RPL Driving School - Chelmsford, Essex

Avril's Driving School

2011-12-13T18:59:00.000Z

A quick recommendation for Avril's Driving School. Avril Allan is a Driving Instructor in Woking.

She uses a Hyundai i20 which has a manual gearbox and a 1.2 petrol engine. It’s easy to handle, looks good and has an excellent specification including power assisted steering, air conditioning, ABS, dual controls, electric windows, adjustable seat and steering wheel, front and side airbags, easy-to-read dashboard and a spacious interior.

If you are look for driving lessons in Woking take a look at www.avrilsdrivingschool.co.uk

Rob Laird
RPL Driving School

Learner Drivers Will Soon Be Allowed On Motorways

2011-12-09T10:01:00.000Z

This week, Mike Penning (the MP responsible for road safety and standards) announced that from some point next year, learner drivers will be allowed to drive on Motorways.

In the plans, they will be allowed on Motorways under the supervision of an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI).

It will not be a complusory part of learning to drive, as many people have no Motorways nearby, but Instructors will have the option of including it in the normal driving lessons.

The aim is to reduce the number of young people killed, and seriously injured on the UK's Motorways.

This is the latest in recent changes including removing test routes from the DSA website, and keeping the theory test question bank secret.

When I know more, I'll post it here...

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Lessons In Romford

We're looking for a new Driving Instructor...

2011-11-21T22:50:00.000Z

After much consideration, I've decided we can take on another Driving Instructor with RPL Driving.

I you work in or near to an area we cover, and are interested in a low-cost franchise, get in touch through the RPL Driving School website.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving

Driving With Donna - Lessons In Nuneaton

2011-10-13T16:00:00.000+01:00

A little recommendation for Donna Green who runs Driving With Donna. She provides driving lessons in Nuneaton in a Citroen C3.

So if you are looking for a Driving Instructor in Bedworth, or a nearby area, give her a call or visit www.drivingwithdonna.co.uk

Rob Laird
RPL Driving

RPL Driving Now Has A Mobile Website

2011-10-07T10:30:00.001+01:00

With more and more people using their mobile phones to browse the internet, I decided to build a simple mobile website for the driving school.

This means, instead of having to view the entire site on a small screen, you get diverted to a basic, cut down version which has a good amount of information on the driving lessons. If you need more, than just simply click on the link to the full site.

If you would like to test it out, use your phone to go to the main RPL Driving Site and (hopefully!) you will get directed to the RPL Driving Mobile Site.

Any problems, please let me know.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving School In Brentwood

Illegal Driving Instructor Prosecuted

2011-10-06T10:30:00.000+01:00

A woman who had been giving driving lessons over a 5 month period, despite having failed her final Instructor's exam, has been found guilty.

Ewa Petelska from Peterborough has been given an 18 month suspended sentence, and ordered to pay back over £1300 to her customers and £85 in costs.

A spokesman for the Driving Standards Agency said they take cases of fraud very seriously.

He said: “The Driving Standards Agency’s fraud and integrity team investigates every allegation of illegal driving instruction reported to them.

“Only a Driving Standards Agency approved driving instructor or trainee licence holder can accept payment for teaching learners to drive.

“The Driving Standards Agency advises learners to check that their instructor displays a current green registration or pink certificate in their car windscreen.”

To find out more on the Driving Instructor exams, take a look here...

Full story

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Instructor In Brentwood

Devon Examiner 'Bullied' Over Low Driving Test Pass Rate

2011-10-04T14:00:00.001+01:00

An update on this story...

During a 3 day employment tribunal panel, Ms Bentley-Lovell lost her case after the panel ruled that she was not unfairly dismissed.

I came across this article on the BBC website reporting on Nicola Bentley-Lovell, and how she quit her job as a Driving Examiner after 7 years due to "a large amount of bullying and harassment for her pass rate".

During 6 years, she apparently had to take 165 check tests (when another examiner sits in the back to supervise the test), whereas the average for this period is around 45-50.

She told the employment tribunal panel in Exeter that her immediate bosses urged her to increase her pass rate because her rate was below the "acceptable variance".

She said during one test, a learner driver reversed round a corner and ended up on the wrong side of the road and she claims that her bosses said she should have given the applicant just a driver fault "to get her pass rate up".

She said she refused to compromise her pass rate, which was around 36% compared with the national average of 46%, because of the health and safety risks to the public.

It all sounds a bit odd, and I suspect if it turns out to be true, the DSA will get a lot of grief from it.

The case continues...

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Lessons In Danbury

Proposal To Increase Motorway Speed Limit To 80mph

2011-10-04T10:15:00.000+01:00

The Transport Secretary Philip Hammond has announced a public consultation on increasing the speed limit on motorway from 70 to 80 miles per hour. The plans are to start it later this year, with a view to implementing any change in early 2013.

The thinking behind this is that vehicles have changed dramatically since the 70mph limit was set back in 1965. The improvements in vehicle safety can be seen in a 75% drop in the number of people killed on the road since then.

Although one of the most important considerations, road safety is not the only thing to look at when deciding on the speed limit. Previous reports have shown that increasing the speed limit would have economic benefits, worth hundreds of millions of pounds per year from savings of travel time.

This would also bring us to a similar level to other EU countries. However, France for example, has variable speed limits depending on the weather. A very sensible way of doing things, but I don't know if that option will be considered.

Looking at the journey time argument...

Lets look at travelling from London to Manchester, a journey of roughly 200 miles. If we assume an average speed 60mph in a 70 limit, it might take around 3 hours 20 min. If we had an 80 limit and an average speed of 70, then the same journey would take around 30 mins less. Once you add in traffic, I would imagine it might be more like 15 mins quicker, maybe less.

At the moment there are no plans to increase the speed limit for lorries, but limits for small vans may be looked at.

Personally I cannot see how increasing the speed limit for cars and motorbikes will save millions of pounds in travelling time. But then again, I'm not an economics expert. In my mind, higher speed limits mean higher fuel consumption and therefore spending more money on fuel.

Does that mean this possible change will increase the profits of fuel companies, and therefore more tax paid to the government?

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Instructor In Romford

No More Paper Driving Licence

2011-08-13T11:41:00.001+01:00

After over 10 years of the photocard and counterpart driving licence, the Department of Transport will be going ahead with plans to get rid of the paper counterpart licence in 2014. The old style paper only licences will also be replaced shortly after.

The DVLA plan to make driving licences more efficient, by keeping the driver's endorsements on a database, which can be checked easily by the police and other authorised organisations such as employers and insurers.

According the the DVLA there are more than 12 million old paper licences still in use, and replacing these is a logical step once the paper counterpart is no longer needed.

Hopefully, the service to check the drivers details we be free, or I'll expect there to be some complaints from Driving Instructors and other people who need to do regular driver checks.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Instructor In Brentwood
Driving Lessons In Upminster

Call For Driving Lessons In Irish Schools

2011-08-12T16:35:00.001+01:00

I came across this article on an Irish news website looking at changes to the process of learning to drive, along with some possible changes to road traffic laws.

A cross-party group of politicians have said that compulsory driving lessons in schools will make the Irish road safer. There are also calls for provisional licence holders to take their driving test within a specific period.

On the road traffic law side of things, there are plans to impose penalty points onto the last registered keeper of vehicles that are dumped, and reductions to parking tickets if they are paid early.

I'll be keeping an eye on any changes, especially the driving lessons, as it might be something that comes over our schools soon.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Schools In Brentwood
Driving Lessons In Romford

Government To Look At Driving Instructor Training

2011-07-29T09:47:00.001+01:00

It's been talked about for a while, but today, the BBC seem to be focusing on the way Driving Instructors are trained.

The main issue so far, is the use of the trainee licence. People who have passed the first 2 parts of the training process are allowed to apply for a trainee licence once they have taken some further training. This allows them to teach people to drive and receive payment for it.

The problem is that some trainee aren't open with their trainee status, and some even go out of their way to conceal it from the people they are teaching. There is also nothing to say they can't charge the same as a fully qualified Instructor, and most do.

I agree that experiencing a 'real' learner during your training is very beneficial, and while I was training I taught a few friends for free to get a better idea of what to expect. Most people feel that the Trainee (or Pink) Licence needs to be controlled more, with more supervision from the sponsoring Driving Instructor and a way of being more open with the learner.

Even Trevor Wedge, the Chief Driving Examiner, agrees that there needs to be some changes:

"The trainee licence system has been set up to allow trainee driver instructors to gain some practice as they are preparing for the final part of their examination process," he said.

"They are encouraged to work very closely with a supervising instructor.

"We recognise that we will need to develop some proposals to improve the system.

"However, there have been significant improvements in the quality of the training provided by the driving industry."

Hopefully, news storys like this one from the BBC will bring the differences of Instructors to the attention of the public. In 5 years of teaching, I have only had 2 people ask to see my badge. Every fully qualified Instructor has a green badge, while Trainees have a pink one. It will normally be found on the passenger side of the windscreen.

For more information on the training process take a look at my post, how to become a Driving Instructor.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Lessons In Billericay
Driving School In Hornchurch

More Price Increases For The Dartford Crossing

2011-07-28T23:55:00.001+01:00

A few years ago, there was a price increase on the Dartford crossingas it went up from £1 to £1.50.

