As we come into the winter months it is important to understand the different challenges driving in winter brings. Driving in winter can be challenging even for skilled drivers. There are many different types of winter weather that can cause hazards on the road, such as snow, rain, ice, and low sun. These wintry conditions can make your vehicle very challenging to control. 

Winter conditions can be especially challenging for learners and new drivers. For example, glare can impair visibility, and ice on roads can increase your stopping distance by up to 10 times. This highlights the importance for taking your time and ensuring you are fully prepared for any journey.

What are the best tyres for driving in winter?

When driving in winter it’s very important that ensure you have the correct tyres on your car to help increase your traction and decrease the chance of skidding or getting stuck in the snow. There are lots of different options for tyres for example winter tyres, all-season tyres, snow chains, and snow socks.

All-season tyres can be used throughout the year, they are used mostly in countries that have moderate weather patterns, including the UK. These tyres are great for all-round use. 

Winter tyres are used only in winter and need to be changed when the weather begins to warm. The main benefits of winter tyres are that they provide superior traction in rainy, snowy, and icy conditions. In some countries, they have tyre hotels, where garages will allow you to store your tyres between seasons. This is a cost effective way of ensuring you have the correct tyres for each season.

In addition to standard winter tyres there are are a few options designed for more extreme weather conditions. Snow socks are stretchy covers that go over your wheels to provide more grip than winter tyres. These can be useful to keep inside the boot of our car for unexpected snow especially if you are in more rural areas. They are cheaper than changing to winter tyres but must be removed when the roads have been cleared.

Another options are snow chains, which can be wrapped around tyres to provide increased traction in extreme winter weather; Although they can be time-consuming to use. Snow chains are mandatory in some countries such as Finland, Germany, Sweden and Switzerland.

De-icing Windscreen

Cold winter mornings often require you to de-ice your windscreen. Your windscreen can become frozen when rain on the windscreen starts to freeze, although it doesn’t have to rain or snow to have ice on your windscreen, as this can also be created by water vapour. Water vapour becomes ice when the temperature on the ground drops below freezing causing the water vapour in the air to become supercooled. There are a few things that are useful to have in your car for this situation such as a de-icer, warm water and an ice scraper to help remove the ice.

What is Black Ice?

Black ice is a thin layer of ice on the surface of the road that is usually transparent and is very difficult for drivers to spot. It can be one of the biggest dangers of winter driving. Black ice occurs when rain falls on frozen surfaces it tends to form mostly in areas of the road where there isn’t much sun such as tree-lined routes, tunnels, bridges, overpasses, and the roads beneath overpasses; as these form micro-climates. This is because the cold air has the ability to cool down both the top and underside of the bridge or overpass, making it freeze faster. If you do happen to drive over black ice don’t panic, keep calm, and try to not make any harsh or sudden manoeuvers.

How to recover from a skid

Skidding occurs when one or more tyres on a vehicle start to slip relative to the road.  The most important thing to remember when trying to recover from a skid is to not brake and to resist the temptation, as it can cause your wheels to lock and you to skid further.

The best thing to do when your car begins to skid is to release the accelerator and steer in the direction you want to front tires to go in. If your rear tires start to slide in the opposite direction you can slowly steer the wheel to that side. if you have standard brakes you can slowly pump the brakes but if you have anti-lock brakes don’t do this just slowly add pressure to them and you should begin to feel them start to pump.

Driving in Winter Fog

Fog is more common in the winter and is one of the most dangerous weather conditions to drive in. Thick fog can envelop roads and limit your range of vision while driving. This can make it difficult for you to see other road users, spot pedestrians, and any other hazards.

While driving in fog you should reduce your speed and switch your headlights to dipped. It important to use only dipped headlights as if you were to use your full beam lights it could reflect off the moisture in the fog and dazzle you. If visibility is less than 100m, you should turn on your fog lights.

Remember to always stay alert and be aware of any other hazards. If fog is obstructing vision at junctions, you can roll down your window and listen for any traffic which may be oncoming.

Driving in Snowy Conditions

You should only drive if the snow if it is essential. If you decide it is essential for you to travel, its important to be prepared and to ensure you have suitable equipment for any journey.

