and the Department
of Local Government.
53
REVIEW QUESTIONS
Q1 How many pillion One Two. Provided they As many as

passengers are can fit comfortably possible
permitted on a
motorcycle that
is designed to
transport pillion
passengers?
Q2 When loading Placing your load Placing your load Placing your load
your motorcycle it on the front of above or in front of facing forwards
is recommended your motorcycle the rear axle
that you keep the
load low, forward,
balanced and
secure. Forward
refers to:
Q3 What must you Something warm A correctly fitted Reflective clothing
wear if you are and securely
a passenger fastened approved
being carried in a motorcycle helmet
sidecar?
54
PART 6
Your Safety
Riding a motorcycle can be great fun and is enjoyed by people of most ages.
When riding you should always remember that you are responsible for your own safety,
relying on other road users to ensure your safety can be a major hazard. Never rely on
other road users to look after you. Even if you are wearing brightly coloured clothing and
making eye contact, do not assume that other road users have seen you.
Riding on the road means accepting responsibility for your own safety and
showing due care and consideration for all other road users.
One of the most valuable resources you have as a beginner, or someone returning to
riding, is the knowledge and experience of other motorcyclists and driving instructors.
Use it. Ask around when you are considering buying a motorcycle, clothing and
accessories. However, always make sure you balance advice; read up on the subject,
and ask more than one person.
6.1 Actions you can Take to Ensure your Safety

Riding a motorcycle can place you at a higher crash risk or risk of injury than driving
a car. If you are involved in a crash, the chances of being injured are very high.
In addition to complying with legal obligations and driving in accordance with road rules
and regulations, there are measures you can take to increase your own safety when
riding a motorcycle, for example:
n maintaining concentration at all times;
n wearing visible clothing so you can be seen by other road users;
n wearing protective clothing; and
n riding a roadworthy vehicle.
The focus of this section is on actions that you need to undertake to ensure your own
safety. All these actions are under your control and include maintaining concentration,
managing fatigue, wearing protective clothing, and riding a roadworthy vehicle.
6.1.1 Maintaining Concentration
Your survival on the road depends to a large extent on your concentration. Riders who
do not maintain concentration at all times have longer reaction times, less adequate
observation of the environment, and late and abrupt braking.
You need to be aware that your concentration can be affected by your immediate
environment, your health and/or physical condition, and your ability to process visual
information. Roadside advertisements, other road users, weather conditions, as well
as the monotony of the road are also common factors that can decrease your level of
concentration.
Examples of major health-related factors that have a significant impact on your ability
to concentrate include the quality of your sleep, the effects of alcohol consumption, as
well as an intake of certain medications.
56
Riding a motorcycle is much more tiring than driving a car. Before you get on the
road, ensure that you have slept well. Sleep deprivation often leads to fatigue which
significantly increases potential for a crash.
Many people think that sleepiness is the most common sign of fatigue. However, for
riders a lapse in concentration is the major sign of fatigue. It is in your own interest not
to ride if you know you can not concentrate fully.
Rider fatigue indicators are:

n running a bit wide on a corner;
n a couple of rough gear changes;
n not seeing a sign;
n day dreaming;
n dry mouth; and
n stiff joints (neck, knees and wrists).
If you have any signs of fatigue, stop immediately and rest.

You can prevent or manage fatigue:
n Even if you are not tired, stop at least every one and a half hours or 150 kilometres;
n Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated;
n Avoid coffee or sweet soft drinks;
n Do not drink alcohol;
n Eat small amounts frequently, simple foods like fruit, nuts, a muesli bar or a little
chocolate;
n Avoid fatty foods and large meals before or during a ride; and
n In winter, don’t make yourself too snug and warm – it is good to be a little cool.
6.1.2 Staying Alcohol and Drug Free
Findings from many studies confirm the adverse effect of alcohol and drugs on reflexes,
coordination, depth perception and risk taking behaviour. Factors that can determine
the extent of adverse effects include age, body weight and food consumption.
Riding under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is one of the most common causes
of crashes involving single or multiple vehicles.
The most significant risks associated with driving under the influence of alcohol and/
or drugs are your mistakes and/or a delay in your response to mistakes of others. Both
situations can seriously compromise your own safety, as well as the safety of other
road users.
57
Any drink containing 10 grams of alcohol is called a standard drink.
One standard drink will raise an average person’s BAC by about 0.01 per cent
(grams of alcohol per 100ml of blood), depending upon the factors mentioned.
A measurement of 0.05 per cent BAC means that your body contains 50 milligrams of
alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood.
The Department of Health advises that to stay below 0.05 per cent BAC:
n an average sized, healthy woman should have no more than one standard drink in
the first hour of drinking and then no more than one standard drink per hour after
that; and
n an average sized, healthy man should have no more than two standard drinks in the
first hour of drinking, then no more than one standard drink per hour after that.
Even if your BAC is lower than the legal limit, it can still be detrimental to your ability to
process information from the environment, control your vehicle, and avoid risks.
Spirits Wine Mid-strength beer

(37-43% alc/vol) (10-14% alc/vol) (3-4% alc/vol)
=1
Standard
=1
Standard
= 0.8 =1
Standard Standard
drink drink drink drink
per 30ml per 100ml per 285ml per 375ml
(7.5per bottle)
Pre-mixed drinks (5% alc/vol) Full strength beer (4-6% alc/vol)
= 1.2 = 1.5 = 1.5 =1

Standard Standard Standard Standard
drink drink drink drink
per 300ml per 375ml per 375ml per 285ml
Don’t drink and drive.
58
Remember, all novice drivers are restricted to zero BAC.
The minimum penalty for a novice driver with a BAC over 0.00% is a fine and accrual
of demerit points.
6.1.3 Checking the Effect of Medications
Some medications, whether prescribed by a doctor or purchased over the counter, can
impair your safety by causing drowsiness and/or other side effects, such as general
weakness or dizziness.
All these symptoms will slow your reaction in an emergency and affect your riding skills.
Cough mixtures and antihistamines are only a few examples of such medications.
It is your responsibility to know the effects of any medication before you commence
riding.
Check with your doctor or pharmacist and read the label to make sure the medication
will not affect your riding ability.
If any medication has an effect on your riding ability you must not ride.
6.1.4 Ensuring you are Seen by Other Road Users
To assist in being seen by other road users, it is recommended that you ride with your
headlight on low beam during the day regardless of the weather conditions. The use
of fluorescent vests and/or reflective protective gear is also recommended, particularly
at night time.
6.1.5 Wearing Protective Gear
As a motorcycle rider you are exposed to the elements and vulnerable to injury much
more than car drivers.
Wearing appropriate protective clothing will:

n significantly reduce injury in a crash;
n protect you from the weather; and
n improve your comfort when riding.
Purpose-made motorcycle clothing and protective gear provides better weather and
crash protection than ordinary clothing while riding. Helmets are required by law to be
worn.
The national motorcycle assessment program, MotoCAP is an independent and

free resource that tests motorcycle gear and provides ratings on safety and comfort
for a wide range of brands. Riders can consult with the MotoCAP website before
purchasing motorcycle clothing and helmets. Visit www.motocap.com.au for more
information or search motorcycle helmets and gear on the www.wa.gov.au website.
59
Helmet
When riding you and your passenger(s) must wear an approved safety helmet compliant
with Australian and New Zealand Standard (AS/NZS) 1698 or United Nations Economic
Commission for Europe Regulation No 22 (UNECE22.05) as amended.
All Australian Standard approved helmets have stickers that must remain permanently
affixed to the back of the helmet.
Your helmet must:

n fit comfortably but not too tightly (avoid helmets that fit loosely);
n have the chin strap fastened and properly tightened;
n be replaced after a crash or a significant impact;
n be replaced if the fittings become loose and/or the straps become worn out; and
n only be cleaned with mild soapy water - some chemicals and cleaners may
weaken the shell.
You should never buy a second-hand helmet.
60
Visor or goggles
These will protect your eyes from the wind, dust, rain, insects and stones thrown up
by other vehicles. Visors and goggles must be approved and compliant with Australian
and New Zealand Standard (AS/NZS) 1698 or United Nations Economic Commission
for Europe Regulation No 22 (UNECE22.05) as amended.
Only a visor attached to the helmet or goggles will provide the eye protection necessary
for riding. Some motorcycles have screens or fairings to provide protection from the
weather. These do not provide adequate protection for the eyes and you should still use
a visor or goggles. It is recommended that visors and goggles be cleaned with soapy
water as solvents can damage the surface. Visor and/or goggles should be:
n clean and without scratches (if your visor or goggles become scratched you should
replace them);
n shatterproof; and
n have clear lenses for use at night.
Jackets and pants
These should be highly abrasion and tear resistant and secured at the wrists, waist and
ankles to prevent sliding up and exposing skin. Jackets and pants should:
n be tailored for a riding position;

n completely cover your arms, legs and body; and
n have impact and abrasion protection for your back, shoulders, elbows, hips and
knees.
Gloves
Gloves that are specifically designed for motorcycle riding will generally have:
n a strengthened palm area shaped for riding;
n knuckle protection (e.g. an extra layer of leather);
n a fastener around the wrist to prevent sliding off (e.g. zipper and Velcro); and
n an overlap with the jacket (gauntlet style).
Footwear
Footwear designed for motorcycle riding will provide great comfort and protection.
Motorcycle footwear generally has:
n strengthening in the instep between the ball of the foot and the heel;
n ankle protection;
n shin protection;
n a fastener around the leg to prevent sliding off (e.g. zipper and Velcro);
n an overlap with the pants (boot style); and
n gear change cover to prevent wear.
61
Additional protection
Other rider specific protection devices include back protectors to protect your spine in
a crash and kidney belts to support your lower back and reduce fatigue. Dual density
foam is recommended. Be aware about varying standards and prices of protective
clothing. The most important factor for you to consider is the degree of protection from
injury they offer you.
It is a good investment to buy quality protective clothing. For more information about
protective clothing the ‘The Good Gear Guide for Motorcycle Riders’ is available online
at www.transport.wa.gov.au/dvs.
6.1.6 Riding a Roadworthy Vehicle
Before you ride you should make sure that your motorcycle is roadworthy.
A roadworthy motorcycle is one that is safe to ride and meets the standards required
by law.
Your motorcycle must have the equipment shown in the diagram below.
n A red tail light, a brake light, a rear

reflector and a light to illuminate
your rear number plate.
n An effective
silencer. n Two rear vision mirrors,
one on each side.
n An efficient headlight
that works correctly
and is properly adjusted.
n Indicators (if your

motorbike was first
licensed on or after
1 January 1969).
n An effective horn
(sirens, bells and
whistles are not allowed).
n Safe tyres with a tread of

at least 1.5 mm.
n Adequate footrests for both driver n Efficient brakes that will allow
and, if pillion seating exists, for the you to stop promptly.
pillion passenger.
62
Your motorcycle must not have:
n any ornament or fitting that may cause an injury in a crash;
n any lights shining to the rear that are not red (except indicators); or
n any red light showing to the front.
Your motorcycle’s roadworthiness should be checked every time before you ride. Basic
mechanical checks don’t need a mechanic to conduct them and can be done by an
informed novice.
Not conducting the roadworthiness checks can be potentially life

threatening.
Regular maintenance will keep your motorcycle roadworthy and the vehicle will have a
lower exhaust emission. As a minimum you should perform the following checks every
time before you ride. If you are unsure of the operation or condition of any feature of
your motorcycle, check the manufacturer’s manual or seek qualified advice.
Check 1 - TYRES
Tyres should always be checked prior to

riding. Put the motorcycle on a stand to
allow the wheels to rotate.
Check the wear indicators and look

for any damage or objects that may
have pierced the tyre. If any damage
or wear is detected, replace the tyre/s
before riding the motorcycle to avoid a
blowout.
The sidewalls of the tyres should not have any cuts, cracks or bumps, if detected the
tyre should be replaced before riding the motorcycle.
If your tyres wear unevenly there may be a problem with the steering, alignment, tyre
pressure or suspension.
Tyres must be in good condition and have a tread at least 1.5 mm deep across the tread
surface. Motorcycles must not have re-grooved tyres, unless the tyre was manufactured
to be re-grooved.
If you have had new tyres fitted, take extra care until the shiny surface is worn off as
they can be very slippery.
Note: If using an off road motorcycle on a gazetted road, the motorcycle must display
the dot on the tyre. Not for highway use is not acceptable on the road.
63
Check 2 - TYRE PRESSURE
Tyre pressure is critical to a

motorcycle’s handling. Under-inflated
tyres significantly increase the risk of
crashing.
Check tyre pressure in both tyres with

a tyre gauge. This is best done when
the tyres are cold and before you ride.
Make sure the pressure is within the
manufacturer’s recommendations or they may overheat and fail.
Remember that if you are carrying a pillion passenger or a load of gear you may need to
increase the tyre pressure. Your motorcycle mechanic, tyre supplier or owner’s manual
should be able to advise you about the best pressure to use.
Tyre pressure should be checked regularly, at least every two weeks. If your tyres wear
unevenly, there may be a problem with the steering, alignment suspension or tyre
pressure.
Check 3 - CHAIN TENSION
By rotating the rear wheel you will

be able to detect any tight spots
in your drive chain. For the correct
chain adjustment, you should consult
your motorcycle mechanic or owner’s
manual. When adjusting the chain
tension, find the tightest spot and make
the adjustment as per instruction in the
manual. Riding with a slack or worn
chain can cause the rear wheel to lock.
If your motorcycle has a shaft drive,
check for oil leaks at the seals and hub.
64
Check 4 - LUBRICATE THE CHAIN
Make sure you apply lubricant to the
pivot points and avoid any overspray
going onto the tyres or brake rotor. It is
best to oil the chain when it is hot. If you
are on a long trip over several days, it is
suggested that the chain be oiled at the
end of every day.
Check 5 - BRAKE PADS FOR WEAR

A quick look into the calliper should let
you know if there is sufficient material
left on the pads. If you are unsure as to
their wear level, consult your motorcycle
mechanic.
Check 6 - LEVEL OF ENGINE OIL

Make sure that the level of the engine oil
is between the high and low marks on
the inspection window or the dipstick.
Overfilling the engine with oil can cause
oil leaks.
65
Check 7 - LEVEL OF BRAKE FLUID
Check the level of break fluid on both

the front and rear master cylinder
reservoirs. On motorcycles with
hydraulic clutches check that the fluid
level on the clutch master cylinder
reservoir is between the high and the
low marks.
Check 8 - LEVEL OF COOLANT
Check the level of coolant in the

coolant reservoir tank (liquid cooled
motorcycles only). Top it up if required.
Check 9 - FORK LEGS
Check the fork legs especially around

the fork seals. There should not be any
evidence of fork oil leakage. Leaking
oil on a tyre or brakes is a major safety
concern.
66
Check 10 - ELECTRICS
Check whether all of the electrics are

working properly, including the lights,
high and low beam, all of the indicators,
brake lights, both front and rear brakes
and the horn.
Also, check your battery and if the fluid

level is low, fill it to just above the cell
plates with distilled water.
Check 11 - CABLES
Check cables where fitted e.g. clutch,

brakes and accelerator for signs of
fraying or wear and lubricate as required
with oil or grease where appropriate.
Regular lubrication will prevent the

cables from wearing and stiff operation.
In addition to regular checks, all

motorcycles need regular servicing.
The bike’s manual will suggest times
when the motorcycle needs a service.
The service will require specialist knowledge or tools and should be conducted by a
professional motorcycle mechanic.
6.1.7 Riding a Borrowed Motorcycle
Increased caution is required when riding a borrowed motorcycle, every motorcycle

handles differently and it is much easier to make mistakes on an unfamiliar motorcycle.
If you decide to borrow a motorcycle, before you attempt to ride it, you should always
ensure that you know how to operate the controls and switches and that the motorcycle
is both safe and roadworthy. It is also your responsibility to make sure the motorcycle
is licensed.
It is an offence to lend a vehicle to a person who is not authorised to drive

or ride it. The best solution is not to lend or borrow a motorcycle.
67
6.1.8 Maintaining Appropriate Riding Posture
When you first get a motorcycle adjust the controls to suit your height and build.
Correct riding posture reduces fatigue and improves control. To control a motorcycle
efficiently, your body must be in the correct position.
The five key points of riding posture that apply to all types of motorcycles are:
1. sit well forward;
2. keep your head up and point your chin in your direction of travel;
3. relax your arms and place minimal weight on your wrists;
4. keep your back relaxed and support your weight with your stomach muscles; and
5. grip the motorcycle firmly with your legs and knees.
Keep your head up and

point your chin in your
direction of travel
Sit well forward

Keep your back relaxed
and support your
weight with your
stomach muscles
Relax your arms and

place minimal weight on
your wrists
Grip the motorcycle
firmly with your legs
and knees
6.1.9 Adapting your Riding to Hazardous Weather Conditions
Although WA does not experience the same extreme weather conditions as some other
countries, you should be prepared for a variety of conditions on the road. Safe riding
requires you to always ride in such a way that you are able to stop in the distance you
can see to be clear. This will vary with the density of traffic and, to a large extent, with
weather conditions, including bright sun, fog, rain and high winds.
n Bright sunshine may cause significant dazzle. When the sun is shining in your
mirrors, adjust them to give you the best visibility with the minimum of glare. When
overtaking, be aware that other road users in front of you have difficulties with
seeing behind.
n Sunrise or Sunset will make it hard for you to be seen by other drivers, irrespective
of whether you put the lights on and wear brightly coloured protective gear. You
must exercise extreme caution when riding at these times.
n Heat Haze on open roads can hide approaching vehicles from view. Make sure that
the path is clear before you overtake other vehicles, especially long vehicles.
68
n Fog reduces riders’ perception of speed and visibility. It also encourages riders to
closely follow a vehicle in front in order to see the vehicle lights ahead. You must
adjust your speed to the density of the fog. Riding in the fog is tiring, so watch
for the signs of fatigue and take more rest if necessary, see section 6.1.1 for more
information.
n Rain can significantly reduce visibility. When riding in the rain:
- Remember that after a long dry spell followed by rain the roads usually
become very slippery and your stopping distances will be much longer. You
should therefore, ride very carefully and slow down.
- A film of water can build up between the tyres and the road which is known
as ‘aquaplaning’. This can result in a lack of control and lighter than normal
steering. To avoid aquaplaning, you should keep your speed down. If you do
aquaplane ease the throttle off smoothly.
- Avoid painted arrows and road markings as they are usually very slippery. If
your rear wheel starts to skid as you accelerate, you must ease off the throttle
to gain control.
- If you ride through a deep puddle you should ride slowly in a low gear and
after you are clear of the water, test that your brakes work effectively.
- If the spray from vehicles ahead makes it difficult for you to see, you should
drop back until you can see clearly.
n High winds can cause strong gusts on entering or emerging from under bridges,
crossing an open valley and riding into open country. High winds can cause
vehicles, especially high sided ones, to veer suddenly. A slip stream may result
where smaller vehicles are pulled towards the larger vehicle during overtaking. In
such situations you may need to counter high winds by using a firm grip on the
handlebars and considering leaning the motorcycle into the wind to compensate
for the sideways force.
When riding in windy conditions keep your speed down as wind buffeting
can affect the handling of your motorcycle.
69
6.1.10 Planning your Route
In order to have an easier and pleasant journey with less stress, it is recommended you
plan your route before starting out. Avoid busy times if possible and allow plenty of
time for potential hold-ups, especially if you have an appointment to keep. Media traffic
reports can be of great assistance.
Where you are unfamiliar with the area or route, it is a good idea to plan ahead with the
use of any of the following;
n a map;
n satellite navigation equipment;
n motoring organisation information; and
n using an internet route planner.
6.2 Riding at Night