Now there is talk about increasing it to £2.50 within a year's time, and there is a consultation running from now until September to gauge public opinion. Lorry drivers will also get hit hard with the increases, with a single crossing planned to go up to £6.

Unfortunately, not many people have a choice to avoid the crossing. The alternative is a very slow detour through London, or a going the long way round the M25.

Here's the full story...

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving School In Romford

My Grade 6 Check Test Write Up

2011-07-25T09:04:00.001+01:00

I've recently taken my second check test, and after gaining a grade 6, a few people have asked me to write a short piece on my experiences of the test, and what I felt I did differently this time to get a higher grade. Here is a post giving you more information on ADI gradings.

First of all, a quick look at what happened on my first one. Being a bit nervous, I spent a few hours with a local ADI trainer, so I could get a good idea of what to expect. Unfortunately, one piece of advice I was given was to constantly ask questions on what the learner was thinking/doing.

After the test, the Examiner commented on the fact that I didn't shut up and let the learner try it completely on their own! Something I knew, but at the time, I think the pressure got to me. I ended up with a grade 4, which I was ok with, but disappointed as I knew I could have done better.

Since that time, I didn't have anymore specific check test training. I did however attend a coaching day, take the IAM advanced driving test and go on to be an IAM observer. I feel that these, in addition to picking up tips and advice from forums and other Instructors has greatly improved the way I conduct a driving lesson.

For the most recent check test, instead of taking my own pupil, I decided to try out role play. I had heard good and bad things about it, but the only way to truly find out about it is do it yourself. I opted to do a remedial lesson (recently failed test), as I quite enjoy the format of these types of lessons.

It started with a brief intro and chat with the Examiner. He gave me a test sheet, with a handful of driver errors marked in mirrors, clearance and following distance, along with a serious for clearance and following distance.

I was then given a moment to take this in and work out a plan of action, then we were off to the car.

Started with a quick chat about the test, a bit of Q&A about mirrors (when and why we use them). We then headed out on the road for a short drive for me to observe him. First faults were all mirror related, namely checking the mirrors after signalling. Left him to it for a few turns, and repeated the same faults, along with going a bit fast into a turn.

We then pulled over, did a bit more Q&A, why mirrors need to be checked first, and a bit about judging the tightness of a corner. We then did a quick lap around the block to look at the corner he got wrong, this time with me prompting him and getting him to tell me about the view of the road ahead.

From here, there were a few issues with cutting in early after parked cars, sorted by stopping alongside cars to show him how close he was getting, along with talking about reference points. The following distance was discussed, tying in the 2 second rule. We then stopped to talk about this further, how weather affects it, etc.

Through the test, I also made a bit of small talk about how long he's lived in the area, work, etc.

Towards the end, I got him doing a bit of hazard spotting, and practicing mirrors when slowing down.

Back at the test centre, we had a quick recap on the things we covered and I tested him a little on knowledge such as the 2 second rule to check he understood everything.

Then the waiting happened, and around 5-10 minutes later (seemed like ages!), the Examiner came out and we talked through the test. His only real comment was that I could have asked a few more questions at a few points to check his understanding (I was probably being slightly cautious after doing too much last time).

The end result was top marks in everything, except for a small blip (grade 5) in the Q&A technique, but an overall grade 6, which I was obviously very happy with!

Looking at the test, I have wondered whether I would have got the same grade if I had a pupil. Honestly, I don't know. Maybe next time I'll try it with a pupil again and see how it goes. But I won't have to worry about that for another 4 years or so.

Any questions or comments, feel free to let me know.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Brentwood Driving School

Driving Instructor's Grades - What Do They Mean?

2011-07-22T11:36:00.001+01:00

Something that a lot of people don't know, is that once someone has qualified as a Driving Instructor, they have to be regularly assessed (called a check test) by an Examiner who will look at the standard of their teaching.

Everything from the advice and knowledge, to the Instructor's appearance and the way they behave is marked. The test is an hour long, and afterwards the Instructor will be given an overall grade of 1-6 (6 being the highest). Each section is given a grade, and the final grade is a reflection of all the marks put together.

The exception to this would be if the ADI was newly qualified. If this is the case, the check test would be classed as an 'educational'. So advice will be offered by the Examiner, but no grade will be given.

Moving onto the grades, below is a brief guide of what each grade means:

1 - An extremely poor overall standard, with incorrect or dangerous instruction. No recap, improvement in pupil's skills or summary at the end.

2 - A poor overall ability, with several issues with the Instructor's knowledge. Very little lesson structure.

3 - An inadequate performance, with some lack of ability. Gaps in knowledge and poor choice of route.

4 - An acceptable lesson. Some minor deficiencies, but overall good fault identification and remedial action.

5 - A good lesson. Minor weaknesses might occur, but all faults were recognised and dealt with well. Good attitude and feedback with the pupil.

6 - An overall high standard, with no significant weaknesses. Quick to recognise faults, and dealt with them in the best way. Very professional at all times.

Someone who gets a 5 or 6, is tested again in 4 years. A grade 4 results is another one in 2 years, while a 3 -1 will have another in around 8-12 weeks. Someone who fails to improve to a 4 or higher risks losing their licence to teach people to drive.

Keep in mind that this check test is a one hour snapshot taken every few years. There are some very good grade 4 Instructors, and some not so good grade 6s. Saying that, if you are trying to find an Instructor, and you've had no recommendations, their grade is one place to start (but unfortunately, without the results sheet, there's no way you'll know they're telling the truth).

Just for a bit of extra info, below are some figures taken from March 2011, showing the number of Instructors at each grade.

Grade 1 - 0
Grade 2 - 54 (0.1%)
Grade 3 - 303 (0.6%)
Grade 4 - 24,526 (52%)
Grade 5 - 15,644 (33%)
Grade 6 - 2,845 (6%)
Ungraded (New) - 3,449 (7%)
Total On Register - 46,821

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Lessons Romford
Driving School Hornchurch

10 Steps To Changing A Car Tyre

2011-07-06T12:00:00.001+01:00

After an unplanned tyre changing lesson in a pupil's car, I decided to sit down and write out a brief overview of how to change a car tyre. It's something that's not overly technical, and everybody should be able to do it.

First is safety. Where possible, try and park the car in a safe place, away from traffic if possible. A car park is ideal, failing that, quiet side roads would be ok. Make sure the ground is as flat as possible and is also firm (no grass or gravel surfaces).

Consider using your hazard warning lights if necessary, and again wearing a fluorescent jacket and using heavy duty gloves can make things that little bit safer.

Make sure you get the car jack, spare tyre and wrench ready. It's also worthwhile (if you haven't done already) checking the spare is in good condition and inflated properly. There's nothing more annoying than having a flat spare tyre.

Use some form of wedge either side of the tyre diagonally opposite from the flat tyre. This, along with the handbrake and using either park (automatics) or reverse gear (manuals) will make sure the car stays put while on the jack.

Now onto the main part. Remove the wheel cover if you have one, and use the wrench to loosen each wheel nut slightly. They can be tight, so be careful. Do this before raising the car to make it as easy as possible.

Find the jacking point of the car. This is normally somewhere under the doors, near to the wheels. Every car will be slightly different, so if you don't know where they are, take a look in the owner's manual.

Use the jack that came with the car, or a trolley jack to raise the car until the flat tyre is enough off the ground to allow the good tyre to be fitted.

Use the wrench to take of the wheels nuts completely, and make sure you put them somewhere safe (keep clear of drains!). Then carefully remove the wheel and put it out of the way, with the inside edge on the ground.

Now fit the spare, taking care not to damage the fittings. Then take the wheel nuts and do them up finger tight to begin with, before using the wrench to tighten them up some more in a X pattern (but only hand tight).

Now lower the car gently until all of the weight is off the jack. Then use the wrench to fully tighten up the wheel nuts, again in a X pattern.

That's it, all done. Now remember to pack up the flat tyre, jack and wrench and you're off.

As soon as possible, take the car to a garage where they can check the tightness of the wheel nuts, and they can also replace the flat tyre.

Rob Laird
Romford Driving School
Brentwood Driving Instructor

10 Steps To Changing A Car Tyre

2011-07-06T12:00:00.000+01:00

First is safety. Where possible, try and park the car in a safe place, away from traffic if possible. A car park is ideal, failing that, quiet side roads would be ok. Make sure the ground is as flat as possible and is also firm (no grass or gravel surfaces).

Consider using your hazard warning lights if necessary, and again wearing a fluorescent jacket and using heavy duty gloves can make things that little bit safer.

Make sure you get the car jack, spare tyre and wrench ready. It's also worthwhile (if you haven't done already) checking the spare is in good condition and inflated properly. There's nothing more annoying than having a flat spare tyre.

Use some form of wedge either side of the tyre diagonally opposite from the flat tyre. This, along with the handbrake and using either park (automatics) or reverse gear (manuals) will make sure the car stays put while on the jack.

Now onto the main part. Remove the wheel cover if you have one, and use the wrench to loosen each wheel nut slightly. They can be tight, so be careful. Do this before raising the car to make it as easy as possible.