When driving in winter it’s important to be prepared

 You should always pack some essentials in your vehicle. This can be include items such as a shovel, torch, blanket/sleeping bag, warm clothing, ice scraper, a fully charged mobile, first aid kit, water and any other additional winter kit like tyre chains or even snow socks

 

What to do if your car gets stuck in the winter snow

 1. Remain Calm

It’s important to remain calm as panicking can make the situation worsen. If you are stranded on a road switch on your hazard warning lights and use your red hazard triangle if you have one. This will make you most visible to any vehicles. 

2. Clear a path around tires

 Use a shovel or your hands to dig the snow out from underneath tyres. Don’t spin your wheels from side to side as this can cause your car to sink deeper into the snow. Be sure to also check your exhaust pipe is clear of snow, as snow in your exhaust can cause your engine to cut out.

3. Set your wheels straight

Make sure that your front tyres are pointed straight ahead. This will make it much easier for you to get unstuck from the snow. Angled tires are under considerably more stress than straight tyres.

4. Find an object to help increase traction.

Its important to ensure your tyres have traction. If you have snow socks or snow chains these can be used to achieve this. Failing a pair of rubber car mats can be used instead. Ensure the engine is off while you do this and push them as far under your wheels as possible. This should provide you with suitable traction. 

5. Ask for help

If unable to get unstuck the best option is to ask someone nearby for help or call your breakdown company who can come and help you out of the snow.

It is important when driving in winter to stay calm and not panic when things don’t go to plan. Being prepared, keeping a level head, and taking your time while driving will help you to be the best winter driver you can be. 

If you have any questions or queries on this topic please don’t hesitate to contact us and we will be more than happy to help.

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It can be helpful to know what to expect from your first driving lesson, so we’ve created this handy guide to help you on your way. You might not be driving at high-speed on dual carriageways, to begin with, but it can be much easier to pick up the basics if you know what to expect. 

Before Your First Driving Lesson

You should take the time to prepare before your first driving lesson, so you’re not running out the door at the last minute. Be sure to double-check the date and time of your first lesson, you don’t want to be late, and get plenty of sleep the night before. Driving requires lots of concentration, and you should never drive when you’re tired. If you’re over the age of 18, do not drink the night before. 

What to Bring To Your First Lesson

On the day of your first driving lesson, be sure to have a good breakfast and prepare for your lesson. You should wear a pair of comfy shoes, such as trainers, as these make it easier to get to grips with the pedals. Remember to bring your glasses or contact lenses if you wear them and your provisional driving licence. If you’ve not already paid for your first lesson, you’ll need to bring money to pay your driving instructor. 

Meeting Your Driving Instructor

Make sure that you arrive at your arranged meeting point in plenty of time. This is usually a convenient area near your home. It’s important to make a good first impression, and you don’t want to waste your time and money by arriving late. Most driving instructors will wait for you in their car, so be sure to keep an eye out for them arriving. 

You’ll likely get in the passenger seat, to begin with. This will allow your instructor to go through the basics with you and double-check your provisional driving licence.

Once you’ve gone through the basics with your driving instructor, its time to get behind the wheel. If you live in a quiet residential area, you might be able to get started right away. Otherwise, your driving instructor will drive you to a quieter part of town to get to grips with the basics. 

What Will I Learn On My First Driving Lesson?

Don’t worry, you won’t be tackling busy roads, to begin with. Your first driving lesson will be in a quiet part of town, usually in a residential area or industrial estate. This gives you time to learn the basics, without pressure from other road users. 

The Cockpit Drill:

When getting behind the wheel for the first time, you’ll need to make some adjustments. This is called a cockpit drill, and it is used to make sure that you have a comfortable and safe seating position before setting off. The cockpit drill includes: 

• Making sure that all doors are closed and secure. 
• Ensuring that your seat is in a comfortable position. 
• Adjusting your steering wheel to the right height. 
• Double-checking that your seatbelt is secure. 
• Making sure that your mirrors are adjusted to give you a view of your surroundings. 

The Controls

Once you’ve completed the cockpit drill, and are in a comfortable seating position, it’s time to run through the controls. The main controls that you will cover, to begin with, will be the pedals, handbrake, indicators and how to change gear. If you’re learning to drive in a manual car, you will have three pedals to get to grips with; the accelerator, brake and clutch. Alternatively, if you’re taking automatic driving lessons, you’ll only have the accelerator and brake pedals. You also won’t have to worry about learning to change gear as the car will do this for you. 

