Monday, November 8, 2010

Highway Code - Rules for cyclists

When learning to drive you must have a full understanding of the Highway Code as it is important not only for the Theory Test and Hazard Perception Test, but also when you are out behind the wheel of a motor vehicle while taking lessons and ultimately your practical test.

Rules for cyclists

These rules are in addition to those in the following sections, which apply to all vehicles (except the motorway section).

Clothing: You should wear
  • A cycle helmet which conforms to current regulations, is the correct size and securely fastened
  • Appropriate clothes for cycling. Avoid clothes which may get tangled in the chain, or in a wheel or may obscure your lights
  • Light-colored or fluorescent clothing which helps other road users to see you in daylight and poor light
  • Reflective clothing and/or accessories (belt, arm or ankle bands) in the dark
At night your cycle MUST have white front and red rear lights lit. It MUST also be fitted with a red rear reflector (and amber pedal reflectors, if manufactured after 1/10/85). White front reflectors and spoke reflectors will also help you to be seen. Flashing lights are permitted but it is recommended that cyclists who are riding in areas without street lighting use a steady front lamp.

Cycle routes and other facilities. Use cycle routes, advanced stop lines, cycle boxes and toucan crossings unless at the time it is unsafe to do so. Use of these facilities is not compulsory and will depend on your experience and skills, but they can make your journey safer

Cycle tracks. These are normally located away from the road, but may occasionally be found alongside footpaths or pavements. Cyclists and pedestrians may be segregated or they may share the same space (unsegregated). When using segregated tracks you MUST keep to the side intended for cyclists as the pedestrian side remains a pavement or footpath. Take care when passing pedestrians, especially children, older or disabled people, and allow them plenty of room. Always be prepared to slow down and stop if necessary. Take care near road junctions as you may have difficulty seeing other road users, who might not notice you.

The Highway Code book is essential to help both fully qualified and learner drivers to understand the ‘rules of the road’ while taking driving lessons for your driving practical test.

This book includes guidelines, rules and regulations for pedestrians and cyclists. Visit:

Cycle lanes. These are marked by a white line (which may be broken) along the carriageway (see Rule 140). Keep within the lane when practicable. When leaving a cycle lane check before pulling out that it is safe to do so and signal your intention clearly to other road users. Use of cycle lanes is not compulsory and will depend on your experience and skills, but they can make your journey safer.

Bus Lanes. Most bus lanes may be used by cyclists as indicated on signs. Watch out for people getting on or off a bus. Be very careful when overtaking a bus or leaving a bus lane as you will be entering a busier traffic flow. Do not pass between the kerb and a bus when it is at a stop.

Road junctions

On the left. When approaching a junction on the left, watch out for vehicles turning in front of you, out of or into the side road. Just before you turn, check for undertaking cyclists or motorcyclists. Do not ride on the inside of vehicles signaling or slowing down to turn left.

On the right. If you are turning right, check the traffic to ensure it is safe, then signal and move to the centre of the road. Wait until there is a safe gap in the oncoming traffic and give a final look before completing the turn. It may be safer to wait on the left until there is a safe gap or to dismount and push your cycle across the road.

Dual carriageways. Remember that traffic on most dual carriageways moves quickly. When crossing wait for a safe gap and cross each carriageway in turn. Take extra care when crossing slip roads.

Roundabouts

You may feel safer walking your cycle round on the pavement or verge. If you decide to ride round keeping to the left-hand lane you should
  • Be aware that drivers may not easily see you.
  • Take extra care when cycling across exits. You may need to signal right to show you are not leaving the roundabout
  • Watch out for vehicles crossing your path to leave or join the roundabout
Crossing the road

Do not ride across equestrian crossings, as they are for horse riders only. Do not ride across a pelican, puffin or zebra crossing. Dismount and wheel your cycle across.

Toucan crossings. These are light-controlled crossings which allow cyclists and pedestrians to share crossing space and cross at the same time. They are push-button operated. Pedestrians and cyclists will see the green signal together. Cyclists are permitted to ride across.

Cycle-only crossings. Cycle tracks on opposite sides of the road may be linked by signaled crossings. You may ride across but you MUST NOT cross until the green cycle symbol is showing.

Level crossings/Tramways. Take extra care when crossing the tracks (See Rule 306). You should dismount at level crossings where a ‘Cyclist Dismount’ sign is displayed.

Source: Driving standard agency

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Highway Code - Rules for pedestrians

The Highway Code is essential reading for everyone. Its rules apply to all road users: drivers, motorcyclists, cyclists, pedestrians as well as horse riders. Many of the rules in the Code are legal requirements, and if you disobey these rules you are committing a criminal offense. You may be fined, given penalty points on your licence or be disqualified from driving.
  
Rules for pedestrians - General guidance :

1. Pavements (including any path along the side of a road) should be used if provided. Where possible, avoid being next to the kerb with your back to the traffic. If you have to step into the road, look both ways first. Always show due care and consideration for others.

2. If there is no pavement keep to the right-hand side of the road so that you can see oncoming traffic.You should take extra care and
- be prepared to walk in single file, especially on narrow roads or in poor light
- keep close to the side of the road.Highway code book

It may be safer to cross the road well before a sharp right-hand bend (so that oncoming traffic has a better chance of seeing you). Cross back after the bend.