At night there are significantly less vehicles on the road, but visibility is lower than
during the daytime. Headlights will not show the rider a road as clearly as daylight will.
Also, other road users may have trouble in seeing a headlight or tail light because of
other lights. While riding at night, motorcycle riders are advised to take extra care and
apply safety measures.
n Riders must ensure that they can see as clearly as possible. Therefore riders should
avoid wearing a dark tinted or scratched visor or tinted glasses.
n Riders need to be able to stop within the distance they can see ahead.
n Riders can use high beam for extra seeing distance, except when within 200 metres
of another vehicle.
n Riders may need to slow down and look off centre if an on-coming vehicle has not
dipped its high beam.
n Riders must ensure they can be seen on the road.
n Riders should ride more slowly at night to give themselves more time to read the
road and react to any potential hazards.
Make sure that any reflectors and all indicators and other lights on your
motorcycle are clean. Wear a reflective vest when you ride at night.
70
REVIEW QUESTIONS
Q1 If you lose You will have quick Your reaction time will You will feel ill
concentration reflexes be slower
whilst riding, what
else is likely to
occur?
Q2 What should you Ask your doctor, Take the medicine an Ride if you
do if you need pharmacist or check hour before riding feel alright
cough medicine the medicine label to
prior to riding? see if it could affect
your riding
Q3 What is the 1.7mm 1.0mm 1.5mm

minimum
permitted tread
depth on any
tyre before it is
considered illegal?
Q4 What is Industrial cleaner White spirits Mild soapy

recommended water
for cleaning your
helmet?
71
PART 7
Safe Riding Skills
Some of the challenges you will face on the road will be out of your control, for
example behaviour of other road users, weather conditions or the road surface.
Some However,
of the challenges you
you have will face
control overonother
the road will such
factors, be out
asofyour
yourphysical
control, well
for example
being,
behaviour of other road users, weather conditions or the road surface.
wearing quality protective clothing, and riding a roadworthy vehicle. However, you
have control over other factors, such as your physical well being, wearing quality
protective
Thereclothing and riding
is no known a roadworthy
definition of a safe vehicle.
rider. Therefore, it is necessary to adopt a cross
There disciplinary
is no knownapproach,
definition involving
of a safethe law,
rider. the science
Therefore, it isofnecessary
human behaviour
to adopt and road craft
a cross
in order
disciplinary to identify
approach, factors the
involving whichlaw,play
theascience
critical of
role in ensuring
human and and
behaviour maintaining riders’
road craft
in order to identify factors which play a critical role in ensuring and maintaining riders’ on
safety. The multi-disciplinary approach identifies that on-the-road safety depends
safety.the combination
The of riders’
multi-disciplinary attitude, identifies
approach knowledge andon-the-road
that riding skills.safety depends on
the combination of riders’ attitude, knowledge and riding skills.
ATTITUDE
R
U
KN
O
OW
VI
LE
A
DG
EH
E
B
SAFETY
[PERSONAL
& OTHERS’]
OBSERVING ROAD RULES
ROADWORTHY VEHICLE
& REGULATIONS
ROADCRAFT
If you are unsure how these factors interact with one another and impact on your safety
If you
consider theare unsurescenarios:
following how these factors interact with one another and impact on your
safety consider the following scenarios:
Scenario 1
Scenario 1
Igor is an experienced rider who has an excellent knowledge of road rules and
Igor is an experienced rider who has an excellent knowledge of road rules and
regulations. His motorcycle is always well maintained. He is considering riding home
regulations. His motorcycle is always well maintained. He is considering riding home
from a BBQ. He has had a long day and he is feeling tired. He has a choice of staying
from a BBQ. He has had a long day and he is feeling tired. He has a choice of staying
overnight at his friend’s house. Instead, he opts for exceeding the speed limit to get
overnight at his friend’s house. Instead, he opts for exceeding the speed limit to get
home quickly. Is his decision sound? Is he showing regard for his safety and that of
home quickly. Is his decision sound? Is he showing regard for his safety and that of
other road users?
other road users?
Scenario 2
Scenario 2
Penny is very proud of her newly acquired rider status. Despite a few trips to the shops,
Penny is very proud of her newly acquired rider status. Despite a few trips to the
she has not spent much time riding her new motorcycle. She knows the traffic and
shops, she has not spent much time riding her new scooter. She knows the traffic and
road rules, and is safety aware. Having had a pleasant day, she offers her friend a ride
road rules, and is safety aware. Having had a pleasant day, she offers her friend a ride
home. She is convinced she will manage the ride in peak traffic across the city. Is her
decision supported by her skills/experience? Is she endangering her own safety and
that of her friend?
73
Scenario 3
Rob has recently obtained a licence authorising him to ride a moped. He is an

experienced off-road rider from the years he spent on the family farm. He is safety-aware
and never rides when fatigued or under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. However,
having recently moved to the city, he is unsure of what to do when approaching an
intersection or roundabout. He promised himself he would, one day, learn the rules. So
far, he has not done it. He has been riding to and from work across the city every day
of the week. Does Rob know enough to be safe? Is his lack of knowledge dangerous
to others?
What the above scenarios demonstrate is that on its own just one of the elements won’t
ensure your safety.
Your safety depends on how well you can simultaneously apply your
knowledge of road rules and regulations, use safe riding skills and adopt
an appropriate attitude.
7.1 Rider’s Attitude and Safe Riding

How you feel is reflected in how you act and interact with others. You act differently
when you are angry, stressed and/or unhappy compared to when you are relaxed and
happy. You can improve your safety by ensuring that you do not ride when you are
angry, stressed and/or unhappy.
All too often, some road users may display a less-than-courteous behaviour in their
interactions with other road users. A person’s ability to judge a situation and make
sound riding decisions may be impaired by a bad mood. Sadly, a bad mood is often
reflected in aggressive driving behaviour, such as:
n road rage;
n tailgating (following too close);
n speeding;
n reckless riding; or
n running red lights.
When drivers display any of the above behaviours they may be prone to make mistakes
and consequently, cause injury to themselves or other road users.
As much as you can control your own moods and behaviour, you cannot control the
mood and behaviours of other road users. You can only influence these through your
attitude, actions and by riding in a safe manner. The best option is to stay impartial
and not react to inappropriate behaviour, such as threats and obscene gestures made
towards you by other road users.
74
If you are a target of aggression, do not succumb to the behaviours of others. For
example, if you are tailgated do not accelerate in order to accommodate the driver/rider
behind you. Remain calm and maintain an appropriate speed (within the prescribed
speed limit) and buffer between yourself and the vehicle ahead of you.
Reacting to aggressive driving behaviour with shouting and/or offensive gestures may
further fuel the aggression and may lead to a more unsafe situation developing.
7.2 Roadcraft
The term ‘roadcraft’ originated in the 1950s in the United Kingdom (UK). It is the name
of UK’s police driving manual that outlines a system of control for cars and motorcycles.
“The purpose of the system of motorcycle control is to provide ways of approaching

and negotiating hazards that is methodical, safe and leaves nothing to chance. The
system promotes careful observation and planning, and a systematic use of the
controls to achieve machine stability.
Drawing together all riding skills in a coordinated response to road and traffic conditions
is central to roadcraft. It gives you the time to select the best road position, speed and
gear to negotiate the hazard safely and efficiently.
The benefits of applying a systematic approach to driving is that the simultaneous

physical and mental demands on the vehicle and the driver are reduced by separating
the phases of manoeuvres into logical sequences. This allows both the driver and the
vehicle to avoid being overwhelmed by having to do too much at the same time. For
example, braking and steering at the same time place greater demands on the vehicle’s
available grip and in the worst case can lead to a skid.”5
In Australia, the system of vehicle control is generally applied with the following phases:
1. Course - a route planned to follow;
2. Mirror - to monitor traffic behind in order to assist with the best approach;
3. Signal - to warn other road users;
4. Brake - appropriate to the hazard being approached, attained by using explicit
braking or throttle control (engine braking) and always being able to stop in the
distance you can see to be clear on your side of the road;
5. Gear Selection - appropriate for maximum vehicle control through the hazard,
selected in one shift; and
6. Acceleration - for clearing the hazard safely.
5
P. Coyne (1996) The police foundation Motorcycle ROADCRAFT, police rider’s handbook to better motorcycling, Chapter 2, p.29
75
A phrase to help remember the principles of ‘roadcraft’ is: Can My Safety
Be Given Away?
Your roadcraft will progressively improve as you gain training and riding experience.
7.3 Safe riding skills

Riding is never risk free, but you should aim to ride in a “low risk” manner. Riding “low
risk” means adopting safe riding skills which include observation, speed management,
road positioning, decision making and hazard perception.
7.3.1 Observation
The road environment is constantly changing and requires high levels of observation
and concentration. The key to good observation is scanning, checking mirrors,
conducting head checks, and positioning your head for turns.
Scanning
As opposed to focusing on one target, scanning is keeping your eyes moving, checking
in one area for a couple of seconds, then moving your eyes to another area. When
scanning, try looking;
n in the distance;
n at the road surface;
n to your left;
n to your right; and
n at your mirrors and instruments.
Before moving off from traffic lights, check all directions to make sure the
traffic that would otherwise cross your path has stopped.
Checking Mirrors
The main purpose of having mirrors is to give you a better view of road conditions
behind you. Every few seconds you must check the mirrors to ensure you always know
what is behind you. There are also particular times when it is very important for you to
check the mirrors, for example:
n before making any change to your speed or road position;
n when preparing to turn or change lanes; and
n when you are stopped behind another vehicle.
Checking mirrors when you see traffic ahead will help you assess how your actions
could affect traffic behind you.
76
Please Note: Many motorcycles have curved mirrors called ‘convex’ mirrors which
provide a wider field of vision. It is critical that you check your blind spots by performing
a head check because in convex mirrors, objects appear further back than they actually
are.
Head Check
A head check is the only sure way to see objects that are in your blind spot. Riders have
‘blind spots’ just as drivers do. A blind spot is the area next to you that you are unable
to see in your mirrors. When you are about to change your position on the road (e.g.
make a turn, exit a roundabout, move off or change lanes), make sure you turn your
head and look over your shoulder to see if it is clear.
Check blind spots before changing your road position.
Blind Blind
spot spot
area area
Represents the use of indicators
Perform a head check before turning right into a street or driveway, just in
case a following vehicle has not seen your indicator and is overtaking you.
77
g vehicle has not seen your
ertaking you.
or Turns
Head Position for Turns
elp When cornering, looking through a corner will help

with your coordination and balance.
ace Use your peripheral vision to scan the road surface

n while keeping your head pointed in the direction you
want to go.
7.3.2 Speed Management

e within the designated speed limits.
on a broad
Likerange
otherofroad
factors, it isriders are required to ride within the designated speed limits.
users,
erefore, However,
riders are as
advised to check of speed depends on a broad range of factors, it is easy for
the perception
riders to underestimate the speed. Therefore, riders are advised to check speedometers
at regular intervals while riding.
stanceWhen
quadruples. In wet and
speed is doubled, braking distance quadruples. In wet and slippery
ances conditions
also increase greatly.
braking distances also increase greatly.
s becomeWith an increasing
blurred and ridersspeed,
are the foreground details become blurred and riders are
r to gain more time to assess, plan and ahead in order to gain more time to assess, plan and
required to scan the road further
react. The speed limits on our roads indicate the maximum permissible speed in various
locations. However, this speed is not the same as a safe speed.
mum permissible speed in various
The
as a safe safe speed for a particular stretch of road is determined by the
speed.
conditions, such as traffic density, weather conditions and visibility.
retch Every
of roadriderishas their own speed limit: that is the highest speed at which they are safe
determined
and comfortable in any given situation. Speed must always be related to the extent of
density, weather conditions
the road you can see to be clear and the ability to stop within this distance by day or
lity. night.
e highestThe onus
speed is on they
at which the rider to select a speed appropriate for the conditions.
are safe
must always be related to the extent of
to stop within this distance by day or
78
At all speeds, low risk riders continually keep a crash avoidance space around their
motorcycles at all times. In order to determine crash avoidance space you need to
consider:
n your ability;
n characteristics of your vehicle;
n road and road surface conditions;
n traffic conditions and speed limit;
n weather conditions; and
n reaction and response time.
7.3.3 Reaction and Response Time
Reaction time is the time the rider needs to:

n see the situation;
n perceive what it means;
n decide on a response; and
n instigate that response.
Riders who are fit and alert will require about one and a half seconds to react to a
sudden and unexpected change in traffic conditions. They also require about one and
a half seconds to respond to that change.
The three second safety margin for motorcyclists is justified by:

n the higher degree of skill, co-ordination and balance required for riding; and
n the increased vulnerability of severe injuries in a crash.
It is recommended that motorcycle riders maintain a minimum of a three

second crash avoidance space to react and respond to a situation. The
three second rule applies regardless of the speed at which you are riding.
Please note: The two second rule applies while driving a car.
You may need even longer in poor conditions such as rain and darkness. The three
second rule can be used when following another vehicle or if there is potential for other
vehicles to accelerate or steer into your crash avoidance space.
79
7.3.4 Survival Space (Maintaining Space to the Front)
To calculate a three second crash avoidance space when following another vehicle, use
this basic technique; as the rear of the vehicle in front of you passes a stationary object
at the side of the road, such as a power pole, tree or sign, start a three second count
one thousand and one, one thousand and two, one thousand and three.
3 secs
Stay at least three seconds behind the vehicle ahead.
If your motorcycle passes the point you picked before you finish the count, you are
following too closely. Your crash avoidance space is not large enough. Slow down and
repeat the count again until the three second crash avoidance space is achieved.
more than 3 secs
Increase following distance in poor conditions.
In poor conditions, such as rain, night time and gravel roads, it may
be necessary to increase your crash avoidance space to four or more
seconds.
To reduce the risk of riding into the back of another vehicle, the three second crash
avoidance space is essential, as the vehicle in front could stop very quickly, especially
if it collides with another vehicle or a stationary object.
80
Maintaining Space when Stopped
When you stop behind another vehicle leave at least one car length between your front
wheel and the back of the vehicle in front. This will provide some space in case they roll
back or if you need to ride around them.
At least one car length
Maintaining Space behind You
It is difficult to maintain a crash avoidance space behind you, as another driver or rider
controls the space. If a vehicle behind is travelling too closely, slow down slightly to
increase the space you have in front of you. This will enable you to brake gradually if
you spot a hazard in front, which will allow the following vehicle more time in which to
stop. You may also consider repositioning within your lane in case of emergency.
Reducing Speed
You must slow down if you do not have a clear view of the road ahead. Situations where
your vision may be reduced include:
n blind corners;
n blocked intersections;
n crests;
n poor weather conditions;
n shadows; and
n sunset or sunrise.
Slow down if you cannot see five seconds ahead.

