Advanced Driving

What is it?

Advanced driving is the ability to control the position and speed of the vehicle safely, systematically and smoothly, using road and traffic conditions to make reasonable progress unobtrusively, with skill and responsibility.  This skill requires a positive but courteous attitude and a high standard of driving competence based on concentration, effective all round observation, anticipation and planning.  All this must be co-ordinated with good handling skills.  The vehicle should always be in the correct place on the road, travelling at the correct speed with the correct gear engaged and can always be stopped safely within the distance that can be seen to be clear.

Central to advanced driving is what is known as the ‘System of Car Control’. This system is taught in Police Driving Schools and we use it as the basis of the Advanced Driver Course.

Why the need?

The number of people who die on our roads is still about 3,000 a year and together with the thousands who are injured, some maimed for life, remains unacceptably high.  Many drivers have never had a collision during their motoring lives but the need to be vigilant is even more important when considering the vastly increased volume of traffic currently using our roads.  All of us who have passed the Advanced Driving Test are mindful that you are only as good as your next drive - which hopefully won’t be your last.

Becoming an advanced driver will result in your driving being, smoother, safer and more controlled.  The spin off will be that you will save on costs of fuel, tyres, brakes and other mechanical parts. You will also be helping to protect the environment by reducing exhaust emissions.  Your driving will be less stressful and more enjoyable not only for yourself but your passengers as well.

Statistics show that advanced drivers have significantly safer skills in a number of key areas of driving when compared to the average driver.  This is now being recognised by some Insurance companies and IAM Surety is able to quote extremely competitive motor insurance premiums.