3. Help other road users to see you. Wear or carry something light coloured, bright or fluorescent in poor daylight conditions. When it is dark, use reflective materials (e.g. armbands, sashes, waistcoats and jackets), which can be seen, by drivers using headlights, up to three times as far away as non-reflective materials.

4. Young children should not be out alone on the pavement or road (see Rule 7). When taking children out, keep between them and the traffic and hold their hands firmly. Strap very young children into push-chairs or use reins. When pushing a young child in a buggy, do not push the buggy into the road when checking to see if it is clear to cross, particularly from between parked vehicles.

5. Organised walks. Large groups of people walking together should use a pavement if available; if one is not, they should keep to the left.
Look-outs should be positioned at the front and back of the group, and they should wear fluorescent clothes in daylight and reflective clothes in the dark. At night, the look-out in front should show a white light and the one at the back a red light. People on the outside of large groups should also carry lights and wear reflective clothing.
6. Motorways. Pedestrians MUST NOT be on motorways or slip roads except in an emergency

To know more about the road/traffic signs & rule and regulations if you are preparing for your driving theory test or practical test.
Visit here : http://www.123driving.co.uk/driving/theory-cd-dvd-highway-code-practical-book.aspx
Crossing the road :

7. The Green Cross Code. The advice given below on crossing the road is for all pedestrians. Children should be taught the Code and should not be allowed out alone until they can understand and use it properly. The age when they can do this is different for each child. Many children cannot judge how fast vehicles are going or how far away they are. Children learn by example, so parents and carers should always use the Code in full when out with their children. They are responsible for deciding at what age children can use it safely by themselves.2010/11 Latest DSA Driving theory test questions

a) First find a safe place to cross and where there is space to reach the pavement on the other side. Where there is a crossing nearby, use it. It is safer to cross using a subway, a footbridge, an island, a zebra, pelican, toucan or puffin crossing, or where there is a crossing point controlled by a police officer, a school crossing patrol or a traffic warden. Otherwise choose a place where you can see clearly in all directions. Try to avoid crossing between parked cars, on a blind bend, or close to the brow of a hill.

Move to a space where drivers and riders can see you clearly. Do not cross the road diagonally.

b) Stop just before you get to the kerb, where you can see if anything is coming. Do not get too close to the traffic. If there is no pavement, keep back from the edge of the road but make sure you can still see approaching traffic.

c) Look all around for traffic and listen. Traffic could come from any direction. Listen as well, because you can sometimes hear traffic before you see it.

d)If traffic is coming, let it pass. Look all around again and listen. Do not cross until there is a safe gap in the traffic and you are certain that there is plenty of time. Remember, even if traffic is a long way off, it may be approaching very quickly.

e)When it is safe, go straight across the road - do not run.Keep looking and listening for traffic while you cross, in case there is any traffic you did not see, or in case other traffic appears suddenly. Look out for cyclists and motorcyclists travelling between lanes of traffic. Do not walk diagonally across the road.

8. At a junction. When crossing the road, look out for traffic turning into the road, especially from behind you. If you have started crossing and traffic wants to turn into the road, you have priority and they should give way.

9. Pedestrian Safety Barriers. Where there are barriers, cross the road only at the gaps provided for pedestrians. Do not climb over the barriers or walk between them and the road.

10. Tactile paving. Raised surfaces that can be felt underfoot provide warning and guidance to blind or partially sighted people. The most common surfaces are a series of raised studs, which are used at crossing points with a dropped kerb, or a series of rounded raised bars which are used at level crossings, at the top and bottom of steps and at some other hazards.

11. One-way streets. Check which way the traffic is moving. Do not cross until it is safe to do so without stopping. Bus and cycle lanes may operate in the opposite direction to the rest of the traffic.

12. Bus and cycle lanes. Take care when crossing these lanes as traffic may be moving faster than in the other lanes, or against the flow of traffic.

13. Routes shared with cyclists. Some cycle tracks run alongside footpaths or pavements, using a segregating feature to separate cyclists from people on foot. Segregated routes may also incorporate short lengths of tactile paving to help visually impaired people stay on the correct side. On the pedestrian side this will comprise a series of flat-topped bars running across the direction of travel (ladder pattern). On the cyclist side the same bars are orientated in the direction of travel (tramline pattern). Not all routes which are shared with cyclists are segregated. Take extra care where this is so.

14. Parked vehicles. If you have to cross between parked vehicles, use the outside edges of the vehicles as if they were the kerb. Stop there and make sure you can see all around and that the traffic can see you. Make sure there is a gap between any parked vehicles on the other side, so you can reach the pavement. Never cross the road in front of, or behind, any vehicle with its engine running, especially a large vehicle, as the driver may not be able to see you.

15. Reversing vehicles. Never cross behind a vehicle which is reversing, showing white reversing lights or sounding a warning.

16. Moving vehicles. You MUST NOT get on to or hold on to a moving vehicle.

17. At night. Wear something reflective to make it easier for others to see you (see Rule 3). If there is no pedestrian crossing nearby, cross the road
near a street light so that traffic can see you more easily.

To get The Highway Code book visit here :http://www.123driving.co.uk/driving/theory-cd-dvd-highway-code-practical-book.aspx


Source : Driving standard agency

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Driving practical test vehicle requirement

Minimum test vehicle requirements for a car and trailer test

The minimum test vehicle standards for a car also apply to a car and trailer test, with additional requirements for the trailer. Vehicles that do not meet the minimum test vehicle requirements are not suitable for the purpose of taking a driving test, and your test may be cancelled with loss of fee.