Before moving off, be sure to check with your instructor if you are unsure of any of the controls. You will start slowly, as you learn to get to grips with the vehicle’s controls, and your instructor will coach you as you build confidence. Most instructors will have a dual-control car. This means if you get confused at any point, they will be able to help you out.

We recommend taking a 2-hour lesson, as this gives you time to learn the basics of controlling the car and allows you to get some driving in. You’ll be learning and having so much fun that this will no doubt fly by. 

Moving Off On Your First Driving Lesson

Once you’ve got to grips with how the controls work, it will be time to get started. Before you turn on the engine, your driving instructor will explain a few different procedures. You’ll cover some of the basics in your first driving lesson, including: 

• Moving off: getting ready to move off safely and preparing to use your gears. 
• Clutch control: this includes finding the biting point. 
• Observations: checking all around you and using your mirror to check that it is safe to move off. Remember to check those blind spots. 
• Signalling: using your indicators to signal to any pedestrians or other road users. 
• Changing gear: you’ll likely be using first and second gear, to begin with. 
• Stopping: you will learn how to safely bring the car to a halt, with use of the brake and clutch. 
• Safely parking alongside the curb. 

This may feel like a lot for your first lesson, but take the time to relax, and let your driving instructor know if you have any questions. After a few driving lessons, you’ll become more confident and comfortable, with the basics of learning to drive.  

After Your First Driving Lesson

Once you have completed your first driving lesson, your driving instructor will drop you off at home. Take the time to have a chat with your instructor about how your lesson went, and let them know about any areas you’d like to work on next time. This will also allow you to organise your next driving lesson. Some instructors will offer block booking discounts, which allow you to book the same time slot, over several weeks. Everyone learns to drive at their own pace, so whether you want to do one lesson a week or a few, it’s up to you, providing your instructor has availability. 

After your first driving lesson, you should take the time to start thinking about your theory test. You will need to pass your theory test before you can book your practical driving test. Some people prefer to do this early to fully focus on their driving, whereas, others like to wait until their more comfortable behind the wheel. We recommend using Driving Test Success Anytime to ensure that you are fully prepared for your theory test. This gives you a complete guide to everything you need to know, with lots of mock tests and quizzes to give you plenty of practice. Be sure to read our guide on how to pass your theory test for more hints and tips.

Practice Outwith Your Driving Lessons

Once your first driving lesson is out the way, and you have a grasp of the basics, you can start to do some extra private practice. If you have a friend or family member who’s happy to help, you can practice with them to build upon what you’ve learned during your driving lessons. To do this, they must be over the age of 21, have held a full driving licence for over 3 years, and not be asking for money. They must also not be distracted or using their phone during private lessons. You must also make sure that you are insured to drive their vehicle. 

We’ve teamed up My First UK, to help you save money on your insurance to help you save money. They have a range of great insurance options available, and with our special offer, you can get £100 off of several insurance policies. Simply click the image below to make an enquiry. 

Well there you have it! You now know what to expect from your first driving lesson. If you have any questions or would like to find out more about our driving lessons, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Call: 0800 371055 | Email: info@pass-drive.co.uk

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Whether you’re sitting your theory test for the first time, or are having another attempt, there are lots of steps that you can take to help you pass. We’ve created this handy guide to help you on your way, covering everything you need to know to pass your theory test with flying colours.

When Was The Theory Test Introduced? 

The theory test was introduced on the 1st of July 1996 as a written exam. Before this, learner drivers would be asked questions on the Highway Code by examiners during their practical test. This meant that all learner drivers now had to pass both the theory test and practical driving test to acquire their full UK driving licence.

The hazard perception aspect of the theory test was introduced in 2002. This tests candidates’ ability to spot and recognise a developing hazard in a series of video clips.

What Does The Theory Test Include? 

The theory test consists of two separate sections; multiple-choice and hazard perception. 

• Multiple Choice: 
  • The multiple-choice section of the theory test consists of 50 questions which focus on a range of topics, from road signs, to hazard awareness and the rules of the road. You will need to answer at least 43 out of 50 correctly to pass this section of the test. 

