There are many misconceptions of what Advanced Driving is about!
It is not about:
- police cars going down the high street at high speed
- breaking the lap record at Brands Hatch, nor
- spending hours on the skid pan.
It is safe, sensible driving by:
- Controlling and minimizing the risks;
- Trying always to be in the right place on the road at the right time;
- Travelling at the right speed with the right gear engaged; and
- Always being able to stop safely, on your own side of the road, in the distance you can see to be clear.
The key skills of an Advanced Driver are:
- Concentration
- Observation and
- Anticipation
Using these skills to develop a driving plan, co-ordinated with the system of car control, a driver can make progress in a skilful and responsible way, ensuring that nothing is left to chance.
By developing and practicing advanced driving skills, you can become a better and safer driver, and enjoy your driving more. As an advanced driver you will make a contribution to road safety, at the same time you have the satisfaction of knowing that you are doing something quite difficult, really well.
But remember, the perfect driver hasn't yet been born - could it be you?
The Driving Plan
The Driving Plan consists of three questions, which help us ascertain, the hazards we may have to deal with.
- What can be seen?
- What cannot be seen?
- What may reasonably be expected to happen?
The System Of Car Control
The System of Car Control has five key phases:
- INFORMATION
- Take information: Look all around you, using your mirrors to study the situation behind you.
- Use information: Using what you have observed, plan how to deal with the identified hazards.
- Give information: Give a signal if it is helpful to other road users.
- POSITION
- After giving a signal, take up the correct position on the road. You may need to check your mirrors again before changing course.
- SPEED
- Adjust your speed to the correct level for the hazard by using the brakes or engine braking (or the accelerator as necessary). You may need to check your mirrors again.
- GEAR
- Once travelling at the right speed, select the correct gear. If time is short, you may need to change gear shortly before you finish braking. Consider making a final mirror check.
- ACCELERATION
- Once your car is on a straight course after the hazard, accelerate to a suitable speed.