Author Archives: Kerry Smith

Tips For Driving In Ice Or Snow Conditions

 

This time of the year is when the weather really takes a turn for the worst and roads can become icy. Learning to drive on roads that are icy can be tricky, when the ice becomes slippery it can cause accidents. Its easy to loose control on icy roads as steering wheels may also be more stiff due to the cold weather.

So what can you do to combat icy roads?

  • When weather conditions are particularly bad such as ice or snow, the first question you should as yourself is ” Do i need to make this journey? ” If the roads are very icy.

 

  • Plan your journey, give yourself plenty of time to get where your going as rushing whilst driving on slippery roads is very dangerous. Also check weather reports before heading out.

 

 

  • Make sure your vehicle is de iced and no snow or ice remains on the roof of your vehicle and that your lights and license plate are completely clear.

 

  • Check your tyre tread at regularly, the legal limit is 1.6mm, during snowy and icy conditions it would be a good idea to change them whenthe depth wears down to 2.5/3mm. You could also consider changing to winter tyres.

 

  • Keeping your ‘ coolant reservoir ‘ topped up with Anti Freeze, it prevents the water in your engines cooling system from freezing. Antifreeze comes in various formulas, and these should not be mixed with each other. Your vehicle handbook will tell you what type of antifreeze you need, and the correct ratio of water and antifreeze to put in your radiator. (You can also buy ready-mixed antifreeze for greater convenience.) You’ll find the ‘coolant reservoir’ under the bonnet – but, again, check your handbook for the exact location. Once you have a bottle of correctly mixed antifreeze, pour it into the reservoir, up to (and no higher than) the ‘maximum’ level marking.

 

  • Once your out on the road, Keep in mind the tyres will no grip wont be as effective as normal, so allow yourself extra room between your vehicle and the one in front.

 

  • Be on the look out for patches of ice and try to avoid them if possible, or drive carefully and as slow as safely possible.

 

  • Main roads should be clearer than rural roads which could have a heavy build up of snow and ice, so make sure you are checking up ahead.

 

Rebecca at Britannia says: If you feel unsafe at any point whilst driving, or feel like the conditions are too dangerous then always pull over when safe and take a moment to consider if you should continue.

 

 

 

How Many Driving Lessons Will I Need?

 

 

Learning to drive is a very exciting time, once you have your provisional license you are ready to book in professional driving lessons!

But how many will i need? Is a regular question we get asked here at Britannia Driving School. There isn’t actual set amount as each pupil is different and learns at different speeds. In this blog we will delve into the average number of lessons needed to pass your test and our intensive driving courses we offer.

As we stated above there is no set amount of lessons legally required in order to pass your test, however on average a learner needs 20 hrs of practice and approximately 45 hrs of driving. Every learner is different so for instance some may take 40 hrs and some may take 70. It really doesn’t matter, what matters is that when it come to taking your practical driving test and passing you are a confident and safe driver.

Choosing an instructor is a crucial part of it, here at Britannia all our driving instructors are fully approved by the DVSA.

Another thing to consider is passing your theory test as soon as you feel ready, this will give you a chance to book your practical driving well in advance. There is at the moment a backlog in regards to booking tests, so if you are able to start looking or use our test booking service we can help you book a test.

An intensive Driving Course gives you the opportunity to do a bulk amount of lessons in a shorter amount of time. Here is our intensive course information:

 

15 Hours
£494.25
• 2 hours intensive driving tuition a day for 6 days
• 3 hours for the day of the test
• This intensive course is suitable for those who have recently failed a driving test and just require a brush up (Failed with less than 7 minors)
21 Hours
£691.95
• 3 hours intensive driving tuition a day for 6 days
• 3 hours for the day of the test
• This intensive course is suitable for those who have recently failed a driving test and just require a brush up (Failed with more than 7 minors)
27 Hours
£889.65
• 4 hours intensive driving tuition a day for 6 days
• 3 hours for the day of the test
• This intensive driving course is suitable for those nearing test standard
39 Hours
£1,285.05
• 6 hours intensive driving tuition a day for 6 days
• 3 hours for the day of the test
• This intensive driving course is designed for the complete beginner. Most people will achieve a high standard of driving and will normally be ready for their practical driving test after completing this course which covers the whole DSA syllabus.

With an intensive course we will book you a test in for straight after your intensive course finishes. With the backlog being taken into account we do need notice in advance to be able to secure a test date and also make sure the instructor is free for the duration of the course and of course the test.

