Add named drivers to your policy
You may save on premiums by adding an older driver
Adding named drivers to your policy can reduce premiums, particularly if they are older and more experienced than you.
If the car is to be insured in your name, transfer the car into your name too, as many insurers will not provide cover unless the main driver of the car is also the owner.
Increase the excess
Consider increasing the excess to save money on premiums. Be realistic, though – can you really afford a £600 excess after an accident?
Consider going for third-party insurance
Third-party, fire and theft cover may be cheaper for low-value cars, but fully comprehensive insurance can work out cheaper for more expensive cars.
Add yourself to an existing policy
If you occasionally use someone else's car, consider adding yourself to their existing insurance policy. Some insurers, including Quinn Direct and Direct Line, allow named drivers to earn their own no-claims discount.
It may be tempting to put the policy in someone else's name – one of your parents, for example – with you as the named driver. But if you're actually the main driver, this is known as ‘fronting’ and is illegal.
Insurers are increasingly tracing fronted policies. If you’re found out, the insurer may refuse to pay out in the case of an accident and may even pursue legal action for fraud.
Look at policies with certain restrictions
More Than’s DriveTime offers cheaper premiums in exchange for not driving between 11pm and 6am.
According to the Association of British Insurers, 50% of serious or fatal accidents among under-21s happen at night.
Avoid modifications
Modifications can make your insurance more expensive
Anything that increases the value, performance and desirability of your car to thieves is likely to boost your insurance premium.
Insurers will judge modifications differently, so shop around for the best deal if your car has already been altered from the factory specification.
Keep your car safe
As with all policies, premiums for young drivers are affected by where you live and where the car is kept.
Parking in a secure location, such as a garage or behind gates, can have a drastic impact on insurance bills. Fitting car security features, such as a Thatcham-rated alarm, is also useful.
What about insurance for older drivers?
Many insurers cover drivers aged 80 and older. To find our more, see the Which? guide to car insurance for older drivers.
Monday, 16 May 2011
Tuesday, 5 April 2011
Manuel or Automatic
Dont forget that if it gets to hard in manual you can change over to Automatic, but when you pass in Auto you can only drive Auto. When you are learning to drive you wiil sometimes have a bad day, DONT WORRY its normal, just keep up the practice. Have a good Driving day.
Friday, 7 January 2011
Tuesday, 16 November 2010
Failing the Driving Test is Avoidable
Collisions are sometimes unavoidable, the good news is it’s unlikely to happen on your driving test.
The DSA published a list of reasons why candidates fail the Driving Test, it could happen to you. The best way to avoid a failure is to be sure you are ready and have the approval of your Driving Instructor
Below are the Top 10 reasons:
1. Observation at Junctions. This is very simply, ineffective observation and judgement at any form of junction.
ADVICE: Plan ahead, check for an open or closed junction. Use all of your mirrors, make blind spot checks and check at least twice in each direction before emerging. If it’s busy, keep looking and don’t stare in one direction for too long.
2. Reverse Parking. Again ineffective observation or a lack of accuracy when completing either parking exercise.
ADVICE: Be sure you know how to park in the first place. Every time you park it should look and feel the same every time. Always check blind spots and mirrors first and if possible have both your windows open a few centimetres allowing your to hear hear if any other road users are approaching. Reverse slowly ensuring you’re following your techniques and any reference points you may know of. It’s easy to get into a fluster if other road users appear, so try and keep your cool at all times.
3. Use of Mirrors. It may seem like common sense but not checking or not acting on the information you see in your mirrors are a big reason for failure.
ADVICE: Look and remember what you see in your mirrors, not only does it help with your planning ahead, for example changing lane and before you brake or signal, you’ll be aware of the driver behind and possible intended actions. On average you should be checking your mirrors every 5-7 seconds while driving. Make sure you use your mirrors in pairs at all times.