Test vehicle requirements for a car practical test and car and trailer test Category B - cars and vans.

Cars or vans presented for test must be:

  • A four wheeled vehicle of no more than 3500 kilograms (kg) maximum authorized mass (MAM)
  • Capable of a speed of at least 100 kilometers per hour (km/h) or 62.5 miles per hour (mph)

The car or van must also be fitted with:

  • A seatbelt for the examiner
  • A passenger head restraint, this need not be adjustable but must be fitted as an integral part of the seat - 'slip on' type head restraints are not permitted
  • An interior mirror for the examiner's use
  • L-plates displayed on the front and rear of the vehicle but not interfering with the driver's or examiner's view
  • A speedometer that measures speed in miles per hour and kilometers per hour

The vehicle must be legal and roadworthy and have no warning lights showing i.e. the airbag warning light.

Convertible vehicles

The Ford KA convertible and Mini convertible due to the lack of all-round vision for the examiner are not suitable vehicles for a Driving practical test vehicle requirement.

Category B1

A motor powered tricycle or quadricycle must have an unladen weight of not more than 550 kg and be capable of at least 60 km/h (37.25 mph).

Category B + E - car and trailer

Cars or vans presented for test must be a category B vehicle towing a suitably braked, unladen trailer of at least one tonne MAM . The examiner may ask for evidence of the trailer MAM, for example the manufacturer's plate. All vehicle combinations must operate on appropriate brakes and utilize a coupling arrangement suitable for the weight.

Please Note about Driving practical test vehicle requirement:

Irrespective of the date vehicles were first registered, from 1 April 2006 externally mounted, nearside and offside mirrors for use by the examiner or any person supervising the test must be fitted.


In the case of a category B+E vehicle first used on or after the 1 October 2003 the following additional standards will apply:


The cargo compartment of the trailer must consist of a closed box body which is at least as wide and as high as the towing vehicle; the closed box body may also be slightly less wide than the towing vehicle provided that the view to the rear is only possible by use of the external rear-view mirrors of the towing vehicle.

Source - Driving Standard Agency

Monday, October 4, 2010

Prepare driving practical with DSA driving practical test book

If you are preparing for your DSA practical test, this practical test book is for you.

This driving practical book covers: 

1. Explained with The Highway Code rules
2. Know what will be assessed on exam day
3. Know why learners fail in the test
4. Includes DSA driver record - Check your readiness for the exam
5. Fully illustrated, full colour graphics
6. What is expected and how you should do it?
7. Easy to follow tips and hints

          o Detailed advice and tips on how to improve key competencies necessary for safe driving
          o Know what to expect on your driving test day
          o Know how examiner will assess your performance
          o Areas where you need to demonstrate consistent independent performance
          o Why learners fail?

More information visit: http://www.123driving.co.uk/driving/theory-cd-dvd-highway-code-practical-book.aspx

See how you are progressing and identify the skills that need more attention. Keep track of your progress and encourage you to become skilled in all the key areas. Prepare for your practical test and become a safer driver.

Know the highway code rules with the highway code book

The Highway Code is essential reading for everyone. This is very useful to know road/traffic signs, rule and regulations if you are preparing for your driving theory test or practical test.

The most vulnerable road users are pedestrians, particularly children, older or disabled people, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders. It is important that all road users are aware of the Code and are considerate towards each other. This applies to pedestrians as much as to drivers and riders.

Knowing and applying the rules contained in The Highway Code could significantly reduce road casualties. Cutting the number of deaths and injuries that occur on our roads every day is a responsibility we all share. The Highway Code can help us discharge that responsibility.

Knowing and applying the rules contained in The Highway Code could significantly reduce road accident casualties. Cutting the number of deaths and injuries that occur on our roads every day is a responsibility we all share.

Although failure to comply with the other rules of the Code will not, it itself, cause a person to be prosecuted, The Highway Code may be used in evidence in any court proceedings under Traffic Acts to establish liability.

The Highway Code can help us discharge that responsibility.

For more information visit: http://www.123driving.co.uk/driving/theory-cd-dvd-highway-code-practical-book.aspx

Pass driving test in 1st attempt with driving theory test book

Passing driving test is an important step toward throwing away your L plates. If you are preparing for your driving theory test, it is important that you study all the latest official theory test questions published by DSA.

We are crown copyright licence holder for publishing driving theory test questions from DSA.

Driving test book contains entire 2010/11 official theory test questions and answers from Driving Standards Agency.

Latest driving theory test book covers:

1. This is a complete official latest DSA driving theory test question bank from which actual exam questions are chosen.
2. Set of official car driving theory test questions that could be asked in your actual exam.
3. Multiple choice question bank with new questions released, with answers at the bottom of each page.
4. Know exactly what to expect in exam so no surprises.
5. Includes mock test papers.
6. Includes key information for all learner drivers.

Get ready for your big day!
Try our unique study pattern and you just can't fail.

Visit the site to buy this driving theory test bookhttp://www.123driving.co.uk/driving/theory-cd-dvd-highway-code-practical-book.aspx

Latest DSA Driving test questions for car drivers

Passing driving test is an important step toward throwing away your L plates. It is necessary to pass driving theory test before applying for driving practical test. If you are preparing for your driving theory test, it is important that you study all the latest official theory test questions published by DSA.