Combating driving through tunnel fears

 

 

Gephyrophobia is the fear of crossing bridges while claustrophobia is the fear of enclosed spaces. Perhaps the fear of driving through a tunnel is a combination of both. Overcoming this fear will help you to gain control of your life and avoid accidents or risky driving maneuvers!

How do you know that tunnels are causing you anxiety? Imagine that you’re driving down the road beneath the open sky. You feel relaxed but alert and know that you have full control over your vehicle. However, all of that begins to change as you approach an oncoming tunnel.

Tunnel anxiety may manifest physically. You might feel shortness of breath, an increased heart rate, and it may even feel like your eyes are struggling to focus. Your hands may begin to shake or your body temperature may increase.

In this blog we will delve into driving through tunnel phobias, we will be looking at safety tips in case of an emergency and how to stay calm.Driving through tunnels can cause anxiety for some drivers, the long narrow road along with the darkness can cause panic.

Is driving through a tunnel safe?

Before we get into the in’s and out’s of overcoming your fear, let’s address the safety aspect. Perhaps you worry that your safety levels decrease once you enter a tunnel.

In actuality, statistics reveal that fewer accidents occur inside of tunnels than they do on the open road. It’s not entirely clear why this is the case but may have to do with drivers’ heightened alertness that is brought on by driving through a dark, enclosed space. It may also be that the discouragement of changing lanes or abruptly changing speeds in a tunnel could also contribute to a low accident rate.

In other words, you have little to fear when driving in a tunnel. Remembering this could be an important part of overcoming your tunnel anxiety!

 

Try some grounding techniques such as deep breathing: draw a deep breathe in through your nose and let it out slowly though your nose. Another relaxation technique is to tense your muscles (safely whilst driving), try tensing your muscles tight and then slowly releasing which sends a signal to your brain that the coast is clear!

Driving through tunnels safely :

  • Make sure you get in the lane you need early
  • Make sure your lights are on, even on the sunniest of days won’t affect the dark tunnel
  • Watch out for speed limit changes as you approach the tunnel, so stay vigilant as you approach and enter the tunnel
  • Having the radio tuned into local traffic news will help you be aware of any issues regarding the tunnel before you enter it.

Once you are in the tunnel :

  • Make sure to keep plenty of distance between your vehicle and other road users, this will allow you time to react accordingly to any problems that arise
  • If you become anxious just remind yourself that driving through the tunnel is only a very small part of your journey, Focus of visualizing yourself emerging safely out the other side of the tunnel.

Traffic in the tunnel :

  • Allow space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front
  • Turn your engine off if traffic comes to a standstill
  • Never leave your vehicle unless there is an emergency

If you break down in the tunnel :

  • Pull over to the left
  • Switch on your hazard lights
  • Turn off your engine
  • Use an emergency telephone to call for help

Kerry at Britannia says:

I used to have a fear of driving through tunnels, I used to feel a sensation of not being able to breathe etc. Since trying these tips i have managed to overcome my fears and can now drive stress free through tunnels and enjoy my drive.

 

 

New permit proposal to drive across British city

Drivers may soon need a permit to drive through Oxford if drastic new plans go ahead. The strict plans have been slated by motorists, who would be capped at just 100 days of travel through the city a year. Oxfordshire county council proposes to keep track of city residents through automatic number plate recognition. Up to three permits will be issued per household, only residents within Oxford will be able to apply for one.

The limits would run between 7am-7pm, £70 fines will be issued for motorists without a permit. This rule would apply to all vehicles except buses, coaches, vans, lorries, emergency services, blue badge holders and care workers.

 

 

 

The council plans to make a decision whether to implement the permits next month. This has caused quite a stir amongst motorists who have branded the idea “ridiculous”.But Robin Tucker, the chair of Coalition for Healthy Streets and Active Travel, recently defended the councils plans. He told the BBC ” Currently our buses are slower than a horse and cart, our city doesn’t feel safe enough to get around. ”

“We need to see measures including traffic filters, a clean air zone and ways to encourage people away from commuting by car so we can all move freely and get where we want to go.”

The county council’s website says the plans are “designed to reduce traffic, make bus journeys faster and make walking and cycling safer.

“When they are operating, private cars will not be allowed through the traffic filters without a permit.”

Councillor Duncan Enright, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Travel and Development Strategy, said the filters will aim “to reduce the need to travel in private cars and make walking, cycling and public transport the natural first choice.”