To calculate five second vision in a curve, pick a fixed point in the oncoming lane that
has just come into view and start a count ‘one thousand and one, one thousand and
two... one thousand and five’. If you reach the point before five seconds you are riding
too fast for the available vision.
81
5 sec vis
ion
7.3.5 Effective Use of Signals
Effective and consistent use of signals plays an important role in the system of
motorcycle control. Signalling is a critical means of communicating with other road
users about your presence and intentions. Therefore, you must make the meaning
of your signals clear, give signals in a reasonable time that ensures other road users
are clear of your intentions. Otherwise, other road users may easily misinterpret your
signals and intentions.
Remember that signalling does not give you any right to carry out the
actions you have indicated.
The signals available to you are:
n indicators;
n horn signals;
n hazard warning lights;
n brake lights;
n headlights; and
n hand signals.
82
The following table provides examples of what the signals mean and when they should
be applied.
Signals Use To Remember
Indicators Give a signal for each manoeuvre Timing - not only the appropriateness
you intend to carry out, e.g. when for other road users but also the
you intend to turn left/right or when sequence of road hazards you may
you are pulling over to stop. encounter before or after your turn.
Cancel the indicators immediately after

you have carried out the manoeuvre.
Horn Use the horn when: Adjust the length of the horn note to
n it can benefit pedestrians or other the circumstances.
road users in situations where
they may not have noticed you or Using the horn does not justify using
cannot see you; and excessive speed.
n on the approach to any hazard
if there is no reaction to your Horns used by other road users can be
warning. difficult to hear with a helmet on.
Hazard Use the hazard warning lights to alert

warning other road users to your presence Use the hazard warning lights only
lights when you have stopped. briefly.
Brake lights Check your mirrors to see the road

Use brake lights to indicate that you
conditions behind you before using
are slowing down or intend to stop.
your brakes.
Headlights Headlight flashes should only be Never assume that a headlight flash
used for the purpose of informing from another road user is a signal for
other road users of your presence, you to proceed.
e.g. before overtaking in daylight.
Use headlight flashes when the horn

cannot be heard.
During darkness use headlight

flashes to inform other road users of
your presence on the approach to a
hill crest or narrow humpback bridge
or when travelling along very narrow,
winding roads.
Hand signals Use hand signals if your vehicle does
Do not use hand signals when you
not have indicators and/or when the
need both hands on handlebars to
indicators on your vehicle are not
control the vehicle.
effective.
7.3.6 Road Positioning and Buffering
Traffic and road situations are constantly changing and so does the safest position on
the road. Low risk riders aim to be in the right place at all times. Space, surface and
sight must be considered when choosing your position on the road. Remember that
motorcycles can ride in any position within the lane providing it is safe and reasonable.
83
Space
Space
As a motorcycle rider you have very little to protect you in a crash. The more distance
As
youacan
motorcycle rider
keep from youvehicles
other have very
andlittle to protectthe
pedestrians you in a crash. The more distance
better.
you can keep from other vehicles and pedestrians the better.
Creating space from potential hazards is referred to as buffering.
Creating space from potential hazards is referred to as buffering.
Buffering hazards
Buffering hazards may
may be
be required
requiredininany
anydirection
directionaround
aroundyou.
you.Buffering needs
Buffering willwill
needs
also change
also change as
as you
you move
move and
and interact
interact with
with other
other road
road users.
users.
Surface Surface
Riders need to
Riders need tobe bevery
veryaware
awareof of
thethe
roadroad
surface. Paint, oil,
surface. Paint, oil,water,
water,sand,
sand,gravel,
gravel,pot
pot
holes
holes and metal plates are all examples of of
and metal plates are all examples
different road surface
different road surfaceconditions
conditions that
that maymay
cause
cause the
the motorcycle
motorcycle to to skid.
skid.
If your rear wheel skids, steer into the skid

If your rear wheel skids, steer into the skid
and ease off the rear brake when the bike is
and ease off the rear brake when the bike is
travelling in a straight line again.
travelling in a straight line again.
For a motorcycle rider, a relatively small
For a motorcycle
change in road rider, a relatively
position can resultsmall in a
change in road position can
significant change in the quality of result in a road
significant change in the quality
surface. At traffic lights for example, look of road
surface.
to avoid At thetraffic lights for Choosing
oil patches. example, look a road
position slightly to the left or right of a
to avoid the oil patches. Choosing theroad
patch
position
may be slightly to the left or right
more appropriate. Also of the patch
remember
may in
that be extreme
more appropriate. Also remember
heat the road surface may that
in extreme
become soft.heat the road surface may become
soft.
Your choice of road position may also be
Your choicebyofthe
influenced road positionyou
direction mayare also be
travelling
influenced
at by the(turning
traffic lights directionleft
youorare travelling
right) or by
at traffic
other lights or
vehicles (turning left or right) or by other
hazards.
vehicles or hazards.
Although it is best to avoid riding on a poor
surface,
Although itsometimes this riding
is best to avoid is notonpossible,
a poor
for example when buffering
surface, sometimes this is not possible, an oncoming for
vehicle
examplethe whenbestbuffering
road position may be the
an oncoming left
vehicle
side of the
the best roadlane. The left
position maysidebeofthe
theleft
road may
side
be bumpy
of the lane.and Thebroken up,ofhowever
left side the roaditmay maybe be
preferable
bumpy andtobroken ride onup,thishowever
surface ittomayget abesafe
buffer fromtothe
preferable rideoncoming hazard.to get a safe
on this surface
buffer from the oncoming hazard.
84
The solution is easy, if you need to ride on a poor surface to buffer a hazard - just
slow down.
Buffer Buffer
Sight
A good road position can allow you to see

further, around other vehicles and get more
information about what is happening up ahead.
Generally the right side of the lane provides
good vision up the road, to the sides and also
behind you. However the right side of the lane
is a dangerous position to be in if there is
oncoming traffic.
The further back you follow other vehicles the

better you can see around them.
Try to choose a road position that provides good vision without

compromising your buffer from potential hazards.
This is particularly relevant when following large vehicles or when taking left bends.
85
The vision of other road users is another important consideration whilst riding.
Be aware of the blind spots of other road users as you approach them and avoid riding
in their blind spots. This is especially important on multi-lane roads or at intersections.
Blind Blind
spot spot
area area
Blind
spot
area
When following another vehicle it is often recommended that the rider should be able
to see the driver in that vehicle’s side mirror (on either side) or its rear vision mirrors.
Do not ride beside other vehicles or in their blind spots.
Queues of traffic may be blocking the view

of turning vehicles, slow down and buffer as
appropriate.
Slow down and buffer slow moving or stopped

traffic. They may be blocking the view of a
turning vehicle.
By actively managing space, surface and sight

a rider can significantly reduce the risk of
Buffer
crashing.
86
On Road Position
A motorcycle rider can legally use any part of their lane.

Examples of potential hazards that may require a change of road position and buffering
include, but are not limited to:
n parked, overtaking or turning vehicles (especially large ones like buses or trucks);
and
n pedestrians or wildlife that may react unpredictably, for example crossing the road
without warning.
The buffer you create in one situation may become compromised as you
or other road users move in traffic.
Also when executing manoeuvres as a rider you may need to buffer different potential
hazards at different times, for example oncoming vehicles at an intersection before
making a turn and pedestrians as you exit it.
Buffer what you can see and be prepared for things you cannot see.
Maintain a buffer from hazards and slow down if vision is limited.
In busy traffic you may be in the left side of the lane for most of the time only moving
right to buffer vehicles in side streets.
Buffer
Buffer
Buffer
87
Vehicles Following
Be aware of vehicles that are behind you and maintain a buffer from vehicles if they
pass. If vehicles are following close behind it is sometimes better to select the middle
of the lane.
Blind Crests
Road positioning is especially important when approaching blind crests. Clues as to

the road direction on the other side of the crest, such as fences or street lights might
help prepare you for the road ahead. In some situations there is a possibility of multiple
potential hazards such as oncoming vehicles or an uneven road surface. In these cases
it may be necessary to slow down and buffer potential hazards.
Overtaking
Overtaking other vehicles is very hazardous. You not only need to be able to judge the
gap between your motorcycle and an oncoming vehicle, you also need to have enough
space between your motorcycle and the vehicle you are overtaking. When overtaking,
maintain a buffer zone between your motorcycle and the vehicle you are overtaking. On
regional roads and highways there are often overtaking lanes at regular intervals that
allow you to safely overtake.
When overtaking:
n create a buffer from the vehicle you are passing;
n check ahead for side streets and driveways, they may be concealed (particularly
in regional areas) and the vehicle you are passing may be turning into one or other
road users might be turning out of them; and
n perform a head check for vehicles that may be overtaking you.
Turning
The faster a motorcycle is travelling the harder it is to turn. Reducing your speed
before turning is essential. Wait until the motorcycle begins to straighten up before
accelerating. Accelerating will stand a motorcycle up and too much speed will make
the motorcycle run wide.
During very low speed turns, for example U turns, gentle use of the throttle,
clutch and rear brake can control speed.
At intersections it may be necessary to maintain a buffer from oncoming traffic while
you are waiting to turn.
When turning left from a single lane, start the turn as near as practicable to the far left
side of the road. Buffering hazards as you exit the turn.
88
When turning right from a single lane, start the turn as near as practicable to the far
right of the lane on the left of the centre of the road. Buffer hazards as you exit the turn.
When turning left or right you must give way to any pedestrians crossing
the road into which you are turning.
See section 8.10 for more information on managing turns.
Gap Selection
Selecting a safe gap when turning, overtaking or changing lanes is a critical skill to
safe riding. Gap selection is also very important at intersections where the chance of
colliding with another vehicle is very high if the gap you select is too small.
A safe gap is one that enables you to turn, overtake, change lanes or cross an
intersection without affecting the crash avoidance space of other road users.
Choose a gap so other vehicles are not forced

to change speed or road position.
Try to be clear of the intersection for three

seconds before other vehicles arrive.
A safe gap ensures that other vehicles do not 2 secs

need to change their speed or position. When
turning across traffic make sure your vehicle
is clear of the intersection by at least three
seconds before the approaching vehicles
arrive. When joining a traffic stream select a
gap that allows you to reach the traffic speed
before the approaching vehicles are within
three seconds of your motorcycle.
89
93
Positioning
Positioning for Curves and Bends for Curves and Bends
Starting
Startingcurves
curveswidewidewill
willimprove
improveyour
yourvision.
vision.Planning
Planningtotofinishfinish them
them inin tight will help
tight will help
youyouget
getyour
yourspeed
speedright
rightandandleave
leaveyou
youroom
roomfor
forslight
slight errors.
errors. Most
Most importantly,
importantly, keepkeep
away
awayfrom
fromthe area
the areawhere
where oncoming
oncomingvehicles
vehiclesarearelikely
likelytotocross
crossthethecentre
centreofofthetheroad
road
(the head
(the headonon zone).
zone).Taking
Takingcurves
curvesandand
bends thisthis
bends way waywillwill
slow you
slow down
you down a little onon
a little the
approach but will
the approach allow
but you toyou
will allow accelerate out much
to accelerate earlier,earlier,
out much when when
you haveyou ahave
cleara view.
clear
view.
However, on blind curves, slow down and
keep centralon
However, in your
blindlane untilslow
curves, you see
down theand
road
is keep
clear central
of oncoming traffic.
in your lane until you see the
road is clear of oncoming traffic.
Plan to start curves wide for vision.
Plan to finish in tight. Keep away from Bu
the head-on zone. ffe
r
Plan to start curves wide for vision.
Plan to finish in tight.
Keep away from the head-on zone.
OnOnright
rightcurves
curvesslowslow down
down and
and keep
keeptotothe
theleftleft
until youyou
until seesee
the the
roadroad
is clear of
is clear of
oncoming
oncoming traffic.Many
traffic. Manycrashes
crasheshappen
happenbecause
becauseriders ridersrun
runwide
wideononthe
theexit
exitofofaaturn.
turn.
r
ffe
Bu
90
The Danger of Exiting Wide
The Danger
Many ofto
riders try Exiting Wideturns resulting in the motorcycle exiting the curve out
straighten
wide. This is a particularly dangerous practice as it allows no room for error. If the
Many riders try to straighten turns resulting in the motorcycle exiting the curve out
curve ‘tightens up’ or changes direction the rider will need additional effort to complete
wide. This is a particularly dangerous practice as it allows no room for error. If the curve
the turn. Furthermore, on right curves the risk of a head-on collision is greatly
‘tightens up’ or changes direction the rider will need additional effort to complete the
increased.
turn. Furthermore, on right curves the risk of a head-on collision is greatly increased.
Exiting wide can result in a crash.
Exiting wide can result in a crash.

Turning too early can result in a head-on collision or a crash on the exit of the curve.
Turning too early can result in a head-on collision or a crash on the exit of the curve.
When
When a rider
a rider finishes
finishes a curve
a curve wideisthere
wide there is no
no room forroom
error.for error.
Head and eyes

level with chin
Body weight on pointed in the
the inside of the direction of the
turn. turn.
Arms relaxed Knees firmly

with slight gripping the
pressure on the motorcycle.
inside handle
bar.
Body weight on
the inside of the
turn.
91
Leaning with the Motorcycle in a Curve - Planning a Series of Curves
Starting curves wide and planning to finish them

in tight allows you to link a series of curves
together. By exiting each curve in a tight position
you will be perfectly positioned for the entry into
the next curve.
While planning to finish in a tight position at the

next curve – you need to remember to create a
buffer if you see an oncoming vehicle.
Riding in Groups
Riding in a group ‘single file’ allows every rider to buffer hazards and if a three second
following distance is maintained, vision is less affected. Riding ‘staggered file’ can
be more advantageous in some circumstances, for example you can avoid being in
another rider’s blind spot. Like in any situation, consider your ability to see or buffer
hazards and the vision of other riders in the group.
7.3.7 Hazard Perception and Response
When riding, hazard perception is critical to your ability to manage unexpected and
potentially dangerous situations on the road.
Your ability to spot hazards depends on your attention, perception and information-
processing skills. When you have attained these skills, when riding a motorcycle (or
driving a vehicle) you can:
n detect any potential hazard;
n appraise the hazard as a threat that requires you to respond; and
n select and apply an appropriate response.6
The three second rule can be used in response to hazard situations, there is potential
for other vehicles to accelerate or steer into the space. For example, a vehicle in an
adjacent street could fail to give way and accelerate out, or a vehicle approaching could
turn without warning into an intersection and steer across your path.
Experienced low risk riders, are able to mentally judge a three second crash avoidance
space in front of their motorcycle. If there is potential for a hazard to enter this crash
avoidance space, your response should be:
n slowing down (‘setting up’ or covering the brakes - see section 7.3.8); and
n moving away, creating a ‘buffer’ from the hazard by changing your position on the
road or changing lanes.
6
Injury Research Centre, School of Population Health, University of Western Australia (UWA), P. Palamara and Claire Adams formerly
from Injury Research Centre (UWA): The Status of Hazard Perception Testing in Australasia (March 2004 & Revised August 2005),
92
Your ability to respond to hazards without crashing and/or being injured
means that you are able to deal with any dangerous situation that might
occur.
Crash
avoidance
space
Respond before reaching the hazard
Respond before reaching the hazard
Respond when something can enter your crash avoidance

space
93
Examples of situations that require a response such as slowing down or
moving away.
A vehicle waiting to turn in front A vehicle waiting to pull out from

of your path the left side
Stopped traffic obscuring vision at an A vehicle waiting to pull out from

intersection the right side
94
7.3.8 Braking
Correct braking is performed in two stages:

n putting light pressure on both brake levers and pausing (set up the brakes); and
n increasingly applying the braking pressure (squeeze).
Two-stage braking (set up and squeeze) improves braking effectiveness, reduces the
likelihood of skidding and provides better control. When releasing the brakes ease them
off gently to maintain the stability of the motorcycle. Easing off the brakes gently is
particularly important when entering curves.
Harsh or excessive braking pressure may cause skidding and a loss of control,
particularly on wet or gravel roads. If the front wheel begins to skid due to incorrect
braking, or in an emergency situation, release the front brake to remove the skid by
allowing the front wheel to turn - then gently reapply the brakes.
In normal riding conditions the brakes should be applied when the motorcycle is upright
and moving in a straight line. When approaching turns, the brakes should be applied
before the turn. The safest way to stop on a wet road is usually to use both brakes.
‘Covering’ the brakes means having your hand and/or foot positioned and ready to
apply the brakes. It may or may not result in you actually applying the brakes and it is
not appropriate to maintain this position continuously.
7.3.9 Steering and Counter Steering
A motorcycle can be steered by direct steering, counter steering, handlebar pressure,

body weight, and changes in speed. Experienced riders use a combination of these
steering techniques to turn smoothly and precisely. Your ability to steer a motorcycle
will play a critical role in situations when you cannot avoid sudden hazards that present
themselves in the form of small objects or potholes on the road where braking is not
the preferred option.
Direct Steering
When direct steering, the motorcycle will go in the direction to which the handle bars
are turned. Direct steering is only used for very low speed turns, such as U turns and
turns at intersections.
Counter Steering
When counter steering, the motorcycle goes in the opposite direction to which the
handle bars are turned, for example a slight forward pressure on the right handle bar
will make the motorcycle lean and move right, although the front wheel actually turns
slightly left. Counter steering has more effect as speed increases.
95
99
Counter steering is the only way to swerve quickly around an object.