We are crown copyright licence holder for publishing driving theory test questions from DSA. This driving test book contains entire 2010/11 official theory test questions and answers from Driving Standards Agency.

Driving theory test bundle package includes:

1. Driving theory test book
2. Driving practical book
3. The highway code book
4. Driving test CD ROM

Driving test bundle features:


1. This is a complete official latest DSA driving test question bank from which actual exam questions are chosen.
2. Multiple choice question bank with new questions released, with answers at the bottom of each page
3. Know exactly what to expect in exam so no surprises.
4. Set of official car driving theory test questions that could be asked in your actual exam
5. Includes key information for all learner drivers
6. Includes mock test papers

For more information visit: http://www.123driving.co.uk/driving/theory-cd-dvd-highway-code-practical-book.aspx

The highway code book, driving practical test updated book/CD/DVD

The Highway Code is an essential reading for everyone for those who are learner drivers and also are appearing for the driving test. Just don't fail in road signs section in the theory test!

This is very useful to know road, traffic signs, rule and regulations if you are preparing for your driving theory test or practical test in UK. Visit the link: http://www.123driving.co.uk/driving/theory-cd-dvd-highway-code-practical-book.aspx and update yourself with driving theory test book.

Passing driving test is an important step toward throwing away your L plates. It is necessary to pass driving theory test before applying for practical test.

If you are preparing for your driving theory test, it is important that you study all the latest official theory test questions published by DSA.

We are crown copyright licence holder for publishing driving theory test questions from DSA.

Here we offer driving practical test book, highway code book, theory test book, driving test CD/DVD in a complete package (Binding - Paperback - Fullcolored).

Get 2010/11 Latest DSA driving theory test material at cheapest rates online here http://www.123driving.co.uk/driving/theory-cd-dvd-highway-code-practical-book.aspx

Monday, July 12, 2010

Practical test online booking and appointment confirmations changes

Now onwards you can receive your driving test booking confirmation details online. While registering yourself for driving test you will need to provide a contact email address in case if you want to book or change your practical test online in case of change in circumstances. While booking practical test online you are required to produce your -
  • Theory test pass date and certificate number
  • Credit or debit card details
  • valid Great Britain or Northern Ireland provisional driving licence number.
There is no need to bring your appointment confirmation to the test centre on the day of your practical test.

Examinee can check details of practical test for past, present and future bookings, along with venue, date and time. If you want to check your practical test booking online, you must produce two of the following three details:
  • A valid provisional driving licence number of Great Britain or Northern Ireland
  • Reference number of an application
  • Pass certificate number of theory test.
Examinee can make changes in your practical test if it is related to date and time. You will have to pay a supplementary fee if you modify the test booking within three clear working days of your original test date. You must produce two of the following three details if you want to change your practical test:
  • A valid provisional driving licence number of Great Britain or Northern Ireland
  • Reference number of an application
  • Pass certificate number of theory test.
Examinee can cancel your practical test booking without losing your fee if it is more than three clear working days before the test date. You must produce two of the following three details if you want to cancel your practical test.
  • A valid provisional driving licence number of Great Britain or Northen Ireland
  • Reference number of an application
  • Pass certificate number of theory test.
On your practical test examination day, you need to carry few documents to the driving test centre without which you can lose your fee.
  • An appropriately insured and licensed vehicle.
  • The appropriate theory test pass certificate.
  • Both parts of your photo card licence.
  • If you have an old-style paper licence, you must take your signed driver licence and a valid passport - no other form of photographic identification will be accepted
  • You must present your compulsory basic training certificate (CBT) for both modules of the motorcycle test.
  • You must present your motorcycle module one test pass certificate for module two of the motorcycle test.
  • Source: direct .gov.uk

Pass Plus course for learner drivers

As you pass your driving test you are permitted to drive on roads, but then also you are an inexperienced driver. As per the statistics roughly 20% new drivers are around 10 times more expected to be involved in an accident and unfortunately, two drivers under the age of 25 die each day in crashes in the UK.

Driving Standards Agency has designed a scheme which is called as Pass Plus. It is designed with coordination and cooperation of the driving instruction and motor insurance industries.

The main aim of this scheme is to gain a valuable knowledge to the drivers who are fresher, learn new skills and techniques, improve anticipation and alertness, learn how to diminish the danger of accidents and uphold a polite attitude on the road and also assist to build up existing skills.

Who can take part 

Pass Plus is a quite latest post driving examination course. It is an exceptional thought for giving driving knowledge to a qualified person who has passes driving test recently.

It has been observed that entirely new drivers are more often considerably more prone to mishaps, predominantly within the first couple of years of driving.

In this designed scheme which is designed by DSA is a final test that is modular and given you in 6 parts, which effects in creation of superior drivers who will respond promptly as well as more obviously to any sort of incident that they might come across while driving. In this way, together their aptitude and their self-confidence are improved, the effect being a less hazardous and more knowledgeable driver.

Purpose of the Pass Plus course
  • To have a precise driving knowledge safe and sound.
  • Get trained how to deal with a broad range of road and traffic situations, many of which you almost won't have come across before
  • Upgrade on your existing skills and knowledge - it can take years to become a skilled driver. Instate Pass Plus helps you to get this by speeding up the learning procedure under the guidance of a professional instruction.
  • Diminish your danger of being in a road crash - the training will help you to improve your consciousness and alertness on all kinds of hazards and help you in learning how to become an expert, sketch the hurdles and deal with them carefully.
  • Pass Plus training also helps in boosting up your confidence whenever you feel nervous while driving on your own.
Pass Plus course overview

Pass Plus includes six practical modules that cover driving in town, in all weathers, on rural roads, in dark, in day light, on double carriageways and on motorways. Within the first 12 month of passing your test you can take this test.