Find the jacking point of the car. This is normally somewhere under the doors, near to the wheels. Every car will be slightly different, so if you don't know where they are, take a look in the owner's manual.

Use the jack that came with the car, or a trolley jack to raise the car until the flat tyre is enough off the ground to allow the good tyre to be fitted.

Use the wrench to take of the wheels nuts completely, and make sure you put them somewhere safe (keep clear of drains!). Then carefully remove the wheel and put it out of the way, with the inside edge on the ground.

Now fit the spare, taking care not to damage the fittings. Then take the wheel nuts and do them up finger tight to begin with, before using the wrench to tighten them up some more in a X pattern (but only hand tight).

Now lower the car gently until all of the weight is off the jack. Then use the wrench to fully tighten up the wheel nuts, again in a X pattern.

Driving Tests, coming to a leisure centre near you...

2011-06-27T23:12:00.001+01:00

There will shortly be trials starting in seven places around the country to see if towns without test centres can benefit from having Driving Examiners taking tests out from places such as hotels, leisure centres and local authority building.

This plan was brought up last year if I remember correctly, as an idea to replace driving test centres completely. It seems that this might be going one step closer.

The trials are due to take place in seven locations across Britain: Ashford, Ayrshire, Dumbarton, Louth, Warrington, Wiltshire and one location in Wales. These are all areas where there is no test centre, but is a significant demand for driving tests.

Road Safety Minister Mike Penning said:

“I want us to be more flexible and innovative in delivering driving tests to make sure that we are offering people the best service possible wherever they live.

“Our aim is to provide a more local service that is both convenient for candidates and cost effective.”

After the trials are under way, the DSA will decide on whether it will expand to other areas that have similar needs.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Brentwood Driving School
Driving Lessons In Romford

Driving Tests, coming to a leisure centre near you...

2011-06-27T23:12:00.000+01:00

“I want us to be more flexible and innovative in delivering driving tests to make sure that we are offering people the best service possible wherever they live.

“Our aim is to provide a more local service that is both convenient for candidates and cost effective.”

After the trials are under way, the DSA will decide on whether it will expand to other areas that have similar needs.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Brentwood Driving School
Driving Lessons In Romford

Speed Sensitive Traffic Lights

2011-06-24T16:30:00.001+01:00

Swindon is the first town in the UK to start using traffic lights that turn red if the oncoming driver is driving over the speed limit.

Back in 2009, under a Conservative-led council, they abandoned using fixed speed cameras, and now this new measure aims to tackle driver behaviour without fining them.

The idea is that a driver who consistently speeds, will be forever getting stopped at traffic lights. Over time, people like this will (hopefully) realise that by keeping to the speed limit they will get to where they're going sooner.

Speed measuring sensors will be used at some point on the road just before the traffic lights to control the timings.

It's an interesting way of approaching the problem, and could well be effective. With speed cameras being turned off around the country as their effect has not been completely proven, new methods need to be trialled.

If it works well in Swindon, you may see other councils around the country introducing it.

If there are any updates on this, I'll post it here.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Romford Driving School
Brentwood Driving Instructor

Speed Sensitive Traffic Lights

2011-06-24T16:30:00.000+01:00

Driving Examiners Strike On 30th June 2011

2011-06-20T12:26:00.001+01:00

Well I go away for a week, and come back to find out that more strike action has been planned for 30th June.

The union in question is the PCS, which has over 300,000 members, has decided to strike over changes to pay and pension.

The union is made up from people in a wide variety of jobs including the HMRC and unfortunately the DSA.

However, going from previous experience, not all Driving Examiners will strike, but you won't know until the day whether your driving test will go ahead.

You have 2 choices if your test is on this day.

Re-arrange the test (probably to a later date) to make sure your test will go ahead.

Turn up on the day. It might be fine, and there will be an examiner there for you. If not, you will get the next test paid for, and you will get compensation for the money you pay your Instructor on the day of the test.

At the end of the day, it's your choice, and your Instructor may be able to offer some advice, but the truth is, it'll be pot luck if your test happens or not.

For more information on the strike, visit the PCS website.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving School In Romford
Chelmsford Driving School

Driving Examiners Strike On 30th June 2011

2011-06-20T12:26:00.000+01:00

Re-arrange the test (probably to a later date) to make sure your test will go ahead.

Turn up on the day. It might be fine, and there will be an examiner there for you. If not, you will get the next test paid for, and you will get compensation for the money you pay your Instructor on the day of the test.

Colchester Theory Test Centre To Close

2011-06-05T10:07:00.001+01:00

As of the 31st August 2011, the theory test centre in Colchester will close. People wishing to take the theory test will now have to travel 17 miles to Ipswich, or 24 miles to Chelmsford.

According to the Driving Standards Agency, the centre has the ability to conduct 30,000 tests a year, but last year only 9,000 people passed through it's doors.

It will be one a further 9 to close at the end of August. The other theory test centres to close will be:

Basingstoke

Bath

Birkenhead

Clydebank

Dunfermline

Durham

Motherwell

Runcorn

Solihull

Workington

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Schools In Hornchurch

Colchester Theory Test Centre To Close

2011-06-05T10:07:00.000+01:00

Basingstoke

Bath

Birkenhead

Clydebank

Dunfermline

Durham

Motherwell

Runcorn

Solihull

Workington

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Schools In Hornchurch

2011-06-03T22:18:00.001+01:00

A little look at the benefits of Indian Head Massage - http://ping.fm/AATsp

Driving Test Injuries Last Year.

2011-05-26T11:29:00.001+01:00

In response to a freedom of information request, the DSA have released some worrying statistics on some of the not so good outcomes of driving tests. They include:

5 Examiners physically attacked and 209 verbally abused.

147 major injuries and 192 minor injuries to either the Driving Examiner, or test candidate.

For some time, the Driving Examiners' Union (PCS) have been pushing for all test candidates to use a car with dual controls to make things like this less likely. Whether this will go any further, we will have to wait and see.

Read the full story.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Romford Driving School

Driving Test Injuries Last Year.

2011-05-26T11:29:00.000+01:00

In response to a freedom of information request, the DSA have released some worrying statistics on some of the not so good outcomes of driving tests. They include:

5 Examiners physically attacked and 209 verbally abused.

147 major injuries and 192 minor injuries to either the Driving Examiner, or test candidate.

Compulsory Tests For The Over 60s?

2011-05-26T10:51:00.001+01:00

Last week I read a brief article about changes being brought in by the European Commision regarding regular testing once you reach a certain age.

In 2013, the EC will bring in the EU directive on driving licences, which has already been approved. However, there are no plans to enforce it on the member states. Instead, it will be up to the individual country to decide whether or not to impose over 60s with tests every 2 years, and the over 75s with annual tests.

However, I can not see the UK, or many other countries choosing to follow this. I would imagine any government that brings this in, would not be around for long.

Read the full story.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Female Driving Instructor In Romford

Compulsory Tests For The Over 60s?

2011-05-26T10:51:00.000+01:00

2011-05-24T11:22:00.001+01:00

Do you know how to deal with Emergency Services Vehicles? Take a quick look at this blog post for some useful information. http://ping.fm/uaYcw

Are You Blue Light Aware?

2011-05-23T11:31:00.001+01:00

Ever wondered what you should do if you see a Police Car in your mirrors with their sirens on and lights flashing?

The GEM (Guild Of Experienced Motorists) along with the emergency services have produced a new video aimed at helping motorists better understand what to do in these situations.

Whether you are an experience driver, newly qualified or just starting, this video could give you some useful information.

Take a look at the Blue Light Aware website for more information, and to watch the video.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Romford Driving Lessons
Chelmsford Driving Lessons

Are You Blue Light Aware?

2011-05-23T11:31:00.000+01:00

Car Fuel Economy Test

2011-05-21T10:52:00.001+01:00

With the price of fuel creeping ever higher, saving those precious litres can save you a surprising amount of money.

For this test I used my normal driving school car, a 2009 Toyota Yaris, 1.4 diesel. According to Toyota the combined mileage is 68.9mpg, however from previous experience, you would expect it to be closer to 58mpg on the road.

I drove a 4.5 mile route twice. The first time I was as economic as possible and the second time I aimed for a drive more like the majority of drivers on the road at the moment. Below, I'll highlight the differences between the 2 styles.

Eco Drive - 12 minutes - 61.8 mpg - used 0.33 litres

Non-eco Drive - 11.5 minutes - 51.5 mpg - used 0.39 litres

Now ok, over this short time, I only saved 10p, but if we take the 'average' drivers' mileage of 10,000 miles it works out as a saving of over £200.

During the Eco Drive

Gentle acceleration.

Early braking, and use of engine braking where possible to try and keep the car moving.

During the short Dual Carriageway section speed was kept to 60 mph.

Changing to a higher gear around 2,000 rpm.

During The Non-Eco Drive

Harsher acceleration.

Braking late, often meaning the car would stop, causing a high fuel consumption moving off again.

Doing 70 mph where possible on Dual Carriageway section.

Changing to higher gears around 3,000 rpm.

Both times, the air-con and other items such as heaters were turned off. Other things that will help with the economy would be:

Keeping tyre pressures to the correct level.

