Blitz on drivers using mobile phones while driving

SINGAPORE : The Traffic Police went on a 3-hour blitz on Thursday to catch those who drive and use their mobile phones at the same time.

IT MAY be a convenient way of finding your way around - but using an iPhone app while driving could be a short cut to a fine or jail sentence.

Many motorists do not realise it, but keying in destinations or looking at a smartphone for directions while driving is illegal.

2,609 motorists have been caught so far this year for using their mobile phones while driving. 

That is just a slight 6.4 per cent dip over last year, when 2,788 drivers were caught for the offence.

It is a dangerous habit that the Traffic Police wants to see curtailed.

Thursday's operation covered areas such as Geylang, Bedok and Tampines.

Two drivers were caught red-handed.

The officers trailed the suspects' cars for at least 10 seconds before approaching them.

Their phones were confiscated, but their SIM cards were returned to them.

The mobile phones can only be retrieved after about two weeks to a month, when the fines are settled.

A first-time offender can incur 12 demerit points on top of a S$200 fine for using a mobile phone while driving.





- CNA/al

Changes To Theory Test: DSA to stop publishing questions used in theory tests

The Driving Standards Agency is to stop publishing the multiple choice questions and answers used in theory tests. This will help to ensure that new drivers learn the principles behind driving theory rather than just learning answers. 

Road Safety Minister Mike Penning said:

"The driving theory test should help to prepare drivers for real life on the road - good driving is not just about vehicle-handling skills, but also about having the knowledge and understanding of safe driving theory.

"No longer publishing these questions and answers will mean that successful candidates will have to understand the theory rather than simply memorising answers.

"I believe that this - along with the other changes we are making to the driving test regime - will lead to better drivers and safer roads."

In September 2011 DSA will change the format of books and other learning materials available to help people prepare for theory tests. This will take place at the same time as more challenging case studies are introduced to car and motorcycle theory tests.

Then, from 1 January 2012, DSA will create theory tests using questions which will not be published.

Practice questions and answers, not used in theory tests, will still be available to help candidates with revision.

Other companies which publish products containing DSA theory test questions will also no longer have access to the questions used in the tests.

Source: http://dsa.gov.uk/News.asp?id=SX728C-A78385E5

Don't leave the engine on

Motorists get a message: Don't leave the engine on 
More complaints, but few fined for infringing this little-known law 
By Christopher Tan, Senior Correspondent 

THE number of complaints against motorists who leave the engines of stationary vehicles running has been rising. 

Last year, the National Environment Agency (NEA) received more than 2,700 complaints from the public, up from about 1,600 in 2008 and just over 1,000 in 2007. In the first seven months of this year, it received more than 1,300 complaints, most of which are from people in residential estates and passers-by, annoyed by the noise and fumes. 

But even as the number of complaints goes up, just a handful of motorists have been taken to task. Only four have been fined $70 each since last year, and about 600 issued warning letters. 

The NEA, which could not provide infringement figures for earlier years, has enforced the law with a light touch because it understands that motorists want to keep their engines - and air-conditioners - running in this hot and humid climate. 

As part of an 'education' process, however, it has issued 'advisories' to some 6,400 motorists who have been reported by the public in the last three years. Discussion threads in online motoring forums indicate that not many drivers know it is illegal to leave their vehicle engines running while stationary, say, when they are waiting for someone to turn up. 

Going by the Environmental Protection and Management (Vehicular Emissions) Regulations, which date back to 1999, the only time it is all right to do so is when a vehicle is in traffic. The law provides for offenders to be charged in court and dealt fines of up to $2,000 for first-time infringements and $5,000 for repeat cases. 

'Leaving an engine running while stationary is inconsiderate,' an NEA spokesman said, as it creates unnecessary noise and air pollution. 

Observers say more can be done. 

Singapore Environment Council executive director Howard Shaw described switching off the engine while waiting as 'a minor inconvenience', hot and humid as it is here.'We don't have 40-degree temperatures, and we have plenty of shade,' he said. 'It's a matter of winding down the windows or getting out of the car.' (getting out of car? also can fine for unattended vehicle) 

Idling engines are a problem when taxis wait in line for passengers, like at the airport, or when coaches wait by the roadside while tourists shop, he noted. 'They contribute significantly to CO2 emissions,' he said. 

Retiree Lee Chiu San, 64, said: 'If I'm alone in the car, I wind down the windows and kill the engine as a matter of principle. 'But with passengers, there can be serious disagreement.' 

