As lockdown measures continue to ease, new drivers in England can now start taking driving lessons and theory tests again and practical tests from 22 July. However, with only key workers able to take driving lessons and tests since 17 March and the DVLA only starting to take applications for provisional licences again since mid-June, GoCompare Car Insurance experts estimate there may be 370,000 … [Read more...]
Putting the L into Llandrindod is almost failsafe
As the driving test approaches its 85thbirthday on 16 March, a new look at pass rates has thrown up some wide differences. Taking your driving test is a huge milestone in any motorist’s life, and while some are able to pass their tests the first time, most need a couple of attempts. Just Tyres has analysed data from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency to reveal which towns in the UK are the … [Read more...]
Learners facing changed theory test
The theory test for learner car drivers is changing very soon. From 14 April, instead of reading a case study and answering five questions related to that, learners will watch a video clip and answer three multiple choice questions on it. RAC spokesman Simon Williams said, “This is a very positive change and should make the driving theory test accessible to many more people as watching case … [Read more...]
Newslines 18 February
Homeowners living near proposed Clean Air Zones where certain vehicles will pay a penalty charge to enter are poised to potentially earn more than £1,000 per year by renting out their driveways as parking spaces for drivers looking to avoid the daily driving charge. More than 60 local authorities have considered, or are considering, some form of new clean air measure, meaning that many parts of … [Read more...]
Tradelines 12 February
The huge differences between pass rates for would-be driving instructors training at different test centres hints at a gulf between examination standards, new analysis shows. Car specialist AMT has used official statistics from the Department for Transport, which lists instructor applicants’ pass rates for every UK test centre over the past ten years with the toughest being Ashford, and the … [Read more...]
Tradelines 2 October
Automotive industry charity, Ben, has launched its Critical response service, to support employers and their employees in times of crisis. This free service sees Ben working with automotive industry businesses to provide appropriate, often immediate, support for employees when they experience an unexpected or traumatic incident or event. Learner or inexperienced car drivers are causing less … [Read more...]
Newslines 9 August
The newly launched Scala has been called into service to join the ranks of ŠKODA’s celebrated blue-light fleet line-up. The ŠKODA Scala’s advanced driver assistance and safety features make it an ideal partner for the emergency services. The brand also offers a ‘one-stop shop’ for blue-light fleets that includes full vehicle conversion, which sees the generous interior – with a vast 467 litre … [Read more...]
Road safety missing opportunities, say experts
IAM RoadSmart has called the government’s Road Safety Statement announced today ‘a mixed bag’ with welcome news on road policing, pedestrian distraction and seatbelts, but a worrying lack of detail on younger and older drivers or motorcyclists. Today the government, as part of the statement, also confirmed a review of roads policing and traffic enforcement will be launched later this … [Read more...]
Drive and ride for life
It’s undeniable that young drivers are at significant risk when they get behind the wheel. One Allianz claims handler attended an event recently and heard from the parent of an 18 year old who tragically lost her life when driving. As a parent himself he was moved by the experience. The danger of driving too close highighted: https://youtu.be/si-lzQO8eH4 Tony Newman, head of motor … [Read more...]
Private practice when learning – avoid penalties
Getting private practice while learning to drive plays an important role in gaining vital experience behind the wheel before taking the driving test but before you offer to take someone out make sure you have the relevant information. IAM RoadSmart’s head of driving and riding standards, Richard Gladman, had this advice for those willing into giving the learner additional driving … [Read more...]