Tuesday, 10 September 2024

ECO DRIVING

             Fuel efficient driving

Fuel prices are rising, and we all care more about the planet. Learning how to drive more efficiently is key. This guide will show you how to save money on gas, help the environment, and make your road trips better. You'll learn the basics of driving without wasting fuel and see how it helps.

A serene landscape featuring a modern, sleek car driving along a winding road surrounded by lush greenery, with soft sunlight filtering thoughharmony between technology and nature, emphasizing smooth driving techniques and energy efficiency.

Key Takeaways

  • Understand the core principles of eco-friendly driving for maximum fuel efficiency.
  • Discover the financial and environmental benefits of adopting fuel-efficient driving habits.
  • Learn practical driving techniques to improve your vehicle's performance and reduce fuel consumption.
  • Optimize your driving routes and minimize unnecessary idling for enhanced eco-driving.
  • Maintain your vehicle regularly to ensure peak performance and fuel economy.

Unlock the Secrets of Eco Driving

Learn the key ideas of eco driving to make your driving better for the planet and your wallet. This approach helps you use less fuel, emit fewer pollutants, and save money. It's all about making small changes in how you drive.

Understanding the Fundamentals

Eco driving means making your car work better, using less fuel, and driving in ways that save energy. By using eco-friendly driving techniques, you can make your car do more with less. This helps our planet and future.

Benefits of Fuel-Efficient Driving

Choosing to drive more efficiently can really help your wallet and the planet. Here are some big pluses:

  • Less fuel used means you spend less money
  • Lower emissions help keep our air clean
  • Your car lasts longer and costs less to keep up
  • Your car drives better and feels more fun

By learning the basics of eco driving and adding these tips to your daily drive, you're doing your part for the planet. Plus, you'll enjoy the perks of driving smarter and greener.

Pre-Trip Preparation for Maximum Efficiency

Before you start your trip, a few easy steps can make a big difference. They help your car use less fuel and reduce harm to the environment. By getting your car ready and planning your path, you're setting up for a drive that saves fuel and is better for the planet.

Vehicle Inspection Checklist

First, check your car carefully. Make sure these important parts are working well:

  • Tire pressure - Properly inflated tires can improve fuel economy by up to 3%.
  • Air filter - A clean air filter lets your engine work better, saving fuel.
  • Engine oil level - Keep your oil at the right level for best lubrication.
  • Fluid levels - Check and add fluids like coolant, brake fluid, and power steering as needed.

Mapping Your Route

Then, plan your route with saving fuel in mind. Use apps or online maps to find the quickest, least crowded way to your destination. Try to avoid extra turns and pick roads with fewer stop signs and traffic lights. These choices can really cut down on how much fuel you use.

Pre-Trip Preparation Checklist

Benefit

Properly inflated tires

Up to 3% improvement in fuel economy

Clean air filter

Enhanced engine efficiency

Optimal fluid levels

Reduced friction and wear

Direct, uncongested route

Fewer stops and starts, lower fuel consumption

Getting your car ready and planning your route are key to a fuel-efficient drive. These easy steps help you use less fuel and protect the environment. They're the basics for a successful eco-friendly trip.

Mastering Smooth Acceleration and Braking

Driving efficiently isn't just about keeping a steady speed. It's also about how you accelerate and brake. By changing how you drive, you can use less fuel and help the environment.

Gentle Acceleration Techniques

Fast acceleration uses a lot of fuel. So, it's key to smooth acceleration for eco driving. Press the accelerator slowly, building speed step by step. This saves fuel and makes your ride smoother for others in the car.

Braking Strategies for Fuel Savings

Just like with acceleration, how you brake affects your fuel use. Don't slam on the brakes hard, as it wastes fuel and wears out your brakes. Brake smoothly and think ahead to brake less often.

"Smooth acceleration and strategic braking can make a world of difference in your fuel efficiency, without compromising the driving experience."