• Hazard Perception: 
  • The hazard perception section of the test is made up of 14 video clips, showing everyday road scenarios from the perspective of a driver. Each video clip includes at least one developing hazard, which you will have to identify by clicking a mouse. You will need to score at least 44 out of 75 to pass. 

You must pass both sections of the theory test. If you fail either one of the multiple-choice or hazard perception section, you will fail the entire theory test. This means that you will have to revise and prepare for both aspects. 

How To Pass Your Theory Test

How To Pass The Multiple Choice Section

Getting Started

The questions in the multiple-choice section of the theory test are all based on three DVSA books; the Highway Code, Know Your Traffic Signs and Driving: The Essential Skills. You should have a strong understanding to know the information in these books, especially the Highway Code, as this contains all of the rules and information you’ll need. The purpose of the Highway Code is to ensure that all road users, including drivers, cyclists, pedestrians and other road users can travel safely. 

What To Expect

The multiple-choice section of the theory test consists of 50 questions, and you will have 57 minutes to answer them. You will be shown some example questions and instructions before the start of the test. This will help you to become familiar with the format and layout of the test. Once you have taken the time to review the instructions and example questions, you can start the test. 

When the test begins, be sure to read each question carefully, and make sure that you understand what is being asked. You will be able to go back and change your answer at any time during the test before your time runs out. There is also the option to flag any questions that you are unsure of. This allows you to quickly identify any questions, you were unsure of, and make necessary changes. 

The layout of the questions may change slightly based on what is being asked. This will involve a variety of facts, figures, and different photos of road signs and situations. In addition to the standard test questions, you will be presented with a case study that tends to describe a short story or potential real-life situation. Case studies can cover a range of different topics and aim to test your ability to think logically in potential real-life situations.

How To Prepare For Your Theory Test

There are hundreds of different questions which may appear in the multiple-choice section for the theory test, so it’s important to ensure that you’re fully prepared. There are lots of different ways that you can revise for your theory test, from useful handbooks to fancy mobile apps. 

The Highway Code

The Highway Code is available in most book stores and can be found for free online. It’s important to ensure that you have a good grasp of the Highway Code, as this is one of the books that many of the questions are taken from. The Highway Code contains all the rules of the road, to help ensure that all road users travel safely and responsibly. 

Know Your Traffic Signs

The Know Your Traffic Signs book can be found in most book stores and can be found for free online. This book contains all the information you need to know about different UK road signs, highlighting their use and meaning. 

The Official DVSA Guide To Driving – The Essential Skills Book 

This book is useful for both learners and experienced drivers alike. It is packed full of advice that will help you stay safe on UK roads and contains important information on developing your driving skills. Many of the questions in the theory test are taken from this book.

Driving Test Success

We recommend the use of Driving Test Sucess’ theory test resources. Choose from Driving Test Success Anytime, an online web application, or their 4 in 1 theory test mobile app. Both resources come packed full of information and guides to help you pass your theory test. Test your knowledge with mock tests and quizzes, or prepare for the hazard perception section with interactive clips. 

These learning resources are the best way to prepare for your theory test and to help you pass with flying colours. If you have any questions about the theory test, be sure to ask your driving instructor for help, or contact us. 

How To Pass The Hazard Perception Section

What To Expect

Once you’ve completed the multiple-choice section of the theory test, you will have to tackle the hazard perception test. This part of the test consists of 14 one-minute video clips showing different road scenarios. Each clip will contain developing hazards, which you will have to recognise and identify in good time. Be aware that one of the clips will contain two developing hazards. 

There is a difference between a hazard and a developing hazard. A developing hazard requires you to take action. Examples of a developing hazard include a cyclist swerving to avoid a pothole or a vehicle reversing onto the road. This could result in you having to take action, either by changing your speed or road position. A hazard, on the other hand, is something you should be aware of and consider the risk, but not have to take immediate action over. 

Once you have recognised and identified a developing hazard, you will need to click with your mouse. Each hazard that appears on-screen is worth 5 points, and you’ll score higher the quicker you spot them. You will not be marked if you click at the wrong time during each clip, however, you may fail a clip if the system believes that you are clicking in a pattern. There will be a ten-second window between each clip for you to prepare.

What Types of Hazards Will I Encounter?