Counter steering is the only way to swerve quickly round an object.
Body Weight
How a rider uses their body weight will have a significant effect on a turning motorcycle.
Leaning with the motorcycle in a curve Body allows
Weightthe motorcycle to be more upright
thereby giving the tyres better grip and the motorcycle greater ground clearance. With
Howspeed
low a riderturns,
uses leaning
their body
outweight willturn
from the have a significant
can help balanceeffect
theon a turning
motorcycle.
motorcycle. Leaning with the motorcycle in a curve allows the motorcycle to be
more upright
Changes thereby giving the tyres better grip and the motorcycle greater ground
in Speed
clearance. With low speed turns, leaning out from the turn can help balance the
Depending
motorcycle.on the corner, it is usually best to hold a constant speed, or after slowing to
a low entry speed, progressively accelerate out of the turn after the apex. If acceleration
is too aggressive the motorcycle will stand up
Changes and run wide, and if the corner is taken
in Speed
under deceleration the motorcycle will fall into the corner causing instability.
Depending on the corner, it is usually best to hold a constant speed, or after slowing
If
to you
a lowcan’t
entryavoid
speed,the hazard, the
progressively best strategy
accelerate is turn
out of the to keep your
after the speed
apex. If down
and hold the handlebars firmly.
acceleration is too aggressive the motorcycle will stand up and run wide, and if the
corner is taken under deceleration the motorcycle will fall into the corner causing
instability.
If you can’t avoid the hazard, the best strategy is to keep your
speed down and hold the handlebars firmly.
96
7.4 Benefits of Professional Training
No rider handbook, leaflet or brochure will replace the value of practical
riding experience in your training.
Choosing a person to teach you to ride is often dictated by your circumstances, such
as affordability or access. Depending on your personal circumstances you may choose:
n a licensed Driving Instructor authorised to deliver motorcycle instruction; or
n an instructor in a youth driver education course conducted or supervised by a body
authorised by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for that purpose;
n a supervisor (e.g. a family member) who is authorised to perform any driving of a
kind for which the driving instruction is being sought and has held that authorisation
for a period of, or periods adding up to:
n in the case of riding a moped, at least 2 years; or
n in any other case, at least 4 years.
The choice of person who will be instructing you is critical to your learning. Therefore,
before you engage services of any of the persons mentioned above ask yourself the
following questions:
n Is the person’s knowledge and skills up-to-date? If not, then you risk learning skills
that will not be relevant and/or not up to the required standard at the time of your
practical assessment.
n Does the person have a good driving/riding record? If not, then you may adopt an
attitude that will compromise your safety in the future.
n Is the person fully committed to your learning process? It will take time for you
to learn to ride. The person who will be teaching you will need to invest time for
planning your instruction and riding with you. If the person is not fully committed,
then you risk having your instruction disrupted. Subsequently, you may not be
ready to take your PDA.
n Do you feel safe with this person? Consider your physical and emotional safety in
terms of the roadworthiness of the vehicle, wearing protective clothes at all times,
and the ability of the person to create an environment that will meet your learning
needs.
Also, consider the benefits of riding under the supervision of a professional instructor.
97
Professional instructors can often provide a stress-free learning environment,
accommodate your individual needs and deliver a structured training program with the
focus on:
n progressive development of your riding skills to the required standards;
n correct interpretation and application of current road rules;
n learning safe riding skills (as opposed to teaching you skills that will only help you
pass the PDA);
n hazard awareness and hazard management skills;
n quality feedback as the means to skill improvement;
n the roadworthiness of the motorcycle;
n developing your knowledge on industry-related issues; and
n learning to ride the latest model vehicles.
All professional instructors in WA must hold an instructors licence issued under the
Motor Vehicle Drivers Instructors Act 1963. You can access a comprehensive list of
driving schools in your area online at www.yellowpages.com.au.
REVIEW QUESTIONS
Q1 What should the Warning To signal your To greet other road
horn be used for? pedestrians or annoyance users
other road users
who have not
noticed you
Q2 When is it vital to Changing gear When changing Slowing down

check your blind road position
spots?
Q3 How many 1.5 seconds 2 seconds 3 seconds

seconds are
recommended to
maintain a suitable
crash avoidance
space when
following another
vehicle in fine road
conditions?
Q4 What should you Sound your horn Flash your Remain calm and
do if another headlights several not react
motorist does times
something that
upsets you?
98
PART 8
Riding in Regular
Traffic
Dealing with challenges arising from your interactions with other road users, weather
and road conditions, other vehicles, and traffic volume is the ultimate test of your
knowledge of road rules and regulations, riding skills, and attitude.
8.1 Other Road Users

8.1.1 Pedestrians
Always keep a look out for pedestrians and be ready to give way to them. Some of the
places to look out for pedestrians are:
n at pedestrian crossings;
n intersections;
n between parked cars or behind buses;
n near schools and playgrounds;
n near shopping centres; and
n near hotels, taverns or clubs.
Riders must give way to pedestrians (including people in wheelchairs) who are:
n crossing at an intersection in front of your turning vehicle;
n crossing at a pedestrian crossing (zebra crossing) or children’s crossing;
n crossing at a marked foot crossing (traffic signal controlled crossing for vehicles
and pedestrian lights for pedestrians) when a light facing vehicles is flashing yellow
or red; or
n crossing in front of your vehicle at a slip lane (a left turn lane at an intersection
where there is an island between that lane and lanes for other traffic).
You should never wave people across at pedestrian crossings as there

may be other vehicles approaching that you have not noticed.
At children’s crossings you must stop before the crossing when the crossing attendant
extends the flags. You must not start to move until the attendant withdraws the flags
signalling that you can go.
100
Parallel Walk Crossings
These are intersections controlled by traffic signals for vehicles and pedestrian lights
for pedestrians to use to cross the road. Parallel walk crossings are those where
pedestrians are permitted to walk on the green pedestrian signal, parallel with the flow
of traffic. At these crossings the lights for pedestrians turn green a few seconds before
riders are given their green light to proceed and turning vehicles must give way to
pedestrians crossing with the pedestrian lights.
8.1.2 Cyclists
Cyclists have an equal right to use the road as other vehicles. They may legally use the
whole lane on roads with lane markings and are allowed to ride two abreast (side-by-
side). Share the road with them and allow plenty of room.
When the speed limit is 60km/h or under, motorists must leave a gap of at least 1m
between their vehicle and the bicycle riders when passing. When the speed limit is over
60km/h, the gap must be at least 1.5m.
Be especially careful:
n when turning left not to cut cyclists off. If there is not enough room to turn in front
of them, wait for them to ride past and make your turn behind them.
8.1.3 Emergency Vehicles
You must comply with the road rules in regard to emergency vehicles, such as police
and fire fighting vehicles, ambulances and vehicles used to convey blood or other
supplies for a person urgently requiring treatment. You can identify an emergency
vehicle by its siren or its red and/or blue flashing lights.
When you spot an emergency vehicle in your immediate vicinity:

n remain calm;
n check where the emergency vehicle is coming from and give way to it;
n move as far to the left of the road as you can; and
n slow down or stop if you cannot move left - let the emergency vehicle drive around
you.
101
It is an offence not to give way to an emergency vehicle.
8.1.4 Passing incident response vehicles (emergency and breakdown vehicles)
Roadside workers operate in a hazardous environment. Drivers must slow down and if
safe to do so, move over when passing stationary incident response vehicles displaying
flashing lights. This is known as Slow Down, Move Over or SLOMO.
Incident response vehicles are fitted with flashing warning lights and are
authorised to stop at the roadside in order to respond to emergencies and
breakdowns. They include the following vehicles:
n Police vehicles;
n Ambulances;
n Fire and emergency services vehicles;
n Motor break-down service vehicles;
n Tow trucks; and
n Main Roads Incident Response Service vehicles
Note: Flashing lights do not include indicators or hazard warning lights. If you are not
sure whether a vehicle which is stationary at the roadside and displaying flashing lights
is an incident response vehicle, treat it as if it is.
Approach at a safe speed and be prepared Pass the stationary vehicle at no more
to stop if necessary. than 40km/h.
If the incident response vehicle is ahead of Flashing lights on a stationary vehicle

you in the same lane, you must move over means approaching vehicles must slow
to another lane if safe to do so. down, move over (if possible) and pass
at 40km/h.
102
8.1.4.1 Two-way carriageway
When approaching an incident response vehicle, which is stationary on your side of the
road and displaying flashing warning lights, you must:
n Approach at a safe speed and be prepared to stop if necessary; and
n Pass the stationary vehicle at no more than 40km/h, leaving as much space as is
safe in the circumstances.
8.1.4.2 Multi-lane carriageway
When approaching an incident response vehicle, which is stationary at the roadside and
displaying flashing warning lights, you must:
n Approach at a safe speed and be prepared to stop if necessary;
n Pass the stationary vehicle at no more than 40km/h, whatever lane you are in;
n If the incident response vehicle is ahead of you in the same lane, you must move
over to another lane if safe to do so. For the safety of all road users, it is suggested
that you move over to maintain a one lane gap between the stationary incident
response vehicle and your vehicle.
8.1.5 Large and Oversize Vehicles
Vehicles 7.5 metres in length and longer need to make wide turns – so be careful
when you are travelling near a large vehicle that is turning or negotiating a roundabout.
Do not overtake once the driver has signalled an intention to turn. They may cut the
corner when they are turning at an intersection and before they turn they are also legally
allowed to cross over a continuous line leading up to the intersection.
Here are a few other tips for when you encounter a large vehicle or one carrying an
oversize load on the road:
n Generally, they need more space than a car when stopping, so be courteous
and avoid overtaking and then cutting in at traffic signals, roundabouts and other
locations where traffic queues occur.
103
n They accelerate slowly, so be patient as the driver has to move through many gears
to get going.
n When a large vehicle is turning on to the road you are on, keep back from the
intersection as it will require more road space to make the turn. Truck drivers and
drivers of other large vehicles have a difficult task when reversing, so give them
plenty of room to move.
If you can’t see the vehicle’s side mirrors, the driver can’t see you.
8.2 Traffic and Road Signs

Today’s roads are typically shared by a number of different road users and a variety of
vehicles. Therefore, it is necessary for all road users to observe traffic and road signs,
as well as signs and devices for road works and special purposes.
The traffic signs on WA roads universally apply to all road users.

8.2.1 Regulatory Signs
These serve the purpose of controlling traffic. These signs must be observed at all times.
Pedestrian
crossing
Hand-held
stop sign
Please Note:
n In a built up area where there are no speed limit signs, the maximum speed
permitted is 50 km/h.
n On a freeway where the speed limit is 100 km/h and there is no heavy traffic or
abnormal weather conditions, the minimum speed permitted is 80 km/h.
104
8.2.2 Warning Signs
Warning signs alert road users of possible danger ahead. When you see a warning
sign beware, slow down and be prepared to stop. At times advisory speed signs are
displayed with warning signs. If there is such a sign you should slow down to at least
the speed on the sign.
Merging Steep Stock Truck Children

traffic descent crossing crossing crossing
Merging Steep Stock Truck Children

traffic descent crossing crossing crossing
Cross roads T-junction Side road Y-junction Curve

junction
Cross roads T-junction Side road Y-junction Curve

junction
Roundabout Signal’s ahead Reverse turn Turn right Roads narrows

right
Roundabout Signal’s ahead Reverse turn Turn right Roads narrows

right
Hairpin bend Winding road Reverse curve Narrow

right right bridge
Hairpin bend Winding road Reverse curve Narrow

right right bridge
Slippery road
8.2.3 Guide Signs Slippery road
These help you find your way around. They give directions, distance, routes and
information on road user services and points of interest.
105
8.2.4 Signs and Devices for Road Works and Special Purposes
8.2.4 Signs and Devices for Road Works and Special Purposes
These signs warn you about temporary hazards. They are used when road works
are inwarn
These signs progress.
you They
aboutguard against damage
temporary hazards.to vehicles
They are and protect
used the road.
when roadPay
works are in
progress.particular attention
They guard to the signs
against including
damage any speedand
to vehicles limits that arethe
protect displayed.
road. Pay particular
attention to the signs including any speed limits that are displayed.
BLASTING AREA
SWITCH OFF RADIO
TRANSMITTERS
Left lane closed
If you spot a road hazard please report it to Main Roads by calling 138 138 or clicking
on the link “report
If you spot a aroad
fault” online
hazard at www.mainroads.wa.gov.au.
please report it to Main Roads by calling 138 138 or clicking
on the link “report a fault” online at www.mainroads.wa.gov.au
In addition to the to
In addition signs above,
the signs in WA
above, there
in WA thereare
areonly
only two trafficsigns
two traffic signs
thatthat are specific
are specific to to
motorcycles. TheseThese
motorcycles. are shown below:
are shown below:
MOTOR
BIKES
ONLY
Parking area
Parking area for
for Additional caution is
motorcycles only
motorcycles only required
required on the
on the roadroad
ahead
ahead
Roadwork signs
8.3 Traffic Control Signals
These signs are provided to ensure everyone’s safety and are enforceable and
regulated by law.
Traffic Disobeying
control signals areroadworks
a safe way ofsigns means:
deciding who goes and who stops at an
intersection. They are there to protect you and to regulate traffic.
n you are committing an offence, which may lead to fines and demerit points
n you Always
may be obey the for
liable signals facing caused
damage you. It is to
an personnel,
offence not toroadwork
obey them. When nearing
equipment anda
set of traffic control signals be prepared to stop, if necessary.
materials
n You cannot
vehicles do adamaged
may be U turn at an
byintersection with and
loose stones trafficgravel.
control signals unless there is a
‘U TURN PERMITTED’ sign.
Additional Examples
Worker symbolic sign. Workers may be present on or near
the road. Drive with due care and attention for your own and
roadworkers’ safety.
106
Traffic controller symbolic sign. A traffic controller may direct
you to stop, you must follow their directions.
This multi-message sign warns motorists that there

are roadworkers ahead on or adjacent to the road,
and imposes a speed limit that applies until the next
speed limit sign. You are required to reduce speed
to, or below, the speed limit indicated.
Hand-held stop sign used by a traffic

controller. You must stop at a safe distance
from the traffic controller and wait when
facing a STOP bat. You may proceed with
caution when faced with a SLOW bat.
Temporary traffic signals must be complied with as you would

for other traffic control signals.
Left lane closed ahead. The T symbol indicates which lane is

closed ahead and the arrow which lane or lanes remain open.
Loose Stones sign warns motorists of hazardous road surface

conditions ahead. Take care and drive to the prevailing
conditions.
Slippery road sign. This sign warns motorists of hazardous

road surface conditions ahead. Take care and drive to the
prevailing conditions.
107
8.3 Traffic Control Signals
Traffic control signals are a safe way of deciding who goes and who stops at an
intersection. They are there to protect you and to regulate traffic.
Always obey the signals facing you. It is an offence not to obey them. When nearing a
set of traffic control signals be prepared to stop, if necessary.
You cannot do a U turn at an intersection with traffic control signals unless there is a ‘U
TURN PERMITTED’ sign.
8.3.1 Light Signals
Traffic control signals always have the coloured lights in the
same order.
n Red means STOP. When the light is red, you must wait
behind the stop line marked on the road near the signal.
n If there is a traffic sign facing you with the words ‘LEFT

TURN ON RED PERMITTED AFTER STOPPING’, you
may turn left, if you can do so safely. Watch out for and
give way to pedestrians and other traffic. Remember, you
must always stop at the red light first.
n Yellow warns you that the signal is about to change to red.
If the light is yellow as you approach it you are required to
STOP, IF YOU CAN DO SO SAFELY.
n Green means that you may cross the intersection provided

it is safe to do so. Watch out for vehicles disobeying the
traffic control signals because many serious crashes are
caused by vehicles driving through intersections against a
red light.
Watch out for pedestrians who may still be crossing the

road, be patient and allow them to cross.
The flashing yellow light at intersections with traffic control signals

indicates that the signals are not working properly. Do not confuse these
with Pelican Lights (see 8.3.3) which provide safe crossing for pedestrians.
If there is a flashing yellow light at an intersection, you should treat the

intersection as if it is uncontrolled and GIVE WAY to the RIGHT. If it is a T
junction and you are at the terminating road you must GIVE WAY to the
LEFT and RIGHT.
Remember to look out for pedestrians.