Making sure the car is serviced regularly.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Schools In Hornchurch

Car Fuel Economy Test

2011-05-21T10:52:00.000+01:00

Gentle acceleration.

Early braking, and use of engine braking where possible to try and keep the car moving.

During the short Dual Carriageway section speed was kept to 60 mph.

Changing to a higher gear around 2,000 rpm.

During The Non-Eco Drive

Harsher acceleration.

Braking late, often meaning the car would stop, causing a high fuel consumption moving off again.

Doing 70 mph where possible on Dual Carriageway section.

Changing to higher gears around 3,000 rpm.

Both times, the air-con and other items such as heaters were turned off. Other things that will help with the economy would be:

Keeping tyre pressures to the correct level.

Making sure the car is serviced regularly.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Schools In Hornchurch

When Is A Car Exempt From Road Tax?

2011-05-12T11:20:00.001+01:00

This is something that comes up occasionally in driving lessons, so I thought I would do a quick post on it.

Originally cars would be exempt from tax once they are 25 years old. This law changed back in 1998 (presumably as cars were becoming better made), and from this point, only cars built before 1 January 1973 qualify as a 'classic', or 'historic' car.

Looking at more modern cars, electric vehicles and ones with CO2 emissions less than 100g/km also do not have to pay for road tax.

It's worth noting, that despite the fact that in these cases the road tax is free, you still need to register for, and display a valid tax disc.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Lessons In Romford

When Is A Car Exempt From Road Tax?

2011-05-12T11:20:00.000+01:00

New Fines For Careless Driving

2011-05-11T11:21:00.001+01:00

From 2012, Police will be given new powers to fine drivers on the spot who tail-gate or drive aggressively.

These fines will be at least £80 and 3 points on the driving licence, in a similar way to the way people who speed are dealt with.

Critics say this new approach of keeping drivers out of the courts brings down the seriousness of some of these offences, but I feel that 'if' it is policed properly, it will lead to more drivers being punished, and hopefully getting the worst drivers off the road.

Like the speeding offences, there are also plans to offer first time offenders the chance of further training instead of points.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Schools In Hornchurch

New Fines For Careless Driving

2011-05-11T11:21:00.000+01:00

Uninsured Drivers Risk Fines And Crushed Cars

2011-04-19T12:00:00.001+01:00

Following on from a post last month on changes to how uninsured cars are dealt with, from June this year, the new system called Continuous Insurance Enforcement will go live.

The system uses information from the DVLA along with the Motor Insurance Database (MID) to check for taxed cars, that are not insured.

Once identified, the owner will receive an 'advisory letter' informing them that they have no insurance.

If the owner takes no action, a £100 fine will be issues. If nothing else is done, the car could be clamped, seized or crushed and the owner could be taken to court.

However the problem of the people who have no tax will still remain. Maybe the government need to crack down more on this too, so that every car is either taxed or declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification).

Time will tell if this new system makes a difference to the 1.4 million people who are currently driving without insurance.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Schools In Witham

Uninsured Drivers Risk Fines And Crushed Cars

2011-04-19T12:00:00.000+01:00

Death By Dangerous Cycling Law Gets Support

2011-04-18T12:15:00.001+01:00

The government is looking at introducing a new offence of causing death by dangerous cycling following concerns that there is no suitable legislation to deal with riders who are involved in collisions with pedestrians on pavements.

The proposed plans have been criticised by cycling groups who say that such deaths are so rare that a new law is unnecessary, as well as a distraction from a far bigger threat to pedestrians posed by cars. In 2009, there were no pedestrians killed by cyclists, compared to 426 who died in collisions with motor vehicles.

At the moment, cyclists can be fined for dangerous or careless cycling but more serious offences can only be dealt with a law from 1861 originally aimed at the "wanton or furious" driving of a horse-drawn carriage.

The bill was introduced to the Commons last month, using as an example Rhiannon Bennett, then 17, who was killed by a speeding cyclist in 2007. The cyclist was fined £2,200 after prosecutors decided that dangerous cycling was the only appropriate charge.

While such MP-sponsored bills rarely get beyond a first reading, the road safety minister, Mike Penning, has promised the Bennetts his support. "My department will consider the merits of the proposed Dangerous and Reckless Cycling Bill in consultation with the Ministry of Justice."

In my mind, it doesn't matter if you are riding a bike, or driving a lorry, causing the death of another person should be dealt with harshly. It's the only way people might think about changing the way they drive or ride.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Schools In Romford

Death By Dangerous Cycling Law Gets Support

2011-04-18T12:15:00.000+01:00

New Driver And What Car? Driving Schools Join Forces

2011-04-18T11:00:00.001+01:00

Back in 2009, the What Car? driving school was set up, with the aim to be one of the top driving schools in the country.

Despite their best efforts, unfortunately it doesn't seem to have worked, and from Easter Sunday, both the enlarged company will trade under the New Driver brand.

Read the story on the MSA website

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Lessons In Billericay

New Driver And What Car? Driving Schools Join Forces

2011-04-18T11:00:00.000+01:00

ASA Adjunction Against A Driving School

2011-04-14T16:14:00.001+01:00

I came across this story earlier this week about the Advertising Standards Agency's (ASA) looking into a complaint concerning a driving school.

Back in March the ASA expanded their remit to include false claims made on websites and other online sources.

It would now appear that the first driving school has been caught out. On 6th April a complaint was made against 'Pass N Go Ltd' by 3 another nearby driving schools.

Claims of 'Best Pass Rates' and 'Best Driving Instructors' were looked into by the ASA, and after looking into it, they have ruled that the wording can no longer be used. The main reason, is that although they may have good pass rates, and instructors, they cannot know how other driving schools are performing. Therefore, they cannot claim to be 'The Best'.

It will be interesting to see if there are any others that are caught out by this new ruling, and are unable to prove their claims.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving School In Hornchurch

ASA Adjunction Against A Driving School

2011-04-14T16:14:00.000+01:00

Driving Test Myths

2011-04-11T10:05:00.001+01:00

Over the years, I've spoken to many people who have a wide range of ideas of what happens on a driving test. Some of these ideas might be wrong, and often come from a friend who heard it from a friend. So although there might be some element of truth, it ends up like a game of Chinese whispers, and gets a little exaggerated.

Below is the top 5 I hear most often, with some explanation of the real truth behind the myth. If you have any more myths you would like the truth on, please leave a comment below.

Examiners Are Only Allowed To Pass A Certain Number Of People Each Week/Month.

Completely untrue. It is true that the Examiner's pass rates are monitored, but this has no effect on the number of people they pass. Put simply, if you are good enough during the driving test, you will pass.

If you stall or bump into a kerb, you will fail.

With this one, it depends on the situation. If you stall in the middle of a busy roundabout, and traffic has to brake or steer to avoid you, then yes it could be a serious fault. However, most stalls occur when moving away in traffic, or on a hill. So long as you keep calm and deal with it safely, without being a risk to other drivers, it will only be marked as a driver error (minor fault).

Also, when reversing, if you feel the car touch the kerb, the best thing to do is stop. From here you can work out what you need to do next to correct the error, and moving forward if fine if done safely. Like the stalling, if you deal with this well, and continue with the rest of the reversing exercise as you should, it will only be marked as a driver error.

You should set your mirrors slightly off, so you move your head more when checking them.

This one often comes up, sometimes through misunderstanding your Driving Instructor. However, you should never adjust your mirrors incorrectly as it makes quick observations harder, which will mean you often have to look away from the front of the car for longer.

As far as the test is concerned, the examiner can tell when you are checking your mirrors, by the slight change of your eyes, or a small twitch of your head. You might not realise you are doing these movements, but you do. These are what will the Examiner will use to tell when you are checking your mirrors. Just concentrate on doing what you've been taught to, and you'll be fine.

The minimum age for the driving test is going up to 18.

Once again not true. This one comes up a lot, and more recently, the media has a part to play in this myth. A few years ago, the DSA had a consultation on what the future of learning to drive will be. In this, with a whole lot of other ideas, was the suggestion to raise the driving test age.

There was no proof that it would make a difference to road safety so it wasn't taken further, but no doubt it will come up again.

You must take your test in your Driving Instructor's car.

This one doesn't affect many people as the majority of people prefer take the test in their Instructor's car as it's the car they are most used to. However some people who do a lot of private practice might want to use their own car.

So long as it's a vehicle allowed for the driving test, is legal for road use and the test (correct insurance), and you have L-plates and an interior mirror, you can use any car you like.

Saying that, in almost 5 years, I have only taught 2 people who opted to take their own car, purely as they felt more comfortable in their own car as they spent more time driving it than taking driving lessons.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Schools In Romford

Driving Test Myths

2011-04-11T10:05:00.000+01:00

Angry Learner Takes Test Examiner On Dangerous Ride

2011-04-07T11:32:00.001+01:00

I came across this story yesterday, and it's a bit worrying.

On October 2010, a Polish father of two, Artur Nowak, was so angry after being told his car was unsuitable for his driving test that he sped off with the examiner still in the car and proceeded to break the speed limit and drive through a red light.

Ironically, he was unaware that his Polish driving licence allowed him to drive unaccompanied in the UK. Also, 2 weeks later, the electronic handbrake, which was the reason for the cancelled test, was allowed on the test after a change in the rules by the DSA.