'I think it is a great law that now needs to be enforced here, CO2 emissions being the biggest reason, of course.' 

Meanwhile, European car manufacturers from Fiat to BMW are incorporating stop-start mechanisms in their cars. These cut off the engine when the car comes to a stop at the lights, and restart it when the accelerator is depressed. 

The technology is beginning to appear in cars imported into Singapore. Volkswagen's Polo BlueMotion 1.2TDI is one such model. 

But the issue of leaving engines running even when the motorist is not in traffic remains. Some cabbies here have two sets of ignition keys - one to keep the engine and air-conditioning running and the other to lock the vehicle with while they have their breaks. 

Cabby Tony Pang, 60, said: 'This is so passengers don't complain of the heat. 

'It used to be a common practice, but not so now, since diesel is so expensive. But I know some older drivers still do it. It's a matter of choice.'

What's Happening To The Driving Test In October 2010?

The UK driving test is changing from 4th October 2010!

A new independent driving section will be introduced to test how you make your own decisions when driving. The examiner will ask you to drive independently for around 10 minutes by either following traffic signs, a series of directions, or a combination of both. If you're asked to follow a series of verbal directions, you'll be shown a diagram to help you.

The Driving Standards Agency say:
"The aim is to show that you can handle road and traffic conditions safely, while following a series of traffic signs or verbal directions. It doesn't matter if you don't remember every direction, or if you go the wrong way - this can happen to the most experienced drivers. If you ask for a reminder of the directions, the examiner will be happy to confirm them to you. If you go off the independent driving route, nothing will be marked unless you commit a driving fault."

The driving test will NOT get longer (driving tests last for approximately 40 minutes) so in order to allow time for the independant driving section, test candidates will only have to do one reversing manouevre instead of two as they do at present (the examiner will still choose from turn in the road, parallel park, bay park or reverse around a corner). As at present, one in three test candidates will also be asked to do an emergency stop.

The cost of taking a driving test will NOT increase from October 2010.

For more details on the new driving test and the latest news and updates from the Driving Standards Agency, please see:
Driving Test October 2010 Changes

Changes To The Driving Test In October 2010 - Independent Driving

There will be two important changes to the UK driving test commencing on 4th October 2010:

1) a new section on independent driving,

2) a reduction in the number of reversing manoeuvres candidates will need to do
 
For more information about the changes to the driving test and how this will affect test candidates please see:
 
Driving Test October 2010 Changes

UK Road Signs Quiz - Prepare For Your Theory Test!

How well do YOU know your road signs?

How good are you at identifying road signs?

Can you tell the difference between the "ahead only" sign and the sign for "one-way traffic"? Do you get the signs for "no stopping" and "no waiting" mixed up? Even drivers with many years experience get confused by unfamiliar road signs!

When you take your Theory Test you'll be expected to be able to identify several UK traffic signs during the test and when you're driving, a thorough knowledge of traffic signs and road markings will make you a much safer driver!

Test your knowledge of UK road signs with this free 20 question traffic signs quiz:
Know Your Traffic Signs Quiz

Parallel Parking

1. Position the car more to the left (the left side kerb should be inline with your own point on the wiper) and ahead of the parking lot. *Remember to straighten the car (left side of the car parallel with the left kerb) and steering wheel.

2. Change to reverse gear, check rearview mirror and signal left.

3. Check safety on the right, front and look through the rear windscreen.

4. Look over your left shoulder through the left rear door window and reverse the car slowly.

5. Reverse the car slowly till it reaches your turning point, then turn the steering wheel one round to the left and continue to reverse.

*Note: the picture above is just a general guide and it might not reflect your turning point because everyone has their own turning point. 

*You can adjust the left side mirror to view whether your rear left wheel will hit the kerb or not at this point as the picture above and once you confirm the left side won't hit the kerb you can now shift your attention to the right side.

6. While reversing, look at your right side mirror - when you see the right side of your car reaches the black color kerb, turn the steering wheel one round to the right.

7. Adjust your right side mirror till you can see your rear right wheel and continue to reverse.

8. When the rear right wheel sits on the yellow line, turn the steering wheel full-lock to the right and continue to reverse slowly.

*Note: Turning the steering wheel before the rear left wheel sits on the yellow line will cause the front left wheel to hit the front kerb and also resulting in the car being parked outside the lot. Turning the steering wheel after the rear left wheel crosses the line will result in your rear left wheel hitting the left kerb or resulting in your car being park too near to the left kerb.

