Over the course of your driving lessons, your Surrey Driving Force instructor will teach you everything that you need to know to develop into a safe and confident driver with all of the skills that you need to pass your driving test with flying colours.
Below we have identified some additional tips designed to help you on the day of your test and each time that you get in the car.
In Car Safety – The Cockpit Drill
The cockpit drill is the name given to the range of checks that you should complete each time you get into a car. Both your examiner and driving instructor will both be watching you to make sure you follow the drill, so it is worth getting into the best possible of habits by doing it every time that you get into the car.
Tip 1: Ensure All Doors Are Closed
It is your responsibility to make sure that all the doors are closed. Most cars have either a warning light on the dashboard, or an audible alert if any of the car doors are open when the engine is running.
Tip 2: Ensure Seats & Headrests Are Adjusted
You must check the height and position of the seat and head rests. This will help to ensure that you are comfortably able to operate the foot pedals, whilst ensuring your own safety and comfort whilst driving.
Tip 3: Check Your Mirrors
Driving safely will only be possible if you can see all around your car. As such, you must make certain that your mirrors are properly angled to give you the maximum field of view without craning your neck.
Tip 4: Fasten Your Seatbelt
Driving away without fastening your seat belt will not only ensure a certain fail, you will also be breaking the law!!!
Driving Skills – Mirrors, Signal Manoeuvre
Before you perform any manoeuvre, your Surrey Driving Force driving instructor and examiner will expect you to perform the MSM routine. This is short for ‘mirrors, signal manoeuvre’ and it is as simple as it sounds.
- Tip 1: Mirrors – Check your mirrors to make sure that the road is clear enough for you to perform your manoeuvre.
- Tip 2: Signal – Signal which way you are going to turn your car using the indicators to advise other road users and pedestrians that you are about to perform a manoeuvre.
- Tip 3: Manoeuvre – Carry out the manoeuvre, checking all the time for hazards and obstructions using your mirrors as well as looking forward and to the sides.
Further Information
If you would like any further details regarding the driving tuition available from Surrey Driving Force, please give us a call on 0845 190 2012 & we’ll be happy to answer any of your questions.