The examiner managed to get out in a side road, but got hit by the car door in the process. The Daily Mail has the full story.

This sort of thing happens more often than you might think. According to the DSA over 3/4 of crashes and near misses on driving tests happen in cars that do not have dual controls fitted.

I found an article a while ago (possible 2008/9) from the Driving Examiner's Union (PCS) that asks for all cars used for driving tests have dual controls fitted. If you are interested, you can view it here. The section of interest is under the heading 'Delivering Reform'.

In reality, this shouldn't be an issue to anyone taking a test. If you feel you are ready to take the driving test, and you didn't have a Driving Instructor at the moment, you would take an assessment lesson. The Instructor would then take you to the test if you are ready. If needed, they would recommend some things to improve on with your supervising driver (friend or family), or better still, they would take you on some driving lessons to get your driving up to test standard.

For someone who is at test standard this would result in paying for around 3 hours of time with an Instructor, which will be around the same cost as the driving test itself.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Schools In Hornchurch

Angry Learner Takes Test Examiner On Dangerous Ride

2011-04-07T11:32:00.000+01:00

Fuel Prices Still On The Rise

2011-04-06T15:54:00.001+01:00

Is it me, or is the price of fuel higher now, than it was after the drop in fuel duty last month?

This Daily Mail story claims that congestion across the UK's busiest roads has dropped by nearly 20% over the last 3 and a half years. So are people avoiding using their cars, or has the road network improved?

With this in mind, try and make sure you are doing everything you can to make your car more fuel efficient. Some suggestions are:

Take out heavy items out of the car that you don't need (I used to know a mechanic who travelled with a massive toolbox, including a trolley jack in his own car 'just in case'.

Remove roof boxes/bars if they aren't being used.

Avoid heavy braking and acceleration. Try to look further ahead to anticipate changes in the traffic ahead of you.

Make sure your car is serviced regularly and tyres are inflated properly.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Lessons In Brentwood
Driving Lessons In Hornchurch

Fuel Prices Still On The Rise

2011-04-06T15:54:00.000+01:00

Take out heavy items out of the car that you don't need (I used to know a mechanic who travelled with a massive toolbox, including a trolley jack in his own car 'just in case'.

Remove roof boxes/bars if they aren't being used.

Avoid heavy braking and acceleration. Try to look further ahead to anticipate changes in the traffic ahead of you.

Make sure your car is serviced regularly and tyres are inflated properly.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Lessons In Brentwood
Driving Lessons In Hornchurch

Driving Tests Cancelled For 'Unforeseen Circumstances'

2011-04-05T14:49:00.001+01:00

The term 'unforeseen circumstances' comes up a lot when driving tests are cancelled. If one of my pupils has their test postponed, the next question they ask me is what it means...

The truth is (as you might think), it could a wide range of things, including:

Examiner illness or injury meaning they are off work, and there is no one to cover the test.

An examiner has to work somewhere else temporarily, or may no longer work at that test centre.

The DSA might have made an error (it's rare, but I would think it has happened).

If your test does get cancelled, the DSA will arrange another one for you. Also, if it is less than 3 days till your test, you may be entitled to compensation.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Schools In Romford

Driving Tests Cancelled For 'Unforeseen Circumstances'

2011-04-05T14:49:00.000+01:00

Examiner illness or injury meaning they are off work, and there is no one to cover the test.

An examiner has to work somewhere else temporarily, or may no longer work at that test centre.

The DSA might have made an error (it's rare, but I would think it has happened).

Changes To The Motorcycle Test

2011-03-30T21:18:00.001+01:00

After the initial teething problems with the off-road motorcycle test, the DSA's working group (made up of various people in the industry) has come up with a number of minor changes that will take effect from 16th May 2011.

A summary of these changes is below:

Change of order - The slow speed exercises will be carried out before the higher speed ones. This is to allow the candidate chance to get settled before the more demanding parts.

Controlled Stop - A fairly relaxed exercise where the candidate gets a chance to ride round the circuit bend before coming to a smooth stop. The speed will be between 20mph and 30mph.

Emergency Stop - This will take part before the avoidance exercise, to prove they can brake harder under control before moving on the the harder avoidance part.

Riding Line - Taking left and right bends, with the need to reposition the bike on the exit of the turn (marked by cones). The candidate will choose which position to ride in.

Slow Riding - This will remain fairly unchanged, except the examiner will observe, rather than walk alongside to allow a smoother transition between the manoeuvres.

Avoidance Exercise - The main change in this part is that there will be less emphasis on stopping quickly after the swerve. This will allow more space for the candidate to stop, but the bike must still be stopped under control.

With the emergency stop and avoidance exercises, the speed will be measured, and it must be with 5% of 31mph (50kph).

For more information, visit the DSA website

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Lessons In Romford

Changes To The Motorcycle Test

2011-03-30T21:18:00.000+01:00

Irish Driving Instructors Worried Over Test Changes

2011-03-29T22:56:00.001+01:00

In Ireland, from 4th April this year, everyone applying for their first driving licence, must have 12 hours of training with a qualified Driving Instructor, before they take the driving test.

On the surface, most people wouldn't be too worried by this, as the average number of driving lessons people need to pass the test is over 40.

However, the plan set by the Road Safety Authority (the Irish equivalent of the DSA) aims to have the 12 hours over a period of 6 months, with a minimum gap of 2 weeks between each one for practice.

The GMB union (which represents over 1,000 Approved Driving Instructors) says it has grave misgivings about the scheme, in particular the role of the sponsor driver who supervises the learner.

It says the sponsor, who will be typically an adult relative or friend with at least two years driving experience, will not be qualified and may pass on bad habits to the learner.

Whether this is a sign of what to expect from the future over here, we will have to wait and see, but I will be watching this with great interest to see what happens next.
Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Lessons In Chelmsford

Irish Driving Instructors Worried Over Test Changes

2011-03-29T22:56:00.000+01:00

Changes To The Road Tax Prices

2011-03-28T19:46:00.001+01:00

After the budget this week, there have been a few changes to road tax.

Cars which emit under 100g/km continue to pay nothing, while bands B and C continue to pay £20 and £30 respectively.

Bands D, E and F have increased by £5, up to £95, £115 and £130

G, H, I and J are up by £10 to £165, £190, £210 and £245

Band K is up from £245 to £260. L is now up by £20 to £445, while band M has increased by £25 to £460.

For all the up to date tax rates, take a look at the direct.gov website.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Schools In Hornchurch

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Changes To The Road Tax Prices

2011-03-28T19:46:00.000+01:00

Dangerous Driving In Chelmsford

2011-03-24T10:22:00.001Z

A while ago I recorded this video of a car clearly driving through a red traffic light at the junction of New London Road and New Writtle Street.

Unfortunately, this is a very common problem at this particular set of lights, especially when people are rushing to get home. Over the years, I've seen many near misses by drivers doing this exact thing.

This time I decided to try and do something about it. I contacted the council with a copy of this video, and suggested they might increase the length of time between one set changing red and the other set changing green.

Ok, this won't stop people driving through the red lights, but it's a start to make the junction a bit safer.

To their credit, I received a quick reply saying they'll look into it, and another reply a week or so later letting me know what they found out.

The main part of the email explained that they had visited the site, and the lights were functioning correctly, and there was no need to change the timings. Here's a short part of the email.

Signal timings and the operation of the junction can not take into
account those drivers that risk travelling through the junction when
their signal is at red and there is nothing we can implement from a
signal operation point of view to stop this occurring, this problem is a
matter for the Police to deal with.

Now I can see their point, but it's a little frustrating. Would the next stage be to contact the Police and see what they say about it?

Your comments would be good.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving School

Dangerous Driving In Chelmsford

2011-03-24T10:22:00.000Z

Signal timings and the operation of the junction can not take into
account those drivers that risk travelling through the junction when
their signal is at red and there is nothing we can implement from a
signal operation point of view to stop this occurring, this problem is a
matter for the Police to deal with.

Now I can see their point, but it's a little frustrating. Would the next stage be to contact the Police and see what they say about it?

Your comments would be good.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving School

Cheaper Insurance With 'Black Box' Technology

2011-03-24T10:07:00.001Z

Co-operative Insurance is one of a few companies to introduce a new service specially tailored to younger drivers.

The idea is to have a 'Black Box' fitted in the policy holder's car to record various information about their driving. This information will then be used to calculate their premium.

Things that can be recorded include:

Speed

Braking and acceleration forces

Cornering forces

Time of day driving is done

Drivers can even log onto their own account website to see how they are driving.

Over 3/4 of young drivers can get insurance discounts with this scheme, which can save people up to £328.

Anything like this, can't be a bad thing. I've already had a few pupils interested in this set-up. Time will tell if it takes off with other insurance companies.