Respondents were also asked about plans to expand the Zero Emissions Zone, and 69% were in favour, with 23% against.

Rebecca at Britannia said:

” Permits can help reduce traffic flow and help residents move more freely around there home town, but also could be problematic for other road users. I’m sure whatever decision is made it wont be made lightly and all motorists will be considered.

 

 

Debunking Myths About Black Box Insurance For Young Drivers

Telematics, also known as smart box or black box insurance policies, are a great way for young drivers to get cheaper first time driver cover for their cars.

Block box policies help insurance companies determine the premium on how you drive as an individual rather than going by how your peer group drives. Young drivers who consistently drive safely and always abiding the speed limits etc can benefit from discounts and look at getting cheaper insurance.

But unfortunately there is a lot of myths and misconceptions about what would happen if you get a black box installed in your car, so here we will help you debunk some common myths:

  • Will I Need To Get The Black Box Fitted By An Engineer? :

The black box fits easily inside of your windscreen, which you can easily do yourself. There is no need for expert knowledge as there is clear instructions of how and where to position it.

  • Once Its Fitted Will My Telematics Data Be Shared? :

Your telematics data will remain confidential between you and your insurer. Strict data protection laws prohibit car insurance providers from sharing information gathered about your driving with third parties, including rival insurers or any other companies. They also won’t hand over detail about your driving to the police unless they’re required to do so by law, such as if a police inquiry is launched following a serious crime or traffic accident.

    • If I Break The Speed Limit Will The Police Be Alerted? :

If you do break the speed limit you will receive negative driving scores which may consequentially impact on the cost of your next premium, but the police will definitely not be informed. If the police require that information they  must request it officially and back up there claim with a warrant type document. In extreme cases of speeding with black box insurance, where your speed is considered to be dangerous, insurers will usually get in touch to let you know that your speed is unacceptable

  • Does The Black Box Listen In On Conversations? :

The black box can hear you in your car if you press the claim notification button, but they will only want to listen into the car if you are in trouble or to help guide you through an accident scenario.

  • The Black Box Policy Will Prohibit Me? :

Some black box policies do put a curfew on night-time driving and a limit on your mileage. However there are some black box polices who do not, Adrian Flux black box doesn’t limit night time driving as he recognizes that some people need to drive at night for work etc.

  • If I Drive Fast Or Brake Aggressively Will My Premium Go Up? :

You won’t be penalised for one-off examples of poor driving but if you show a consistent record of it your renewal premium will rise, but on the other hand if you consistently drive safely on your record your premium will fall.

Frank at Britannia says: Black boxes are a great way for young drivers to save money on there insurance providing they drive safely and stick to the rules.

10 Driving Test Faults Tips

 

There are many faults that could cause you to fail your practical driving test, but being aware of the top 10 most common reasons for failing will give you a fighting chance to pass and reach your goal of obtaining that driving license!

1. Observation At Junctions :

Instead of fixing your eyes directly in front of you practice ‘eye scanning’ making sure to look in al your mirrors and all around you. Observing other road users especially at junctions paying attention to who has the right of way then you can wait for an appropriate moment to pull into a gap safely.

2. Mirrors :

Following on from number 1, ‘eye scanning’ can come into play for this one to. You need to be aware of whats going on all around you, especially before changing direction. Checking all your mirrors and always make sure you are checking your blind spot before making any change of direction. Not checking your blind spot during a critical time is game over and instant fail!

3. Poor Steering :

In order to pass your driving test steering should be second nature to you and come naturally and at ease, if its not take extra lessons before your test and concentrate on this. The push pull method is the best under most circumstances, but the most crucial thing is to remain in control of the car’s direction at all times.

4. Turning Right At Junctions :

Always remember your mirror, signal, position, speed and look (MSPSL). Wait at junctions so you can judge the speed of oncoming traffic and only make the turn once you are completely sure it is 100% safe to do so.

5. Failing To Respond To Road Signs :

Again ‘eye scanning’ is used for this one, making sure to be constantly on the look out for road signs and understanding the information and acting upon it appropriately. Refer back to your theory knowledge when dealing with road signs.

 

 

 

6. Reverse Parking :

Reverse parking requires accuracy and control, so take your time and make sure you are checking for pedestrians and the cars around you to park safely and adequately.

