- Eco-driving and the driving test
The EU are looking at including eco-driving in the driving test, according to Siim Kallas, the EU’s Transport Commissioner.
Now hopefully someone will correct me if I'm wrong, but until last year sometime, didn't the test have a section for eco-driving to be marked? What they do now is they 'advise' on ways the driving could be more efficient, but don't actually mark it as a fault.
I don't think this is anything new, but maybe it will change back to how it was a few years ago?
Read the full story here
Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Chelmsford Driving School
Sunday, July 25, 2010
- Car gets lifted to paint yellow lines...
I saw this story about a car in Manchester, and just had to share it.
A woman parked her car perfectly legally, only to return to find it facing the other way, with freshly painted yellow lines underneath it. While she was away, workmen came along, lifted the car up and painted lines under the car, then put it back down on the yellow lines.
Add to that the fact she was given a parking ticket, it makes for one unhappy driver. Thankfully the ticket was declared void, and according to a parking attendant it was done as a formality and meant she wouldn't get a fine. The fine was replaced by a note, saying that the council had 'repositioned her vehicle'
Read the full story here
Rob Laird
RPL Driving School In Hornchurch and Romford
Sunday, July 25, 2010
- Driving Test Passes In May And June
Well done to everyone below for passing their driving test. We're almost at our first century of passes, up to 97 :)
May
Mark - Hornchurch
Kiren - Chelmsford
Scott - Hornchurch
Jon - Chelmsford
June
Bhumi - Barking
Amy - Brentwood
Sam - Brentwood
Holly - Chelmsford
Thursday, June 24, 2010
- RPL Driving Now Offers Free Online Learning
In conjunction with eDriving Solutions, we are now able to offer free online learning for all people learning with us.
The online system works especially well if you are revising for the theory test, with mock tests and hazard perception clips. In addition to this, there are learning modules to give more information on a variety of subjects including:
- Environmental Issues
- Effects Of Alcohol
- Awareness
- Crash Impacts
- Overtaking
- And more...
If you want to test yourself further, online assessments testing your awareness and judgement, among other things, are also available.
For more information, please contact us at the RPL Driving School
RPL Driving
Driving Instructors In Hornchurch and Romford
Tuesday, June 08, 2010
- Government Looking At Changing Drink Drive Limits
A new report commissioned by the Government and due within the next few weeks is predicted to urge a cut in blood alcohol levels from 80mg to 50mg per 100ml of blood.
That will bring us into line into most European countries.
That’ll remove the buffer that allows the average male to drink a pint of bitter or lager and still be comfortably within the limit. According to a new survey by road safety charity Brake, the change in rules is exactly what the public want, citing its own poll that says seven in 10 of us support the lower levels.
Read the full story at autoexpress.co.uk
Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Male And Female Driving Instructors In Brentwood
Friday, May 21, 2010
- RPL Driving At The Young Driver's Scheme
Today was the first day that I was out teaching at the Essex Young Drivers Scheme. I would thoroughly recommend it to anyone aged 16 (or 15 if there is space) who would be interested in getting some driving experience before starting driving lessons when they turn 17.
The lessons are run on a closed industrial estate, about halfway between Braintree and Colchester, on the 3rd Sunday of every month with a group of fully qualified Driving Instructors from all over Essex.
For more information, and to register visit the YDS website.
Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Lessons In Chelmsford
Sunday, May 16, 2010
- Automatic Driving Lessons Some Time In The Future?
There seems to be a bit more need for automatic driving lessons lately. I'm considering taking on an instructor who can help me with this, and possible getting a second car so I can do both.
What do people think? Would automatic lessons be a worthwhile addition?
Watch this space! :)
Wednesday, May 05, 2010
- Driving Test Passes For 2010 So Far...
I realised yesterday that I haven't updated the blog with any driving test passes for this year. So, here we go...
January
Imran - Chelmsford
February
Kim - Chelmsford
Beth - Chelmsford
Leigh - Hornchurch
Kerry - Chelmsford
Robyn - Chelmsford
Rob - Chelmsford
Natasha - Chelmsford
March
Shrini - Chelmsford
Lahiru - Chelmsford
April
Becca - Chelmsford
Well done to everyone and I hope you enjoy the freedom of being able drive.
Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Instructors In Romford And Brentwood
Friday, April 30, 2010
- Common Faults During The Driving Test
Looking at some my figures from last years driving tests, I decided to do a short list highlighting some of the more common faults people pick up during their driving test. I've also offered a bit of advice on how these faults could be corrected.