8.3.2 Arrow Signals
Some traffic control signals have arrows in addition to circular lights. These are used
to control the movement of traffic intending to turn at the intersection. If you are going
straight ahead, obey the main circular lights. If you are turning, obey the arrow signal
that is pointed in the direction that you plan to turn:
108
n Red light with green arrow means you may not go straight
ahead, but you may turn in the direction of the arrow, if it is
safe to do so. Remember, you must give way to all pedestrians
crossing at the intersection.
n Green light with green arrow means you may either go

straight ahead or turn in the direction of the arrow, if it is safe
to do so. If the green arrow disappears and no red light or
arrow appears, you may start to proceed – but only if it is safe
to do so.
n Green light with red arrow means that you may go straight
ahead, if it is safe to do so. However, you may not turn in the
direction of the arrow.
8.3.3 Pelican Signals

A pelican crossing works like normal traffic control signals, except that it
has an extra phase - a flashing yellow light. Do not confuse pelican signals
with flashing yellow lights at intersections (see 8.3.1), which indicate that the
lights are not working.
The flashing yellow light at a pelican crossing means ‘PROCEED WITH
CAUTION’. It tells you that you may go ahead, unless there are pedestrians
crossing. If there are, you must give way to them.
8.3.4 Officer Directing Traffic
When there are unusual traffic flows, or if the power is cut, a police officer or other
authorised person may be on duty to manage the traffic flow. You should get into the
correct lane and indicate clearly where you want to go.
You must comply with the direction of a police officer or other authorised
person.
Their directions overrule:
n traffic control signals;
n ‘STOP’ and ‘GIVE WAY’ signs;
n the ‘give way to the right’ rule; and
n arrows or other markings on the road surface.
If their back is facing you, stop and wait for instructions.
109
8.4 Railway Crossings
Railway crossings can be dangerous, especially when there are no flashing lights or
boom gates.
Remember that trains cannot stop quickly – even under emergency brakes,
a loaded train can take over 1000 metres to stop and it cannot swerve to
avoid a vehicle on the tracks.
Always be alert for signs that show you are approaching a railway crossing. If there are
no lights or boom gates look and listen for any trains that may be approaching and be
prepared to stop, slow down or give way.
On crossings in country areas, always look out for a train – they do not always run to
set schedules.
You must obey all the traffic rules stated on any crossing signs.
8.4.1 When you Must Stop
You must stop before a rail crossing when:

n you are directed to do so by a railway employee, police officer or other authorised
person and you may only proceed when told to do so;
n you can see or hear a train coming and there is any possibility of a collision;
n there is a ‘STOP’ sign at, or near, the crossing. (If there is a ‘STOP’ line marked on
the road, you must stop before it. If there is no ‘STOP’ line, you must stop before
the ‘STOP’ sign);
n warning bells or flashing red lights are operating; or
n there is traffic ahead of you that prevents you from completely clearing the yellow
‘Keep Clear at all times’ (cross hatching) section of crossing safely. Be cautious,
always expect a train.
You must not:

n stop or park at any rail crossing within 20 metres of the nearest rail (either before
or after) unless there are parking control signs that allow you to do so;
n stop on the yellow ‘Keep Clear at all times’ (cross hatching) section of the crossing;
or
n ride through, around or under any gate, boom or barrier at a rail crossing, either
when it is down or being raised or lowered.
To reduce the risk of being caught on or near the rail line at some crossings
the yellow ‘Keep Clear at all times’ (cross hatching) extends to the traffic
lights.
110
If there is no ‘STOP’ line or ‘STOP’ sign to show you where to stop, always
stop well clear of the crossing (at least three metres from the nearest rail).
Remember the train can be up to one metre wider than the tracks on both
sides.
8.4.2 When you can Ride On
You can ride on when:

n the lights and bell have stopped flashing and ringing;
n you are certain there are no more trains coming (be aware that a second train may
be coming from the opposite direction);
n you are sure you can safely clear the crossing; or
n you are directed to do so by a railway employee, police officer or other authorised
person.
8.5 Lines on the Road

There are two keep left rules that are very important. They are for your safety and that
of other road users. One rule relates to when there are no lanes marked on roads and
the other is when there are lanes.
On roads without marked lanes, motorcycle riders are exempt from the “keep left” rule
and may ride away from the left side but left of the centre of the road or centre line.
However, if you are driving a slow moving vehicle, pull well over to the left to allow
following traffic to overtake.
8.5.1 Roads with Two or More Lanes
If the speed limit that applies to a road is 90km/h or higher or there are ‘KEEP LEFT
UNLESS OVERTAKING’ signs installed, you are not permitted to ride in the right lane
of these roads unless:
n you are turning right or making a U turn and giving a right turn signal;
n you are overtaking another vehicle;
n the adjacent left lane is a special purpose lane such as a bus lane or bicycle lane;
n the left lane is a left turning lane and you are travelling straight ahead; or
n other lanes are congested with traffic.
111
113
113
8.5.2 Lane Lines and Dividing Lines
113
• Broken lines
Different Broken
road markings
lines are usedhavetodifferent
mark lanes meanings.
for Markings that are used to mark
• Broken
lanes (lane lines) lines
or separate trafficdirection
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Broken
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mark dividing lines on roads. Where there
• traffic
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provided thesafe
road, you
to do so,may
see cross
8.12
for more
the line information
to either overtake onorovertaking.
to change lanes,
provided it is safe to do so, see 8.12 for more
information on overtaking.
• Single continuous (unbroken) white lines

Single unbroken lines are used either to
• Single continuous (unbroken) white lines
mark
Single edge lines,(unbroken)
continuous lane lines orwhite dividing lines
lines
n Single unbroken lines are used either to
(centre lines) on roads. Where there is a
mark
Single
• single edge lines, lane
continuous lines or dividing
(unbroken) white lines
lines
Single continuous
unbroken dividing lineeither
(centre toisline),
(centre
Single lines) lines
unbroken on roads. are
lines
used
areWhereused there
either
mark
to a
edgeyou
single
must
lines, lanenotlines
continuous
crossorthat line except
dividing
dividing line lines
(centre
to leave
(centre
line),
mark edge lines, lane lines or dividing lines
lines)or
youonenter
roads.
must
the road
notWhere
cross
or there
turn atisan
that Where a intersection
line except singleto leaveor
(centre
U turn. lines) on roads. there is a
continuous
or enter
single
dividing
the road or
continuous
line (centre
turn atline
dividing
line), you
an intersection
(centre line),or
mustyou
Unotturn. cross
must that line except to leave or
thenot linecross that linelanes except to leave
enterWhere
the
or enter road or is between
turn at an intersection travelling
or Uin
the samethe road or(lane
direction turn at an intersection
lines) you must not or
turn.Where
U turn.the the line is between lanes travelling in
cross line to change lanes.
the same direction (lane lines) you must not
Wherecross
Where thethe line
theline is between
line toischange
between lanes
lanes.
lanestravelling
travelling in in
Wheredirection
the same the line is(lane
an edge
lines) line,
you youmust may not
the same
cross the edgedirection line (lane
to stop, lines)enteryouormust leavenot
crossWhere
the line
cross thelineline
to ischange
change an edge
lanes. line, you may
a road,the or passtoon the leftlanes.side of a vehicle
cross the edge line to stop, enter or leave
turning right.
a road, the
Where or pass
line isonanthe left line,
edge side you of a mayvehicle
turningthe
cross right.
edge line to stop, enter or leave
• Double
a road, or continuous
pass on the (unbroken)
left side of lines a vehicle
n Double
These
turning continuous
lines
right. are used (unbroken)
as dividing lineslines
• Double continuous (unbroken) lines
(centre lines) on roads. You must not cross
TheseTheselines lines
aretoareused used as dividing
as dividing lines
these lines overtake but youlines (centre
can cross
(centre
Double lines)
continuous on roads. You
(unbroken) must not cross
• them
lines) on roads.
to turn You
rightmust at an not cross lines
intersection, these
U turn
these lines
These lines toareovertakeasbut you can cross
linesortoenter
overtake or leave butused
ayouroadcan ifdividing
itcross
is safe lines
them
to dotoso.
them to lines) turn right at an intersection, Ucross
turn
turn (centre
right at an intersection, on roads. You mustor
U turn notenter or YOU
or enter
these lines or leave
to overtakea roadbut if ityou
is safecan to do so.
cross
leave a road if it is safe to do so. YOU
them to turn right at an intersection, U turn
or enter or leave a road if it is safe to do so.
YOU
112
114
•
n Continuous
Continuous line line andand broken
broken lineline
combinations
combinations
These combinations of lines are used to
Thesedividing
mark combinations
lines on roads of lines
where areit may
used to
mark
be dividing tolines
dangerous on roads
overtake. Where where
thereitis may
a
be dangerous
continuous line to overtake.
marked Where
on your sidethere
of theis a YOU
continuous
road line marked
and a broken line markedon your sideother
on the of the
road you
side, a broken
and must stay to linethemarked on the
left of both other
lines.
side, you must stay to the left of both lines.
If the broken line is on your side (to the left)
If the
of broken line
a continuous lineisthen
on your side cross
you may (to thethe
left)
of a continuous
lines to overtake, line turn then
right,you mayorcross
U turn enter the
lines
or to overtake,
leave the road ifturn it isright,
safe Uto turn or enter or
do so.
leave the road if it is safe to do so.
•n Merging lanes
Merging lanes
When two lanes merge into one lane (and
When two lanes merge into one lane (and
this might also be indicated by signs such as
this might
‘LANE ENDSalsoMERGE
be indicated
LEFT by
‘or signs
‘LANEsuchENDSas
‘LANE ENDS MERGE LEFT ‘or ‘LANE ENDS
MERGE RIGHT’ or ‘FORM ONE LANE’, or
MERGE RIGHT’ or ‘FORM ONE LANE’, or
symbolic warning signs) you must give way
symbolic
to anotherwarning
vehicle ifsigns) you must
any portion give
of it is way
ahead
to another vehicle if any portion of it is ahead
of your vehicle. You should indicate that you
of your vehicle. You should indicate that you
are merging by using your indicator or hand
are merging by using your indicator or hand
signal. Remember to keep a safe distance
signal. Remember to keep a safe distance
between yourself and the vehicle in front and
between yourself and the vehicle in front and
take turns to merge.
take turns to merge.
•n Arrows
Arrows on on the
the road
road
If you are travelling on a road with arrow
Ifmarkings,
you areyou travelling on in
must drive a the
roaddirection
with arrow
of
markings,
the arrows unless you are able to change toof
you must drive in the direction
the arrows
another laneunless
whereyou are able
another to change
direction can beto
another
followed.lane where
In this another
diagram, youdirection
must turncan be
right.
followed. In this diagram, you must
Car A may turn right or go straight ahead. turn right.
Car A may turn right or go straight ahead.
YOU
113
115
•
n Children’s crossing
Children’s crossing
When the children’s crossing
When
attendantthe children’s
extends the flags, crossing
you
attendant extends
must stop before the the
stop flags, you
line if there
must stop before the stop line
is one and wait until the flags are if there
is one and
removed waitdriving
before until the flagsmust
on. You are
removed
not enter before driving
a children’s on. Youif must
crossing the
not
roadenter
beyonda children’s crossing
it is blocked if the
by traffic.
road beyond it is blocked by traffic.
•
n Pedestrian crossing
Pedestrian crossing (zebra
crossing)
(zebra crossing)
You must give way to all pedestrians
You
on amust give way
pedestrian to all pedestrians
crossing. On some
on a pedestrian
roads, zigzag lines crossing. On some
are painted
roads,
before zigzag lines are
the crossing painted before
to indicate you
the crossing toone.
are approaching indicate you are
If pedestrians
approaching
are waiting toone. If slow
cross, pedestrians
down andare
waiting
prepare toto stop.
cross, slow down and
prepare to stop.
n
• KEEP
KEEP CLEAR
CLEAR area
area
You must not stop your vehicle on a
You must not stop your vehicle on a
section of road that has the words
section of road that has the words
‘KEEP CLEAR’ written on it.
‘KEEP CLEAR’ written on it.
n
• Single
Single yellow
yellow line
line
A ‘NO STOPPING’ area may be
A ‘NO STOPPING’ area may be
marked with a single yellow line on
marked with a single yellow line on
the edge of the road. You must not
the edge of the road. You must not
stop your motorcycle next to or on a
stop your motorcycle next to or on a
single yellow line unless you are held
single yellow line unless you are held
up by traffic.
up by traffic.
114
8.6 Indicators and Hand Signals
Indicators and hand signals are an effective way to communicate with other road users.
You may be planning to stop, change lanes or turn, but unless you let other drivers
know, you can cause problems to other traffic. Always be consistent and considerate
toward other road users by using your indicators/signals at the appropriate times.
You must indicate/signal your intention before:

n turning left or right;
n making a U turn;
n changing lanes;
n pulling out to overtake;
n pulling out from a kerb or stationary position;
n moving back after you have overtaken a vehicle;
n moving to the left or right; or
n slowing down or stopping.
8.6.1 Types of Indicators/Signals
There are three types of indicators/signals:
Brake Lights
You must give a signal of your intention to stop. Brake lights warn other road users
that you are slowing down or stopping. Your brake lights must be clearly visible at all
times, including in sunlight and at distances of up to 60 metres.
Flashing Indicators
You must give sufficient warning to other drivers and pedestrians of your intention to
turn or diverge right or left, change lanes or overtake another vehicle.
What is ‘sufficient warning’ depends on the circumstance. It is about providing

adequate warning of your intentions so that other road users can take the appropriate
safety precautions.
For example:
- On high speed roads, indicating may be necessary for several hundred metres,
while on low speed roads, a much lesser distances may be sufficient.
- If you are starting from a stationary position at the side of a road, you must
indicate for at least 5 seconds prior to driving on. You must also give way to
following or overtaking traffic. Do not drive on until it is safe to do so. Remember
to turn the indicator off after the turn/movement has been completed.
115
3. Hand Signals
These must be used if your vehicle is not equipped with a stop light or flashing
indicators when:
- slowing down;
- stopping;
- turning left;
- turning right; or
- overtaking another vehicle.
For example, cyclists must signal a left turn by putting out their left arm.
This signal may also be used by motorcyclists and moped riders.
8.6.2 Indicating/Signalling at Roundabouts
Roundabouts have several exit points. Enter a roundabout only when there is a safe gap
in the traffic and no risk of a crash. When turning left at a roundabout, approach from
the left lane, indicate/signal left, stay in the left lane and exit in the left lane.
116
When turning right at a roundabout, approach from the right lane, indicate/signal right
and stay in the right lane. Indicate/signal left, if practicable, as you are passing the exit
before the one you wish to use. When leaving the roundabout, exit in the right lane.
You do not need to indicate or signal when you are approaching a roundabout if you
are going straight ahead. Unless the road markings show otherwise; approach the
roundabout from either the left or right lane and ride in that lane throughout the
roundabout.
Indicate/signal left if practicable, as you are passing the exit before the one you wish
to use. Exit in the same lane in which you entered (that is, exit in the left lane if you
entered in the left lane or the right lane if you entered the roundabout in the right lane).
117
If you are using the roundabout to make a full turn (U turn), that is, to turn back into
the same road from which you entered the roundabout, follow the instructions for turning
right.
Generally, take care when you ride in a roundabout, especially when you are changing
lanes and exiting and watch out for:
n vehicles that are leaving the roundabout;
n vehicles that are making a full turn; and
n bicycles, long vehicles and other motorcycles.
118
8.7 Riding on a Freeway
There are a number of special road rules and conditions that apply to freeways. Before
you ride on a freeway make sure you are confident in your ability to ride at freeway
speeds. As freeway speeds are higher than those normally permitted on roads in ‘built-
up’ areas, it is even more important to be aware of what is happening around your
vehicle.
The following hints may help you:

n Check your mirrors frequently and check your blind spots before changing lanes.
n Indicate/signal well in advance of changing lanes, entering or exiting the freeway.
You must give way to traffic in the lane you are moving into and only move when
it is safe to do so. Move gradually but positively to your selected position on the
freeway.
n Be smooth and courteous when merging with other traffic. During merging you
must give way to another vehicle if any part of the other vehicle is ahead of your
vehicle. Keep a safe distance between yourself and the vehicle in front.
n Keep a lookout for directional signs. The sooner you spot them, the better prepared
you will be to get into the correct lane. Move into the lane you want as soon as
practicable but remember, where the freeway speed limit is 90km/h or higher, do
not use the right lane unless you are overtaking or when other lanes are congested.
n In conditions of reduced visibility, such as rain, fog or smoke, reduce your speed
and increase your following distance. Ensure your headlights are on low beam so
that other drivers can see you.
n If your vehicle breaks down on a freeway, pull into the emergency stopping lane
or onto the nature strip. Switch on your hazard lights if applicable, stay well away
from traffic lanes. Be very careful when you re-enter the traffic flow. Remember to
give way to all traffic and indicate for at least 5 seconds before moving out onto the
road.
Mopeds, tractors (other than prime movers), bicycles and animals are
not allowed on the freeway. Pedestrians and cyclists are not allowed on
freeways except on paths.
Also, when riding on a freeway, you must not:
n enter the bus or bus/taxi lane (unless you are authorised to do so);
n stop unnecessarily;
n reverse your vehicle, or make a U turn;
n stop on the median strip, nature strip or emergency stopping lane (except in an
emergency or to help another disabled vehicle); or
n carry an oversize load.
If you find yourself obstructing traffic on a Freeway or major metropolitan

road, Main Roads may help relocate you to a safer location at no cost.
From there, you can arrange further towing services to take your vehicle
to your preferred location. Call Main Roads on 138 138.
119
8.7.1 Entering a Freeway
Before getting on the freeway:

n be sure that your vehicle is roadworthy, has more than enough fuel for the journey,
and that any load is secure;
n plan your journey in advance – know your entry and exit points;
n adjust your speed as you ride along the entry ramp;
n make sure you are not entering the freeway at a sharp angle;
n ride your vehicle so that you merge smoothly with other traffic; and
n be sure to clearly signal your intentions. You need to indicate right before and while
you are merging to the right or indicate left before and while merging to the left.
Remember to turn off your indicator when the merge is complete.
8.7.2 Appropriate Speeds for Freeway Riding
Freeways are designed for higher speed traffic flow than that allowed on standard
roads. You must not exceed the speed limit indicated on signs.
Riding too slowly can cause dangerous situations on a freeway, so you are required to
travel at a speed that is no more than 20 km/h below the posted speed limit (unless
traffic, weather or visibility conditions prevent you from doing so). For example, if the
speed limit is 100km/h, you are not allowed to travel slower than 80km/h (unless the
road, weather, visibility, traffic and other conditions require you to travel slower).
120
8.7.3 Exiting the Freeway
Select the correct lane for your destination well in advance of the exit and also indicate
your intention to leave the freeway well in advance. When safe to do so, move gradually
but positively into the exit lane.
Slow down as you are entering the exit ramp and adjust your speed so that you are
prepared for driving in suburban or city conditions beyond the ‘END OF FREEWAY’
sign.
121
8.8 Riding through Intersections
8.8 Riding through Intersections
There
There areare different
different typesofofintersections
types intersectionsand
andfor
foreach
eachtype
typethere
thereare
arerules
ruleswhich
which help
help
toto reduce
reduce thedanger.
the danger.
Know the rules, stay alert and drive at a safe speed.