9. Reverse and stop before the rear wheel hits the kerb behind then change to D gear and using the forward motion to straighten the car and steering wheel.

10. Position the car in the center of the parking lot, engage gear to P and apply handbrake,  then raise your hand to let the tester know that you are done with the parking.

Moving out of the parking lot


1.  Select R and release the handbrake.

2.  Turn the steering wheel one round to the left while reversing slowly.

3. Stop before hitting the rear kerb.

4. Adjust back the side mirrors.

5. Change to D , check mirrors, signal right, check your blindspot, if safe, turn the steering wheel full-lock to the right very quickly while moving forward. (remember the car needs to move very slowly at this point and the steering wheel needs to be turn fast.)

6. When the left corner of the front windscreen is inline with the left kerb as the picture above, check blindspot again then turn the steering wheel to the left as the car moves forward.


*Do NOT turn the steering wheel faster then the car this time or the rear wheel will hit the left kerb, just turn the steering wheel to match the speed of the car as you move out*

Recommended Books & DVD's For Learner Drivers

Pass Your Driving Test With The Help Of Recommended Books & DVD's For Learner Drivers!

There are so many study aids for learners on the market - so how do you know which are the best?

We've put together a selection of tried and tested learner driver books and DVDs which will reinforce what you learn during your driving lessons and help you to learn and maintain the safe driving skills which you'll need for your driving test - and beyond!

For more information, check out:
Best Books For Learner Drivers

Best DVDs For Learner Drivers

Test fees.

Length of tests and test prices won't change when independent #driving is introduced.

Independent driving from October 2010.

Independent driving will be included in the driving test from October 2010.

Candidates will be asked to drive for a period of about ten minutes by following direction signs and road markings without instruction from the examiner.

Please use the link on the main web site to view the DSA official video.

http://www.kelvinwhitedrivingschool.co.uk/view/6

The passes keep coming.

The passes keep coming with 12 passes in just 9 days.

Special praise for STAR driver Scott Webber who passed at the first attempt with a FAUTLESS drive.

You can all enjoy the joys of independent driving and the June sunshine for cruising.

Congratulations to all concerned.

Great Gifts & Perfect Presents For Learner Drivers!

Learning to drive isn't cheap...so if you know someone who is learning to drive or who wants to start driving lessons, get them off to a good start with a really useful gift!

Gift Ideas For Learner Drivers has a wide selection of learner driver gift packs, driving test software, books and DVDs and lots of other learning to drive essentials, all of which make great birthday gifts and Christmas presents for learner drivers!

For more information, check out:
Gifts For Learner Drivers

Test booking site's

Beware of unnoficial test booking site's.

The cost of the theory test is £31.00

The cost of the practical test is £62.00

DO NOT PAY ANYMORE THAN THIS.

Use the official DSA test booking site at http://bit.ly/DSA-bookings
OR use the link on our test booking page.

Grade six trainer.

Last week 11th May was our bi annual O.R.D.I.T. assessment and pleased to announce that during the check test of ability to provde driving instructor training a maximum score of 14 sixes were recorded.This is the highest score that can be recorded and it's great to know that the service we supply to the general public is of the highest standard.

8 Practical Passes in just Five days.

Lots of hard work has paid off for eight of our student's.We are delighted that we have produced eight new full licence holder's in the last 5 days.What a great time to pass your driving test with a spell of hot summer weather it's time to go cruising.

Congratulations to the following:

Emily Elson
Aaron Carter
Colin Mathews
Abi George
Ollie Biddulph
Liam Bowden
Daniel Case

STAR DRIVER Mark Wardle Passed with NO FAULTS.

Thinking "What If"

What is - 'What If'.......??

When learning to drive one of the major problems for everyone is a lack of road-experience.

Most drivers who have been driving for some time will have built up an internal data base of 'Where things went wrong before'. They will have encountered problems that will have ranged from a mild 'Mmm, I didn't expect that to happen' to possibly the very more serious and potentially lethal incidents that will have been a huge shock to them. All these events will have been automatically catalogued and stored in the subconscious part of the brain. As these memories are reinforced by further incidents the subconscious brain, along with the conscious part of the brain, will be warning the driver about problems that may arise as they navigate their way down the road.

Unfortunately a learner or new driver doesn't have this data to rely on (yet). This means that the learner and new driver will have to make a deliberate effort to consciously think about all the possible problems that may lay ahead.