This is based on my own experience and you might find my opinion differs from others.
The biggest thing to notice is that observation plays a part in all the faults mentioned below. It's very important that you always know what situation you are driving into, and what else is going on around you.
- Observations During Manoeuvres
Comes up a lot, people tend to focus so much on the reversing, and get distracted, missing an oncoming car or passing pedestrian. Keep the all-round observations going all the way through, and even pause for a moment if you are concerned about blind spots around the car.
- Responses To Signs And Signals
A general area, but it refers to ignoring, or missing an important sign or signal. 'Tunnel Vision' (staring straight ahead) can be a reason for missing something important such as traffic lights or stop signs. If you find yourself staring, force yourself to scan the road, including more to the sides. You should find that by doing this you'll be able to see more, and plan further ahead.
- Use Of Mirrors
In particular, when changing direction. Ask yourself, if you need to change your position in the road, is there anyone alongside you? Changing lanes on dual carriageways, and leaving roundabouts is one area where mirrors can be missed due to rushing. Take your time, and think about the mirrors earlier so you can react to what you can see.
- Junctions (Observation)
I've kept this one seperate as it covers any junction, whether it's a T-junction, crossroads, roundabouts or any other road layout where people give way to other traffic. Commonly this fault relates to causing other traffic to slow down by making a poor decision to go. The only way around this is to take a bit more time to look at the oncoming traffic and the road layout ahead of you.
- Maintaining Progress
This area concerns driving too slowly for the conditions, or being hesitant with your driving. This could be due to nerves, or mis-reading road layouts or signs. If you find yourself being nervous while driving in your lessons, first of all, talk to your instructor. They are there to help you. Yes, most people get nervous, but when it comes to your driving test, if it affects your driving, there are things you can practice to make it easier, but that's a whole other topic I'll leave for another time!
Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving School In Hornchurch
Monday, April 19, 2010
- RPL Driving Now Offers Discounts For Students/NHS/Armed Forces
We now offer a £1/hr discount for anyone who is a student, working for the NHS or a member of the armed forces. All we ask for is for you to show a valid I.D. card.
For more information, and to book a driving lesson, take a look at the RPL Driving School website
Rob Laird
RPL Driving - Lessons In Hornchurch And Romford
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
- Latest Examiner Strike On 24th March
After the strikes on 8th/9th March, the PCS union, which some Driving Examiners are part of, has arranged more strike action on the 24th March.
If you have a test on this day, the official comment is that you should still turn up. If your test is cancelled, it will be re-arranged free of charge. If you don't turn up, then you will lose your test fee.
Another option (so long as it is further than 3 working days away) is to re-arrange your test for a different day.
The decision is something you should speak to your driving instructor about, but speaking to instructors around the country, it seems different areas have different affects. Some test centres have been unaffected, some closed and others running half the tests they normally do.
For more information, have a look at the PCS website
Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Lessons In Brentwood
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
- Confirmed Changes To The Driving Test
Following the Learning To Drive Consultation last year, the DSA have confirmed what we were all expecting regarding changes to the driving test.
From October a 10 min independent drive will be introduced in the driving test and the ADI part 2 test. It will consist of sign following or following a short set of 3 or 4 directions, depending on the test centre and the route taken. So long as the drive is safe, no faults will be recorded if the candidate asks for help, or takes a wrong turn.
To make way for the extra time needed, there will only be one reversing exercise chosen from the 4, instead of the current 2.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
- Vehicle Recalls That Affect The Driving Test
In addition to the Peugeot, Citroen and Toyota recalls I mentioned last month, I thought I would put on a list of other vehicles the DSA which needs recall work carried out before they are allowed.
Most of these cars are older models, so it's unlikely to be a problem if you are using your instructor's car. However, if you are taking your own car, and it's on the list, make sure it has had the work carried out on it.
Toyota AYGO, iQ, Yaris, Auris, Corolla, Verso, Avensis, Peugeot 107, Citroen C1 Problem: Accelerator pedal may fail to return to idle. Ford Fiesta - new shape 1995-96 Problem: faulty brake hoses. Ford Fiesta - 1989-90 Problem: faulty seat belt mechanism. Mazda 121 - 1998 Problem: faulty brake hoses. Peugeot 206 Problem: faulty brake linkage. Renault Clio ll, Renault Campus Problem: faulty bonnet catch. Toyota Yaris Problem: faulty headrests and or side airbag deployment Vauxhall Corsa D - new model Problem: Vauxhall is recalling a number of the new Vauxhall Corsa D model vehicles for safety reasons. Vauxhall Corsa, Combo, Tigra
Problem: faulty driver and front passenger seat belt locking mechanisms (vehicles built between 1999 and 2000). For more information on these recall notices, have a look at this DSA link
Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Our Driving School Cars
Tuesday, March 09, 2010
- Instructor Sitting In For Your Driving Test
Back in September I posted about the change in the decision to make every test candidate have a supervising driving sit in on the test.