4. Reversing around a corner. Again ineffective observation or a lack of accuracy when completing this exercise.
ADVICE: Success can only be achieved be completing the manoeuvre slowly. Often candidates swing wide through ineffective observation and using a little too much speed. Guard your use of speed well. Use both your mirrors and blind spot checks to help yourself understand your surrounding environment and your movements. If another road user passes by you while you’re still moving, it’s likely you will fail through not “giving way” to other road users, a common reason for the “observation fail”.
5. Incorrect use of signals. In other words not cancelling or giving misleading signals.
ADVICE: If you were lost and someone gave you incorrect directions, you may become annoyed or frustrated. This is how other road users can feel if you don’t “communicate” correctly while you are driving. Always think and look to see if your signal is both appropriate and correct for the circumstances. If you leave your signal on, not only can it be misleading but it can be dangerous for other drivers, they may pull out in front of you thinking you are going elsewhere.
6. Moving away safely. This is a simple case of ineffective observations.
ADVICE: Your instructor will be training you to look over your shoulder before moving off, this is called a lifesaver check. It’s called a lifesaver check for a reason! If you fail to check 360* before moving off it’s likely you will miss something, that day will likely be your driving test day resulting in a fail. ALWAYS check over your blind spot where traffic could appear from.
7. Incorrect positioning on the road. Driving Examiners look for lane discipline at roundabouts or on bends.
ADVICE: Understand what lane discipline is…the ability to stay in lane in given circumstances, to follow a direction or route without moving out of position causing other vehicles to change speed or position. Very oftan candidates will cross over a white line on a roundabout trying to make a straight-on route, more oftan than not this can happen where markings are poor. Remember other road users will be around you at all times, they will need space to move around. Look ahead, curve the vehicle around a roundabout and stay in lane. As a driver you don’t have control over other peoples actions so you cannot assume you’ll understand fully where they may move to next.
8. Lack of steering control. Unfortunately steering too early or leaving it too late is a worrying reason for failure.
ADVICE: When the most commonly used item in the car used is the steering wheel, you wonder why this happens. More oftan than not it may result from ineffective observation rather than the candidate not knowing how to use it. The basic rule to remember is “the hands follow the eyes”. This fundamental rule is worthwhile remembering in all situations, even those you feel well in control of. Don’t allow yourself to become distracted, nothing will be more important than you and other peoples safety when you drive a car.
9. Incorrect positioning to turn right. This usually occurs when turning right at junctions and from one way streets.
ADVICE: When emerging from a one way street, remember you can position well to the right or left hand side as no one should be turning into the road you are emerging from. It will be a No Entry for other road users. If you aren’t sure then look at the road markings at the junction edge, they will be the thick double dotted lines you’re probably very familiar with. These will extend right the way across the junction as opposed to half of it like you see at the regular Give Way junctions.
10. Inappropriate speed – Not so much for travelling too fast but travelling too slowly or being hesitant.
ADVICE: You will no doubt be aware of the danger of travelling too fast, but travelling too slowly can be just as dangerous. You must know what the speed limit is, NEVER break it and remember also, it’s not a target. If it isn’t safe to use the speed limit then you won’t need to. Hesitancy usually occurs at junctions where candidates take a little too long to emerge. You may have been a pedestrian for many years and so should have a good perception of speed and distance. If you can walk across a lane of traffic you could probably drive across it. Other references exist but ultimately paying a good deal of attention will help. If it is really, really busy, you will just have to wait for the opportunity to arise, don’t feel because you have been there for ages that you must start interrupting the flow of traffic. You can only emerge when it’s safe.
Are you ready?
Those who pass their driving test have had, on average, about 45 hours of professional training, combined with 22 hours of private practice (DSA figures).
Candidates who combine professional instruction with private practice are also more successful on the test.
The UK national current pass rate is only 45%. For first time candidates, it’s even lower.
The DSA published a list of reasons why candidates fail the Driving Test, it could happen to you. The best way to avoid a failure is to be sure you are ready and have the approval of your Driving Instructor
Below are the Top 10 reasons:
1. Observation at Junctions. This is very simply, ineffective observation and judgement at any form of junction.
ADVICE: Plan ahead, check for an open or closed junction. Use all of your mirrors, make blind spot checks and check at least twice in each direction before emerging. If it’s busy, keep looking and don’t stare in one direction for too long.