It is in fact adapted for recently passed their driving test and require the knowledge prior to obtain by them. It has to explain that it is not only for those who have recently passed their driving test, but for those also who have passed earlier and wants further experience in the same field.

Candidates who are obtaining Pass Plus 'P plates' is displayed on their vehicle, and have a series of six modules of at least one hour each. These cover:
  • introduction and town driving
  • all-weather driving
  • out of town driving and rural roads
  • night driving
  • dual carriageways
  • motorway driving
As a sign of the effectiveness of the scheme, latest survey accepted out for the Driving Standards Agency showed that 93% of people who had taken Pass Plus felt more confident on the road, and 80% considered that their driving skills had enhanced as a result of taking the course.

Choosing driving instructor
 
Talk to your instructor about Pass Plus course after the completion of your driving test. In the beginning, an instructor with an excellent explanatory skill is provided to each student.

Each driving instructor has to provide one hour to all of these areas of motoring; yet, some inexperienced motorists will require additional lessons. The instructor must possess and ADI green badge and also be registered as DSA Pass Plus instructor, in order to teach the Pass Plus candidates.

Pass Plus course fee

You can reduce your car insurance premiums or get an additional no claims bonus with some insurance companies. Costing depends on the motoring organization and the actual amount of time spent on the candidate. Moreover, every part of the country has its own costing system. One supplementary financial concern in passing your Pass Plus is the cut down in your motoring insurance premium.

We have now secured further funding to enable us to keep the scheme running until April 2011, in order to make sure the scheme does not run out of funding again we have made some changes to the way the scheme will be run.

Towards the cost of Pass Plus the Cumbria Road Safety Partnership will be contributing £100.

Advantages of completing the Pass Plus-

After the completion of Pass Plus course you will be able to drive in town, in all weathers, on rural roads, at night, on dual carriageways and on motorways.

Pass Plus gives you an additional experience and reduces your car insurance premium/discount.

More than 1,000 successful candidates per month have enjoyed the profit of highly developed training and insurance discounts, since the scheme stated in February 1995.

Frequent driving scenarios and conditions are introduced to the new driver and this will surely improve his or her taken as a whole knowledge as well as skills.

Monday, June 28, 2010

How To Choose A Driving Instructor?

In the UK, only Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs), and licenced instructors under training, can give instructions. It is illegal for anyone else to charge you for driving lessons. Two types of badge are issued by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) for display in tuition vehicles. A green, octagonal badge shows the instructor is fully qualified and approved. A pink, triangular badge shows the instructor is licenced under training and is not yet fully qualified.

The DSA authorised ADIs should be having the following qualifications.
  • Must be having a full driving license for the last 4 years.
  • Passed successfully the complex theory test
  • Registered with DSA.
A good driving instructor must be
  • Reliable
  • Punctual
  • Should have a good reputation/references
  • Registered with DSA
  • And a well maintained car
Take absolutely no notice of pass rates at all. They are so easy to fake, twist, abuse they should not be taken as any guide to how good the instructor is. If an instructor is prepared to show you the report they recieved from the Driving Standards Agency, then you can have a good look at it and make your own mind up, but even then it may not be an accurate reflection of their performance.

A 100% pass rate may mean that the instructor has got all of his customers through their test. What it doesn't say is that out of the 10, 9 of them took it more than 3 times in order to pass! Or that they have only had 1 customer. Or in the worst cases their first customer to test has passed, so for the rest of that year they have removed their badge from the window so that as far as the DSA can tell they only had 1 customer all year.

A good driving instructor? Book your driving lesso should provide you with advice on the following
  • All aspects of driving
  • When to appear for your driving test
  • How to prepare for theory test
  • Finding the best way to practice and improve your driving skills
  • Understanding The Highway Code, road signs and marking
  • Driving tips and skills and guide you to drive safely
  • Improving your hazard perception skills
The price is always the first question we are asked, and the average price for a one hour driving lesson around the UK at the moment seems to be vary. So visit our site and choose best instructors avilable among all.

Important factors to consider -
  • For how long have he/she been a driving instructor?
  • Is ADI fully qualified? (i.e. Green Badge Holder)
  • What is your preference male and female instructor ?
  • Same instructor will be available for the complete course?
  • Duration of one lesson
  • Types of car, age of cars, are they dual controlled?
  • Same car for every lesson?
  • Individual pick up service
  • Lessons on weekends
  • Discounts on block booking?
  • Which centre does he/she use?
  • Average pass rate?
Looking for driving instructor free quote? Book your driving lesson with local driving instructor, driving schools. We provide you the best driving instructor all over the uk. With us you can get your driving licence with ease, and you will guided by our experienced professionals. Visit driving instructor website here.

Get free quote for choosing a good driving instructor here. You will get here all driving maneuvers or driving instructions you need during driving a vehicle.

Monday, June 14, 2010

How to take driving lesson for practical test

What is driving practical test -

The theory test is a combination or contains multiple choice question tests and hazard perception test. We need to clear both the test. Once we have passed or clear the theory test then only we can apply for practical driving test.