From April this year, the only change that will happen is at the start of the test, the driving examiner will ask the person taking the test if they would like their instructor/supervising driver to sit in the back.
Up until now, it has been down to the candidate to ask the examiner, and the thinking is that some people may feel awkward. By having the examiner ask, it removes a bit of pressure from the candidate.
The main reason why you might want someone to sit in is your instructor gets to see the drive first hand, so pass or fail, they will have a better idea of what you need to practice.
At the end of the day, it's down to the person taking the test, the instructors don't mind it either way. Have a look at my driving test page for more general information.
Rob Laird
RPL Driving School - Romford And Brentwood
Sunday, March 07, 2010
- A Brief History Of The Driving Test
1935 - Mr J Beene is the first person to pass the driving test. It costs him seven shillings and sixpence (38p)
1939 - Driving tests are suspended because of the second world war until November 1946. They are suspended again during the Suez crisis in 1956
October 1956 - The test fee doubles from 10 shillings to £11975 Candidates no longer have to demonstrate arm signals
Juy 1968 -The test fee rises to £1.15 shillings
1990 - The Driving Standards Agency, which now overseas all driving tests in the UK, is created as part of the Department for Transport
1991 - Parallel Park introduced
1996 - A separate written theory test is introduced, replacing questions asked about the Highway Code during the practical test
1999 - Bay Park introduced where possible, test extended, randomising the emergency stop and failing candidates for committing 16 or more driving faults
2000 - Theory Test changed over to a computer setup
2002 - The hazard awareness test is introduced to the theory test, using video clips to test perception of danger
September 2003 - Show Me, Tell Me questions introduced
July 2008 - Show Me, Tell Me extra questions added
September 2009 - Case study questions introduced to the theory test
For the full list, including changes to the motorcycle, PSV and other updates, have a look at the DSA website
Rob Laird
RPL Driving - Instructors In Essex
Sunday, February 28, 2010
- Red Driving School In Administration
The parent company of Red, LVG, the UKs 3rd largest driving school has gone into administration.
In addition to the learner driver school, Red also has an Instructor training section and Fleet training.
LVG also took over Lets Drive back in 2004 and own the magazine adiNEWS and Practical Driver Instructor Aids.
Several offers have been received and we might expect a buyer soon.
For the full story have a look at the BBC website, and for the administration report take a look at MCR
Thursday, February 18, 2010
- Finished Changing The RPL Driving Websites :)
Just about finished the new design of websites.
I'm still experimenting with colours (blue and black at the moment).
I'm much happier with them, think the layout makes more sense and is much neater.
Have a look at rpldriving.co.uk and rpldriving.com and let me know if there's anything that could be improved.
There are still a few pages and things to finish, but it's pretty much done!
Sunday, February 14, 2010
- Toyota, Peugeot and Citreon Vehicle Recalls
Below is a update from the DSA concerning the recent vehicle recalls. If you are a driving instructor with an affected manual car, you are ok to continue with tests until the vehicle gets sorted (assuming you have dual controls fitted).
However if you have an automatic, or you are planning to take your driving test in one of the listed cars, you must have the work done that is needed, and show proof of it, before the examiner allows you to take your driving test.
Following vehicle recall notices issued by Toyota and Peugeot Citroen, the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) has announced conditions for allowing affected vehicles on the driving test. Recall notices affect the following vehicles with the specified build dates:
Toyota
AYGO (Feb 2005 – Aug 2009)
iQ (Nov 2008 – Nov 2009) The iQ is already considered unsuitable for test
Yaris (Nov 2005 – Sep 2009)
Auris (Oct 2006 – 5 Jan 2010)
Corolla (Oct 2006 – Dec 2009)
Verso (Feb 2009 – 5 Jan 2010)
Avensis (Nov 2008 – Dec 2009)
RAV4 (Nov 2005 – Nov 2009)
Peugeot 107 (Feb 2005 – Aug 2009)
Citroen C1 (Feb 2005 – Aug 2009)
In total, Toyota and Peugeot Citroen are recalling around 320,000 UK-based vehicles. As yet, VIN number ranges have not been released.
