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.
The rules regarding traffic lights should be taught during driving lessons. Driving instructors need to make learners understand the reasons why people run red lights. One of the main problems is drivers not leaving enough time to complete their journey comfortably. The added pressure experienced by drivers who are running late can be a big temptation to avoid stopping. The pressure can be worse for professional drivers who may have to meet deadlines. Driving instructors can really get the message home by driving the same route during rush hour and at a less busy time of day then comparing the different journey times.
Many drivers do not understand what each traffic light phase means. Red means stop and wait at the stop line. Many drivers from overseas will stop in the middle of a junction when turning right after seeing a red light intended for another road. This can easily lead to a rear end shunt. If there is no stop line then the red light is not for you. At temporary traffic lights the warning sign replaces the stop sign.
Amber means stop unless you have already crossed the line or to attempt to stop would be dangerous. This is where mirror checks are essential. If a vehicle is following close behind then drive through the amber light. If no one is behind you know you can brake harder. Green means go if the way is clear. Many motorists set off and then look afterwards only to find the way is blocked and so get caught in the middle of a junction.
Many pupils feel imagined pressure from following drivers during driving lessons. On dual carriageways with traffic lights slowing down from high speed can take a large distance. Pupils need to learn to anticipate the lights changing. If a green light has gone stale, meaning it has been green for some time then be prepared for them to change and approach at a lower speed.
Driving through a red light puts you in danger from traffic approaching from the sides who will be on a green light. Pedestrians crossing at junctions and driver trainers will need to ensure that pupils scan ahead for them. It is especially easy to neglect seeing pedestrians when turning left. Teaching early identification of the junction combined with a suitable approach speed will help pupils avoid committing red light offences in their future driving careers.
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.
Teaching For the Taxi Driving Occupational Test
Driver trainers are occasionally approached by prospective taxi drivers in relation to the occupational driving test. The requirements of the test are often not full understood by driver trainers. This is a guide outlining the main requirements of the occupational test for taxi drivers.