Learning these tips helps you save on fuel and protect the planet. Every change in how you drive helps your car and the environment. So, make those small changes to make a big difference.

Maintaining Optimal Cruising Speed

Getting the most out of your fuel is not just about how you drive. It's also about finding the right cruising speed for your car. This "sweet spot" helps you balance speed and fuel savings.

Finding the Sweet Spot

The best optimal cruising speed for eco driving changes with your car's type and engine size. Most cars and light trucks do best between 50-60 mph. Going faster can make your fuel use worse because of air resistance.

To find your car's best speed, watch your fuel economy and try different speeds on the highway. You might see a big jump in fuel efficiency by going a bit slower.

Speed (mph)

Fuel Economy (mpg)

45

30

50

32

55

30

60

28

65

26

Sticking to your car's optimal cruising speed for eco driving helps save fuel and cut down on pollution. You won't lose much time either.

"The most important factor in achieving maximum fuel efficiency is maintaining the right cruising speed. By finding that sweet spot, you can save money at the pump and reduce your carbon footprint."

Eco Driving: Minimizing Idling and Excessive Speed

When it comes to saving fuel, think about how you idle and speed. These habits affect your car's fuel use and emissions. They can cost you money and hurt the planet.

Idling at lights or in lines uses a lot of fuel. In fact, studies show that idling for more than 30 seconds can use more fuel than restarting your engine. To save fuel and maximize fuel efficiency, try these tips:

  • Turn off your engine if you'll wait more than 30 seconds.
  • Avoid revving your engine or letting it idle when warming up. Modern engines warm up better while driving.
  • Do all your errands in one trip to cut down on engine starts and stops.

Also, excessive speed wastes a lot of fuel. The more you speed, the more your car's drag increases, using more fuel. Experts suggest keeping speeds low and steady to save fuel.

Driving Behavior

Impact on Fuel Efficiency

Idling for more than 30 seconds

Wastes more fuel than restarting the engine

Driving at excessive speeds

Significantly increases aerodynamic drag and fuel consumption

Pay attention to how you idle and speed to reduce idling for eco driving and avoid excessive speed for fuel efficiency. This saves you money and helps the environment.

Harnessing the Power of Route Planning

Route planning is a key tool for eco-driving fans. It helps you map out your trip and make it more efficient. This way, you can save fuel and help the environment. Let's see how to use route planning to improve your eco-driving.

Avoid Traffic Congestion

Route planning helps you dodge traffic jams. Sitting in traffic uses more fuel and harms the environment. With apps that show traffic in real-time, you can find the best way around traffic. This makes your drive smoother and more fuel-efficient.

Optimize Your Route

It's not just about avoiding traffic. Think about road conditions, elevation, and traffic signals to plan a better route. This approach reduces stops, starts, and stops, boosting your fuel economy and making your trip greener.

Route Planning Strategy

Potential Fuel Savings

Avoiding traffic congestion

Up to 20%

Optimizing driving routes

10-15%

The table shows how route planning can save fuel. By planning your route, you can drive more efficiently and sustainably.

A see landscape featuring a winding road through lush green hills, with a digital navigation map overlay showcasing optimal routes for fuel-efficient driving. Colorful markers indicating eco-friendly checkpoints and smooth traffic flows, along with a backdrop of clear skies and sunlit sceney.

"The right route can make all the difference in your fuel efficiency and environmental impact. With a little planning, you can transform your driving habits and contribute to a greener future."

Maintaining Your Vehicle for Peak Performance

Keeping your vehicle in top shape is key for saving fuel and helping the environment. Regular check up helps your car use less fuel and be more eco-friendly. Here's a detailed guide to keep your car running smoothly.