7. Failing To Move Off Safely :

Refer back to number 4, using thee MSPSL enhances your chances of pulling away safely and also makes other road users aware of your intentions.

8 . Poor Positioning :

Staying within your lane unless you are changing lanes or pulling out to over takes. Don’t let the car wander towards the lane markings, always be cautious when over taking a cyclist and leave a cars width of space.

9 . Failing To Move Off Under Control :

Keeping the car under control at all times is crucial. Practice pulling away smoothly whilst gently accelerating making sure to observe the speed limit at all times, as going over the speed limit is an instant fail.

10 . Responding To Traffic Lights :

Be aware of traffic lights, slow down when you approach them watching the lights and be ready for them to change. Be ready when they turn amber but don’t move until they are green.

 

Kerry at Britannia said :

Always do your research regarding common test faults and listen to your instructor for any tips or advice, always voice any concerns or weaknesses you fell you may have. Make sure to book in lessons leading up to your test to enhance your chances of passing.

 

 

 

Driving test top tips to help you pass first time!

 

Is your driving test date nearing? Are you feeling those nerves? Feeling nervous is completely normal but there is ways you can help make yourself feel more at ease is to be prepared!

Use our top tips to help you stay calm on your big day:

Be On Time :

Its a pretty obvious one but being punctual is a very important starting point, arriving late puts you at risk of missing your slot completely or arriving late feeling rushed and overwhelmed.

Aim to arrive 10/15 minutes early in order for you to go over any notes and have a warm drink to sit and gather your thoughts.

Make sure the night before you get a good night sleep, aim to go to bed early to avoid any unnecessary stress or anxiety.

 

  • Have A Lesson On The Day Of The Test :

Our day of test package includes a lesson on the day of the test, so if we are taking you to test our instructors will take you out on a lesson before your test. But arranging a lesson for the day before if its not possible to do the day of the test would be very helpful as that way you can go over any maneuvers or get clarifications on any last minute questions you have.

A lesson will also put you in the right frame of mind for driving, We would also recommend 2 hourly lessons in the weeks leading up to your test.

 

  • Use Your Instructors Car :

Taking your test in a car you feel comfortable and used to will enhance your chances of passing first time.

It will be up to the examiners’ standard plus be helpful to you as it will have additional mirrors.

 

  • Take Your Instructor Along For Reassurance :

It is not compulsory but if you have a good rapport and your instructor it can boost your confidence and help you to feel at ease having them sit in on the test.

In worst case if you do fail they will be able to pick up on the things which made you fail and give you some guidance on follow up lessons on how no to make the same mistakes as-well as some constructive criticism.

 

  • Be Vocal :

Don’t be scared to be vocal with the examiner, if you don’t hear something clearly or you don’t understand something ask the examiner to repeat it.

 

  • Don’t Think The Worst :

Don’t assume you have failed, if you make a mistake remember you are allowed up to 14 minors, stay positive and assume you are going to pass.

Try not to let mistakes play on your mind or you run the risk of making more.

 

  • Know Your Test Routes :

Its impossible to know where you will be directed on the day of your test or what traffic or hazards will occur on the day.

Once you’ve booked your test centre, you can ask your instructor to cover the test routes and show you all the possible routes for the day of the test. A mixture of major roads and minor roads is important if you want to avoid any nasty surprises on the day.

 

 

  • Learn To Drive In All Weather Conditions :

Be prepared for all different weather conditions, We can all hope for sunny and dry conditions but living in the UK we can be sure the weather has a mind of its own so be sure to be confident in all weathers.

 

  • Take Your Instructors Advice :

After having hours of lessons with your instructor they will have a pretty good idea of if you are test ready, so listen to their advice. They will also be able to help you concentrate on you weak spots leading up to the test and concentrate on going over things that you may be worried about so always vocalize any concerns or worries you have.

 

  • Refresh Your Memory :

It may have been sometime since you took your theory test so go over your copy of the highway code and road sign, also checking up on the DVLA standards of driving just in case they have changed or updated.

 

  • Don’t Rush :

It is understandable to feel like you want to get on the road as quickly as possible but rushing to take your test when you may not be ready could end up in knocking your confidence and wasting your money. Its best to wait until your instructor has given you the green light and most importantly you feel 100% ready and confident!