Know the rules, stay alert and drive at a safe speed.
8.8.1 Controlled Intersections
A 8.8.1 Controlled
controlled Intersections
intersection is an intersection that has:
n traffic control
A controlled signals; is an intersection that has:
intersection
n a ‘STOP’ or ‘GIVE WAY’ sign;
n
traffic controlorsignals;
• a roundabout;
• a ‘STOP’ or ‘GIVE WAY’ sign;
n
• a police officer ororother authorised person directing traffic.
a roundabout;
• a police officer or other authorised person directing traffic.
At an intersection controlled by traffic control signals, be prepared to stop if the light
changes to yellow or red.
At an intersection controlled by traffic control signals, be prepared to stop if the light
Atchanges to yellow
an intersection or red. by a ‘GIVE WAY’ sign, give way to all traffic travelling along
controlled
orAtturning
an intersection controlledroad.
from the intersecting by a ‘GIVE WAY’ sign, give way to all traffic travelling
along or turning from the intersecting road.
At an intersection controlled by a ‘STOP’ sign, you must stop your vehicle and give way
toAtall an
traffic travelling along
intersection or turning
controlled by a from
‘STOP’thesign,
intersecting
you mustroad.
stop your vehicle and give
way to all traffic travelling along or turning from the intersecting road.
You should notice a line marked across the road before the intersection where there
areYou should
‘STOP’ notice
signs. a line
You mustmarked
stop atacross theIfroad
the line. beforereason
for some the intersection
you have where
to stopthere
back
are the
from ‘STOP’
‘STOP’signs. You
line, must
you muststop at the
stop line.
again asIf close
for some reason
as you can you have
before to line
the stopwhen
back
youfrommovethe forward.
‘STOP’ line, you must stop again as close as you can before the line when
you move forward.
If there is no line, stop as close to the intersection as practicable before entering it.
If there is no line, stop as close to the intersection as practicable before entering it.
Give way to all traffic coming from the left or right, including turning vehicles. In the
Give way to all traffic coming from the left or right, including turning vehicles. In the
diagram below you must give way to vehicle A and C. Vehicle B must give way to you,
diagram below you must give way to vehicle A and C. Vehicle B must give way to you,
vehicle A and vehicle C.
vehicle A and vehicle C.
122
When a Police officer or an authorised person is directing traffic, follow their directions.
Their directions overrule traffic control signals and signs. If their back is towards you,
you must stop your vehicle and wait for instructions before driving on.
8.8.2 Uncontrolled Intersections
Uncontrolled intersections are those without:

n traffic control signals, a ‘GIVE WAY’, or ‘STOP’ sign, or roundabout; or
n a police officer or authorised person directing traffic.
The rules for uncontrolled intersections that help to make them safer are:
n at a four way intersection you must give way to the vehicle on your right, whether
you are turning or going straight ahead;
123
n at a three way intersection, as shown, you must give way to vehicle A and B that
are travelling on or turning from the continuing road; and
n If you are turning right at any uncontrolled intersection you must also give way to
oncoming traffic travelling towards you or turning left.
A
A
A A
B B
A B B
Keep intersections clear.
Do not enter an intersection when a queue

of traffic prevents you from fully exiting
on the other side. Stop before you enter
the intersection so that you do not block
crossing traffic.
In the diagram, you must stop before the

intersection. This allows vehicle A to cross
A
the road.
8.9 Traffic on Roundabouts

At a roundabout, you must:
n give way to all traffic already on the
roundabout;
n enter only when there is an adequate
and safe gap in the traffic; and
n always travel in a clockwise direction.
124
8.10 Managing Turns
Turning in front of oncoming traffic is dangerous. Always ensure that the turn can be
made safely, without interfering with the progress of oncoming vehicles. When waiting
to turn across traffic, keep your wheels in the ‘straight ahead’ position. This will avoid
you being pushed across into the path of oncoming traffic should you be struck from
behind.
Indicate/signal for a sufficient distance prior to turning or diverging left or right to warn
other drivers and pedestrians of your intentions. Make sure you give as much warning
as possible.
What is a sufficient distance depends on the circumstances. If you are travelling at high
speed, a sufficient distance may be several hundred metres.
The rules when making a turn are as follows:
n Turning vehicles must give way to

pedestrians.
n When turning left you must:
- indicate/signal before you turn

and move close to the left side
of the road;
- when ‘turning lanes’ are marked,

move into the lane marked for
left turns;
- look out for cyclists and give

way to them if you are crossing
a bicycle lane or shoulder of the
road;
- give way to pedestrians and turn
only when it is safe to do so; and
- keep close to the left of the road after turning.
125
n when turning right you must:
- indicate/signal before you turn;
- when lanes are not marked,
move as close as possible to
the left of the centre of the
road and turn to the right of the
centre of the intersection;
- when turning right into a multi-
lane carriageway (where turning
lanes are not marked) the driver
can enter the carriageway in
any lane that is to the left of
the centre of that carriageway,
provided it can be completed
without interference to other
traffic; Represents the use of indicators
- on a one-way street, turn from

the right side of the road unless
there are turning lanes marked
that allow alternate turning; and
- give way to pedestrians and turn only when it is safe to do so.
8.10.1 U Turns
When making a U turn, the correct procedure is to:

n check your mirrors;
n check for following traffic by glancing over your shoulder;
n indicate/signal your intentions;
n give way to all pedestrians and traffic; and
n turn only if it is safe to do so.
You must not make a U turn:

n unless the turn can be made safely and without interfering with the movement of
other traffic;
n if there is a ‘NO U TURN’ sign;
n at traffic control signals (unless there is a ‘U TURN PERMITTED’ sign); or
n on a freeway.
126
8.10.2 Turning at a Multi-Lane Intersection
When turning at a multi-lane intersection:

n move into the correct lane early, do not
change lanes at the last moment;
n do not cross unbroken lane lines;
n be in the correct position on the roadway
before the intersection; and
n if you are in a lane marked with an arrow,
you must go in the direction of the arrow.
Remember, turn only when you can see

clearly – large vehicles such as buses, trucks
and vans may block your view of approaching
traffic.
8.11 Changing Lanes

A high percentage of crashes occur when
vehicles change lanes. This is because
drivers are often unaware that another vehicle
is already in the lane into which they wish to
move.
To change lanes safely you should:

n indicate/signal to change lanes for a sufficient distance to warn other drivers of
your intentions before beginning your manoeuvre (the higher the speed the greater
the indicator/signalling distance you must give);
n glance over your left or right shoulder to make sure there is not another vehicle in
your blind spot;
n check for other drivers who may also be moving into the lane; and
n give way to vehicles already in the lane you are entering.
Never change lanes while going through, or approaching an intersection;

and where the line between lanes is a continuous one.
If someone in front of you indicates/signals that they wish to change into your lane be
courteous and let them in.
127
8.12 Overtaking
Overtaking other vehicles is one of the most dangerous driving manoeuvres.
Only overtake when it is safe to do so. If you are not sure, wait.
You must ensure that you do not exceed the speed limit while overtaking a vehicle and
that you do not cross continuous lines. You must not overtake where there is a single
continuous line, continuous line on the left of a broken line, or double continuous lines.
You can overtake a vehicle on the right when you are both travelling in the same
direction and it is safe and legal to do so.
You can overtake a vehicle on the left only when:

n you are directed to do so by a police officer or other authorised person;
n you are on a one-way carriageway or a multi-lane road with two or more lanes
travelling in same direction and it is safe to do so; and
n a vehicle is indicating/signalling that it is turning right.
128
130
YouYoumust must notnot overtake

overtake another
another vehicle
vehiclewhen:
when:
You
You must
must notnot overtake
overtake another
another vehicle
vehicle when:
when:
• • itit has
n
has
it has slowed
slowedslowed down
down down or
or stopped
or stopped
stopped at
at at
a
• it has aslowed
a railway,railway, down
pedestrian or stopped
pedestrian at
railway, pedestrian or or children’s
or children’s
children’s crossing;
a railway,
crossing;
crossing; pedestrian or children’s
• crossing;
n • itit has
has
it has stopped
stopped
stopped at
at anat an
an intersection
intersection
intersection (unless
• it has
(unless
the stopped
(unless
driver the theat driver
signals anthat
driver intersection
signals
signals
theythat arethat
theythey
areare
turning
(unless
turning
left or the
turning leftdriver
right) left
orandorsignals
right)
itright)
isand that
and
safe isitthey
it to safe
do are
is safe
to do
so; to do
turning
so;so;left or right) and it is safe to do
• so;
n • there
there thereis
is aais‘NO
‘NO
a ‘NOOVERTAKING’
OVERTAKING’
OVERTAKING’ sign;
sign; and
sign;
andand
• • there
• youyou isarea are
‘NO
nearingOVERTAKING’
nearinga blind
a blind
bend sign;
bend orand
or the the
• n youyou are
crest are
crestof nearing
nearing
aofhill, a ablind
a hill,
or blind
you
or you
do bend
bendnotor
do not or
the
have the
havea crest
a
of
crest
good a ofhill,
good a
view or
hill,
view you
or do
you
of the
of the not
do
road have
not
road
ahead.havea
ahead. good
a view
of the
good view roadof theahead.
road ahead.
You must not cross single continuous dividing lines or continuous dividing lines on your
side of broken lines or double continuous dividing lines, to overtake another vehicle.
YouYou
must
must
notnot
cross
cross
single
single
continuous
continuous
dividing
dividing
lines
lines
or continuous
or continuous
dividing
dividing
lines
lines
on on
your
your
You must
side
side not cross
of broken
of broken single
lines
lines orcontinuous
or double
double dividing
continuous
continuous lines
dividing or
dividing continuous
lines,
lines, dividing
to overtake
to overtake linesvehicle.
another
another onvehicle.
your
side of broken lines or double continuous dividing lines, to overtake another vehicle.
129
To overtake safely you must:
n get a good view of the road ahead. Make sure you have plenty of time and space
to return safely to the correct side of the road after overtaking;
n look behind and to the side of you. Before overtaking, check your mirrors and
glance over your shoulder (to check your blind spots), another vehicle may be
overtaking you;
n indicate/signal for a sufficient distance before you pull out to overtake;
n keep to the speed limit. You must not exceed the speed limit when overtaking
another vehicle; and
n move back into line. You must ensure you are safely clear of the vehicle(s) you
have overtaken and signal your intention to return to the correct side of the road
before you do so.
When you are being overtaken you should move to the left to allow plenty of clearance
for the overtaking vehicle. You must not:
n increase your speed until the overtaking vehicle has completely passed you; or
n ride in a way that prevents a vehicle from overtaking or passing you.
Basic rules for safely overtaking oversize and large vehicles:

n Be prepared for cross winds that you may encounter.
n Be patient, take your time and stay back several car lengths without crossing the
centre of the road.
n When you see that it is safe to pass - indicate/signal, move out, accelerate and
overtake quickly and positively, keeping in mind the road, visibility, weather
conditions and speed limit.
n Use your left indicator when you are about to return to the left side of the road.
n After overtaking, maintain your speed. Do not overtake and then cut in and slow
down. This forces the other driver to brake and lose momentum.
n Allow for on-coming vehicles – they may be travelling faster than you think. Only
overtake when the road ahead is clear – waiting a few seconds could save your life.
n Never attempt to overtake a truck or other large vehicle on a curve or hill where
visibility is limited, even when the vehicle is moving slowly.
n Make good use of overtaking lanes to overtake trucks and other large vehicles.
n Be ready for the wind buffeting you as you pass.
n Be extra careful after dark.
Do not overtake an oversize or large vehicle if the driver has signalled an

intention to turn.
130
Many oversize vehicles are accompanied by a pilot vehicle. The pilot vehicle has two
rotating yellow lights and warning signs on its roof. Pilot vehicles usually travel at a
distance in front and behind of the oversize vehicle to warn approaching drivers.
When approaching an oversize vehicle accompanied by a pilot vehicle coming from the
opposite direction:
n slow down and remain at a slow speed until the oversize vehicle passes or stop if
directed to do so by the driver of the pilot vehicle;
n cooperate with the driver of the pilot vehicle when he or she signals you to move
over. The oversize vehicle may need to be in the centre of the road; and
n if you move off the bitumen, reduce speed and watch for guide posts that may
indicate a deep culvert. Be especially careful if the edge of the road is wet.
When passing an oversize vehicle from behind be aware that if there is only one pilot
vehicle, it will be in front of the oversize vehicle, and the driver will not be able to see
you at the rear. Be patient and wait for a safe opportunity to pass. Usually the oversize
vehicle will periodically pull over and stop to allow traffic to pass.
If there is also a rear escort vehicle, you should take directions from the person driving
that vehicle. Drivers of pilot vehicles are authorised traffic wardens – you must obey
their lawful directions. It is also helpful to talk to the pilot or escort vehicle driver using
a CB radio to find out if it is safe to pass (Use UHF channel 40).
8.13 Stopping and Parking

There are a number of places where stopping a vehicle can be dangerous to the rider
and passengers, to other vehicles or, to pedestrians.
You must not stop:

n at intersections (unless signs allow you to stop);
n within 20 metres of an intersection with traffic lights (unless signs allow you to
stop);
n within 10 metres of an intersection without traffic lights (unless signs allow you to
stop);
n within 20 metres of the approach side and 10 metres of the leaving side of a
pedestrian or children’s crossing;
n between another stopped or parked vehicle and the centre of a road;
n in bus lanes, bus/taxi lanes or bicycle lanes;
n within one metre of a fire hydrant or fire plug;
n within 20 metres of the approach side and 10 metres of the leaving side of a bus
stop;
n within 20 metres of a railway crossing;
n on a bridge or in a tunnel;
n within 3 metres of a public letter box;
131
n on a median strip or path;
n in CLEARWAYS during the times shown on the signs (see
8.13.1);
n on freeways (except in an emergency or if you have broken
down or are helping someone who has broken down - in which
case you must stop in the emergency stopping lane or on the
nature strip);
n where there are ‘NO STOPPING’ or ‘NO STANDING’ signs
(as shown) or a single yellow line along the edge of the road.
(‘NO STANDING’ is the same as ‘NO STOPPING’); or
n on the road on crests or curves where the vehicle is not visible
to an overtaking driver for at least 50 metres in a ‘built-up’ area or 150 metres
outside a ‘built-up’ area.
8.13.1 Clearways
Clearways are sections of roads where you cannot stop vehicles during certain times
of the day or night. Clearways allow the traffic to flow more easily during peak traffic
periods.
Clearways are marked by a special sign (as shown) consisting of a large white ‘C’ on
a red shield or on a parking meter. The times stated on signs tell you when you cannot
park. This is usually during the morning and/or evening peak traffic periods.
Parking your vehicle in a clearway will slow down the traffic flow. The penalties for doing
so are high and can include heavy fines or your vehicle being towed away.
8.13.2 Parking
To ‘park’ means to permit the vehicle to remain stationary whether the vehicle is
attended or not - except for the purpose of avoiding conflict with other traffic, complying
with another law, or if there is no indicated time on a no parking sign for the purpose of
picking up or setting down passengers or goods (for a maximum of 2 minutes).
132
Examples of parking signs are shown.
Before you park your vehicle, you must decide

whether:
n it is safe to park in this spot;
n it is legal; and
n it may cause trouble to other road users.
You must not park your vehicle, or any part of your

vehicle where stopping is not permitted as indicated
above or in the following places:
n in front of a right-of-way, passage or private
driveway;
n in a ‘NO PARKING’ area (sign as shown) (except
for up to 2 minutes if there is no indicated time
on a no parking sign for the purpose of picking
up or setting down passengers or goods); or
n in parking bays for people with disabilities.
(Bays marked with the blue international symbol
(as shown) are reserved for holders of a current
ACROD parking permit). Misuse of these bays
can result in a fine.
Before you move into a parking space:

n check for traffic behind you;
n check the ground is level and firm;
n slow down; and
n give correct signals.
When parking in a confined space:

n pull alongside, and parallel to, the car you wish to park behind if applicable;
n check your blind spots;
n manoeuvre the vehicle backwards very slowly;
n apply the brake;
n stop when the vehicle is within the designated area and/or not vulnerable to other
traffic; and
n park at an angle, if appropriate.
133
When parking in an open space where you can ride forward into it:
n indicate/signal;
n check your blind spots;
n ride forward into the space;
n apply the brake;
n park parallel or at an angle as appropriate; and
n stop when the vehicle is within the designated area and/or not vulnerable
to other traffic.
Completing the manoeuvre:

n if you are riding a vehicle with manual transmission select a low gear (typically
first gear);
n switch off the engine;
n release the clutch; and
n apply the stand.
Always apply the steering lock and remove the ignition key when you are leaving your
vehicle. Consider using a brake disc lock and/or padlock and chain especially when
parking in areas that are visible to the public.
After you park, you should look out for other traffic, cyclists and pedestrians before
dismounting.
When parking in a two-way street, you must park as close as practicable with one
wheel to the left boundary of the street. Unless signs indicate otherwise, you may
park on either side in a one-way street.
Before pulling out from a parking spot:

n make sure you are in the correct gear;
n do not allow the vehicle to roll back;
n check your mirrors and blind spots for other traffic;
n indicate/signal for at least 5 seconds; and
n ride off smoothly into a safe gap in the traffic.
8.14 Lane filtering

