Burgess Hill Driving School

Driving safely requires mastering several key skills, including observation, signalling, and planning. These skills help you navigate the roads with confidence and ensure the safety of yourself and others. Whether you’re a learner driver or looking to refresh your knowledge, this guide will cover essential driving skills. For more detailed information, visit the Ready to Pass? website.

1. Mirrors – Vision and Use

Being aware of your surroundings is crucial for safe driving. Here’s what you need to know about using mirrors:

• Understand and use the mirrors – signal – manoeuvre (MSM) and position – speed – look (PSL) routines.
• Know when and why to check mirrors regularly.
• Different types of mirrors: interior, exterior, flat, concave, and convex, and how to interpret what you see.
• Identify blind spots and know what areas each mirror covers.

2. Signals

Effective communication with other road users through signals is essential. Here’s how to do it:

• Understand the importance of giving clear, well-timed signals.
• Know when and how to give signals, including arm signals when necessary.
• Recognize signals from other road users, such as brake lights, reversing lights, and hazard warning lights.
• Learn to interpret signals from traffic controllers like school crossing patrols.

3. Anticipation and Planning

Anticipation and planning are core driving skills that enhance safety and efficiency:

• Use MSM and PSL routines to anticipate and respond to hazards.
• Recognize and respond to higher risk situations based on time, place, and weather conditions.
• Use scanning techniques to plan ahead and prioritize hazard responses.
• Anticipate the actions of other road users, including cyclists, motorcyclists, large vehicle drivers, pedestrians, animals, and emergency vehicles.

4. Use of Speed

Adjusting your speed according to various factors is crucial:

• Know national speed limits and restrictions for different vehicle types and roads.
• Adjust speed based on road, weather, and traffic conditions.
• Choose appropriate speeds in areas with pedestrians and traffic-calming measures.
• Understand stopping distances and how to maintain a safe separation distance.

5. Dealing with Other Traffic

Navigating through traffic safely involves several skills:

• Deal with oncoming traffic when there are parked cars or obstructions.
• Safely cross paths with other vehicles when turning right.
• Overtake legally and safely.
• Understand the significance of passing places, warning signs, and road markings.

6. Fuel-Efficient Driving

Driving efficiently benefits the environment and your wallet:

• Understand how vehicle emissions impact the environment and health.
• Reduce fuel consumption by planning ahead and using the highest possible gear.
• Keep your car in good condition with regular servicing and correct tyre pressures.
• Dispose of vehicle waste correctly, including spent oil, old batteries, and used tyres.

Conclusion

Mastering these skills will make you a safer, more efficient driver. Practice these techniques regularly to build your confidence on the road. For more detailed information, visit the Ready to Pass? website.