Take a look at the Co-Op Insurance Site for more information on their product.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving
Driving Lessons In Romford

Cheaper Insurance With 'Black Box' Technology

2011-03-24T10:07:00.000Z

Speed

Braking and acceleration forces

Cornering forces

Time of day driving is done

Fifth Wheel Trailers - Benefits For You

2011-03-22T14:35:00.001Z

Fifth wheel trailers are among the largest, most luxurious, and high-priced RVs. They can sleep up to 8 folks, and have a number of slide outs - some as much as five. This, of course, adds drastically to the weight, which impacts fuel consumption. They are identifiable from the downward aimed king pin which is attached under the front overhang. This hitch pin connects inside the bed of a pickup truck over the rear axle.

The 5th wheel trailers are set up and equipped with options and accessories just like a common travel trailer. They can be unhitched likewise - while parked and not being used. A number of models are quite large, making them luxurious travel trailers and are basically a home away from home.

Design

5th Wheel Trailers are basically made with a raised forward portion which is often stretched over the bed of a sport utility vehicle or pickup truck. The over-all length of the fifth wheel configuration can thus be six-feet less in contrast to other trailer setups. This in turn results in a much better driving experience: For example, the turning radius is sharper, resulting in less need to 'swing wide' around turns.

How The Fifth Wheel Trailer Is Coupled To The Tow Vehicle

A "kingpin" points down from the bottom of the forward portion of trailer. It is connected by a specialized trailer hitch - commonly located in the bed of a pickup truck. This fifth wheel hitch (the 'female' section of the hitch) is generally attached directly above or a bit forward of the rear axle of the pickup truck. The portion of the connecting hardware that will be fastened to the pickup truck is called the fifth wheel hitch.

The layout of the fifth wheel keeps a weight distribution that delivers the best possible ride traits and fuel mileage. They tend to be easy to tow as compared to standard travel trailers, because the weight is placed on top of the towing vehicle instead of behind it. The downward pressing weight on the tow vehicle isn't on the back bumper, as with traditional hitches.

Note that the more substantial weight of the average fifth wheel would likely make towing one using a classic ball hitch dangerous and generally out of the question. For one thing, the back wheels of the tow vehicle would not accept the added weight. Additionally, the front wheels of the tow vehicle might nearly be off the pavement, with all that weight pressing down in back of the rear axle.

Consequently the layout of the fifth wheel trailer is beneficial for several reasons. Besides following well behind the tow vehicle, fuel consumption is as decent as it can be considering the heavier weight.

Sometimes Airbrakes Are Necessary

Air brakes will be required on all trailers above 12,000 lbs. GTW (Gross Trailer Weight). The tow vehicle itself has to be equipped with airbrakes. Electric brakes or electric over hydraulic brakes will be allowed on a few specialized fifth wheel trailers over twelve thousand GTW when up to fifty percent of the weight goes to the towing vehicle.

8-Foot Pickup Beds A Necessity

Pickups built with traditional 8-foot long beds offer enough clearance in between the cab of the truck and the forward end of the trailer during sharp turns. However, pickup trucks built with 6 foot long “short-beds” would make the trailer contact the pickup's cab in sharp turns.

So the fifth wheel trailer is an ideal option if you are looking at buying a travel trailer for going camping, family trips, or possibly even living in it. Some come with washer / dryer rooms, in addition to all the other appliances that you might expect to see in a house. You can get the advantages of a pricey motor home, but for a great deal less dough.

Fifth Wheel Trailers - Benefits For You

2011-03-22T14:35:00.000Z

Driving Test Passes Update

2011-03-22T12:28:00.001Z

Hi all,

I've just been looking back at previous posts, and I've just realised I've been slacking with putting the driving test passes up here. So here goes...

2010

September
Elizabeth - Chelmsford

October
Emily - Chelmsford
Christopher - Chelmsford (100th test pass!)
Andy - Chelmsford

November
Cardina - Chelmsford
Andrew - Chelmsford

2011

January
Lee - Chelmsford

February
George - Chelmsford
Noel - Chelmsford

March
Madison - Chelmsford
Catherine - Chelmsford
Gary - Chelmsford

That brings the total to 109 :)

Rob Laird
RPL Driving - Hornchurch

Driving Test Passes Update

2011-03-22T12:28:00.000Z

MSRP Price Meaning - What Does It Mean?

2011-03-19T14:14:00.001Z

Another post from an American contributor. However the principles are the same over here. Our version, RRP, is often a guide which dealers use to offer their own prices.

Most people refer to the "Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price" as the "MSRP price," which sounds repetitive. Regardless, it may well be the least understood phrase as far as car shoppers are concerned.

The MSRP price of a motor vehicle is precisely which it proclaims: It is just a "suggested" retail price. And you understand that shelling out the retail price for just about anything nowadays is practically unheard of. The only exceptions are convenience stores and the like. Just about all "retailers" realize this and therefore price their merchandise ultimately less than retail price. Nevertheless they plainly show the retail price right together with the actual price it will cost.

Not surprisingly, this is done to give you the impression that you are getting a fantastic bargain from not being required to pay retail. Because thinking you are getting a great deal is often all it takes for you to part with your cash - even when you are really over-paying for that product. This is just normal sales psychology.

There are people who purchase brand new vehicles at full price - the MSRP price - and presume they've gotten a good deal. Many just don't want to haggle, but most just don't know better. These types of consumers are a car dealership's ideal shoppers. Most consumers believe that if they acquire a brand new motor vehicle below MSRP that the dealership did not even make money off of them, and/or that they screwed the poor car salesperson.

These people are really mis-informed, since nothing could be further from the truth.These people are most certainly thinking of this wrong, since nothing could possibly be further from the truth.

Question: When you shopped for a shirt or pants (or dress) last, did you have to pay the list price? I'm betting you didn't. The MSRP is just like the retail price - it's only there to fool you. Yet unfortunately, in contrast to 'normal' retailers, because the price the car dealership will sell a car isn't really advertised, it's up to you to carry out a little homework before you show up at the car lot.

Even if you do your research well and discover everything there is to know about your target car's pricing, you'll NEVER really know what the dealer actually paid for the car. All you can know are the things I mentioned - the things you are allowed to know. And the info you discover will be immensely helpful in you getting a killer deal on your car. But don't ever believe you are screwing the dealership or the individual car salesman out of their fair profit. But more on that later.

Now, there's nothing wrong with any U.S. business making a profit. Hey, we are a capitalist economy - not socialist or communist. Regardless, enough flexibility exists in a new car cost versus its price that both you and the dealership can be happy no matter what you may be led to believe otherwise. The car manufacturers and dealers have established such a complicated pricing system that they've put the responsibility on the consumer to figure out how to save money on a new car purchase.

Things About The MSRP You Should Know

A bill passed in Congress in 1958 established the MSRP. It was originally created as a consumer protection bill. U.S. Senator Mike Monroney sponsored the bill, so the sticker you see on every new car is often called "the Monroney sticker" by industry insiders. Every car produced must have this sticker and it cannot be removed except by the purchaser of the car. It was designed to protect the consumer by making the car manufacturer list each main component of the car that the consumer was paying for. The MSRP on the sticker was (at one time) the place from which to start negotiation on a final price.

Dealer Incentives

The MSRP listed on the sticker now, however, is just 'window dressing.' This is because the car manufacturers - in an effort to help move more vehicles - have teamed up with their sales force (the dealerships) and created a number of legal "kickbacks" for the dealers for every car sold. No doubt you've heard of some of these by the names of "dealer holdback" or "dealer incentives."

This is how they work:

For instance, if the manufacturer sends a check at the end of the quarter to the dealer for all the money held back on the sales of a certain model car, it would be known as "dealer holdback." Just how much is usually a percentage - supposedly between two and five percent.

You may say, "Johnny, if I find out about all the incentives for the car I want, including the factory invoice, then I should be able to negotiate a good deal, right?"

My answer to you would be, "Yes, you now have all the info you need to make an informed offer. You should be able to get your car for far less than folks less prepared." But know this: You can never know exactly what the cost of your car is and how much over the cost you are paying. Because secret incentives protect the dealer from selling a car at or below profit, which is really o.k. because it's a business, right? But yes, these 'secret' but perfectly legal dealer incentives are there, and it's one of the things that keeps them in business when folks like you and I get cars for thousands below invoice and/or below MSRP.

What's The Best Way To Use The MSRP To Come Up With A Good Offer?

Ignore it! Only use the MSRP for your own initial research to see if you can afford a particular model or not. But fortunately there is a good formula that steps you through the process of calculating a good offer. Keep in mind that an educated offer has a good chance of being accepted. If you just try to low-ball the price, the dealer will know you haven't done any research, giving him the definite advantage. In any case, discover handy formulas and more about MSRP vs invoice at buying-new-car.net. So do your research on the car(s) you want ahead of time. The dealer will see you're prepared and know it will be tough to fool you. But if your offer is reasonable he may take it with little fight. You'll be happy, and even though the dealer may not act it - he will be happy too.

MSRP Price Meaning - What Does It Mean?

2011-03-19T14:14:00.000Z

Transporting Cars: Relocating To A Brand New Home With A Big Family Group

2011-03-13T07:31:00.001Z

Do you've a huge family group? Should you do, then you might be going to require some extra help when you're relocating to a brand new residence. With any relocate there are tons of unique aspects that it's good to be aware of and strategy for. While you are relocating having a bigger family group, then there are even much more aspects that you need to strategy for. Regardless, it's good to think about the following to begin on the path to a straightforward and straightforward to take care of relocating operation for you and your whole family group.