The 14 video clips shown in the hazard perception test can vary greatly, meaning that you will likely encounter a range of developing hazards. This may include children stepping onto the road suddenly, cyclists, other vehicles braking suddenly, emergency vehicles or poor visibility. Therefore, you must take plenty of time to prepare and revise for this section of the test. 

How To Prepare For The Hazard Perception Test

The hazard perception test is just as important as the multiple-choice section of the theory test. Remember that you will need to pass both sections to pass your theory test. This means that you will have to ensure that you fully understand the format of the test and are familiar with the types of hazards that you may encounter. 

The best way to prepare for the hazard perception test is to practice with different clips. You can practice a variety of clips with either Driving Test Success Anytime, or the 4 in 1 Theory App. The clips in these applications will show a wide range of different roads and scenarios. This will give you plenty of experience to build your confidence ahead of your theory test. 

Revise, Revise, Revise

Without a doubt, the best way to prepare for your theory test is to revise, revise, revise. The theory test should be treated like any other examination, meaning that you will need to ensure that you are fully prepared. Passing the test without the appropriate amount of revision is highly unlikely, and you may face long waiting times to rebook if you fail. We recommend taking the time to create a study plan and taking the time to revise whenever you can. Give yourself plenty of time and avoid last-minute cramming. If you follow this guide, you should be able to pass your theory test with flying colours. 

If you have any questions about the theory test, take the time to speak with your driving instructor, or contact us, we’d be happy to help. 

What Should I Do On the Day Of My Theory Test? 

Ensure You’re Fully Prepared

As your test date approaches, it’s important to ensure that you have the correct date, time, and location. You definitely don’t want to miss your test after all of your hard work. Remember to take your provisional licence with you. You’ll need this to sit your test. 

Once you arrive at the test centre, you will not be able to take in any personal items to the test room. You will be provided with a locker to store your items and keep them safe until after your test. 

Manage Your Time Effectively

Each section of the theory test is designed to give you plenty of time to answer each question. It’s important that you use this time effectively and don’t rush. You will have 15 minutes at the start of your test to prepare and familiarise yourself with the format. There will be a three-minute break between each section which allows you some time to relax. 

Before you start the hazard perception section, you will have the opportunity to watch a clip explaining how the test works. Use this time to familiarise yourself with the layout and format. This will also allow you to get a feel for the types of developing hazards you may encounter during the test. 

Take The Time To Review Your Answers

You should take the time to review your answers before completing the multiple-choice section. Especially any questions that you are unsure of. Remember to make use of the ‘flag feature’ during the test. This will allow you to quickly identify any answers that you would like to review at the end of your test.

Relax and Enjoy The Experience

The theory test is designed to allow you plenty of time to answer all of the questions. You will have 57 minutes for the multiple-choice section of the test. This should give you more than enough time to answer all 50 questions and review your answers. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to review your answers in the hazard perception section, as this replicates real-life scenarios. With all the revision and hard work you’ve put into studying and preparing for the test, we’re sure you will be more than ready. 

I Passed! What Happens Next? 

Once you’ve passed your theory test, you’re well on your way to achieving your full UK driving licence. If you’ve already started driving lessons, be sure to tell your instructor. If they feel that you’re ready, then you’ll be able to book your practical driving test. 

Alternatively, if you chose to do your theory test before starting lessons, its time to get behind the wheel for the first time. We have a range of available courses to choose from weekly driving lessons to our intensive and residential courses. All of our courses are available for both manual and automatic driving lessons. Be sure to get in touch, or book online today. 

Remember that your theory test pass certificate is only valid for two years. Be sure to book your test within this time or, you will need to sit your theory test again.

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As we move from summer into autumn and the days begin to get shorter, you should be aware of some of the challenges that driving in autumn brings. From adverse weather conditions to an increase in wildlife activity, the change in seasons can bring new hazards. Whether you’re taking lessons, or have passed your test and are looking for tips, our guide to driving in autumn is here to help.

Our Tips For Driving In Autumn

Wet Weather

Although you likely have some experience driving in the rain, this can be especially dangerous in the autumn months. From drizzle and showers to heavy downpours, rainwater can mix with mud and leaves, making the roads extra slippy. Overall, this will increase your car’s stopping distance and can affect your vehicles handling. 