Regular Maintenance Checklist

Following a regular maintenance plan is vital for vehicle maintenance for eco driving and regular maintenance for fuel efficiency. Here are important tasks to add to your routine:

  • Check and maintain proper tire pressure. Properly inflated tires can improve fuel economy by up to 3%.
  • Replace air filters regularly. Clean air filters ensure efficient engine operation and fuel combustion.
  • Perform regular engine tune-ups. Optimizing engine performance can boost fuel efficiency by up to 4%.
  • Change engine oil and fluids as recommended by the manufacturer. Well-lubricated components reduce friction and improve fuel economy.
  • Inspect and replace spark plugs when needed. Faulty spark plugs can lead to misfiring, reducing fuel efficiency.
  • Align and balance your wheels. Proper wheel alignment and balance can enhance fuel economy by up to 3%.

By keeping up with these key maintenance tasks, you can make sure your vehicle runs well and uses less fuel. Spending a bit of time and effort on vehicle maintenance for eco driving leads to big fuel efficiency savings over time.

"Proper vehicle maintenance is the foundation of eco-driving. It's the first step towards unlocking your car's full potential for fuel efficiency and environmental sustainability."

Eco Driving and Emerging Technologies

The automotive industry is bringing new solutions to make driving greener. They've introduced advanced technologies for eco-friendly driving. These include hybrid and electric vehicles and connected car features. They're changing how we drive for the better.

Hybrid and electric cars are getting more popular. They offer a greener choice than traditional cars. These cars use advanced batteries and electric motors. This cuts down on fuel use and emissions.

Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) are also improving eco driving. Systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist help drivers. They keep speeds steady, cut down on harsh braking, and boost fuel efficiency.

A futuristic urban landscape featuring electric vehicles with sleek designs, solar panels integrated into roadways, smart traffic management systems, and charging stations, surrounded by lush greenery and innovative bike lanes, all under a clear blue sky.

Connected car tech is also making eco driving better. Cars with real-time traffic info and smart route planning help drivers. They avoid traffic jams and make choices that save fuel.

The future of eco driving is looking up. Thanks to new tech, drivers can enjoy greener driving. It's more fun and saves money too.

Conclusion

This guide has given you the key techniques and strategies for eco driving. By using these tips, you can save money on gas, lessen your environmental impact, and enjoy greener road trips. Every small change in how you drive can greatly reduce your fuel use and carbon footprint.

The article showed how crucial it is to know the basics, make the most of fuel-efficient driving, and use new tech to boost your driving skills. It covered everything from getting ready for a trip to keeping a steady speed. This guide has given you the knowledge and tools to drive more eco-friendly.

Keep working towards driving more efficiently and apply these eco-friendly driving tips to your everyday driving. Doing this will help the planet and also save you money and improve your driving experience. Embrace eco driving and be proud of your efforts towards a greener future.

FAQ

What is eco driving?

Eco driving, also known as fuel-efficient driving, is about using techniques to save fuel and cut emissions. It means driving smoothly and making smart choices to use less gas. This helps protect the environment.

What are the benefits of eco driving?

Eco driving helps you use less fuel, which means lower emissions and saving money. It makes driving better for the planet. By driving more efficiently, you help the environment and save cash on gas.

How can I prepare my vehicle for eco driving?

Get your car ready for eco driving by checking tire pressure and replacing air filters. Make sure your engine is tuned up. Also, plan your route to avoid traffic to save fuel.

What are the best techniques for smooth acceleration and braking?

For smooth driving, accelerate and brake gently. Don't speed up suddenly or brake hard. This saves fuel. Instead, accelerate slowly and brake early to coast to a stop.

What is the optimal cruising speed for eco driving?

Drive at 50-60 mph for the best fuel efficiency. Driving faster uses more fuel. Find a speed that balances driving well and saving gas.

How can I minimize idling and excessive speed?

Avoid idling and don't speed. Don't idle when waiting or speeding on the road. Drive at a steady pace to save fuel.

How does route planning impact eco driving?

Planning your route helps save fuel. Pick the quickest, least crowded route to your destination. This cuts down on time spent in traffic, saving fuel.

What vehicle maintenance tasks are important for eco driving?

Keep your car in top shape for better fuel efficiency. Check tire pressure, change air filters, and tune up your engine. Fix any mechanical issues to keep your car running well and saving fuel.

