UK Driving Theory Practice Exam

When are you allowed to leave the engine running when you leave your vehicle?

1. Only in emergencies

2. When parked on private property

3. When idling in traffic

4. Never

The correct answer is: Never

Leaving the engine running when you leave your vehicle is not permitted under normal circumstances, as it poses several risks and environmental concerns. It is essential for safety reasons; leaving a vehicle unattended with the engine running could facilitate theft or unauthorized use of the vehicle. Additionally, running an engine contributes to unnecessary fuel consumption and increases emissions, which are harmful to the environment. While there may be situations where a vehicle can be momentarily idling in traffic for short periods, this does not typically justify leaving the vehicle unattended. In terms of legal frameworks, most driving regulations discourage idling when the operator is not present. Therefore, choosing to never leave the engine running when you step away from your vehicle aligns with both safety best practices and environmental regulations.