The Hazard Perception Test has won an award for Road Safety. Research has showed that the Hazard Perception Test is associated with a fall in novice driver collisions.

Since its introduction in 2002, it has been praised by many people for its effectiveness and focus on keeping Britain’s new drivers vigilant and safety aware.

The test forms the second part of the theory test and contains a series of one-minute video clips showing potential road hazards. The learner must identify the developing hazards and the faster they are identified, the higher the learner scores. The clips cannot be repeated. This closely mirrors scenarios on the road – requiring quick identification of developing hazards and that a motorist does not have a second chance with hazards on the road.

Research by the DVSA has shown that hazard perception training and testing could account for an 11% reduction in accidents, potentially saving hundreds of lives every year. The test is therefore effective at increasing the safety on Britain’s roads and must be praised.

What are your thoughts on this article? Send your views to Britannia Driving School by using the comments link below:

It is often assumed that learning to drive must be something completed when 17 or 18 and at the latest in your 20s. This is not the case.

More and more people are leaving learning to drive until later in life due to lack of funds to finance not only lessons but the two tests that must be taken. And with the practical test getting harder, it is more and more common for people to fail on their first attempt, adding to the cost.

And well, once you’ve already delayed the learning to drive process, it becomes even more convenient to put it off, especially if you live in an area blessed with excellent transport links.

However, what if you move to an area without excellent transport links, or are required by a job to have a driver’s licence? There are many limitations to not having a driving licence, and the fact that you have already put it off for a number of years should not be an excuse.

Of course the prospect could be daunting, with figures suggesting pass rates go down the older you get. At Britannia Driving School, we tailor lessons specifically to the individual – you can request a female instructor, a mature instructor, or even decide to take automatic lessons rather than manual.

It really shouldn’t be something that you put off – we recently had a fantastic pass from 72-year-old Dennis Griffin, which just shows that it really is never too late to learn!

So what are you waiting for? Book your first lesson for only £10.50!

What are your thoughts on this article? Send your views to Britannia Driving School by using the comments link below:

The DVLA is warning motorists that posting images of your driving licence on social media websites can put you at a high risk of identity fraud.

The Agency has been made aware of instances where fraudsters have been using pictures of genuine driving licences that have been posted on social media websites, as part of an advert selling fake driving licences.

By posting pictures of their licences online, motorists are providing the fraudsters with enough personal information to commit identity fraud. This gives fraudsters the opportunity to open bank accounts, obtain loans, credit cards and good in their name and affect their personal finances until the matter is resolved.

The main culprits of this are young, excited drivers that have just received their full driving licences but all motorists must ensure that they do not post any personal details on social media websites to prevent compromising their identity.

What are your thoughts on this article? Send your views to Britannia Driving School by using the comments link below:

A fundamental part of driving is forward planning and awareness. It is also what is assessed during the hazard perception section of the theory test. You should follow these steps:

– Scan along the road, looking out for all road users, checking rear-view and door mirrors for signs of vehicles. Get into the habit of doing this constantly when you’re driving, after some time it will become second nature and you won’t even need to make a conscious effort to do this. When you do this, you will need to take into account right turning traffic, road signs/markings, prohibited areas such as bus lanes, and all road users in both directions; junctions; intersections; crossings and other hazards.

– When changing direction or negotiating an obstruction, always apply the MSPSL routine. Do this in good time. If you are overtaking, is there a need? Is it legal? Is it safe? Is it necessary? Is it possible? If you can answer yes to all these questions, then you can commence the manoeuvre.

– When changing lanes, you should pay particular attention to vehicles in your destination lane. Are they holding back?

– Anticipate other road users, giving them adequate clearance. Also display a tolerant attitude to other road users.

– Make allowances for the weather, use the wipers, demisters and lights if applicable. Where it is sunny, make use of the sun visor and wear sunglasses.

Safe Driving from Britannia!

What are your thoughts on this article? Send your views to Britannia Driving School by using the comments link below:

Anyone who has learnt to drive, knows the joy once you pass your practical test. But it doesn’t end there. In fact, as a new driver you now need to learn to become an experienced driver:

Of course, you need to keep driving. There is no point in obtaining a full licence if you are not going to drive. The Safety Code for New Drivers issued by the government will help you drive safely in your first year. The guidance includes warning you not to drive between midnight and 6am as this is the most dangerous time to drive and not speeding or driving under the influence of drink and drugs. As a new driver, you will want to drive around with friends but you must make sure that you don’t let passengers distract you especially as a new driver.

Importantly, you must make sure you are insured to drive. Although insurance is expensive as a new driver, it is an offence to drive without it. If you accumulate more than six penalty points within two years of passing your test, you will lose your licence and will have to go through the whole process of passing both test again. And as a new driver, you would not want to risk that after all the effort you have put in!

It is also a good idea to take some lessons on the motorway and in difficult conditions. Driving on the motorway can be a daunting experience and so going on the motorway for the first time in an instructor car is the safest and easiest way to do so. The Pass Plus course would give you the chance to have motorway lessons and practice driving in difficult conditions such as in the evening. It could also save you money on your car insurance!

So, congratulations on passing your driving test but make sure you remember these points to start you off as a new driver! Let us know your thoughts by using the comments link below:

Safe driving from Britannia!