How are emerging technologies impacting eco driving?

New car tech like hybrids and electric cars is changing eco driving. These technologies improve fuel efficiency and give you feedback on your driving. They make driving greener and more efficient.

Thursday, 5 September 2024

LEARN TO DRIVE - EXPERT DRIVING LESSONS NEAR YOU

      Learn to Drive: Expert Driving Lessons Near You

Unlock the freedom of the road and gain the confidence to navigate any driving situation with our comprehensive driving lessons. Our experienced instructors are dedicated to guiding you every step of the way. They will help you master essential skills and prepare you for your driving test.

Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced driver looking to improve, our tailored programs are for you. They are designed to meet your unique needs. This will help you become a safer, more proficient driver.

Key Takeaways:

  • Expert driving instruction from experienced professionals
  • Personalized curriculum to suit your skill level and learning style
  • Gain the confidence and skills to pass your driving test with ease
  • Flexible scheduling to accommodate your busy lifestyle
  • Affordable pricing and payment options to fit your budget

Unlock the Freedom of the Road with Professional Driving Lessons

Learning to drive is key to enjoying the freedom of the road. Our professional driving lessons will guide you every step of the way. They help you gain the confidence and skills to drive safely and responsibly.

Gain Confidence and Master Essential Skills

Our experienced instructors will teach you important driving techniques. You'll learn how to change lanes, park in parallel spots, and navigate through busy junction / intersections. Our driving instruction will prepares you for any driving situation.

Experienced Instructors Guide You Every Step of the Way

Our instructors are dedicated to helping you become a confident driver. They offer personalized attention and hands-on practice. This ensures you're ready to drive with confidence and skill.

Start your journey to driving freedom with our expert professional driving lessons today.

Why Choose Expert for your Driving Lessons?

Learning to drive with professional driving instructor has many benefits. You'll learn safe driving habits and gain confidence on the road. Our skilled instructors use effective teaching methods to help you learn well.

Here are some advantages of picking professional driving lessons:

  • Get hands-on experience in real driving situations with qualified instructors
  • Learn key skills like defensive driving, spotting hazards, and controlling your vehicle
  • Learn at your pace and stay focused to meet your learning needs
  • Feel ready for your driving test and boost your chances of passing it first time

Driving lessons are more than just getting your license. They're about making a promise to drive safely and responsibly. Our expert instructors will teach you how to drive with confidence. This makes you a safer, better driver for life.

"The best investment you can make is in yourself and your future. Choosing expert driving lessons is a smart decision that will pay dividends for the rest of your life."

Don't wait any longer. Start your journey to becoming a confident, skilled driver by signing up for your driving lessons today.

Flexible Scheduling to Fit Your Busy Life

At our driving school, we know your schedule is full and can change often. That's why we offer flexible driving lesson scheduling to fit your life. You can choose from morning, afternoon, or evening lessons. We'll work with you to find the best convenient lesson times for your busy life.

Convenient Times for Your Learning Needs

We know everyone has different schedules and things they need to do. That's why our driving instructors are available at various times during the day. This way, you can fit your driving lessons around your other responsibilities. We offer early and late sessions to help you learn to drive easily.

We aim to make learning to drive easy and stress-free with our convenient lesson times and flexible scheduling. We want to accommodate your busy schedules and support you in becoming a confident driver.

Comprehensive Curriculum for Beginner and Experienced Drivers

At our driving school, we offer a comprehensive driving syllabus for all skill levels. Whether you're starting from scratch or want to improve your skills, we have lessons for you. Our program is designed to meet your specific needs and goals.

Our curriculum includes all the essential topics you need to know. You'll get well-rounded instruction that helps you drive safely. From learning how to operate a vehicle to mastering complex maneuvers, our Driving lessons for all skill levels are tailored to you.

Empowering Beginner and Experienced Driver Training

For beginner learner drivers, we start with the basics. You'll learn how to start, steer, and brake safely. We also teach you about traffic rules, road signs, and safe driving habits. This ensures you have a solid foundation for your driving journey.