Motorcycle lane filtering is when a motorcycle rider travels at a low speed (no more
than 30 km/h) between two lanes of slow moving or stationary vehicles travelling in
the same direction. Filtering between lanes of traffic faster than 30 km/h is illegal. The
manoeuvre is complex and can be potentially risky for motorcyclists. It is illegal for
the manoeuvre to be performed by learners while learning to ride as it requires a high
level of riding experience, hazard perception and road awareness.
This manoeuvre is permitted in Western Australia, provided that it is done in

accordance with the conditions set out in the Road Traffic Code 2000. Please visit:
www.wa.gov.au and search lane filtering for more information on these conditions.
134
REVIEW QUESTIONS
Q1 Which statement Cyclists have an Cyclists are not Cyclists have to

is correct? equal right to use permitted to use give way to all
the road as other roads unless they other traffic
vehicles are marked with
cycle lanes
Q2 If the traffic lights Give way to your Give way to your Stop and wait
at a four way left right for the lights to
intersection are resume
not working and
the amber lights
are flashing, what
should you do?
Q3 How can railway The road markings They are harder By changes in the
crossings pose an can dazzle for motorcyclists riding surface
additional hazard motorcyclists to see
to motorcyclists?
Q4 When two lanes The vehicle on The vehicle on the The vehicle with
merge, who has the left right any portion ahead
right of way? at the merge point
135
PART 9
Managing
Emergencies
9.1 Motor Injury Insurance
The Insurance Commission of Western Australia (Insurance Commission) provides
motor injury insurance to 1.8 million drivers and their 2.9 million registered vehicles in
the State.
Motor injury insurance is compulsory and is paid when you license your vehicle. The
insurance policy is on the reverse of your ‘License and Motor Injury Insurance Policy’
(known as your car registration).
Motor injury insurance provides owners and drivers of Western Australian registered
vehicles with cover for injuries they may cause to others in a motor vehicle crash
anywhere in Australia.
It also provides cover for anyone who sustains catastrophic injuries in a vehicle crash
in Western Australia.
9.1.1 What does your Motor Injury Insurance cover?
A) The cost of personal injury and death caused to others in Australia by any driver
of the licensed vehicle, which includes compensation for:
- pain and suffering;
- past and future economic loss;
- claims management expenses; and
- care and support (including medical treatment and rehabilitation).
B) The cost of necessary and reasonable care and support (including medical
treatment and rehabilitation) for catastrophic injuries incurred by;
You - if no other driver in the crash is negligent; and
Others - if no driver in the crash is negligent,
resulting from a motor vehicle crash in Western Australia involving the licensed
vehicle after the introduction of the expanded motor injury insurance cover.
9.1.2 What is not covered by your Motor Injury insurance?
- The cost of damage caused to vehicles or other property from a motor vehicle crash.
- The cost of non-catastrophic injuries where no other driver is negligent in the crash.
9.1.3 Your obligations
You must report all motor vehicle crashes via the Online Crash Reporting Facility,
available at www.crashreport.com.au.
137
You or any driver of the licensed vehicle must not:
- use the vehicle for any other purpose not stated in your vehicle licence
application;
- drive the vehicle in an unsafe or damaged condition;
- drive the vehicle if under the influence of intoxicating liquor or illegal drugs; and
- drive the vehicle without the appropriate driver’s licence.
If you breach these obligations, the Insurance Commission may pursue you for
repayment of the total compensation costs paid to an injured third party as a result of
your negligence.
9.1.4 Cost of Cover
The cost of your Motor Injury Insurance premium is set based on the type of car you
register (vehicle class) and the claims experience for that vehicle class.
The Insurance Commission reviews insurance premiums each year based on

independent actuarial advice, actual and estimated claims experience and a fully-
funded insurance model.
Western Australia has one of the most cost effective motor vehicle personal injury
insurance schemes in Australia.
For further information on motor injury insurance visit the Insurance Commission’s
website www.icwa.wa.gov.au.
9.1.5 Critical Skills in Managing Emergencies
Like any road user you will, at some point, experience unexpected events that present
varying degrees of complexity and danger. Your training and riding experience is crucial
for handling/responding in an appropriate manner to such emergencies.
Anticipation
Develop your awareness of situations that can be caused by you, other road users or
animals (especially wild animals) – anticipation will become easier with time, but that is
all the more reason to be aware of it when you begin riding.
Planning
Match your riding style to suit the weather conditions or decide how to exit the road
in an emergency. Being prepared. Developing your abilities might help you when you
most need it, for example if you have to run over small objects or through a pothole.
Emergency Braking
This needs a great deal of practice. The quickest way to stop a motorcycle is to:
n make sure you are upright and you are travelling in a straight line;
138
n close the throttle;
n progressively apply pressure to both brakes;
n squeeze the front brake lever and push down on the rear brake pedal until
maximum braking is achieved; and
n pull in the clutch just before you stop.
Managing Skidding
Skidding occurs when one or more tyre loses normal grip on the road and causes an
involuntary movement of the vehicle. It can be caused by travelling at an inappropriate
speed for the situation, excessive acceleration, harsh braking, coarse steering and
slippery, oily surfaces.
Skidding is a scary incident, especially for less experienced riders. While going into the
skid, riders can be instinctively tempted to either accelerate in order to get over the
skid fast or brake to stop. Depending on the nature of the skid, often the safest option
is to remain calm, hold your motorcycle steady and maintain the same speed you were
riding with when going into the skid.
139
Swerving
When facing an obstacle on the road, you need to be prepared to swerve quickly
around unexpected obstacles, such as potholes, any objects left on the road or oil
spills. This may involve the use of counter steering (see 7.3.9).
Correction of Mechanical Problems
While on the road, you may encounter a range of unanticipated mechanical problems,
for example wobbling, a broken chain, stuck throttle, tyre blow-out or seized engine.
You should be aware of what to do if such situations arise, for example:
n if you sustain a broken chain or sudden tyre blow-out, you should ease off the
throttle and roll to a stop; or
n if your throttle sticks in traffic you should immediately pull the clutch lever in and
apply the cut-out switch. The clutch lever should also be applied if the engine
seizes up to prevent locking of the wheels and losing control.
A good instructor will be able to advise you how to address and respond to these
situations as well as how to prevent them.
Exiting the Road in an Emergency
When exiting the road in an emergency you should always ensure that your escape path
is clear and that you make your exit at an appropriate speed.
Every near miss or on-the-road incident needs to be seen as an opportunity

to re-evaluate and improve your riding skills.
If you spot a road hazard please report it to Main Roads by calling 138 138 or submitting
an online form at www.mainroads.wa.gov.au.
9.1.6 Response to an Emergency Resulting from a Crash
A crash is something you will always try to avoid. However, should you be involved in
one, you must know what to do.
If you are involved in a crash you must:

n stop immediately;
n help anyone who has been injured but before doing so, check that your actions do
not put yourself or others in danger;
n send someone for help if required or dial 000 for Emergency Services, including
Ambulance (if any one was injured); Police, and Fire fighting vehicles (if there was
a spillage of petrol or oil on the road surface;
n give your name, address and number plate to the owner or driver of the other
vehicle. If property has been damaged, give the owner of the property your
particulars as well;
140
n report the crash online at www.crashreport.com.au as soon as practicable; and
n provide the name and address of all drivers, number plates of all vehicles, time,
date and location of the crash.
If you do not stop, the penalties are severe. You can be imprisoned, lose
your driver’s licence, be fined or accrue demerit points.
If you are involved in a crash where someone has been injured you MUST
stop immediately and help.
You MUST report the crash to the police if anyone was injured, and/or
there was more than $3,000 damage to any of the vehicles involved and/or
property (in total), or if the owner of the damaged property is not present.
If you are removing a wrecked or damaged vehicle from a road, you must also remove
any glass or other destructive, injurious or dangerous substance or items that have
fallen on the road from that vehicle. If anyone is injured, the person who removes the
vehicle from the road is responsible for removing any dangerous or loose material.
It is essential that your vehicle is licensed to ensure you are covered by

third party insurance, which pays medical bills for persons injured as a
result of a road related incident.
You can also pay to insure your vehicle with a private insurance company
on a Comprehensive basis to cover you for the cost of repairs to the
insured vehicle or alternatively on a third party basis covering you against
any damage caused to third party property.
9.1.7 Helping Persons Injured in a Crash
When someone is injured, the first few minutes after a crash are vital.
Until trained help arrives, your knowledge of first aid may save a life.
141
An injured person may have life-threatening injuries, such as a blocked airway or severe
bleeding. Consider undertaking a first aid course so you are prepared to help at the
scene of a crash.
How can you help?
Remember the St John Ambulance Action Plan, ‘DRSABCD’:
Danger;
Response;
Send for help;
Airway;
Breathing;
CPR; and
Defibrillation
Danger
Check whether there is any danger to yourself first, then bystanders and then the
injured person. If possible:
n position a vehicle to protect the crash scene;
n switch on hazard warning lights or indicators;
n send someone to warn approaching traffic;
n secure the damaged vehicle by turning off the ignition;
n prevent others from smoking near the crash site; and
n stay away from fallen power lines, especially if close to or touching the damaged
vehicle.
If the scene of the crash is safe and there is no immediate danger to

yourself or other road users, you can attempt to help an injured person
involved in the crash.
Do not move an injured person unless they are in danger. For example, if
the vehicle is on fire or they are in the path of traffic. Do not attempt to
remove the helmet from the injured rider you may risk causing injuries to
the neck.
142
Response
n check whether the injured person is
conscious or unconscious;
n if conscious, talk to them and reassure
them. Check for injuries and treat; and
n If there is no response send for help and
n then check their airway.
Send for Help

n call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance; or
n if there is a bystander present ask this person to make the call.
Airway
Airway management has the highest priority. It is essential to ensure that the airway is
open and clear so that breathing is possible.
n Open the airway by lifting the chin and tilting the head back;
n Open mouth to look inside for foreign material e.g. vomit, fluid, broken teeth; and
n If foreign material is found, clear the airway using your fingers remove any vomit,
fluid or broken teeth.
Breathing
n Check for normal breathing for up
to ten seconds by looking for chest
movement, listening for breathing and
feeling for breaths. Gasping for breath
is not normal breathing;
n If the person is breathing normally,
monitor their breathing, manage
injuries and treat for shock; and
n If the injured person is not breathing normally, start CPR.
If the injured person is unconscious and trapped in the car, you can still perform
CPR by tilting the seat back as far as possible to allow for better access and
positioning yourself to give CPR.
143
CPR = Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
CPR is the process of giving 30 chest compressions followed by two breaths. You
would expect to achieve five sets of 30 chest compressions and two breaths in about
two minutes.
Signs of life = breathing normally, responsive and moving.

If the person is not breathing normally (a gasp is not normal breathing), responding or
moving, begin CPR (cardio-pulmonary resuscitation).
Giving chest compressions

With the injured person on their back, give
30 chest compressions:
n Locate the lower half of the injured
person’s breastbone and place the
heel of one hand, the other on top,
to push the breastbone down one
third in depth. Repeat for 30 chest
compressions.
Giving breaths
n Give two breaths by tilting the injured person’s head with a chin lift, pinch their nose,
cover their mouth with your own and breathe.
n Only stop CPR if the injured person begins to breathe normally and is responsive,
more qualified help arrives, or you are physically unable to continue.
If you are unwilling or unable to perform breaths, compression-only CPR will be better
than not doing CPR at all.
If the injured person is unconscious and trapped in the car, you can still perform CPR:
n clear the airway if necessary;
144
n gently tilt the person’s head back and support it with your hands;
n check for breathing. If the person is not breathing give two effective breaths; and
n if no signs of life commence CPR.
nCPR
NOTE: tilt seat back as far as possible to allow for better
access
If the injured and positioning,
person continueand
is unconscious CPR until signs
trapped in theofcar,
life.
Ifyou
thecan person begins
still perform CPR: to breathe, support them in the upright
position, making sure the airway is always clear.
• clear the airway if necessary;
If• thegently
injured tiltperson is an head
the person’s infant:
back and support it with
n yourthe
clear hands;airway;
check for
n• support thebreathing.
jaw, but do If the
notperson
tilt the ishead
not breathing
backwards; give
two effective breaths.
n
• cover both the
if no signs child’s
of life mouth and
commence CPR.nose with your mouth; and
n• blow NOTE:in very small
tilt seat backpuffs because
as far as possiblea child’s lungs
to allow for are much
smaller than those
better access and of an adult and
positioning, can easily
continue CPRbe damaged by
until
large
signsbreaths.
of life. Do this every three seconds.
If the person begins to breathe, support him or her in the
upright position, making sure the airway is always clear.
144
Defibrillation
A defibrillator is used to treat sudden cardiac arrest. If a defibrillator is available, apply

the defibrillator and follow the voice prompts.
Recommence CPR when instructed by the voice prompt. Continue CPR until more
qualified help arrives. If the person starts breathing normally, place them in the recovery
position. Do not remove the pads’ do not turn the defibrillator off. Continue to chek the
person’s breathing and be prepared to begin CPR again.
Moving a patient
Unless absolutely necessary, do not move an injured person until medical aid arrives.
Moving an injured person unnecessarily may lead to further injury. If the person’s life is
endangered (e.g. risk of an explosion, fire, gas, electrical), remove the person from the
scene by the quickest and safest means available, regardless of injuries or the manner
in which removal must be made. If head, neck or spinal injuries are suspected, support
the head and neck in a neutral position before carefully moving.
Remember, airway and breathing always take precedence.

Stay with the patient
If it is safe to do so, stay with the injured person, and do not leave them alone. This is
particularly important if the person is in shock. If you are the only person on the scene
and need to seek help, place a breathing unconscious person in the recovery position,
if possible. This assists their breathing.
Give 30 compressions followed Continue compressions until

by two effective breaths; trained help arrives
145
When the injured person is bleeding
To stop external bleeding (any visible bleeding from a
wound):
n apply direct pressure to the wound. Use whatever
is available, for example, your hands or an item of
clothing;
n if you have a cloth, use it to make a pad and cover
the wound, then bandage it;
n never remove the original dressing. This will
only disturb the clot that is forming. If bleeding
continues, put more pads over it; and
n if pieces of metal, glass or wood are found in the
wound apply pressure to the surrounding areas
but do not remove object. If a broken bone is
protruding apply pressure to the wound edges
only.
If the person is bleeding from the ear, lay them on their side (bleeding side down) with a
pad under the ear. If the person is bleeding from the nose, apply direct pressure on the
soft lower part of the nostril, sit the person up and lean the head forward.
Rest and reassure the injured person

Do not make the injuries worse by moving the person unnecessarily. However, there
are times when you must move the injured person.
Move the injured person only if:

n They are in danger, such as from fire or traffic;
n Their position makes it impossible to give first aid; or
n They are unconscious and breathing normally and must be placed in the recovery
position.
Do not leave the injured person alone, unless you are the only person on the scene
and need to seek help. If you need to leave an injured person that is unconscious and
breathing normally, place them in the recovery position then seek help. On your return,
check airway and breathing and continue to monitor until medical aid arrives.
Consider learning first aid to help you in case of an emergency. Visit the St John
Ambulance website for more information: www.stjohnambulance.com.au.
CLICKTOSAVE is a free interactive online first aid course.

