Happy Friday everybody! We’re sure you are all looking forward very much to the weekend, to finishing your college, university, or work for the week and to be able to finally unwind again until Monday – And we don’t blame you!

Here at Britannia Driving School, we never stop. This weekend we will be helping new driving pupils to master the basic techniques of being behind the wheel, as well as coaching existing pupils on their road to passing the driving test – And we wouldn’t have it any other way!

Safe driving from Britannia!

Many of our driving pupils will admit to struggling with certain challenges whilst learning to drive with Britannia – Just take a look over our Client Reviews for a good idea of what some pupils may have struggled with in the past, and know whatever you find challenging at the moment, you’re not alone!

One major obstacle many battle to overcome is the art of reversing around a corner – But if you remember to carry out your full observation before starting, identify your start and end points of turn and judge the correct angle and speed to carry out your manoeuvre at, we are sure you’ll do great!

Safe driving from Britannia!

So you’re working your way through your driving lessons, and so far everything seems to be going swimmingly. You’ve learned the basics of the car controls, mastered being able to pull away and stop, and are perfect in going in a straight line – What else is there to learn?

As it turns out, Roundabouts are one of the main challenges that new learners struggle with, particularly when joining or leaving an island. Always remember to allow traffic from the right, and to only move when it’s safe to do so – And to always indicate prior to leaving the roundabout.

Safe driving from Britannia!

If you have recently passed your Theory exam, or if you’re still building up to this, you are probably more than familiar with being able to understand instructions for being on the road. Road signs are one of the main ways you will be able to identify potential hazards when you’re behind the wheel.

We here at Britannia recommend a thorough understanding of Road Signs to help you become a better driver. Making sure that you are familiar with all possible variations of roads signs, including their subtle differences, will help streamline the process of you passing your driving test with flying colours.

Safe driving from Britannia!

As a learner driver, you are probably used to hearing lots of tips and titbits of advice people will give you that will help you to pass your driving test – Some may say to spend more time behind the wheel as practise for your practical test, whereas others will recommend to cram for your Theory instead – All we know is that everyone is different, and so we all learn differently!

For some, getting a mass of theory knowledge under your belt is vital to ensuring practical success, but there are also those of us that can’t wait to get behind the wheel and start putting those theory skills into action. Whatever the best way is for you, we wish you the best of luck!

Safe driving from Britannia!

Take heed when leaving your vehicle unattended, whether it’s outside the supermarket, in the middle of the countryside or on your driveway. It’s best to assume that car thieves operate in all areas, so keeping valuables out of sight is number one priority. Such possessions may include your sat nav, money, bags of shopping, house keys or jewellery. Ensure the windows are up and all doors of the vehicle are securely locked.

It’s unfortunate that there are still hot wirers about, but what good is a running engine if the thief can’t steer? A stop lock is an effective form of security as it not only prevents the steering wheel from turning, but it deters thieves from smashing your windows. They’re pretty reasonably priced and easy to find in most motor stores.

Safe driving from Britannia!

Maintaining the correct air pressure, regularly checking tread depth and keeping an eye out for external damage are all essential factors of keeping your tyres in good nick! Try to avoid skidding and swerving, and if you regularly travel long distance, it’s probably wise to carry out the above checks more often.

Say you’re driving along and realise or think you have a flat tyre – oh no! First things first: keep calm, find a safe place to pull over and check it out. Remember to turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers, apply your handbrake so as to minimise the possibility of your car rolling, and switch off the engine. A lot of cars nowadays come with a puncture repair kit, which might save you from having to change the tyre. If not though, be sure you know how to do this before going for a drive on your own, otherwise you’ll need to contact the rescue team!

Safe driving from Britannia!

Many drivers loathe the two-wheeled commuter with a fiery passion, and if you’re one of them, here’s what you need to remember: cyclists are people just like you, trying to get somewhere with as little inconvenience as possible. As fellow road users, we should all get along and avoid aggravating one another!

When overtaking a cyclist, be sure to give them plenty of room so as not to unnerve them or in case they unexpectedly swerve. On approaching a queue, be mindful and respectful of cyclists and don’t cut them up, thus preventing them from passing by. Not only are you holding them up by doing this, you might even encourage them to mount the footpath, the results of which could be dangerous.

Safe driving from Britannia!

No one likes a smart aleck – and worst of all is the notorious know-it-all in the seat next to or behind you, thinking they know when is the right time to notch up a gear or give way to fellow motorists. Don’t lose your cool or doubt your own capabilities to make decisions – let them have their say, but remember that as the driver, your actions are ultimately down to you and you only.

The same applies vice versa: if you are the one dishing out pointers and can’t resist the urge to lean across and hit the horn, try exercising a little diplomacy! Driving can be a stressful business full of conflict, split-second decisions and close shaves, so that last thing your driver wants is further hindrance to their concentration! Stay calm, have a little faith and assume that whoever is behind the wheel knows what’s best for them and for their passengers.

Safe driving from Britannia!

Don’t let those dreaded cones and temporary traffic lights grind your gears. If you aren’t the most patient of drivers, or are in a hurry, why not take an alternative route? You may well find a better way to work that saves on fuel, mileage or precious time. Most importantly, be respectful and understanding – with all the traffic on the roads these days, their surfaces take the brunt and will inevitably require maintenance!

Don’t put lives at risk by exceeding the temporary speed limit when passing roadworks either. Having to drive slower might well cause delays, so keep regularly updated on what roadworks are where, and set off earlier to reduce the likelihood of road rage and/or anxiety of being late!

Safe driving from Britannia!