For experienced drivers, we focus on improving your skills. We'll work on your defensive driving techniques, reaction time, and instill habits that make you a better driver. This will boost your confidence and responsibility on the road.for obstacle courses, and traffic signal models, all set in a bright, inviting environment.

"Our driving lessons have transformed countless lives, empowering students to take control of the road with confidence and skill."

We combine our comprehensive driving syllabus with expert instructions. This approach ensures you gain the knowledge and skills needed to drive safely and confidently, no matter your experience level.

Driving Lessons for Every Age and Level

Are you a teenager starting to learn or an adult looking to improve your driving skills? Our driving lessons cater to your specific needs. Our skilled instructors provide personalized instruction. They help students of all ages and skill levels to become safe and responsible drivers.

Tailored Instruction for Teenagers and Adults

Our driving lessons for all ages focus on what each student needs. For teenage driver training, we work on skills like vehicle control and traffic awareness. For adult driver education, we cover basic skills or advanced maneuvers.

We tailor our lessons to meet each student's unique needs. This approach helps them overcome challenges and gain confidence on the road.

Teenage Driver Training

Adult Driver Education

  • Developing vehicle control
  • Learning traffic rules and regulations
  • Practicing defensive driving techniques
  • Building confidence on the road
  1. Refreshing basic driving skills
  2. Addressing specific areas of concern
  3. Mastering advanced maneuvers
  4. Boosting confidence and road awareness

Behind the Wheel: Real-World Practice

At our driving school, we think the best way to learn is by getting hands-on experience. Our behind the wheel training gives you the practical skills you need to drive with confidence.

You'll get to use your skills in real-world driving practice during your lessons. Our skilled instructors will take you through different road types, like busy city streets and winding country roads. This helps you develop the skills and quick thinking needed to stay safe.

Master Defensive Driving Techniques

Our Driving lessons also focus on defensive driving techniques. You'll learn to spot potential dangers, keep a safe distance, and act fast in unexpected situations. These skills will make you more confident in handling any driving situation.

  • Learn to scan the road for potential risks
  • Develop the ability to react quickly and appropriately
  • Understand how to maintain a safe following distance
  • Practice defensive driving maneuvers, such as emergency stop and evasive steering

Our training aims to give you the knowledge and experience to be a safe, responsible driver. With our expert help, you'll be ready for your driving test and enjoy the freedom of the road.

"The best way to learn to drive is by getting behind the wheel and practicing in real-world conditions. Our driving lessons ensure you develop the skills and confidence to handle any situation on the road."

Boost Your Confidence with Driving Lessons

Learning to drive can change how you feel on the road. Our expert driving lessons aim to boost your confidence. They help you overcome driving anxiety and make driving easier.

Our lessons are for everyone, whether you're new to driving or have been driving for years. We focus on what you need and help you learn step by step. With our skilled instructors, you'll learn the skills to drive safely and with confidence.

Feeling confident while driving is more than just passing your driving test. It's about feeling free and comfortable in any driving situation. Our lessons will help you face your fears, handle tough situations, and enjoy driving.

Overcome Driving Anxiety with Expert Guidance

If driving makes you anxious, we're here to help. Our instructors will work with you to find out why you're scared and how to overcome it. With practice and support, you'll become a confident driver.

  • Learn techniques to manage stress and anxiety behind the wheel
  • Develop the skills to navigate complex driving situations with ease
  • Gain the confidence to make decisions and react quickly on the road

Tailored Lessons for Your Unique Needs

Everyone learns differently, so our lessons are made just for you. Whether you're a teen or an adult, we'll make a plan that fits your goals and worries.

Lesson Type

Tailored Approach

Beginner Drivers

Comprehensive instruction in all the fundamentals of driving, building a solid foundation of knowledge and skills.

Experienced Drivers

Focused on refining techniques, addressing problem areas, and building advanced skills for greater confidence and control.