Think' What if?' Imagine that you are driving down a road and you intend to turn either left, right, blind junction*, or through a filter lane.

• What if there is a lorry coming towards me on the wrong side of the road ? Will I be able to stop in a position that is safe and not causing any problems?
  
  
• What if there are cars parked on my side of the road just around the corner? Will I be travelling at a speed that allows me to react and stop in a position that is out of the way of any approaching vehicles?
  
  
• What if there is a pedestrian just stepping off the pavement just around the corner?
  
  
• Etc. Etc.

This What if.......? should be applied to all driving, especially when you are approaching situations where there is not enough information!

When thinking 'What if?', think about the situations that will really cause you problems. For example, if you are thinking that there may be a vehicle approaching, don't just think of an average car - think about the so called boy-racers. (You know the ones I mean? The ones who are causing your car insurance to be in excess of one thousand dollars because they are making a habit of writing off cars and in the process injuring and killing themselves and others!!) These drivers can go fast but the problem is that they don't have the skill, the experience and probably the wit to take care of things when things go wrong. They may be coming towards you on the wrong side of the road, as you go around that blind corner!

You  should not only be going at a speed that allows you stop in time but be going slow enough to allow the other driver (who is approaching you far too quickly) not only to see you but also allow them their panicky 'freeze-on-the-controls' moment before they actually start using the brakes.

* Blind Junction - A junction where the driver cannot gain much information on the approach due to sharp corners, houses, parked vehicles, hedges etc.

Thinking ' What if.......?'  will help you drive defensively and keep out of trouble.

Most Common Class 3A Test Immediate Failure Mistakes

1. Mount Kerb during Directional Change
   Drive up the kerb while going in and out of the course or when reserving into the lot.


Solution: 

• Position your vehicle in the center of the lane.
• Remember your stopping and turning point. i.e do not turn the steering wheel when your vehicle is stationery.
• Remember to check the position of your vehicle when it's in the reserving lot, make sure to do corrective action when turning out if your vehicle is too much to the left.

2. Improper action causing accident / near accident

• Striking & mounting of kerb
• Striking objects i.e wall, pylons, etc
• Involved in an accident 
• Requiring assistance from the tester to avoid accident

Solution: 

• Keep in the center of the lane (1 metre side clearance from left kerb)
• Keep a safe following distance, apply the 2 second rule or 4 second rule if raining
• Look far and wide, anticipate traffic movements to avoid sudden braking or steering movement.

3. Fail to obey Traffic Rules & Signs

  

• Stopping in yellow box
• Fail to obey traffic light i.e turning arrow
• Going against traffic flow, no entry, no right or left turn mandatory sign

Solution: 

• Know your traffic signs and what they mean
• Look ahead for road markings, traffic signs and traffic flow
• While approaching or waiting at traffic light junction do not forget to observe the change in traffic signal.

4. Exceed stipulated time of 3 mins during vertical parking

   3 mins or more have elapsed before the car is properly parked in the lot. 

Solution: 

• Position your car correctly
• Remember your turning point
• Keep your vehicle at low speed

SSDC Woodlands Class 3/3A Test Circuit

This is the test circuit map on the 1st level.
The highlighted portion are meant for class 3 and class 3A.

Londoners rated as the worst learner drivers

Londoners rated as the worst learner drivers



Learners located in London and South East England need more attempts at the driving test to pass compared to every other part of Britain, based on a new survey by the AA.

An overall total of 20,109 people responded to the survey, which revealed that Londoners sat the test on average 2.09 times, while those in the south east needed 2.11 tests, which is five percent worse compared to UK average.

Simon Douglas, the AA Driving School director, said: "Busy, complex roads in London and the South-east appear to contribute to learners there finding it slightly more challenging."

Drivers in the east of England returned the best result, taking just 1.9 attempts to pass. They were closely followed by the North East, Yorkshire & Humberside and the East Midlands.

The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) is quoted as saying that those who have passed their test have had 45 hours of professional training and 22 hours of private practice - on average.

Douglas sums up the findings: "Many factors shape local pass rates. But, wherever you reside, professional tuition using a fully-qualified driving instructor will give you the best possible head start towards passing your L-test and beyond."

The full league table is below:

East of England 1.87

Yorkshire & Humberside 1.91

North-east of England 1.91

East Midlands 1.92

Scotland 1.97

South-west of England 1.97

West Midlands 1.98

Wales 2.02

North-west of England 2.03

Northern Ireland 2.03

London 2.09

South-east of England 2.11

New driver insurance guide.