What is need to take driving lessons

When ever there is a need for driving lessons in London it is essential that you get a good instructor. This can be a significant element of learning how to drive and effectively receiving your license as the British drivers test is extremely complicated.
  • There are countless situations that you need to be prepared for when driving and driving lessons can assist you to be prepared for all the obstacles that come up to your way.
  • You do need to cautiously appear into the driving lessons you want to take as driving lessons can be expensive and you need an excellent instructor to help you to do well.
  • Various people do not know where to look to find driving lessons or are unsure if the instructor is good or not.
  • Driving has a number of extremely difficult activities to master together with making a three peak turn, reversing into a parking space, reversing around a car and an emergency stop amongst other objects.
  • Driving is complicated and you need to be cautious when choosing an instructor as a good quality instructor can formulate all the difference.
What is the role of driving instructor?

A person over the age of 21, who has held a full licence for three years, can instruct you to drive, even though it is strongly advised that you take professional driving instruction. There are many driving instructors operating and choosing the right one can significantly impact on how long it takes you to pass your test, not to mention your enjoyment of the learning experience.

Driving Standards Agency is professionally qualified to guide and have the precise information regarding driving procedures and driving test requirements. They have received Driving Instructor training in order to teach driving skills to learner drivers and have received tuition connecting to the driving test. When you become a Driving Instructor you will be qualified to educate driving skills in a planned approach to suit differing abilities.

Accompanying a learner driver is an excellent technique of helping your friends or relatives become secure drivers. It's a team attempt involving you, the learner driver and the driving instructor.

How to take right driving lessons

If you desire to obtain driving lessons to become a safe, knowledgeable driver and obtain to the road independently, then you need to apply for your provisional driving licence. This is the first step towards experiencing the independence that comes with a test pass. On the other hand, as a learner driver, there are other things you must also do earlier than your first driving lesson.

If you want to be a learner driver you must have a provisional driving licence before you can take driving lessons. You can apply for your provisional licence up to two months before it becomes valid, but you must not drive on the road before the day of your 17th birthday.

Role of driving lessons in passing driving theory test

Several people discover to drive more rapidly than others, and while a short course of lessons may sufficient for some; it will hardly scratch the surface for others. How many driving lessons you need depends on a number of factors, including:
  • Your economic resources.
  • The skill of those who instruct you to drive.
  • Your self-belief and willpower to pass the driving test.
  • Several driving lessons you attain each week.
Professional instruction, moreover in the form of conventional instruction or a residential or intensive driving courses, will assist to minimize the time it requires you to arrive pass standard. Your driving instructor is the most excellent to guide as to how many driving lessons you will need and will tell you when the instructor feels you are prepared to sit your test.
 
The first step to choosing an instructor is to make sure that they are certified by the DSA (Driving Standards Agency). This means that person is trained to instruct driving.

Before approaching or choosing a driving instructor you should make enquiries about the driving instructor functioning in your area and find out about their reputations, experience, costs and availability. Discuss to your friends and ask them what they think of the person who gave them driving instruction.

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

DSA driving practical test show me tell me- Part 2

"Show me" type question is to demonstrate your knowledge about the asked question by the examiner. "Tell me" is verbal type of a question. Though answering incorrectly for 2-3 questions does not fail you in the driving practical exam, there will be 1 minor fault.

Throughout the driving practical test, your examiner will be looking for an overall safe standard of driving, including when you are carrying out the set exercises. You can make up to 15 driving faults and still pass the test (16 or more results in failure). However, if you commit one serious or dangerous fault you will fail the test.


Part one of this article included few driving practical test show me tell me questions. Here are some of the other Show me tell me questions and answers which might help you for your practical test. Learn all the show me tell me questions and pass your driving test in first attempt.


1) Power Steering:
Q: Show me / explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey.

A: If the steering becomes heavy the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey two checks can be made. With the wheel turned slightly, maintained while the engine is started, you notice a slight movement in the wheel as the system begins to operate. Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an instant indication the power steering is functioning ok.


2) Headlights and taillights :
Q: Show me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working.

A: Turn on ignition (if necessary), operate switch for lights, and walk round the vehicle.



3) Parking/handbrake:
Q : Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear.

A: Demonstrate by applying the handbrake and when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel.



4) Tyre tread depth:
Q: Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and their general condition is safe to use on the road.

A: No cuts or bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central 3/4 of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire circumference.



5) Direction indicators:
Q. Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.

A. Apply indicators or hazard warning lights and check all indicators.



6) Horn:
Q. Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only).

A. Turn on ignition (if necessary). Operate horn.


Research undertaken by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) suggests that drivers who pass first time are the best prepared. Take your driving lessons with the best driving schools and learn all the aspect of driving as learner driver.

123driving.co.uk gives you the complete set of show me tell me safety questions and answers which could be asked in your practical driving test. These flash demos which depict the practical view of the questions. Just by looking at the flash demo, you can get to know the show me tell me answers and car parts which help you to learn the parts of car and their functionality as well as for your driving test.

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Independent driving-a new element in driving test

Independent driving is when the learner get out on the road He/She will be driving alone and they need to know how to drive safely. Simultaneously it is very important for a learner to look at the signs at the time of driving because that's in normal life what the learners are going to do. It actually puts theory test and practical test together. It makes you think about the signs, makes you think independently and makes you feel much more confident.