Nervous/Anxious Drivers

Specialized strategies to overcome fears, manage stress, and develop the self-assurance to handle any driving situation.

Drive with confidence and improve your skills. Contact us today to book your driving lessons and unlock the freedom and independence of the open road.

Driving Lessons Near You: Convenient Locations

We know how important it is to learn to drive near you. That's why we've placed our driving schools all over the area. This makes it easy for you to find a school close to your home or work.

Find a Driving School Close to Home or Work

Do you want to take driving lessons on your way to work or in a place you know well?

We're committed to offering driving lessons near me and convenient driving school locations. This shows how serious we are about making learning easy for everyone. We make sure our students can get the skills they need to drive safely and confidently.

Affordable Pricing and Payment Options

Our driving schools, deliver quality driving lessons that fit your budget. This will makes our services available to everyone, no matter your financial situation.

Learning to drive is a big step towards gaining freedom. With our flexible payment plans, you can pick the option that suits your budget best. Whether you pay all at once or spread it out, we've got you covered.

Payment Option

Description

Price from

Pay as you Go

Pay for driving lesson before starting every time

£30

Package Deal

Pay for 5 Lessons

£145

Package Deal

Pay for 10 Lessons

£280

Our cost-effective driver education programs aim to give you the skills and confidence to drive safely and responsibly.

 

Prepare for Your Road Test with Expert Guidance

Our driving lessons teach you more than just the basics. We give you the skills and confidence you need to do well on your driving test. Our experienced instructors will work closely with you. They provide personalized guidance and support to make sure you're ready for the real-world and your driving test.

Our comprehensive curriculum covers everything you need for road test preparation. You'll learn defensive driving techniques and how to navigate the test route easily. By the end, you'll have the knowledge and practical experience needed to pass the driving test and get your driver's license with confidence.

If you're a beginner or just want to improve your skills, our expert driving test coaching is here to help. We'll prepare you to approach the driving test with confidence. With our guidance, you'll show your driving skills and prove you can drive safely and responsibly.

Wednesday, 4 September 2024

 Fire chiefs warn of growing risk of e-bike ‘explosions’

www.afzal-driving-lessons.co.uk
 

A total of 149 fires caused by exploding e-bike batteries were recorded by the London Fire Brigade (LFB) in 2023, an increase of 71pc from 2022.

Three people died as a result of the incidents while around 60 people were injured.

And at least a further 40 e-bike fires have been recorded so far this year.

The fires are typically triggered when the lithium battery of an e-bike becomes damaged or is charged using the wrong equipment, said Charlie Pugsley, the London Fire Brigade’s deputy commissioner.

He said: “Growing e-bike ownership is a good thing if they help people get around and it supports our climate objectives.

“But what really worries us is the speed and severity of these battery fires when they break out.

In December last year, the LFB revealed how a mother and son were forced to jump from the first-floor windows of their home in Ilford, east London, after an e-bike that had been left charging overnight burst into flames indoor. Both survived but had to be treated in hospital, while large sections of the house’s first floor and roof were destroyed.

The amount of energy packed into lithium batteries makes them particularly dangerous when they explode, leading to fierce flames and billowing smoke that fills the area within seconds, Mr Pugsley said.

The LFB is now advising households not to charge e-bikes when they are sleeping, to avoid placing them next to exits or stairways that could block escape routes and to always use the correct charger, among other things. Households have been advised to store them outside or in outbuildings, where possible.

Mr Pugsley raised concerns about growing spread of illegal e-bikes with more powerful motors and batteries, as well as DIY conversion kits that can lead people to charge batteries with the wrong charger.

Despite the legal limit for e-bikes being 250 watts of power, a string of models with capacities of up to 2,000 watts are openly sold online, described as “road legal”. In UK speed limit for electric bikes is 15.5mph, this means that the motor's assistance must stop when bike reaches this speed.

“In the vast majority of cases, it is not the fault of the consumer because they have bought the bikes in good faith.

