Drivers who are unqualified and have not passed the driving test are not permitted to use motorways. Post test a newly qualified motorist is permitted to use the motorway having had no previous experience. Motorways are high speed roads with up to four lanes which can carry a high volume of traffic . What do driver trainers need to teach in order to prepare new drivers for high speed motorway driving?
Joining the main carriageway via a slip road may be something a newly qualified driver has yet to experience. Joining a main road at speed can require some close judgement of speed and position of other cars. It is essential to gain a speed quickly which matches that of the vehicles already on the motorway. If the approach is too slow this can lead to problems when merging at the end of the slip road. Traffic on the slip road must wait at the give way line if there is no gap in traffic. This is more likely to happen if you are too slow.
When on the motorway the new driver should stay stay in the left hand lane in order to settle into the drive and become accustomed to the higher speeds. Another major difference is the number of large vehicles on the road. These have really long blind spots and it is important to avoid positioning in the blind spot area for too long a time.
When comfortable on the motorway it may be time to overtake. The mirrors signal manoeuvre routine needs to be employed correctly and the higher approach speeds of other vehicles taken into account. When overtaking is completed then the instructor needs to make sure that the driver returns to the left hand lane. Many drivers tend to position permanently in the centre lane which can cause problems for other motorists who wish to overtake.
When training with driving schools on motorways forward planning and information gathering from signs will be of great importance. Some junctions have up to four lanes so if you miss your turning it can be a long detour to find your way back. Early identification of signs and markings is top priority during motorway driving. Last second lane changing can be deadly so every move must be made in good time.
Topics covered on the journey will include use of emergency telephones in the event of a breakdown. Knowledge of different coloured road studs and what they mean, how to deal with fatigue and distraction on long journeys and consideration for the safety of other road users.
Leaving the motorway requires tuition regarding perception of speed. Having travelled at higher limits for prolonged periods of time it is easy to fall foul of speed cameras as perception of speed has changed. Lower limits can now seem painfully slow so keep an eye on the speedometer. Driver trainers need to assist the new driver until normal perception of speed returns during the remainder of the drive.
Driving Instruction Check Test Criteria – Risk Management
The test of continued fitness to instruct is changing for driving instructors in order to take a more client centred approach. This replaces a system which placed importance on fault finding and demands more direct pupil involvement. Risk management is a main topic in the new version of the test so let's take a look at this.
Teaching Roundabouts on Driving Lessons
Today's roads feature some very busy and complex roundabouts. Multi lane roundabouts with multiple junctions and tight mini roundabouts occur in close proximity to each other. These environments demand a wide range of driving skills. Let's look at what driver trainers need to teach regarding roundabouts.
What are Traffic Light Workshop Schemes?
When a motorist fails to stop at a red light they may opt to take a traffic light workshop course. This replaces endorsement points and a fine. The course is designed to make motorists aware of the danger of failing to stop at red traffic lights and hopefully change driver behaviour.