To counteract the hazards wet weather brings, you should reduce your speed, to ensure that you will be able to stop in time should you have to brake suddenly. 

Wet Leaves

With the seasons changing, and the weather becoming cooler, the leaves will begin to fall from the trees. Although this can make for beautiful scenery, wet leaves can be hazardous for road users. Wet leaves can be slippery and can cover potholes and other hazards. 

When driving through leaves, you should slow down to avoid skidding and any hazards concealed by the leaves. 

Driving in the Dark

As the days get shorter, you should be prepared for night-time driving. You should check that all of your lights are working correctly, ensuring that you are visible to pedestrians and other road users. 

Be prepared to slow down, and be extra vigilant for pedestrians, as they can be difficult to spot, especially when wearing dark clothing.

Low Sun

As the sun sits lower in the sky, the likelihood that you will be ‘dazzled’ increases. This makes it more difficult to see the road ahead. Wet weather can exacerbate this, with the water reflecting the sunlight. 

You should make sure that you always have a pair of sunglasses handy, and make use of your car’s sun visors. It can also help to keep your windscreen clean, as a dirty windscreen can increase glare. 

Icy Roads 

Although icy roads are typically more of an issue in winter months, they can occur on chilly autumn mornings. Ice will make the road slick, making it difficult for your car to gain traction. 

By avoiding breaking suddenly, and taking corners more slowly, you will reduce the risk of skidding. When driving on ice, your stopping distance will be ten times greater than on a dry road. 

Driving in Cold Weather

With the temperature dropping as we move into autumn and winter, you will likely encounter frozen windscreens, particularly on cold mornings. If your car’s windows and external mirrors are frozen, you will need to clear them before setting off.

You should allow for extra time when setting off in the mornings and have anti-freeze and ice scrapers prepared to remove the build-up of ice. 

Check Your Wiper Blades

Although the British summer is infamously wet, you will likely be using your window wipers more frequently as we move into autumn. Heavy rain will reduce your visibility. You should make sure that your wiper blades are moving freely, and are not dragging or leaving streaks. 

If your wiper blades are not functioning correctly, they should be replaced as soon as possible. 

Driving in Autumn – Fog

Fog can severely limit your visibility when driving. This can make it challenging to see the road ahead and any potential hazards. It will also make it difficult to spot pedestrians and other road users. 

When driving in fog, you should keep your speed slow, and use dipped headlights to increase visibility. Once your visibility drops below 100 metres, you should use your fog lights. 

Avoid using your main beam when driving in fog, as this can be reflected by the fog, reducing your visibility even more. 

Driving in Autumn – Wildlife

Deer and other wildlife are most active during the autumn months. This increases the likelihood of drivers encountering wildlife, with deer frequently darting out across the road. Although deer are more commonplace on country roads, they can be found in towns and cities as well. This is especially common in wooded areas. 

If you spot a deer or any other animal on the road, you should slow down and avoid swerving. Swerving may take you onto the other side of the road, and can cause serious collisions. 

Driving In Autumn FAQs

I find it challenging to drive in adverse weather conditions, what should I do?

Depending on when you passed your driving test, you may not have driven in certain weather conditions. Although certain types of bad weather can be challenging to more experienced drivers as well. You can do some private practice to gain confidence with drivers with bad weather experiences.

Alternatively, our Pass Plus Scheme and advanced driving courses cover all aspects of all-weather driving.

When should I use my fog lights?

The Highway Code states that you should use your fog lights once visibility drops below 100 metres (328 feet). A good estimate for this is when you can no longer see the taillights of the car in front.

The Theory Test will often contain questions relating to driving in adverse weather conditions, so it’s important to practise and prepare for this type of question.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about driving in autumn or any of our driving courses, we’d love to hear from you. Please call us on 0800 371055, email: info@pass-drive.co.uk or speak to us using our live chat feature to the bottom right of the screen.

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Due to their frequency of use on UK roads, you will likely encounter roundabouts when sitting your driving test and beyond. So today, we’re taking the time to explore how to use roundabouts safely and responsibly. 

A Brief History Of Roundabouts 

The first roundabout in the UK was built in Letchworth Garden City in 1909. Before this, circular junctions could be found on UK roads. These were more basic than modern roundabouts, with the main difference in that they did not prioritise circulating traffic. Famous examples of circular junctions include the Circus in Bath and Piccadilly Circus in London. Although, Piccadilly Circus has since lost its shape, with part of the junction becoming pedestrianised. 