“But obviously for those who buy the motorbike-style ones that is a deliberate choice.”

He added that proposals recently set out by the Government to increase the legal limit of e-bike power to 500 watts should not go ahead until more research had been done around the safety implications of such a move.

Wednesday, 21 August 2024

Learner Driver who killed three friends in Crash

 

Learner driver who killed three friends in crash

 

 A learner driver who killed three of his friends in a crash during which the car split in half has been jailed for four year and eight months.

Jake Loy, 19, lost control of his Honda Civic and smashed into another car just after midnight on the A711 in Dumfries, Scotland, after taking it out on a public road for the first time, without any supervision required by a provisional driving licence.

His three 16-year-old passengers – Tyler Johnston, Ian Cannon and Finlay Johns – were killed in the crash on March 16 2022. The three occupants of the other vehicle and Loy were seriously injured.

The court heard the other driver had been adhering to the 60mph speed limit and although Loy’s speed was “unknown”.

A judge heard how Ian had posted a message in a group social media chat before the crash that he was “scared” in the vehicle and that Loy was a “terrible driver”.



Ian Cannon, Finlay Johns and Tyler Johnston, all 16 years old, were killed in the crash 

 

Sentencing him to four years and eight months imprisonment, Judge Lord Drummond said: “Not only were you unqualified, you had no real familiarity with this car or its characteristics at speed or under adverse conditions.

“Your driving at the time of the collision formed part of a more prolonged and deliberate course of bad or aggressive driving with a disregard for the danger being caused to others.

“The victim impact statements all bear witness to the terrible devastation you caused to the lives of their family members of those you injured. This sentence cannot alleviate their anguish.”

Loy, of Moffat, Dumfries shire, was also disqualified from driving for eight years and must sit the extended test before he is able to drive again.

He showed no emotion as he was led to the cells. Family members in the public gallery were seen crying after the judge had concluded his sentencing.

 

Donald Findlay KC, defending, told the court that his client has “simply no memory” of the incident. He said: “Loy is distressed by what happened and the consequences to his friends.

“It is telling and quite moving to me when he said that if he could take their place he would. He would rather it be him. There is very clear and strong evidence of what is known as survivor’s guilt. There was no badness nor malice or intent of any kind.”

Friday, 29 March 2024

 

Cost of Driving Lessons and Ways to keep it Down
Provisional Driving Licence

There's no escaping the fact that learning to drive is expensive . According to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) it takes on average 45 hours of lessons and 20 hours of private practice to pass the driving test. The cost of lessons has sky-rocketed in recent years, with many learners paying between £30-50. Taking £40 as average that's £1800 just for lessons.

There are other costs too; a provisional driving licence is £34, the theory test is £23 and the driving test itself is £75. Totting that up, you can expect to pay upwards of £1919!

Obviously, when it comes to preparing  yourself, for lifetime of safe motoring you don't want to cut corners but there are ways to save.

Block-book lessons

Many driving schools and instructors offer a discount for block-booking lessons. For example, a driving school might offer lessons at £35/hr but a block booking for 10 at £330 (£30 saving)

However, do wait until you're sure the instructor and your teen are a good fit for each other before taking the plunge. You don't want them to be locked into a tutor-pupil relationship that just isn't working. Once you know your teen is happy to continue with their instructor then by all means take advantage of the savings.

 

Choose the right insurance

You can take out learner driver insurance, which can be taken out on short periods ie month by month basis.

The more you practice, the faster they're likely to pass their test.

 

It's cheaper to take a driving test on a weekday (£62) than evenings, weekends and bank holidays (£75), so book strategically to save money.

Stay Calm on your Test Day

No matter how desperate you are for you  to pass first time so you can stop shelling out for lessons, do your best not to let it show.

Use techniques such as breathing exercises, affirmations such as 'I am ready to drive alone' or imagining that they are a different character, such as a cool, calm airline pilot, to get them into the right emotional and mental space for a successful test pass."