2. Reverse Parking. Again ineffective observation or a lack of accuracy when completing either parking exercise.
ADVICE: Be sure you know how to park in the first place. Every time you park it should look and feel the same every time. Always check blind spots and mirrors first and if possible have both your windows open a few centimetres allowing your to hear hear if any other road users are approaching. Reverse slowly ensuring you’re following your techniques and any reference points you may know of. It’s easy to get into a fluster if other road users appear, so try and keep your cool at all times.
3. Use of Mirrors. It may seem like common sense but not checking or not acting on the information you see in your mirrors are a big reason for failure.
ADVICE: Look and remember what you see in your mirrors, not only does it help with your planning ahead, for example changing lane and before you brake or signal, you’ll be aware of the driver behind and possible intended actions. On average you should be checking your mirrors every 5-7 seconds while driving. Make sure you use your mirrors in pairs at all times.
4. Reversing around a corner. Again ineffective observation or a lack of accuracy when completing this exercise.
ADVICE: Success can only be achieved be completing the manoeuvre slowly. Often candidates swing wide through ineffective observation and using a little too much speed. Guard your use of speed well. Use both your mirrors and blind spot checks to help yourself understand your surrounding environment and your movements. If another road user passes by you while you’re still moving, it’s likely you will fail through not “giving way” to other road users, a common reason for the “observation fail”.
5. Incorrect use of signals. In other words not cancelling or giving misleading signals.
ADVICE: If you were lost and someone gave you incorrect directions, you may become annoyed or frustrated. This is how other road users can feel if you don’t “communicate” correctly while you are driving. Always think and look to see if your signal is both appropriate and correct for the circumstances. If you leave your signal on, not only can it be misleading but it can be dangerous for other drivers, they may pull out in front of you thinking you are going elsewhere.
6. Moving away safely. This is a simple case of ineffective observations.
ADVICE: Your instructor will be training you to look over your shoulder before moving off, this is called a lifesaver check. It’s called a lifesaver check for a reason! If you fail to check 360* before moving off it’s likely you will miss something, that day will likely be your driving test day resulting in a fail. ALWAYS check over your blind spot where traffic could appear from.
7. Incorrect positioning on the road. Driving Examiners look for lane discipline at roundabouts or on bends.
ADVICE: Understand what lane discipline is…the ability to stay in lane in given circumstances, to follow a direction or route without moving out of position causing other vehicles to change speed or position. Very oftan candidates will cross over a white line on a roundabout trying to make a straight-on route, more oftan than not this can happen where markings are poor. Remember other road users will be around you at all times, they will need space to move around. Look ahead, curve the vehicle around a roundabout and stay in lane. As a driver you don’t have control over other peoples actions so you cannot assume you’ll understand fully where they may move to next.
8. Lack of steering control. Unfortunately steering too early or leaving it too late is a worrying reason for failure.
ADVICE: When the most commonly used item in the car used is the steering wheel, you wonder why this happens. More oftan than not it may result from ineffective observation rather than the candidate not knowing how to use it. The basic rule to remember is “the hands follow the eyes”. This fundamental rule is worthwhile remembering in all situations, even those you feel well in control of. Don’t allow yourself to become distracted, nothing will be more important than you and other peoples safety when you drive a car.
9. Incorrect positioning to turn right. This usually occurs when turning right at junctions and from one way streets.
ADVICE: When emerging from a one way street, remember you can position well to the right or left hand side as no one should be turning into the road you are emerging from. It will be a No Entry for other road users. If you aren’t sure then look at the road markings at the junction edge, they will be the thick double dotted lines you’re probably very familiar with. These will extend right the way across the junction as opposed to half of it like you see at the regular Give Way junctions.