The modern roundabout became widespread in the UK in the 1960s, which was also around the same time the ‘priority rule’ was introduced. This gave priority to the traffic using the roundabout, with traffic on approach ‘giving way’. Since then, there have been some minor changes, with the introduction of multiple lanes and traffic lights on some larger roundabouts. 

Why Do We Have Roundabouts? 

Roundabouts were introduced to help control the flow of traffic. They are typically found where two or more roads intersect, and help to keep traffic moving. They are safer than some other junctions and crossroads, as they ensure that traffic is always travelling in the same direction. 

How To Safely Approach Roundabouts 

Before entering a roundabout, you must ensure that you approach the junction safely. This can be done by ensuring that you position yourself in the correct lane early, using the MSM routine (Mirror, Signal Manoeuvre). Be sure to scan the roundabout early, looking to your right as well as ahead. You must ensure that you give way to any traffic approaching from the right. 

When approaching the roundabout, make sure that you are aware of any vulnerable road users, including cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders. You must also keep a lookout for pedestrians, with many roundabouts having crossings near their entrance. 

Avoid Hesitating

Roundabouts can be challenging for learner drivers, as they can often be busy. This sometimes results in hesitation. If the roundabout is clear, you must go. This highlights the importance of positioning yourself early and anticipating the traffic already on the roundabout. 

You can anticipate the flow of traffic by watching the position, speed and angle of vehicles using the roundabout. If traffic exits the roundabout, there may be an opportunity for you to go. Some drivers may not indicate or indicate incorrectly, so be sure to make sure that the way is clear. 

Using The Roundabout To Turn

So far, you’ve learned how to safely approach a roundabout. Next, we’re going to take a look at how to turn. To do this effectively, you will need to make sure that you’re in the correct lane. Typically the left lane is for turning left and continuing straight ahead, with the right lane used for right turns. However, this can vary between roundabouts, so the best practice is to use the road signs and markings. You should always return to the left lane where it is possible and safe to do so.

Turning Left

When turning left at a roundabout, you should: 

1. Check your mirrors on approach.
2. Keep left. (You may have other vehicles on your right, so you must stay in your lane). 
3. Signal left.
4. Approach carefully. Look right and ahead to where you are turning. Ensure that you give way to traffic on your right. 
5. Once there is an opportunity you can go, keeping left. 
6. Keep indicating to communicate that you’re leaving the roundabout. 

Some roundabouts will have more than one exit on the left. When you are not leaving the roundabout at the first exit, do not signal on approach. You should only signal on the approach to your exit. 

Following The Road Ahead

When continuing to follow the road you should:

1. Keep left as standard, if no lines or road markings are telling you otherwise.  
2. Check your mirrors, approaching the roundabout, looking right and ahead, giving way to the right. 
3. Once there is an opportunity, move off, keeping in the left-hand lane (remember you may have vehicles on your right). Be aware of a tailback on the roundabout, as your exit may be blocked, so be prepared to stop, or adjust your position if safe to do so. 
4. Check your mirrors, especially on your left, and signal after passing the exit before yours. 
5. Exit the roundabout

On some larger roundabouts, there may be a lane specifically for following the road ahead. If this is the case, be sure to select the correct lane and remain there until exiting. Be aware that you may have vehicles on either side of you in this instance. 

Turning Right

As you approach the roundabout look for any road markings indicating which lane you should move into. 

1. If there are no markings, check your mirrors and signal right, moving into the right-hand lane. Once you are in your lane, continue signalling right. 
2. Approach the roundabout with care, looking both right and ahead, giving way to the right. 
3. Once there is an opportunity you can go, keeping right. You will likely have vehicles on your left. 
4. Check your mirrors, especially the one on your left, and signal left after you’ve passed the exit before yours. 
5. Move left and exit the roundabout. 

Roundabouts Controlled By Traffic Lights

Some larger roundabouts with multiple lanes will be controlled by traffic lights. These roundabouts are typically safer, as the flow of traffic is controlled, meaning that you do not need to give way to the right. Although you should still check right before entering the roundabout, to ensure the way is clear. 