If you’ve recently passed your test and tried searching looking for insurance, you’ve probably already discovered how expensive insurance for inexperienced drivers can be.

Motor insurance for first time or young drivers can be expensive enough, but with reason. Moneysupermarket.com says: “There are several reasons why younger drivers pay more for their car insurance.

These include:

Drivers are statistically more likely to have an accident in the first two years after passing their test than at any other time. One in five drivers will have a crash in within their first year on the road.

A third of fatalities on UK roads are caused by young drivers aged 17 to 25.

Young drivers also experience more theft, fire and vandalism to their vehicles, which contributes to more claims on their car insurance.

Young drivers are more inclined to be ferrying around a vehicle} full of friends and for that reason face a much greater risk of being involved in an accident than somebody that just uses their car to nip out to the shops mid-afternoon.”

It may seem like the odds are stacked against you somewhat, but by following a few of the tips below, you can save a packet on your young drivers insurance.

Buy a Low Powered Car.

Unfortunately, engine size is one is probably one of the biggest factors with regards to the price of your premium whatever your age, a car with a smaller engine will always be cheaper to insure than a big one. Search for cars in as low an insurance group as you possibly can in order to acquire the least expensive policy.

Take a Pass plus Course

This course is designed to teach recently passed drivers a few advanced driving techniques that could make them better and safer drivers. Many companies offer cheaper car insurance for first time drivers who have completed a pass plus course, up to 35% in some instances. There isn’t a test at the conclusion of the course and it takes only six hours to complete, so for those sorts of savings it’s a bargain!

Great news if you live in Somerset,in addition to any savings on insurance you can attend a 2 hour attitude and behaviour workshop completely FREE of charge.They are held every month in Bridgwater,Taunton and Yeovil and Somerset road safety partnership will provide you with a £60.00 grant towards the cost of your pass plus course.See main web site for dates and venues.

Try a Multi-Car Policy

If you still live with your parents, it could be worth contacting their insurance providers – some companies offer heavy discounts on multiple cars within the same household, providing a budget car insurance many new drivers would like.

Policies with Restrictions

Some policies offer cheaper premiums at the expense of adding certain restrictions to them – not driving within certain hours of the night, for instance, or paying on a ‘per mile’ basis. Obviously, these might not be of use to everyone, but if you don't use your vehicle during the night time or only travel short distances, policies such as these can help you save significant amounts of money.

Consider Your Excess

The larger your excess, the cheaper your insurance is going to be – this is true of all policies, whether or not you are a new driver or not. However, you need to consider whether you are able to pay this should you have a crash– could you afford to pay a £600 excess after a nasty accident?

Keep it Stock

It’s another sad truth, but induction kits, spoilers, flared arches and the rest all add to your insurance premium – anything that adds value, performance or desirability to the vehicle will probably make that cheap car insurance quote more expensive, although different insurers treat modifications differently.

Add a Named Driver

Adding a mature and more experienced driver to your policy can decrease your premium quite substantially – this really is often one of the better options for cheap car insurance for new drivers. Don't let yourself be tempted to put yourself as a named driver on another person’s policy if you are the main user though; this is called ‘fronting’ and could result in the younger driver being convicted of fraud.

Obviously, it’s is best to check around – Moneysupermarket.com compare a massive amount of insurance firms, and can assist you to find the most effective possible deal for you quickly and easily.

Tyre Puncture while driving.

Tyre puncture and how to control the car when it happens.
Watch this video and it may save you and others.

My car keep stalling

Yes, "my car keep stalling", that's the most common problem that students encounter.
The car will stall when the engine is forced to slow down.

Assuming that you are in 1st gear and about to move off and the car stalls. Eek!
Why? It is because you release the clutch pedal too quickly.

Assuming that you are in 1st gear when moving off, it is your releasing of the clutch pedal too quickly that causes the car to stall.

Remember if the clutch pedal is released too quickly the car will not be able to move off quickly but on the contrary it will stall. The car weighs over 1000 kg and it needs an awful lot of inertia to get it moving. If the car cannot move off quickly then the only other effect that can take place is that the engine will slow down and forced to stop, i.e. Your Car Stall.

