Howth Sutton
School of Motoring
...driving for life!
Driving for life
The test is only 'the end of the beginning'! You still have a lot to learn and experience. Your driving attitude is the most important thing. Concentrate, observe, anticipate, watch for clues to potential hazards, show restraint, think safety, think ahead, plan your driving, do not speed, don't take unnecessary risks, avoid distractions, be courteous, maintain good driving habits and maintain your vehicle. Always use the MSM strategy i.e. Mirror, Signal Position, Speed and Look in correct order. If possible, take further training as an advanced driver and always try to learn more and not slip into bad driving habits.
- Be careful at all times and maintain your concentration. One in three new drivers is involved in an accident in their first two years of driving. They are twice as likely to be involved in accidents as other road users.
- Develop and cultivate a good attitude on the road.
- Use your brain as well as your eyes, ears, hands and feet.
- Maintain a high level of observation, looking in your mirrors often and looking over your shoulder when changing lanes or, pulling out, turning or on roundabouts.
- Read the roadway ahead, long distance, medium distance and immediate.
- Learn to detect hazards and potential hazards.
- Think ahead.
- Anticipate problems.
- Expect the unexpected.
- Early vision: early decision!
- Remember and practice the correct sequence of actions: Mirrors, Signal, Blind Spot observation and Position.
- Use Systematic Vehicle Control - correct position on road, correct speed and correct gear.
- Always maintain the correct speed.
- Leave enough margin for error, either your error or that of others.
- Be aware of traffic signals, road signs and markings.
- Use your car controls properly i.e. steering, brakes, clutch, gears, accelerator etc.
- Maintain the correct road position.
- Signal your intentions early.
- Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. Remember: 'Only a fool breaks the two second rule'! In dry conditions allow two second of time between the car in front and your car. Double that in wet weather or poor road conditions.