Go to clicktosave.com.au
This information has been provided by St John Ambulance

(Western Australia) Inc.
146
REVIEW QUESTIONS
Q1 What must you do Report the crash to Police Advise your Keep a record
if you are involved insurance of events in
in a crash where company as a case someone
an injury has priority reports the
occurred, or if crash and the
there is more than Police may wish
$3,000 damage to interview you
done to vehicles
and/or property
(in total), or if
the owner of the
damaged property
is not present?
Q2 What is the first Report the crash online at Stop Exchange
thing you must do www.crashreport.com.au. immediately names and
if you are involved addresses
in a crash?
Q3 The St John Action Airstrip Ambulance Airway
plan for first aid
uses the acronym
‘DRS ABCD’. What
does the ‘A’ stand
for?
Q4 Why shouldn’t you Because they could catch Because you Because you
remove an injured a chill may damage may risk neck
motorcyclist’s their helmet in injuries to the
helmet if they are the process casualty
lying on the road?
147
PART 10
Answers to the
Review Questions
Below you will find answers to the review questions contained in sections 2 – 8.
All correct responses are highlighted.
Section 2 The Licensing system in WA

Q1 If you are unable One form Two forms of One form of
to produce your of Primary Secondary Primary and one
learner’s permit Identification Identification form of Secondary
card on the day Identification
of your PDA,
what else may be
produced?
Q2 What is the 20 50 30
minimum number
of hours that are
required in the
log book prior to
sitting the PDA for
your first licence?
Q3 What do you Sit a Practical Nothing, you will Pay a fee to

need to remove a Riding Assessment automatically upgrade the licence
LAMS motorcycle on an unrestricted progress from an
restriction? R class motorcycle R-E to R licence
Q4 Whilst learning to Display L plates at Display P plates Wear a fluorescent

ride, you must: all times. vest
149
Section 3 Your Licence and the Law
Q1 What is the Ban from Prosecution A letter of caution
penalty for re-applying
attempting to
bribe an officer of
the department in
order to obtain a
licence?
Q2 Complete the Are not permitted Have failed Need to book
sentence: to - hold a driver’s your practical another practical
“Disqualification” licence; apply for assessment assessment to
means you… a driver’s licence, requalify
or be granted a
driver’s licence
Q3 Complete the Can recommence Must inform the Must apply for
sentence: If your driving at the Department that a new driver’s
driver’s licence is end of the an error has licence when the
“cancelled” you… disqualification occurred and can disqualification
period (provided drive again once it ends in order to
the licence is still is fixed ride again
current/valid)
Q4 Complete the Can only drive Can recommence Can never drive
sentence: If your for work related driving at the end again
driver’s licence is activities of the suspension
‘suspended’ you… period (provided
the licence is still
current/valid)
Section 5 Motorcycle Rules and Regulations
Q1 How many pillion One Two. Provided they As many as

passengers are can fit comfortably possible
permitted on a
motorcycle that
is designed to
transport pillion
passengers?
Q2 When loading Placing your load Placing your load Placing your load
your motorcycle it on the front of above or in front of facing forwards
is recommended your motorcycle the rear axle
that you keep the
load low, forward,
balanced and
secure. Forward
refers to:
Q3 What must you Something warm A correctly fitted Reflective clothing
wear if you are and securely
a passenger fastened approved
being carried in a motorcycle helmet
sidecar?
150
Section 6 Your Safety
Q1 If you lose You will have quick Your reaction time You will feel ill
concentration reflexes will be slower
whilst riding, what
else is likely to
occur?
Q2 What should you Ask your doctor, Take the medicine Ride if you feel
do if you need pharmacist an hour before alright
cough medicine or check the riding
prior to riding? medicine label
to see if it could
affect your riding
Q3 What is the 1.7mm 1.0mm 1.5mm
minimum
permitted tread
depth on any
tyre before it is
considered illegal?
Q4 What is Industrial cleaner White spirits Mild soapy water
recommended
for cleaning your
helmet?
Section 7 Safe Riding Skills

Q1 What should the Benefitting To signal your To greet other road
horn be used for? pedestrians or annoyance users
other road users
who have not
noticed you
Q2 When is it vital to Changing gear When changing Slowing down

check your blind road position
spots?
Q3 How many 1.5 seconds 2 seconds 3 seconds
seconds are
recommended to
maintain a suitable
crash avoidance
space when
following another
vehicle in fine road
conditions?
Q4 What should you Sound your horn Flash your Remain calm and
do if another headlights several not react
motorist does times
something that
upsets you?
151
Section 8 Riding in Regular Traffic
Q1 Which statement Cyclists have an Cyclists are not Cyclists have to
is correct? equal right to use permitted to use give way to all
the road as other roads unless they other traffic
vehicles are marked with
cycle lanes
Q2 If the traffic lights Give way to your Give way to your Stop and wait
at a four way left right for the lights to
intersection are resume
not working and
the amber lights
are flashing, what
should you do?
Q3 How can railway The road markings They are harder By changes in the
crossings pose an can dazzle for motorcyclists riding surface
additional hazard motorcyclists to see
to motorcyclists?
Q4 When two lanes The vehicle on The vehicle on the The vehicle with
merge, who has the left right any portion ahead
right of way? at the merge point
152
Section 9 Managing Emergencies
Q1 What must you do Report the crash Advise your Keep a record of
if you are involved to Police insurance events in case
in a crash where company as a someone reports
an injury has priority the crash and the
occurred, or if Police may wish to
there is more than interview you
$3,000 damage
done to vehicles
and/or property
(in total), or if
the owner of the
damaged property
is not present?
Q2 What is the first Report it to Stop immediately Exchange names
thing you must do the Insurance and addresses
if you are involved commission of
in a crash? Western Australia
Q3 The St John Action Airstrip Ambulance Airway
plan for first aid
uses the acronym
‘DRS ABCD’. What
does the ‘A’ stand
for?
Q4 Why shouldn’t you Because they Because you may Because you may
remove an injured could catch a chill damage their risk neck injuries to
motorcyclist’s helmet in the the casualty
helmet if they are process
lying on the road?
153
PART 11
Appendices
Appendix 1 - Getting Your First Licence
Proof of identity for your initial application
To uphold DoT’s commitment of secure identities for the WA community, you must supply
a number of documents as proof of your identity when first applying for a driver’s licence
or photo card.
A combination of five original documents must be presented to verify your full name,
date of birth and current residential address*. To assist you, there are two options for the
combination of documents you must provide:
Combination 1
Combination 2
*Note: this may not apply to existing WA Photo Card, learner’s permit or driver’s licence holders.
Document guidelines
• All documents must be originals - certified photocopies will not be accepted.
• One of the documents presented must contain your signature (may not be required for
WA Photo Card).
• The name on your documents must be the same or you must provide evidence of change
of name that clearly shows the link between your birth name and current name.
Category A: Establishment of identity

Original Australian birth certificate (not an extract) issued by an Australian Registry
of Births, Deaths and Marriages (RBDM). Commemorative certificates will not be
accepted.
Australian citizenship or naturalisation documentation issued by Department of Home
Affairs (DHA) or Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
Confirmation/recognition of birth letter issued by an Australian RBDM.
Australian Migration Status (AMS) ImmiCard issued by DHA.
Evidence of Immigration Status (EIS) ImmiCard issued by DHA.
Permanent Residence Evidence (PRE) ImmiCard issued by DHA prior to 1 July 2017.
Residence Determination ImmiCard (RDI) issued by DHA prior to 1 July 2017.
Evidence of immigration status, including electronic visas, issued by DHA.
Document for Travel to Australia (DFTTA) issued by the Australian Government.
Category B: Link between identity and person
WA driver’s licence or learner’s permit card that displays the holder’s photo and
signature. This document must be current or not have expired by more than five years.
Australian driver’s licence or learner’s permit card not issued in WA that displays the
holder’s photo and signature. This document must be current or not have expired by
more than two years.
Australian passport not expired by more than two years.
Overseas passport that is current (expired passports will not be accepted).
Consular photo identity card issued by DFAT.
WA Photo Card.
155
WA photographic firearms identification card.
Document of Identity issued by DFAT.
Maritime Security Identity card.
Aviation Security Identification card.
Parental identification and statutory declaration. A parent must attend with their child
and present their current driver’s licence for identity verification.
Category C: Evidence of identity in community
Australian EFTPOS or credit card that is current.
Australian bank statement or letter, less than six months old.
Australian utilities account or notice, such as a gas, water, electricity or telephone bill, less
than six months old.
Australian Tax Office Tax File Number Letter (original) or Tax Notice of Assessment Letter
(original).
Official document or letter from a government agency showing residential address, less
than six months old.
Residential tenancy agreement that is current and shows residential address.
Electoral enrolment letter showing residential address, less than two years old.
Centrelink or Department of Veteran Affairs health care or pensioner concession card.
Medicare card.
WA Seniors card.
WA vehicle licence (registration paper).
WA Proof of Age card, Australian Capital Territory Proof of Identity Card, New South Wales
Photo Card, Northern Territory Evidence of Age Card, Tasmanian Personal Information
Card, Queensland Photo Identification Card, South Australian Proof of Age Card or
Victorian Proof of Age Card.
Marine licence indicator card.
Worksafe high risk work card.
Dangerous goods security card.
Security guard/crowd control licence.
Photographic Police or Australian Defence Force identification card (excludes civilian cards).
WA working with children card.
Australian Keypass identity card.
WA Recreational Skipper’s Ticket.
Employee photo identity card issued by state/territory or commonwealth government.
Australian Defence Force discharge papers, less than 12 months old.
Student photographic identification issued in WA.
School report, certificate of accomplishment or enrolment issued by a secondary school
in WA, less than six months old.
WA Keys for Life certificate issued in WA, less than two years old.
Australian RBDM issued marriage, divorce or name change certificate. Commemorative
certificates will not be accepted.
Certificate of Achievement (DL20) issued by an authorised organisation.
Category D: Evidence of residential address

Letter from current employer showing residential address, less than 6 months old.
Recognised educational institution letter from the principal showing residential address,
less than 12 months old.
Please note: A document listed in category B or C containing your current residential
address is an acceptable document for category D, as long as that document has not
already been used to satisfy category B or C.
156
PART 12
Index
Additional Class of Licence 17; 26
Alcohol/Drug Related Offences 42
Effects of Alcohol and Drugs on Riding 57; 59
Legal Limits 58
Penalties for Traffic Offences 41
“Anti-Hoon” Legislation 42
Blind Spots/Head Check 77
Braking 94; 95
Braking Distance (see Survival Space) 80
Brake Fluid 66
Brake Lights 83
Brake Pads 65
Bribery 36
Buffering 84; 85; 86
Cables 67
Chain Tension 64
Change of Name and Address 35; 53
Changing Lanes 127
Class of Licence 15
Clearways 132
Common Types of Motorcycles 17
Cruiser 20
Moped 6; 15; 16; 17; 20; 21; 23
Naked 19
Road/Trail 20
Sports 19
Tourer 19
Concentration 56
Convex mirrors 77
Covering the brakes 95
Coolant 66
Crashes 7; 39; 84
First Aid 141
Managing Emergency 139
Crash Avoidance Space (see Survival Space) 80; 81; 84
Crossings 100; 108
Children’s 100; 114
Pedestrian 100; 114
Pelican Signals 109
Railway 110
158
Cyclists 101
Demerit Points Scheme 39; 40
Disqualification 36 - 38
Drink and Drugs 36
Double or Nothing (see Good Behaviour Period) 40; 41
Electrics 67
Emergency Vehicles 101 - 103
Engine Oil 65
Fatigue 57
Fees 27; 29
Application Process for Learner’s Permit 27
Hazard Perception Test 28
First Aid 142
Fork Legs 66
Freeway Riding 119 - 121
Following Distances 80; 81
“Three Second Rule” 79; 80;
Full Licence Holders 14; 23; 40
Gap Selection 89
Good Behaviour Period 39; 40; 41
Give Way Rule 100; 102
Intersections 121 - 123
Roundabouts 116 - 118
T-Junctions (see Managing Turns) 125
Graduated Licensing System 17
Hazard Perception Test 22; 24; 28
Head Checks 77
Helmets 60
Indicating/Signalling 82
Roundabouts 116 - 118
Types of Indicators/Signals 82; 83
Instructor 9; 21; 28; 97; 98
Interstate and Overseas Licences 45; 46
Learner’s Permit 26
Application Process 27
Minimum Age 15; 21; 22; 24; 26
Learning to Ride 21; 22; 24; 25; 25; 28; 97
Licences 9; 10; 11;15; 35; 36; 37; 38; 41
Suspension and Cancellation 37; 38
Licensing System in WA 14 - 32
159
Licensing Recreational Motorcycles 52
Log Book 29; 30
Mirrors 77
Novice Driver/Rider 15; 20; 22; 26; 39; 40
Conditions of Learner’s Permit 32
Conditions of provisional licences 32
Eligibility to apply for a licence 15
Graduated Licensing System 14; 15; 16
Hazard Perception Test 22; 30; 31
Learner’s permit 26
Log Book 29
Motorcycle Theory Test 9; 21; 22; 26
Provisional licences 31
Officer Directing Traffic 109
Other Road Users 100
Overtaking 128 - 131;
Parking 131 - 134
Pedestrians 100
Penalty Unit 41; 42
Pillion Passengers 50
Planning Your Route 70
Practical Riding Assessments 30
Assessors 30
Prior Learning and Experience 16
Professional Training 97
Proof of Identification, Age and Residency 27
Provisional licences 31
Protective Gear 59
Railway Crossings 110
Reaction Time 79
Recognised Countries 46
Response Time 92
Rider 7
Riding in Groups 92
Riding in different conditions 69
Heat Haze 68
Night Riding 70
Riding in the Metropolitan Area 50
Riding in the Regional Area 52
Riding in the Rain 68 - 69
160
Roadcraft 75
Road Laws 2; 21; 35; 37; 38; 42; 52
Road Positioning 83
Roadworthiness of the Motorcycle 62
Roundabout 116
Rules 48
Motorcycle-Specific Rules 48
Road Rules and Regulations 9; 35; 36
Traffic Signs 104
Safe Riding Skills 76
Signaling *see indicating 82
Stopping 131
Braking 95
Survival Space 80
Reaction and Response Time 79
Road Surface 84
Speed Management 78
Steering and Counter Steering 95
Survival Space 80
Suspension of the Licence 38; 39
Towards Zero 1
Traffic and Road Signs 104
Guide Signs 105
Regulatory Signs 104
Road Works and Special Purpose Signs 106
Warning Signs 105
Traffic Control Signals 106
Light Signals 108
Arrow Signals 108
Turning 88; 78
Tyres 63
Vehicle Specification 14
Weather Conditions 68
161
Notes
Notes
Notes
Make your motorbike as
individual as you, with
custom plates.
Start designing your plates now

www.transport.wa.gov.au/plateswa

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Government of Western Australia

This is an all-encompassing approach that seeks to manage the interaction between

Chief Executive Officer

Prepared and published by Department of Transport, Driver and Vehicle Services.

1.1 Who is this Handbook for?

Part 2 The Licensing System in WA

n the reason for having a graduated licensing system;

n the State legislation that underpins the licensing system;

n the consequences of not complying with the law.

Part 4 Licences from Interstate or Overseas

Part 5 Motorcycle Rules and Regulations

n road rules and signs specific to motorcycles;

n regulations for carrying passengers and loads;

n restrictions on where to ride;

n the differences between riding in metropolitan and regional areas;

n penalties for violating road rules; and

n action you might take if your licence is cancelled.

Part 6 Your Safety

n attitudes and behaviours that will increase your safety;

Part 8 Riding in Regular Traffic

Part 9 Managing Emergencies

Part 10 Answers to the Review Questions

Graduated Driver Training and Licensing System

n an opportunity to progressively gain knowledge and practical riding skills in a

n a learning environment that provides a wider range of driving experience before

Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS)

WA implemented the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) on 14 January

A LAMS approved motorcycle is a motorcycle (with or without a sidecar) that:

LAMS motorcycles must be in their original factory form as produced by the

If you hold a learner’s permit or an authorisation to ride an R-E class

2.2.1 Novice Drivers

If you are a Novice Driver

If you hold the authorisation to drive a

You are already authorised to ride

2.2.3 Removing the E (Engine) Restriction from R-E Licence Holders

If you hold the authorisation to drive an ‘R-E’ class vehicle

Licence valid for 1 years. Conditions that apply:

Receive full licence on completion

Pass the motorcycle theory test and

In this stage you must begin to complete 50 hours of supervised riding

Step 3 Age and Duration Requirement:

In this stage you must continue to complete 50 hours of supervised riding.

Step 5 Age Requirement: Minimum 17 years of age

Licence valid for 1 year. The following conditions apply:

Receive full licence on

2.5.1 Riding a Moped when you are Authorised to Drive a C Class

Pass the motorcycle theory test and

In this stage you must begin to complete 50 hours of supervised riding

Step 3 Age and Duration Requirement:

In this stage you must continue to complete 50 hours of supervised riding

Licence valid for 1 year. Conditions that apply:

Receive full licence on

Apply for Prerequisite: Applicant must be currently authorised to drive C

Pass the motorcycle

Permit valid for 3 years. Conditions that apply:

Conditions that apply:

Learn to ride Prerequisite:

Conditions that apply:

Variation of your driver’s licence

Provide proof of identification, age and residency in WA