The DVLA have updated their materials associated with the campaign, ‘Ready to Pass.’ These include free test materials if you are preparing for a theory test and can be accessed at:

https://www.safedrivingforlife.info/free-practice-tests

When you pass your driving test you will gain independence and freedom, but it is really important that you do not take your test until you are really ready to do so. If you fail, not only will you be disappointed and frustrated, but it will cost you more money and mean you lose motivation while you wait for another test appointment. Your instructor will advise you when you are ready to give it a go and they know your driving best. Listen to them and give yourself the best possible chance of success. If you do fail, do not worry, we all get nervous and your instructor can help you to overcome this at your next attempt.You could also visit the new page on the Government website to help you assess your readiness. It can be found on the link below:

https://readytopass.campaign.gov.uk/

Happy Learning!

Yesterday the Government announced driving tests could recommence from 12th April 2021.

Driving lessons can also restart from 12th April 2021. We anticipate the DVSA announcing we can start driving lessons from the 29th March 2021 because any learner driver with a driving test booked on 12th April or just after will need vital practice before their test. Therefore, it would make sense to allow driving lessons to restart before 12th April 2021, but at present we do not have any clarification about this.

At the moment, until we receive more information, you can book your driving lessons for 12th April 2021 onwards with us.

We have recently been introduced to a new resource for young drivers.  You can link  to it at http://www.hendy.co.uk/resources/young-drivers-guide/.  Have a look and let us know what you think!

This week is Learner Driver Week.  We would like to encourage you to head over to http://wearemarmalade-news.co.uk/3LQ9-8TQM-UKTHL-51BCS-1/c.aspx to see lots of interesting and informative resources for you which fit in nicely with our mission to make you a safe driver for life.

While you are there you could also think about using their services for insurance or even nominating Paul for Driving Instructor of the Year 2017 – you could even win a fabulous prize for yourself! Have a look at the information below if you think this is for you!

Yesterday Paul went on a course to learn about eco-driving techniques and benefits.  As many of you may be thinking what a lot of rubbish I felt we should put some information out there for you.  Paul was no less sceptical about it than most people, but the course has convinced him of the REAL benefits for everyone.

Not only will you save money on fuel (the obvious one!!), but it will also save money on wear and tear on the car as well as some really interesting added benefits being that it has been proven to make your driving safer and more relaxing for you and your passengers! These claims can be backed up by statistics:

Fuel & CO2 savings:

• 13.5% on the day (EST)
• 3.0% to 6.2% long term (EST and DVR)

Safety :

• 35% reductions ‘at fault’ collisions (DVR)
•  22% reduction ‘non fault’ collisions (DVR)

You may well still not be convinced, but just think about this – if youemploy the techniques suggested when approaching a red light so that you arrive at that light more slowly and just as it changes (to save fuel) you are not slamming on the brakes and wearing out your brake pads as well as increasing the chances of the surprised driver behind you,who may not be paying attention to the lights ahead, failing to stop and colliding into your car!  We think it’s worth considering seriously.

Here is a summary of the main ideas:

1. Change Gear upwards as soon as possible
   Shift up between 2.000 and 2.500 revolutions. (this depends on your car and fuel type). Do not accelerate quickly or harshly.
2. Maintain a steady speed
   Use the highest gear for the conditions and drive with low engine speed.
3. Anticipate traffic flow
   Look ahead as far as possible and anticipate what is happening. Plan your actions accordingly. Don’t brake sharply or heavily.
4. Decelerate Smoothly
   When you have to slow down or to stop, decelerate smoothly and leave the car in gear as long as is possible.
5. Check the tyre pressure frequently
   As an example, 25% too low tyre pressure increases rolling resistance by 10% and your fuel consumption by 2%.

Have a go and let us know how it goes!

All drivers should look at this link showing the effect of texting whilst driving.  Hopefully it will educate those that still do text wilst behind the wheel that it is NOT ACCEPTABLE.

Exam season is now well and truly upon us and we would like to wish all our students, both past and present, a successful and stress free time.  Remember to look for that squirrel and ‘sparkle’!!!  We look forward to hearing all your successes in the future.

Paul, Squiggie, Badger and Sparkle

It’s that time of year again when there are lots of parties and celebrations.  A reminder from all of us at Drive-2-Arrive to keep safe and leave the car at home!  Wishing all of our students and their families a very Happy and safe Christmas and all the best for the New Year!!

Time for a new car!  On Monday we will take delivery of a brand new Citroen DS3 for all our learners to enjoy!