The very first thing to look at when you're relocating having a huge family group is what kind of relocating services you would like to employ so that you can be certain your things will make it to your brand new residence without hassle. There are actually a few different unique kinds of companies to be found, such as those that specialize in moving vehicles. If you have teenagers within the residence, then you may want to look at opting for 1 of these transporting cars so that you can be certain their automobiles are taken to your brand new residence without having incident. The last thing that you'll need at this point is an accident on the approach to your brand new residence.

Another thing to think about is what kind of moving firms you strategy on hiring to transport all the things that you own to your brand new residence. There are actually tons of unique moving firms to be found for you to decide on from. Ensure that you take some time and plan in advance so that you can dig by means of the many unique companies that operate inside your local area. This will enable you to find the 1 agency that will fill all of your relocating wants without having breaking the bank. Cross country or local, there is certainly a relocating agency solution to all of your wants.

Relocating to a brand new residence having a huge family is something that can effortlessly tension you out and trigger complications. Fortunately, there are things you're able to do to make the operation just a bit less difficult. Think about all of this the next time you might be thinking about a relocation so that you don’t need to bother about just how your things or your children are going to make it to your brand new residence. In the end, everyone can enjoy the operation in the event you take some time and look ahead at what's coming.

Transporting Cars: Relocating To A Brand New Home With A Big Family Group

2011-03-13T07:31:00.000Z

Ins And Outs When Buying A Sports Car

2011-03-12T07:33:00.001Z

Many financially abled individuals are contemplating what to do with their “money” – should they put it in the bank for future stock or bond investment or use it for something that is tangible. They might just say “this is fun!” and what better thing to buy that can cause a phrase like this - a new sports car!

But here's how to look at both the positive and negative sides of spending cash for a sports car. Vehicles and Cars Blog provide further information about various types of cars.

Enthusiasts can find the most interesting reason to own a sports car and the good news is:
- Fans of expensive sports car can choose between the two-door coupe type and convertible type.
- Automatic transmission sports cars have better resale values.
- High-end exotics have been immune to the recent recession
- Less flashy cars do best, often losing as little as 6 to 10% of their worth over five years.
- Sports cars are used in many cases for car racing. Both men and women are starting to become addicted with the sport.
- Sports cars fit the lifestyle of the rich.
- These sports cars have more powerful engines with up to 750 horsepower.
- Sleek, convertible types depreciate more slowly than hardtop rivals.
- The newer the sports car model, the more impressive the driver is.

Although fitting, as it can be, for their lifestyle, it’s not all that easy when it comes to buying a sports cars, the not so good news is:

- Sports cars are prone to being affected by recurring and financially viable trends.
- Some sports cars have very expensive and hard to find repair parts.
- Sports car buyers should not expect to ever get back their full investment when reselling the car.
- Expensive sport cars infrequently serve their purpose as just a means of transportation. They just become the collector’s item that is rarely used.
- Driving an expensive sports car means spending extra money for gas.
- Models that were sold at special discounts decrease in value faster than other models.
- Various exotic sports cars that only a minority can find the money for are often resold because of costly maintenance.

On the other hand, sports cars have become a passion for some. It could indicate that the buyer would spend more than he should, since it brings enjoyment to the owner, and he is willing to sacrifice the costly price of owning one for the joy and prestige it gives.

Ins And Outs When Buying A Sports Car

2011-03-12T07:33:00.000Z

Compensation For Cancelled Driving Tests

2011-03-10T10:17:00.001Z

If your driving test was cancelled at short notice by the DSA, you may be entitled to compensation from them. Common reasons are an examiner being off sick, or delayed getting back from the previous test.

Things you may be able to claim for the following things:

Travel expenses to the test centre if you are using your own car

Half a day of lost earnings if taking unpaid leave.

Vehicle hire costs for the day of your driving test. This is normally 2 hours of your Driving Instructor's standard rate.

Other related expenses, such as childcare.

Obviously some form of receipt or proof is needed for most claims. If you have any questions, your Driving Instructor should be able to help.

Take a look at the DSA compensation form if you would like to download and print the form.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving School - Hornchurch

Compensation For Cancelled Driving Tests

2011-03-10T10:17:00.000Z

Travel expenses to the test centre if you are using your own car

Half a day of lost earnings if taking unpaid leave.

Vehicle hire costs for the day of your driving test. This is normally 2 hours of your Driving Instructor's standard rate.

Other related expenses, such as childcare.

Should You Invest On Used Cars Cars For Sale Or Pick Brand New Ones?

2011-03-10T08:10:00.001Z

Times are simply tough for most people these days. People have become a wise consumer and started to brace practicality more than ever. When it comes to buying cars, a lot would consider used cars for sale. But many are still reluctant to entertain the idea.. They could end up paying for a car that would cause so much trouble, making them wish they just went for a brand new car. Second-hand vehicles could be having problems that will only be too late when discovered. So it is no wonder why many would still prefer a new car even if it means they need to make a loan. What they don’t know is they really don’t have to be afraid of buying the wrong car because they could avoid such wrong decision, if only they would know what to do before the purchase.

People who need cars but have a limited budget pretty much know why they should opt for used cars. Obviously, second hand cars for sale are the only choice for them and they can’t do nothing about it. However it is not as depressing as it may seem. If you yourself can’t afford to buy a new one, don’t just nod on used cars for sale. They are really cheap compare to the new cars. While they may come with a lot of risks, these risks are completely avoidable. That's if you will do your research and find out what you must know before you buy any used vehicle.

First of all, determine what your budget will allow. Knowing exactly what your financial status can finance will make the whole process faster. In addition, if you have a targeted a price, you can prevent yourself from over spending.. Choose a car model that your budget will allow. Get a quote of the model’s current value as a used car & also find out mechanical problems associated to it. Carefully examine the car in daylight so you would be able to see if there are corrosion or rust. Make sure that the car has not been clocked or had a collision damage. Lastly, remember to test drive the car. Don't ever pay for it if you haven't actually driven it.. Following these tips will definitely ward you off from buying a car you will regret overtime.

Used cars are ideal for practical people who really don't drive that much. If you consider yourself as one of them then don't hesitate to invest on a used car. If you have all the money in the world but you like to change cars so often, then used cars are ideal for you too. Also think of the act as being considerate to mother earth. If you settle for used cars for sale, it’s like you recycle already. Hate to say it, but often we make an effort to help conserve our planet? It’s an opportunity for you to pay back our loving nature.

Should You Invest On Used Cars Cars For Sale Or Pick Brand New Ones?

2011-03-10T08:10:00.000Z

Essex Police Catching Drivers Using Mobile Phones

2011-03-09T22:18:00.001Z

After their success in the early part of this year with it's anti drink driving/speeding campaign, the Essex Police will be stepping up patrols in March to deal with the offence of using a mobile phone while driving.

In February 2007 the punishment was increased from a £30 fine to £60 and 3 points on their licence. Despite this as many as 25% of drivers still admit to using their phone while driving.

This is something I witnessed first hand the other day on a driving lesson when an oncoming driver was unaware of the police car behind them, happily chatting away on their phone. As they passed the blue lights came on.

Hopefully that's one less person who will stop, but I think some people are so stuck in their ways that they won't change.

It'll be interesting to see how the police's figures on people caught using phones changes this year.

For the full story, click here

Essex Police Catching Drivers Using Mobile Phones

2011-03-09T22:18:00.000Z

Video Camera Used During Driving Lessons

2011-03-09T13:18:00.001Z

Last year I tried out a few different in-car camera systems with my learner drivers and received a lot of positive feedback. The only downside was that some people didn't like the camera recording inside the car as well as outside.

With this in mind, I now use a single camera system which records what is happening at the front of the car.

An example can be found on this recent post on changing lanes safely.

If this goes well, I might consider a rear facing camera for those moments when seeing what was happening behind us could help in a driving lesson.

Some people have asked whether these camera can be used during the driving test. If they are recording the inside of the car, then definitely not. The Driving Test Examiner, will not agree to being recorded.

However, with a front facing camera, I can't see a problem, but so far Examiners have asked it to be turned off. I'm waiting on a reply from the DSA to get an official response on this.

UPDATE (4/4/11) - It's a definite no from the DSA regarding recording the test in any way. It's mentioned in the driving test guidance for examiners under section 7.34.

It is DSA policy that an examiner is within his/her rights to stop a test if they become aware of someone filming the test without the Agency's permission. If it becomes apparent that filming equipment is active either in a test vehicle or externally, for example during a motorcycle test. The examiner should politely ask for the equipment to be switched off. If this request is not complied with the test should be terminated code 41.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving School

Video Camera Used During Driving Lessons

2011-03-09T13:18:00.000Z

It is DSA policy that an examiner is within his/her rights to stop a test if they become aware of someone filming the test without the Agency's permission. If it becomes apparent that filming equipment is active either in a test vehicle or externally, for example during a motorcycle test. The examiner should politely ask for the equipment to be switched off. If this request is not complied with the test should be terminated code 41.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving School

The importance of Mirror, Signal, Manoeuvre

2011-03-09T13:11:00.001Z

This short clip is a good example of the importance of good checks before changing lanes.