So, just depress a bit on the accelerator and be patient when releasing the clutch - when the clutch is at the biting point, release it by another 2mm to the moving point. Now is not the time to be impatient!  Pause slightly and hold the clutch pedal where it is as the 
car starts moving, then just let the clutch pedal come up slowly through the moving point to the driving point, allowing the car to get going in its own time - which is about 2-4 seconds when on a level road. As you release the clutch pedal accelerate a bit more. 
If the engine is making more noise because of your depressing on the accelerator don't be alarmed because at this stage the speed of the car is controlled by the clutch. 

Don't let drivers behind gets you into a panic, they don't expect you to shoot off like a rocket.

Having Problems Booking A Driving Test? DSA Test Booking System Unavailable From 31st March 2010

Now is not a good time to try to book your driving test!

A fire and flood in a BT building in Paddington on 31st March 2010 has caused widespread chaos to phone and internet services and has affected the DSA test booking payments system.

As a result the DSA are currently unable to take driving test bookings either online or over the phone.

The situation is expected to last for "at least a week".

Watch this space for updates.

Driving Instructor Grades - Is Asking For The Grade Of A Driving Instructor A Reliable Way Of Checking How Good They Are?

Is the grade of a driving instructor a reliable indicator of how good an instructor they are?

I've come across numerous "guides to finding a good driving instructor" which advise learner drivers to ask for the grade of a driving instructor and to only take lessons from the highest grade of instructor...is this good advice or not? I'll give you the facts about driving instructor grading and let you decide!

The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) periodically check the standards of tuition given by all Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs) and assign each instructor a grade which that instructor retains until it's time for their next check.

Driving instructors are graded from 1 to 6, with 6 being the highest grade possible.
 
That grade is based solely upon a driving examiner observing ONE HOUR of driving tuition given by an individual driving instructor every four or more YEARS.
 
Nothing else is taken into account when determining the grade of a driving instructor. The grade is based solely on how the examiner thinks the instructor performed in the observed driving lesson. There's no interview, written tests or other performance related reports such as the number of test passes or feedback from past or present students taken into consideration.
 
As of February 2009 (the most recent published figures I can track down) the percentage of driving instructors in the UK by grade was as follows;
 
Grade 1 - 0%
Grade 2 - 0.09%
Grade 3 - 0.76%
Grade 4 - 51.32%
Grade 5 - 31.03%
Grade 6 - 5.99%
Ungraded - 10.81% (newly qualified instructors are officially ungraded until their first DSA "check test" is done)

Any driving instructor whose grade is less than a 4 is subject to further checks by the DSA and if the standard of their tuition fails to improve within a very short period of time, they risk having their driving instructor licence withdrawn.

So, as you can see, the majority of driving instructors are graded 4 and 5.

I'll be quite honest here and say that I have some issues with the grading system.

As far as I am aware, no other fully qualified professional body is graded in this way. I have yet to read any "advice" suggesting that I ask a qualified plumber for their grade before I allow them to mend my leaking taps, or that I ask a pharmacist for their grade before I buy a packet of paracetamol to cure a headache :)

The trouble with driving instructor grading is that it's based on nothing more than a snapshot of performance. If the driving instructor is nervous during their check test (and it's human nature to be nervous when someone is watching your every move - especially when your continuing livelihood depends on the outcome), then that can affect the way they "perform" on the check lesson and may mean that what the examiner sees bears little or no resemblance to how they usually teach or interact with their students.

I know many grade 4 instructors who have a string of test passes and happy customers as long as the Great Wall Of China...and I know one or two grade 6 instructors whose communication and people skills seem alarmingly lacking...presumably they're just better at putting on a good show for the one hour every few years that an examiner observes them?

There's another problem with asking for the grade of a driving instructor which the "advice givers" conveniently overlook...and this one's a biggie!

YOU MAY NOT BE TOLD THE TRUTH! - yes folks, take it from me, there are some naughty driving instructors out there who tell porky pies when it comes to spilling the beans about their grade...and there's no way for a member of the public to check whether what they say is true, as grades are not published and the DSA will not disclose that sort of information.

As I said at the beginning of this topic...I'll let you decide whether asking the grade of a driving instructor is a reliable indicator of how good at their job they are...

;)

Beware when buying second hand cars.

Consumers are paying an average of £425 each to fix faults with second-hand cars that are the dealer's responsibility to correct. A study by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) also found that many dealers are using illegal disclaimers like 'No Refund'. Make sure you know your rights when buying a second-hand cars.

