Mark Farnworth Next time you are approaching a junction with traffic lights, ask yourself what a green light means. If your answer is ‘go’, you are only half right! For full marks, you need to remind yourself that a green light at the junction does mean go, but only if it is safe to do so. You … Read more
The ‘System’ is a systematic method of driving which, if used correctly, will substantially reduce the risk of a driver being the cause of an accident. A detailed explanation of the System is given in Roadcraft, the police driver’s manual, and it is to this book you must refer if you want a thorough understanding. … Read more
Spoken Thought or Commentary as some would call it, is enough to make an Associate’s hair curl and their palms sweat. Some potential test candidates feel that this is a vital part of the test. It isn’t. In fact it isn’t even compulsory! Having said this, for those aspiring to get an IAM F1rst (Associates … Read more
Judge precedence by road markings and the position/movement of vehicles. Give precedance by the speed and position of your vehicle’. Fair enough, but what about headlamp flashing? I hear you ask…. Scenario: You approach an unmarked crossroads and see another vehicle approaching the same junction from your right. You see the headlamps of the vehicle … Read more
This is probably the most dangerous manoeuver that we do as drivers. Three conditions need to be met before overtaking: The decision to overtake is NOT made the moment of arrival behind a slower moving vehicle in front. Rather, the decision is made much earlier when the driver sees the vehicle ahead for the first … Read more
Observation: A basic skill of advanced driving. Good powers of observation demand practice, concentration and thought. Your eyesight should conform to the legal minimum (the ability to read a number plate at 20.5m (67ft) and you should know at a glance what any road traffic sign is telling you and react if necessary. Dropping further back … Read more
Joining: Motorways are joined using slip roads which are usually two lane carriageways. When traveling down a slip road use your mirrors so that you know the position of vehicles behind and to your side. At the earliest opportunity a check over your right shoulder will tell you the amount and movement of traffic on the … Read more
As Advanced Drivers we should only indicate when another road user can benefit from our signal or in anticipation of such a signal being required. This apparently straight forward piece of advice can actually cause no end of confusion when its applied in practise on our roads. Many Associates like to indicate ‘just in case’ they … Read more
EcoSafe-driving is about driving in a way that suits you, your car and the environment and minimises risk to yourself and others. It is driving to reduce fuel consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, accident rates and noise levels – therefore having a positive impact on both you as a driver and the environment. The Benefits: Environmental … Read more
Driving tips at a glance 15 tips to become an EcoSafe driver By Mark Farnworth