Using these cars on the driving test
If one of the vehicles affected is presented for test, it will only be conducted if either:
the vehicle has a manual transmission gearbox and is fitted with dual controls to help the examiner control the car in the unlikely event of a failure
documentation is supplied to show that the remedial work has been carried out – this will usually be in the form of the Toyota or Peugeot Citroen recall letter stamped by the respective dealer and containing written confirmation
Candidates who cannot proceed with their test should contact DSA customer services to arrange for their test to be rebooked once the remedial work has been done.
As there has been no prior warning of this action, if the test is not conducted the fee will be refunded or a free retest given on the first occasion that a specific vehicle is presented for test. Customers can ring DSA customer services on 0300 200 1122.
Thursday, February 04, 2010
- Information Codes On Your Driving Licence
On the back of the photocard licence, you've got a column entitled 'codes'.
Most people have no idea what they mean, so just to clear it up I though I would provide a full list. The most common ones I see are 1 (needs correction to eyesight), 71 (duplicate licence) and 115 (organ donor). Other codes apply to required modifications to the cars you drive or limits to weights or sizes of vehicles (more for larger vehicle licences).
Below is the full list:
| Code |
| Description |
|---|
|
|
| | 01 |
| eyesight correction |
|---|
| 02 |
| hearing/communication aid |
|---|
| 10 |
| modified transmission |
|---|
| 15 |
| modified clutch |
|---|
| 20 |
| modified braking systems |
|---|
| 25 |
| modified accelerator systems |
|---|
| 30 |
| combined braking and accelerator systems |
|---|
| 35 |
| modified control layouts |
|---|
| 40 |
| modified steering |
|---|
| 42 |
| modified rear - view mirror(s) |
|---|
| 43 |
| modified driving seats |
|---|
| 44 |
| modifications to motorcycles |
|---|
| 45 |
| motorcycle only with sidecar |
|---|
| 70 |
| exchange of licence |
|---|
| 71 |
| duplicate of licence |
|---|
| 78 |
| restricted to vehicles with automatic transmission |
|---|
| 79 |
| restricted to vehicles in conformity with the specifications stated in brackets |
|---|
| 101 |
| not for hire or reward |
|---|
| 102 |
| drawbar trailers only |
|---|
| 103 |
| subject to certificate of competence |
|---|
| 105 |
| not more than 5.5m long |
|---|
| 106 |
| restricted to vehicles with automatic transmission |
|---|
| 107 |
| not more than 8250kg |
|---|
| 108 |
| subject to minimum age requirements |
|---|
| 110 |
| limited to invalid carriages |
|---|
| 111 |
| limited to 16 passenger seats |
|---|
| 113 |
| limited to 16 passenger seats except for automatics |
|---|
| 114 |
| with any special controls required for safe driving |
|---|
| 115 |
| organ donor |
|---|
| 118 |
| start date is for earliest entitlement |
|---|
| 119 |
| weight limit does not apply |
|---|
| 120 |
| complies with health standard for category D1 |
|---|
| 121 |
| restricted to conditions specified in the Secretary of State's notice |
|---|
| 122 |
| valid on successful completion: Basic Moped Training Course
|
|---|
The full list is also available here
Rob Laird - RPL Driving School
Thursday, January 07, 2010
- Increased Fines For Speeding And Other Offences
Motorists fined for speeding and other driving offences will have to pay an extra £15 to help pay for a victim compensation fund, it has been revealed.
The surcharge - used to finance support services for crime victims - is already added to fines for those convicted of crime in court. But now ministers want to extend the levy to on-the-spot fines and fixed penalty notices in England and Wales. This would include motorists caught speeding, using a mobile phone while driving, not wearing a seatbelt, or given a parking ticket. People found scrawling graffiti or being drunk and disorderly would also be hit. Under the plans, the current fine of £60 for speeding would be increased to £75. Campaigning group the TaxPayers' Alliance said the move amounted to a "stealth tax". Spokesman Matthew Elliott said: "If the Treasury wants to raise money from the courts, it should be more honest and call this surcharge a 'justice tax'." Justice minister Claire Ward said in a parliamentary answer: "The victim surcharge was introduced on April 1, 2007 and has been applied initially only to fines imposed in magistrates and Crown courts at a rate of £15. "We intend to add the surcharge to other disposals as soon as it becomes feasible to do so." Taken From Sky News
Tuesday, January 05, 2010
|
07763 715312 /01277 888604
info@rpldriving.co.uk