The situation is the left lane is stationary and the road has a 40mph. At the time I moved from the right to the middle lane (I did signal in case you're wondering), I was doing around 25mph. Take a look at the clip and let me know what you think. I'll put a few of my thoughts below the video.

Afterwards I thought about the reasons this happened and came up with the following:

The driver looked before I changed lanes and didn't double check before moving (and didn't signal as they assumed it was still clear)

The driver didn't look at all.

Now looking at my own driving, could I have done anything different? Maybe. I could have changed lanes later on, but the same thing could've happened further along the queue. I could have slowed down, but I had traffic behind me which I had already slowed down slightly before I changed lanes.

I think this comes down to never letting your attention wander. If I had been distracted by using a mobile phone (obviously illegal), or just thinking about what I was going to have for dinner, the outcome could have been very different.

Rob Laird
RPL Driving School
Driving Lessons In Brentwood

The importance of Mirror, Signal, Manoeuvre

2011-03-09T13:11:00.000Z

The driver looked before I changed lanes and didn't double check before moving (and didn't signal as they assumed it was still clear)

The driver didn't look at all.

New Content...

2011-03-09T09:17:00.001Z

As a trial, in addition to my own articles and news, I'll be allowing certain posts to be published by other people to vary the content on my site.

This could be on almost any car related subject, from insurance to car reviews and servicing.

If you have any comments on these new articles, please let me know.

Rob Laird
Driving School In Romford

New Content...

2011-03-09T09:17:00.000Z

Honda Hybrid Vehicles - an Industry Leader in the New and Rising Hybrid Car Industry

2011-03-09T09:07:00.001Z

It doesn't matter which color you choose, all Honda Hybrid Vehicles are green. When it comes to environment friendly vehicles, Toyota's Prius and Honda's Civic Hybrid Vehicles are the market leaders. If you're searching for the greenest vehicle available for purchase, the Toyota Prius or the Honda Hybrid Vehicles are the very best choice for you. Honda Hybrid Vehicles are flying off dealer forecourts. Honda Hybrid Vehicles are chiefly wanted by consumers, especially those searching for used cars, due to their appearance and fuel mileage.

Honda Hybrid Vehicles are now and then a little jumpy. If you're looking at used cars, this is something to be aware of. Also, oil changes on Honda Hybrid Vehicles are more costly than on other vehicles. Oil changes on Honda Hybrid Vehicles are more costly because of the unique low-viscosity oil. Again, when researching used cars, this is great to keep in mind.

Honda Hybrid Vehicles are not as frequently available for rent, but some well-known businesses, have them in their fleets. Many businesses with tell you that Honda Hybrid Vehicles are not towable. ConsumerGuide warns that 2010 Honda Hybrid Vehicles are "slow off the line and call for liberal throttle to build speed quickly. Many reviews mention the lethargic acceleration times offered by this model. Also, Honda Hybrid Vehicles are reportedly going through premature wear of the battery-cell system.

Though Honda Hybrid Vehicles are in demand, so can you still bargain with a car dealer when you want to pay in cash. It is worth it, too. The Toyota Prius and Honda Hybrid Vehicles are some of the most fuel efficient vehicles offered as of right now. Honda Hybrid Vehicles are also sporting near-immovable re-sale values. Honda Hybrid Vehicles are selling in an average of 30 days, in comparison to 67 days a year ago. The Toyota Prius, Honda Insight and Honda Hybrid Vehicles are classified as clean unique fuel vehicles.

Brand-new Honda Hybrid Vehicles are part electric and part gas. For college/university students, Honda Hybrid Vehicles are popular student rental alternatives. Moreover, the Honda Hybrid Vehicles are very nice and smooth to drive. The Toyota Prius and Honda Hybrid Vehicles are rated by CARB as SULEV—super ultra-low emission vehicles. The new Honda Hybrid Vehicles are meant to be enhanced with more powerful batteries, an upgrade to its regenerative brake system and transition to a sleeker body style.

Honda Hybrid Vehicles - an Industry Leader in the New and Rising Hybrid Car Industry

2011-03-09T09:07:00.000Z

Tescos To Sell Used Cars?

2011-03-05T19:42:00.001Z

After several rumors and speculations, it appears that Tesco will be launching their own used car website in April this year.

If things are to be believed, they have been working on this project for over a year, but some used car dealers are worried.

Founder and Director of Motoring.co.uk Chris Green said

Tesco is likely to market this in a way that will target dealers and that won't be good news. This worries me, and I'm sure it worries dealers too. In a year when many businesses are struggling to survive and looking to the secondhand market to keep them going, a big player like Tesco entering the market could send them under.

Like most things, time will tell...

Tescos To Sell Used Cars?

2011-03-05T19:42:00.000Z

Tesco is likely to market this in a way that will target dealers and that won't be good news. This worries me, and I'm sure it worries dealers too. In a year when many businesses are struggling to survive and looking to the secondhand market to keep them going, a big player like Tesco entering the market could send them under.

Like most things, time will tell...

Quick Twitter Test...

2011-03-04T13:35:00.001Z

Just a little test to check the automatic twitter updates...

Quick Twitter Test...

2011-03-04T13:35:00.000Z

Just a little test to check the automatic twitter updates...

Up and coming changes to car insurance

2011-03-04T11:32:00.005Z

The cost of car insurance is one of the biggest concerns for new drivers, and over the years the price has been going up.

News out this week is that from December 2012, insurance companies will no longer be allowed to use a person's gender to calculate their insurance premiums.This means that women, who are generally regarded as safer drivers, might find their insurance increasing by up to 25%.

However, I can't see it.

I would think that in a business which largely gains customers on cost, they will find other ways to stay competitive.

Possible ideas could be giving more weight to the amount of miles covered, potential discounts for further training or bigger increases if a person offends or makes a claim, meaning that the original price could be lower.

All of this could prove to be a problem with the female-only companies, but we will have to wait and see...

Rob Laird
RPL Driving School

Up and coming changes to car insurance

2011-03-04T11:32:00.004Z

Up and coming changes to car insurance

2011-03-04T11:32:00.003Z

The cost of car insurance is one of the biggest concerns for new drivers, and over the years the price has been going up.

News out this week is that from December 2012, insurance companies will no longer be allowed to use a person's gender to calculate their insurance premiums.

This means that women, who are generally regarded as safer drivers, might find their insurance increasing by up to 25%.

However, I can't see it.

I would think that in a business which largely gains customers on cost, they will find other ways to stay competitive.

Possible ideas could be giving more weight to the amount of miles covered, potential discounts for further training or bigger increases if a person offends or makes a claim, meaning that the original price could be lower.

This could prove to be a problem with the female-only companies, but we will have to wait and see...

Rob Laird

RPL Driving School

BSM May Be Sold...

2011-01-31T09:15:00.004Z

Back in November 2009, BSM was involved in a £10 million management buyout. If the news reports over the weekend are to be believed, BSM have sturuggled to pay it's staff this month.

Now the AA seem to have stepped in with an offer to buy the company, along with it's debts.

To myself, and other Driving Instructors, it was only a matter of time. The high franchise fees, and the choice to replace the popular Corsa with Fiat 500s pushed a lot of Instructors away.

If all goes ahead as planned, the AA will keep the BSM brand, but no doubt there will be some big changes coming up...

From thisismoney.co.uk

Rob Laird

RPL Driving School

BSM May Be Sold...

2011-01-31T09:15:00.003Z

Back in November 2009, BSM was involved in a £10 million management buyout. If the news reports over the weekend are to be believed, BSM have sturuggled to pay it's staff this month.

Now the AA seem to have stepped in with an offer to buy the company, along with it's debts.

To myself, and other Driving Instructors, it was only a matter of time. The high franchise fees, and the choice to replace the popular Corsa with Fiat 500s pushed a lot of Instructors away.

If all goes ahead as planned, the AA will keep the BSM brand, but no doubt there will be some big changes coming up...

From thisismoney.co.uk

Rob Laird

RPL Driving School

BSM May Be Sold...

2011-01-31T09:15:00.002Z

Back in November 2009, BSM was involved in a £10 million management buyout. If the news reports over the weekend are to be believed, BSM have sturuggled to pay it's staff this month.

Now the AA seem to have stepped in with an offer to buy the company, along with it's debts.

To myself, and other Driving Instructors, it was only a matter of time. The high franchise fees, and the choice to replace the popular Corsa with Fiat 500s pushed a lot of Instructors away.

If all goes ahead as planned, the AA will keep the BSM brand, but no doubt there will be some big changes coming up...

From thisismoney.co.uk

Rob Laird

RPL Driving School

A slight change... Have a look at this painting site

2011-01-12T15:37:00.005Z

Hi all,

It's not very often I do a bit of shameless plugging, but here's one :)

A friend of mine has just started her own company 'Bigg Splats'. She is showing off some of her paintings, and selling a few. She's able to change designs and colours if you would like something special.

Take a look at Bigg Splats Painting

Thanks!!

A slight change... Have a look at this painting site

2011-01-12T15:37:00.004Z

Hi all,

It's not very often I do a bit of shameless plugging, but here's one :)

Take a look at Bigg Splats Painting

Thanks!!