Some roundabouts also combine give way lines with traffic lines, so you will need to give way to the right in this instance. 

Roundabout FAQs

When should I start indicating?

Unless signs or markings indicate otherwise: 

• When taking the first exit, you should signal left and approach the left lane. You should keep left on the roundabout, leaving your signal on until exiting. 
• If exiting on the right, you should signal right and approach the right lane. You should keep right, with your signal on until you intend to exit. Signal left after passing the exit, before the one you want, and leave the roundabout. 
• If following the road ahead, you should select the appropriate lane on approach to and on the roundabout. You do not need to signal on approach unless changing lanes. Stay in your lane and signal after passing the exit before the one you want. 

What if there is a long vehicle on the roundabout? 

Long vehicles typically require more room on a roundabout. You should never drive next to a large vehicle on a roundabout as they may take up multiple lanes. It’s usually best to stay well back and give them plenty of room. 

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With the announcement that driving lessons can resume in Scotland from 24/08/2020, we’ve created this handy guide so that you know what to expect from driving lessons during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Whether you’re looking forward to restarting driving lessons next week or are ready to book lessons for the first time, there will be some differences from driving lessons pre-lockdown. Read on to find out what driving lessons will be like for the foreseeable future, so there will be no surprises when you sit behind the steering wheel for the first time.

Bring Your PPE

As you will be sitting next to your instructor for at least an hour or two, it’s important to wear your personal protective equipment (PPE). We recommend wearing a facemask while you’re in the car to make sure that you are both protected. If you don’t already have a facemask, they have become widely available and can be found in most shops and online retailers. 

Wash Your Hands Before and After Driving Lessons

Washing your hands more regularly is one of the best ways to limit the spread of the virus. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before and after your lesson. Why not bring a small bottle of hand sanitiser with you to be extra-safe? 

Be Prepared To Have Your Temperature Checked

Your instructor may choose to check your temperature before your lesson begins. This is to ensure that you are not showing any symptoms of COVID-19, which may put your instructor and their other students at risk.

Cancel Your Driving Lesson If You Have COVID-19 Symptoms

If you have a driving lesson booked but begin to show symptoms of COVID-19, you must cancel your lesson and self-isolate. Failing to do so puts not only your driving instructor at risk but their other students and anyone they come in contact with. 

Symptoms of COVID-19 include a new, continuous cough, a high temperature, and a loss of taste or smell. 

Visit the NHS website for more information.

Be Prepared To Take Some Extra Lessons

If you’ve already had some driving lessons, but had to stop driving due to lockdown restrictions, be prepared to have a few extra lessons. You most likely haven’t driven for over 6 months, so it will take some time to get back up to speed. Don’t be discouraged by this, it’s to be expected, and everyone will be in the same position. The extra practice will be sure to make you a better driver in the long run. 

Revise Your Theory

It’s also probably been a while since you’ve passed your Theory Test or revised the Highway Code. Be sure to revise your driving theory before you head out on your first lesson back. We recommend using Driving Test Success Anytime for this.

Book Your Test Early (Ask Your Instructor)

You will need to book your Practical Driving Test earlier than normal, due to the backlog of tests created by the UK going into lockdown. Make sure that your instructor is happy for you to book your test and that they are available before you do this.

Have Fun

Most importantly relax and have fun. Learning to drive is a key stage in your life, and you should enjoy it. Be sure to follow our guide to keep yourself and your instructor safe, but take the time to have fun as you learn. 

If you have any questions about driving lessons, we’d love to hear from you. Call us on 0800 371055, email: info@pass-drive.co.uk, or complete our contact form at the bottom of the page. 

The post Driving Lessons COVID-19: A Guide appeared first on Pass Drive Driving School.

If you are not sure how many hours you will need, just call us and we can get you out for an assessment lesson where we can discuss which of our intensive driving courses in Kirkcaldy is right for you.

Pass Drive take care of it all for you, from arranging your schedule to booking your driving test. You will be driving a modern, clean and presentable car with a very experienced and friendly driving instructor.

Morgan (Pictured above) successfully completed an intensive driving course in Kirkcaldy recently and is now driving independently.

Book your intensive driving course now and gain your independence.

The post Intensive Driving Courses in Kirkcaldy appeared first on Pass Drive Driving School.