This week our Coastwide Team were invited to present at a joint TMR and QLD Police community event where road safety for seniors was the theme. An unexpected, but very interesting presentation by a TMR Examiner went through the various elements that he looks for while conducting a driving test. While this was aimed at the Senior audience, there were several great tips for all learner drivers.
Decision Making and Hazards
- What are hazards?
- Poor road conditions
- Pedestrians and vulnerable road users
- Vehicles approaching from adjacent streets
- What behaviours do safe drivers show?
- Getting ready to brake
- Easing off the accelerator
- Reducing speed
- Change road position or lane to create a buffer
Road Position
- Maintain a crash avoidance space
- Factor in reaction time and response time
- 3 second following gap
Speed Management
- Manage your speed to suit the conditions
- Drive at a speed within the posted limits
- Reduce speed if you don't have a clear view ahead, or when approaching
- blind corners or crests
- blocked intersections
- or if the space by the side of your vehicle is limited (eg parked cars)
Observation
- Scanning
Look in your mirrors
Scan left and right
Scan in the distance
Scan the road surface
Scan instruments and gauges
- Check blind spots when
Changing lanes
Merging
Reversing
Turning left / Right
Joining traffic
These are just a few tips, however you should see a strong correlation between what your driving instructor is getting you to focus on and what the examiners are look for.
You can always get a refresher or polish up on these skills and more by booking a lesson with our RACQ Approved team.
Safe driving, for life.