“The feasibility of introducing independent driving into the GB driving test” was studied and according to it, there are few situations which demand this element in driving test.

Statistics on the accident risk of new drivers shows that after passing their test they are at their peak in terms of their risk of having an accident. A number of reviews have concluded that traditional driver training does not seem to have any positive effect on road safety in terms of accident reductions.

A number of authors have suggested however that driver training should not only focus on vehicle control skills but also on factors that have been shown to be related to accident reductions, according to the research evidence. This includes higher perceptual skills such as

* Hazard perception
* Safer attitudes towards risk
* Better self-awareness of one’s driving ability.

Post-Test experience seems crucial for reducing accident liability, it is theoretically possible that if the relevant elements of post-test experience can be identified and trained pre-test then driver training may be better placed that it is currently to reduce post-test accident risk. An existing example of this approach in GB driver training is the introduction of a video-based measure of hazard perception skill in 2002 as part of the driving theory test.

Once learner passes the test, the thing they struggle to deal with is not having the person sitting next to them to guide them around when they need it. Sudden introduction of the extra elements of having to read traffic signs, road markings, or possibly having passengers or music in the car, made it more difficult for learner driver.

Possible solutions for safer new drivers may be a –

* Tracker fitted to their vehicle to monitor speed
* Vehicle handling
* Maybe reducing insurance costs
* Limit passengers
* Plates compulsory
* Limit engine size
* 40 hours supervised driving
* Compulsory pass plus or motorway driving.

All for the first 2 years they are insured, not from when the test is passed.

* Independent driving test examination:

On the independent driving test you have to do two maneuvers. However, when the new test starts, you may only have to do ONE maneuver. The test duration may also be increased to allow extra time for Independent Driving, and this will result in an increase in the test fee. You will still need to practice all the maneuvers because the Examiner on the day will decide which one you should do. The whole thrust of independent driving is to prepare yourself for the real world.

Saturday, May 15, 2010

DSA driving practical test show me tell me- Part 1

Once you have passed the driving theory test you can then apply to take your practical driving test. The driving part of your test will last about 40 minutes. Throughout the test your examiner will be looking for an overall safe standard of driving, including when you are carrying out the set exercises. Show me tell me questions are one of the part of your driving practical test.

These questions in the DSA practical test aim at checking your knowledge about the car safety and maintenance. In this "show me tell me"/"tell me show me" section, you are required to show the examiner how to check the brakes, fluid levels, lights, direction indicators etc. "Show me" type question is to demonstrate your knowledge about the asked question by the examiner. "Tell me" is verbal type of a question. Though answering incorrectly for 2-3 questions does not fail you in the driving practical exam, there will be 1 minor fault. 16 or more minor driving faults, or one serious or one dangerous fault will result in a test failure.

Below are some of the Show me tell me questions which may be asked in your practical exams :

1) Engine coolant:

Q : Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check that the engine has the correct level.

A : Identify high / low level markings on header tank (where fitted) or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.



2) Engine oil:

Q : Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.
A : Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe how you would check the oil level against the minimum / maximum markers.



3) Windscreen washer fluid:

Q: Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.

A: Identify reservoir and check level. Check your car's manual to see how to do this.



4) Brake lights:

Q: Tell me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car.
A: Operate brake pedal, make use of any reflections in windows, garage doors etc, or ask someone to help.



5) Brakes:
Q: Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.
A: Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.




6) Tyre Pressures:
Q : Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.
A : Manufacturer’s guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don’t forget spare tyre, remember to refit value caps.




All examiners are trained to carry out the test to the same standard, they do not have pass or fail quotas. So as long as you demonstrate the standard required you will pass your driving test.

Get the good driving instructor and learn all the rules and regulations required for your practical test with all the show me tell me questions and pass your driving test accordingly.

123driving.co.uk provides you with all the information of driving course and related driving activities. It also provides free driving lesson booking service for students looking for local driving instructors, ADI, schools within your local area.

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Attempting driving practical test? First choose a right driving instructor

If you are a learner for driving any vehicle, being taught by a Professional driving instructor is highly important. Today many family members or friends helping a learner driver will say "I can teach driving lessons in the same way as the professional instructor does!!" But the fact is many professional drivers sometimes fail to do so as they have bad driving habits.

For example: a large number of drivers do not use the interior mirror while driving. Also they do not rotate hands positioned on the steering wheel correctly.

An expert driving instructor knows safe driving rules, and will teach you to drive safely. Always some learners are nervous while driving, so these experts should know how to handle these types of learners.

While choosing the driving instructor, don’t go for the cheapest option. Always give priority to those to whom you go by reference. Referred driving instructor is the best way to search the professional instructor. Always discuss with friends before you choose driving instructor.

During these lessons, the learner driver needs to remember what they have been taught by their driving instructor and should accordingly follow the same methods into practice. Compressing as many lessons as possible in a short period of time may not be good for all learners. If time and money allow, the learner should try to book in at least one lesson per week with a driving instructor and preferably two, for 1-2 hours per session.

When the driving instructor feels that the learner is ready for the full practical driving test, it is always good to perform a mock test. This will involve the driving instructor to act as the examiner and for the learner driver to take instruction and execute a number of procedures that will be given, such as turning the car in the road. This will give the learner a good example of what to expect on the actual test, so that he can be prepared as well as possible.

Finding the right driving school is important for succeeding in learning to drive and passing your practical driving test. It is important to find a suitable local driving instructor that makes you feel comfortable and confident while you are learning to drive.

