Before anyone makes the decision to learn to drive, please consider the following points:
1
You are learning to operate a machine that if used or operated incorrectly, or irresponsibly, can result in serious injury or, even worse, fatality.
2
Your learning process will not be simple, quick or cheap. The co-ordination, spatial awareness, anticipation and planning for hazards takes time to develop – particularly to a point where it becomes second nature. DVSA states on average it takes 45 hrs of instructor lessons, alongside 20 hrs of private practice. It also takes dedication to commit to weekly lessons as gaps in your training will negatively impact your learning speed and may result in you needing extra lessons to catch up. You will also be expected to study outside of lessons, theory practice, watching videos etc
3
As the driver you are legally responsible for the vehicle, yourself and equally responsible for the safety of others. Being a learner driver doesn’t excuse you of these responsibilities – nor does it make you immune from prosecution if laws are broken.
4
The importance of knowing your subject matter should not be underestimated or taken lightly. The theory test isn’t just an obstacle on the way to your practical test. Revise thoroughly and aim to pass with the highest score possible. The more knowledge that you learn and retain can potentially make a massive difference to all round safety.
5
We are all individuals who learn at different rates. Friends or family may have reached the standard more quickly, but don’t treat the learning process as a competition. Equally, guard against becoming demoralised if you’re taking longer to learn than you thought. Don’t let pride get in the way of safety. If you are unhappy with your progress, discuss this with your instructor.
6
Always listen to your Instructor and take on board their advice. An Instructor’s advice is more likely to be correct and up to date than that of friends or family – no matter how well meaning. Your Instructor is also the best person to advise you when you’re ready to take a test.
7
Don’t rush to take your test, if you learn with me you will not be permitted to ‘give it a go’ in the hope that you’ll pass, the consequences of passing before you’re driving safely 100% of the time could prove to be an expensive mistake and, at worst, be fatal for you and/or others on the road. You need to be driving independent of any verbal or physical assistance from me. Check out the DVSA’s Ready To Pass website.
8
When you have passed your test please remember that a test pass means that you’re safe enough to continue learning on your own. It takes years of experience to become a truly good driver, so never assume that you’re the finished article.
We never stop learning, nor should you.
Courtesy of another ADI