Click here for full story.

http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=bWFpbGluZ2lkPTc1MjM1MyZtZXNzYWdlaWQ9UFJELUJVTC03NTIzNTMmZGF0YWJhc2VpZD0xMDAxJnNlcmlhbD0xMjE1NzE4MDc1JmVtYWlsaWQ9a2Vsdmlud2hpdGVAa2Vsdmlud2hpdGVkcml2aW5nc2Nob29sLm9yZyZ1c2VyaWQ9a2Vsdmlud2hpdGVAa2Vsdmlud2hpdGVkcml2aW5nc2Nob29sLm9yZyZleHRyYT0mJiY=&&&100&&&http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_186525

Instructor on test.

DT1 changes for observer on test
Observer on test for category B (car) practical tests will be implemented on 6 April 2010. This will need changes to how the examiner administers part of the test.
The DT1 - the standard operating procedure that examiners follow - has been updated to reflect these changes.
View the DT1 (PDF, 780Kb)
Here’s the procedure that will be used from 6 April 2010:
In the waiting room:
The examiner will ask, ‘Would you like your instructor/accompanying driver to accompany you on the test and be there for the result and end of test feedback?’.
If the customer says ‘no’, the examiner will ask, ‘Would you like your instructor/accompanying driver to be there at the end of test for the feedback?
‘Thank you, will you lead the way to your car please.’
End of test - pass and fail
The examiner will say, ‘Please switch off the engine and give me a moment to complete my paperwork.’
If the test was not accompanied and the instructor/accompanying driver comes over to the vehicle to listen to the conclusion of the test, the examiner will confirm with the customer that they want their instructor/accompanying driver present.

Driving Tests From 6th April 2010 - Do You Want Your Instructor To Sit In On Your Test?

From 6th April 2010, the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) will be "encouraging" driving test candidates to take an observer along in the back of the car while their test takes place.

This idea is nothing new. At present you are allowed to take someone with you on your driving test if you wish. Anyone over 16 years old is allowed to accompany a driving test candidate, but they cannot take any part in the test - they have to sit still, are not allowed to speak, or distract either you or the examiner in any way.

The difference is that at present it is your responsibility to tell the examiner that you would like someone to accompany you before the test commences, whereas from 6th April 2010, the examiner will be asking you if you'd like someone with you.

The DSA have stated:

"By having the observer present on the test, they'll be in the position to identify future development needs for a subsequent test or additional skills to build on after passing the test."

(source:DirectGov - Driving Tests - bring your instructor along)

To help you decide whether you want someone else sitting in the back of the car during your driving test, let's look at the advantages and disadvantages of taking an observer along!
 
Advantages

• The observer can see any mistakes you make whilst on test and identify aspects of your driving that many need remedial action whether you pass or fail
• Having a familiar person in the car with you may help you to relax

Disadvantages

• You may find it off-putting and feel more nervous by having someone other than the examiner watching you
• Most driving school cars are "on the small side" and having someone sitting in the back may feel cramped
• Visibility may be obscured
• Extra people in the car means that it may handle slightly differently than you are used to
• Many driving instructors are accustomed to sitting in the back of the car during tests and are used to sitting completely still and silent, but if you've learnt to drive with a friend or relative, they may not find this easy - which may lead to criticism from the examiner
• Driving examiners are routinely monitored by their bosses at regular intervals to make sure that they are doing their jobs properly. When this happens an observer from the DSA will sit in the back to watch what the examiner is doing. If you want your observer along too, there could be four people in the car!

It's your decision - it's best to talk it through with your instructor before your driving test and decide what you want to do!

Taking The UK Driving Theory Test In Punjabi

If you're a learner driver and English isn't your first language, it can be hard to find easy to understand training resources and study materials. It makes study a lot easier if you can get books and software in your own language!

For Punjabi speakers, there's now a range of books and software available with translations of the DSA Theory Test question bank and the Highway Code from English into Punjabi. There’s also Hazard Perception test software now available in Punjabi.

For more details and to view the range of Punjabi Theory Test products available from Amazon, please see:

Taking The UK Theory Test In Punjabi

Taking The UK Theory Test In Urdu

If you're a learner driver and English isn't your first language, it can be hard to find easy to understand training resources and study materials. It makes study a lot easier if you can get books and software in your own language!

For Urdu speakers, there's now a range of books and software available with translations of the DSA Theory Test question bank from English into Urdu. There’s also Hazard Perception test software now available in Urdu.