10. Inappropriate speed – Not so much for travelling too fast but travelling too slowly or being hesitant.
ADVICE: You will no doubt be aware of the danger of travelling too fast, but travelling too slowly can be just as dangerous. You must know what the speed limit is, NEVER break it and remember also, it’s not a target. If it isn’t safe to use the speed limit then you won’t need to. Hesitancy usually occurs at junctions where candidates take a little too long to emerge. You may have been a pedestrian for many years and so should have a good perception of speed and distance. If you can walk across a lane of traffic you could probably drive across it. Other references exist but ultimately paying a good deal of attention will help. If it is really, really busy, you will just have to wait for the opportunity to arise, don’t feel because you have been there for ages that you must start interrupting the flow of traffic. You can only emerge when it’s safe.
Are you ready?
Those who pass their driving test have had, on average, about 45 hours of professional training, combined with 22 hours of private practice (DSA figures).
Candidates who combine professional instruction with private practice are also more successful on the test.
The UK national current pass rate is only 45%. For first time candidates, it’s even lower.
Tuesday, 14 September 2010
Test routes no longer published
Test routes will no longer be published on the DSA website, from 4th October 2010, to coincide with the changes to the driving test. Independant driving is to encourage concentration and awareness in new drivers. The responsibility of driving is often overshadowed by the desire to hold a licence. So the plan is to detract from learning specific routes, and to concentrate on the task of driving instead. dealing with road types, and situtations whilst trying to decide a route is challenging. There has been some controversy about this decision, but as there are going to be changes over the coming years, learners and instructors are going to have to adapt. What is your opinion on the plans to modernise the driving test
Monday, 13 September 2010
Wednesday, 21 July 2010
How many Driving Lessons do i need
Preparing for your driving test - The Driver's Record Those who pass their driving test have had, on average, about 45 hours of professional training combined with 22 hours of private practice. Learners who prepare this way, with a combination of plenty of professional training and plenty of practice, do better in the test.
To help you learn in a structured way, the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) has produced a Driver's Record. You may have received a Driver's Record with your provisional driving licence. This will help you monitor your progress and provide you with a lasting record of your achievement. You can also get one from your instructor, from your local driving test centre or from the link in the 'When to take your practical test' section below.
Structured learning
The Driver's Record is a way of helping you and your driving instructor keep a record of your progress while you're learning to drive.
The Driver's Record has a list of 24 key skills covered in the practical driving test. It has space for your instructor to fill in as you progress through the five levels shown on the Record. Levels one to four should be initialled and dated by your instructor, and full details added when you reach level five. From this, both you and your instructor will be able to see at a glance which skills you need to improve.
You need to learn the skill and then practise to get the experience. You also need to learn both the theory and practical driving at the same time, especially now that the theory test contains a hazard perception part. The record is a pocket-sized leaflet that you should take with you to all your driving lessons.
What are the five levels?
The meaning of each level is:
•the skill is introduced
•it can be carried out under full instruction
•it can be carried out correctly when prompted
•it seldom needs to be prompted
•you can carry it out consistently without any prompting
The Driver's Record will help to remind you what you're trying to achieve, how to get there and how far you've got.
To help you learn in a structured way, the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) has produced a Driver's Record. You may have received a Driver's Record with your provisional driving licence. This will help you monitor your progress and provide you with a lasting record of your achievement. You can also get one from your instructor, from your local driving test centre or from the link in the 'When to take your practical test' section below.
Structured learning
The Driver's Record is a way of helping you and your driving instructor keep a record of your progress while you're learning to drive.
The Driver's Record has a list of 24 key skills covered in the practical driving test. It has space for your instructor to fill in as you progress through the five levels shown on the Record. Levels one to four should be initialled and dated by your instructor, and full details added when you reach level five. From this, both you and your instructor will be able to see at a glance which skills you need to improve.
You need to learn the skill and then practise to get the experience. You also need to learn both the theory and practical driving at the same time, especially now that the theory test contains a hazard perception part. The record is a pocket-sized leaflet that you should take with you to all your driving lessons.
What are the five levels?
The meaning of each level is:
•the skill is introduced
•it can be carried out under full instruction
•it can be carried out correctly when prompted
•it seldom needs to be prompted
•you can carry it out consistently without any prompting
The Driver's Record will help to remind you what you're trying to achieve, how to get there and how far you've got.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)