 

Johnny who covers the SE areas at Britannia Driving School says:

Driving test nerves are very normal, but with help of our top tips hopefully we can help you stay calm and focused on the end goal! The recent backlogs with regarding tests have made people rush to book the first test they can get but like our article states it is important to communicate with your instructor and wait until you are ready even if it means waiting for a test. Taking those extra lessons whilst you wait could make all the difference between you passing and failing! Good luck!

Ten ways you could be fined

Crossing the line could now potentially cost you a fortune, There has been recent news reports of a driver being fined £100 when his bumper overhung a parking space even though his wheels are well inside the spot. So it begs the question .. do you really know the highway code? The highway code has been updated in recent years and most recently January 22. So here are some of the changes:

  • Think inside the box – Stopping your vehicle beyond the white line of the box intended for cyclists could leave you with a £100 fine plus three penalty points.
  • Improper use of the horn – honking your horn unless in an emergency could come with a £1000 fine, Drivers should also not use the horn between 11.30-7am in residential areas
  • Keep it clean – Your number plate should be squeaky clean so it readable in order to be read by Automatic number plate recognition – ANPR – devices. The maximum fine is £1000.

 

  • Traffic facing – One of the least known laws of the road is that you should facing the oncoming traffic unless in a recognised parking space at night because other users won’t be able to see your rear reflectors.
  • Don’t be a flasher – Flashing your lights to let another driver out or say thank you but you risk a £1,000 fine, as it should only be done to let other road users know you are there.
  • No pavement parking – Inside London parking on the pavement could park you with a £70 fine, outside the capital states you “should” not do it rather than “must” not.
  • Keeping mum – Kids under 12 or 4ft 4in in height must use a car seat, the penalty can reach up to £500.
  • Seeing clear – Your windscreen must be clear, not wiping off snow could lead you snowed under with a £100 fine.

‘Stealth’ speed limit change

 

Speed limit rules have changed in whats being described as a ‘stealth’ move that could leave drivers with hefty fines. The met police have changed its stance on the speed tolerance by 1mph, Triggering a reported 259 percent increase in drivers who will be held accountable for breaking the speed limit.

Driving at any amount over the speed limit is illegal but Police guidelines previously stated  that drivers should be giving some leeway Guidelines suggested that drivers wouldn’t face a fine unless they broke the speed limit by 10 percent plus 3mph. Under previous blanket guidelines you could drive 25mph in a 20mph zone before facing further action, now the leeway has been decreased by 1mph which will land motorists with a fixed penalty or being sent on a speed awareness course.

 

Approximately 347,000 drivers were warned they could be prosecuted for speeding in the first 6 months of 2022, this compares to the lower figure of 97,000 in the second half of 2021.

Rebecca at Britannia says: ” Drivers should always be cautious and obey the speed limit, the speed limit is there for a reason and helps to keep all drivers and pedestrians safe.”

 

 

New strict rules may be forced upon Cyclists

Highway Code revised: Cyclists given priority in new rules as drivers ordered to keep 1.5-metres distance when overtaking | UK News | Sky NewsThe Mirror initiates this discussion, presenting the idea that Cyclists may need to employ number plates upon their bikes and may also be required to have insurance under new road laws currently being considered by Government. This would ensure a whole new dimension of cycling will be ushered in as a cyclist can no longer just sporadically decide to ride their bike, many factors must be considered, similar to the factors a driver must consider before using their vehicle.

Recent changes to the highway code emphasis the importance of making motorists more aware of cyclists and also increasing their safety. This highlights the attempt to alter the entire road and ensure the safety of all users including cyclists. In the same breath it must also be ensured that cyclists are safe as they can also reach dangerous speeds which could cause damage to others if negligence is presence. The transport secretary Grant Shapps is pushing for a death by Cycling law to be introduced which will ensure a gap in the law is closed which previously only allowed a Cyclist to be jailed for two years if they killed a pedestrian.

Throughout the country more cycling lanes have been introduced which coincides with the attempt to ensure the safety of all road users. Furthermore, with an increase in 20MPH zones there has been a shift to ensure all road users respect the speed limits including cyclists. The Daily mail highlights that cyclists may be given points or fines for speeding or jumping red lights. This will ensure a more transparent and equal road, ultimately promoting safety for all.

Charlie from Britannia purports that these possible changes could benefit the road overall and ensure that responsibility is present. For instance many cyclists may be reckless due to the fact many cyclists can escape liability due to lacking a number plates, and also due to the less strict rules. The only outcome of these changes is less accidents and a more safe road for all users, which is a huge goal for any transport system to strive for.