For more details and to view the range of Urdu Theory Test products available from Amazon, please see:

Taking The UK Theory Test In Urdu

Online Driving Test Booking Scams - Be VERY Careful When Booking Your Theory Test or Driving Test Online

It's easy to book a practical driving test or theory test online. You can do it through the DirectGov website at DirectGov - Book your theory and practical tests online. There is no extra fee for booking if you do it through "official channels" - all it will cost you is the appropriate test fee (Theory Tests £31.00 and Practical Tests £62.00).

Now that's all well and good if you know the website address for the offical DSA online test booking service - but what if you don't?

Most people will type something along the lines of "book driving test online" into Google or another search engine and click whatever link comes up first. That's the problem.

Over the past few months several "enterprising" website owners have cottoned on to the fact that they can set up a "test booking website" and make themselves a whole lot of money by booking theory and driving tests for other people and charging a big fat "booking fee" on top of the DSA test fee.

I've heard of so called "booking fees" of well over £20.00 charged for doing something that anyone with internet access can do for themselves in a matter of minutes.

I've mentioned this subject before, but the situation has now become so serious that even the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) have finally sat up and taken some notice and have announced that they are "investigating" several 3rd party test booking services.

Don't line someone else's pockets, book your test yourself - all you need is your driver number (from your driving licence), a credit or debit card (someone else can pay using their card if you don't have a card of your own) and your Theory Test pass number (if you're booking your Practical Test)...and use ONLY the official DSA online test booking service at:
DirectGov - Book your theory and practical tests online

Do I Need To Have Driving Lessons Before Taking My Theory Test?

Do I need to take driving lessons before taking my theory test?
Do I need to have had 10 hours of driving lessons before I can apply for my theory test?

I've been asked both of these questions more than once over the past couple of weeks!

There's a simple answer to both questions - it's NO!

There is no requirement to take any driving lessons (let alone a specific number of hours) before taking the theory test.

In fact, it's not even necessary to have ever sat in a car, let alone driven one before taking the theory test!

You can take the theory test before you start having driving lessons if you want.
 
However...the theory test is designed to test your understanding of all sorts of Important Things to do with being a safe driver including road signs, proceedures, vehicle maintenance and the law and while it's perfectly possible to acquire all the information you need to pass your theory test from commercially available books and software, it can be a great help to have some practical experience of driving in order to consolidate what you've learning and to give all those dry facts about driving some real meaning...plus you can ask your driving instructor to explain and clarify anything you're not sure of - you can't do that with a book or a hazard perception CDROM!

So, no you don't NEED to have driving lessons before you take your theory test...but having some can help you to pass it!

LVG Limited, Owners Of RED Driving School Go Into Administration

LVG Limited (owners of RED Driving School) went into administration on 16/2/10.

The business is currently being traded in Administration whilst a sale of the business and assets of the Company as a going concern is pursued.

MCR have been appointed as Administrators.

More information at: MCR

Car Insurance For Learner Drivers

Learning to drive is a skill that will last you for life. By far the safest and most cost effective way to learn to drive is by taking lessons from a professional Approved Driving Instructor as they have the skills and experience to teach you not only what you need to know to pass your driving test, but to enable you to become a safe and considerate driver for life. However, your learning can be speeded up if you can consolidate what you learn from your driving instructor by being able to practice your driving with a friend or family member.

The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) state:

"Those who pass their driving test have had, on average, about 45 hours of professional training combined with 22 hours of private practice. Learners who prepare this way, with a combination of plenty of professional training and plenty of practice, do better in the test" (source: DirectGov - motoring)

Anyone over the age of 21 who has held (and still holds) a full UK driving licence for three years covering the class of vehicle you wish to drive, can supervise a learner driver (remember that as a learner driver you must display 'L' plates in a visible and prominent position on the front and rear of the vehicle you are driving).

Also, the vehicle will need to be insured for you to drive as a learner driver. This point is important as learner drivers are NOT covered by normal vehicle insurance, so additional insurance cover will need to be taken out.

Collingwood Learner Driver Insurance offer comprehensive car insurance whilst learning to drive in a relatives or friends vehicle.

Learner driver insurance can be arranged for a weekly, four weekly or 84 day policy and if cover needs to be extended, after an inital 28 day policy further cover can be purchased for period of 7, 28 or 84 days.

For more information about the car insurance for learner drivers provided by Collingwood or to get a Learner Driver insurance quote please see the Collingwood Learner Driver Insurance website.