123driving.co.uk provides you with all the information of driving course and related driving activities. It also provides free driving lesson booking service for students looking for local driving instructors, ADI, schools within your local area.

Sunday, April 25, 2010

Reasons for failure in driving practical test

Most of the people fail driving test each year, though DSA publishes the reasons why learner drivers fail in practical theory test still many of us don’t pay much attention to it.

However, you can avoid this by taking enough driving lessons and practice from your driving instructor. You should always give the test when your instructor feels you are well prepared. Do not ever give the test, just to gain experience. Following are the areas where is more likely to fall short of the DSA standards.

  • Reversing around a corner incorrectly.
  • Problems with parking
  • Driving too slowly
  • Hesitation causing delay, usually by not pulling out promptly at junctions
  • Not making effective observations and poor judgment when emerging out of side roads
  • Failure to make effective use of mirrors
  • Incorrect road position, usually on bends, and poor lane discipline on roundabouts
  • Failure to move away correctly from stationary positions
  • Poor steering control, such as when making left or right turns.
Motorcyclist Driving faults in practical test :
  • Failure to perform a 'u' turn correctly;
  • Inadequate control at slow speed;
  • Incorrect or inadequate hand-signals.
  • The list of faults highlighted above is by no means exhaustive.     
 You should, as indicated previously, study carefully the Rules of the Road and get as much practice as possible, in all types of traffic situations, in preparation for your driving test.




    Tuesday, April 13, 2010

    Minimum ages and rules for learner drivers and riders

    Before you learn to drive or ride a new vehicle make sure you know about the rules and restrictions that apply to you. Different vehicles have different minimum ages and restrictions.
    It is important to learn safe driving practice from the beginning of your driving career because bad habits are hard to break.

    It is unlikely that anyone except an approved driving instructor (ADI) would have the experience, knowledge and training to teach you properly. Learning safe driving habits from the start will improve the safety of yourself and other road users.

    Minimum age you can take a test

    You can take your driving test once your provisional license becomes valid.
    Normally, for car drivers, the earliest date your provisional license can become valid is your 17th birthday, however you can apply for the license up to three months before your 17th birthday.

    So, if you apply for your provisional license before you are 17 you will still have to wait until your birthday before you can take your theory test.

    Motorcyclists Direct access scheme

    Direct access is a scheme which allows a person over the age of 21 to avoid the two year/25 kW restriction by taking a test on a machine of at least 35 kW (46.6 bhp). A pass allows you to ride any size of bike. Any instruction given on a machine that exceeds the normal learner motorcycle specification must be supervised at all times by a certified motorcycle instructor who should be in radio contact. You should also wear fluorescent or reflective clothing and follow all other provisional license restrictions.

    Saturday, April 3, 2010

    Choosing a driving instructor

    In the UK, only Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs), and licensed instructors under training, can give instructions. It is illegal for anyone else to charge you for driving lessons. Two types of badge are issued by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) for display in tuition vehicles. A green, octagonal badge shows the instructor is fully qualified and approved. A pink, triangular badge shows the instructor is licensed under training and is not yet fully qualified.

    The DSA authorized ADIs should be having the following qualifications.

    • Must be having a full driving license for the last 4 years.
    • Passed successfully the complex theory test
    • Registered with DSA.
    A good driving instructor must be

    • Reliable
    • Punctual
    • Should have a good reputation/references
    • Registered with DSA
    • And a well maintained car

    Take absolutely no notice of pass rates at all. They are so easy to fake, twist, abuse they should not be taken as any guide to how good the instructor is. If an instructor is prepared to show you the report they received from the Driving Standards Agency, then you can have a good look at it and make your own mind up, but even then it may not be an accurate reflection of their performance.

    A 100% pass rate may mean that the instructor has got all of his customers through their test. What it doesn't say is that out of the 10, 9 of them took it more than 3 times in order to pass! Or that they have only had 1 customer. Or in the worst cases their first customer to test has passed, so for the rest of that year they have removed their badge from the window so that as far as the DSA can tell they only had 1 customer all year.

    A good driving instructor? Book your driving lesson should provide you with advice on the following

    • All aspects of driving
    • When to appear for your driving test
    • How to prepare for theory test
    • Finding the best way to practice and improve your driving skills
    • Understanding The Highway Code, road signs and marking
    • Driving tips and skills and guide you to drive safely
    • Improving your hazard perception skills

    The price is always the first question we are asked, and the average price for a one hour driving lesson around the UK at the moment seems to be vary. So visit our site and choose best instructors available among all.

    Important factors to consider -

    • For how long have he/she been a driving instructor?
    • Is ADI fully qualified? (i.e. Green Badge Holder)
    • What is your preference male and female instructor ?
    • Same instructor will be available for the complete course?
    • Duration of one lesson
    • Types of car, age of cars, are they dual controlled?
    • Same car for every lesson?
    • Individual pick up service
    • Lessons on weekends
    • Discounts on block booking?
    • Which centre does he/she use?
    • Average pass rate?

    Looking for driving instructor free quote? Book your driving lesson with local driving instructor, driving schools. We provide you the best driving instructor all over the uk. With us you can get your driving license with ease, and you will guided by our experienced professionals. Visit driving instructor website here.

    Get free quote for choosing a good driving instructor here. You will get here all driving maneuvers or driving instructions you need during driving a vehicle.