BEATING DRIVING ANXIETY ON YOUR DRIVING TEST

Beating Anxiety on Your Driving Test

1. Put any thoughts of drinking alcohol or taking drugs – at least the night before your driving test – out of your mind.

2. Have some food and stay well hydrated. There’s nothing worse than having the jitters before and during your test and focusing on a growling stomach will disturb your concentration.

3. Take an hour long driving lesson with your Driving Instructor before your test. This’ll give you the chance to have a last-minute practice, brush up on manoeuvres and warm up for your Driving Test.

4. It’s perfectly acceptable to let the examiner know if you have any additional support needs. Examiners give instructions in good time but if you don't understand ask them to repeat.

5. During your test, make safety your number one priority. If you’ve been told to go left, but you are in a right only lane for example, go where the lane takes you. You might have to pull over and allow your Examiner to reroute, but what is important is that you demonstrate your ability to follow traffic rules and are always aware of your surroundings.

6. After your test, whether you pass or not, pay close attention to your examiner’s feedback. This is what will be most useful to you afterwards.

7. Finally, stay safe, trust yourself and your instructor and treat your test as a learning experience, regardless of the outcome.

DRIVING CONVICTIONS

 What is Dangerous driving conviction?

Lets see here what constitutes a driving conviction, and how you can avoid a increase in your insurance costs because of one.

What constitutes as dangerous driving?

All motoring offences determined by magistrates or at a crown court will lead to a criminal conviction and it can can be anything from causing death by dangerous driving or driving under the influence of alcohol, to speeding or failing to wear a seatbelt.

All these offences can lead to a fine, penalty points on your licence, disqualification and, in extreme cases, imprisonment.

But it’s not just the manner of your driving that can lead to convictions. You may be committing an offence if you are driving a defective vehicle, perhaps driving at night with no rear lights, or driving without insurance or a valid licence or MOT. These offences can also lead to a driving conviction.

The rules are the same, whether the person pleads guilty, or is found guilty by the court.

However, offences that are committed but dealt with by way of a fixed penalty notice, do not lead to criminal convictions. The fixed penalty notice is served because the authorities believe the offence is serious, but not serious enough to be considered by a court of law.

Here are some of the examples listed by the police as to what constitutes as dangerous driving, but not limited to:

• Speeding, racing, or driving aggressively
• Ignoring traffic lights, road signs
• Overtaking dangerously
• Driving under the influence of drink or drugs, including prescription drugs
• Driving when unfit, including having an injury, being unable to see clearly, not taking prescribed drugs, or being sleepy
• Knowing the vehicle has a dangerous fault or an unsafe load

Distractions are also causes of dangerous driving, for example:

• Using a hand-held phone or other equipment
• Reading, or looking at a map
• Talking to and looking at a passenger
• Lighting a cigarette, selecting music, tuning the radio

Do I have to declare my driving convictions?

You will need to declare your convictions, both motoring and criminal when getting a quote for an insurance policy. If you fail to do so your insurance may be invalid and your insurer may cancel the policy. 

In the event of a claim you may not be paid, and if you have already been paid for a claim and a previous conviction becomes apparent, your insurer can ask for its money back.

AA calls for graduated driving licensing for new drivers

 

The AA is calling on the government to introduce a Graduated Driver Licence (GDL) to protect newly qualified drivers, limiting newly qualified drivers from carrying peer-age passengers for the first six months after passing their test.

·         One in five young drivers crash within a year of passing their test and 1,500+ young drivers are killed or seriously injured each year.

·         72% of AA members think a graduated licence limiting passengers is good idea.

·         Call for a Graduated Driver Licence comes as the AA launches a motoring manifesto with five key pledges.

·         Safer roads, fixing potholes, scrapping smart motorways, helping EV transition, keeping costs down, and career paths for young people in the industry, are all included.

An average of five people per day are killed on UK roads and 82 are seriously injured, but one in five young drivers crash within a year of passing their test and 1,500+ young drivers are killed or seriously injured each year.

Its asking government to make five key pledges to improve Britain’s roads.

1.      Supporting drivers: keeping motoring costs low through fuel duty freeze, better fuel price transparency and reducing Insurance Premium Tax.

2.      Sustainable future: providing the right incentives, infrastructure, and information to support the switch to zero emission vehicles. For example, helping those without on-street parking by cutting VAT for on-street EV charging.

3.      Smoother journeys: addressing the pothole crisis with ring-fenced funds and use of technology for more permanent repairs. Scrapping the failed experiment of ‘smart’ motorways.

4.      Safer roads: reducing road deaths through setting clear targets, increased roads policing and addressing the tragedy of new driver deaths through graduated licences such as restricting passengers for six months after passing their test.

Strengthening the industry: providing support to the sector to enable greater investment in innovation and skills. Maintain push for regulations to allow access to vehicle data to improve the safety, convenience, running costs and environment via connected car services.

 

Experts Reveal How to  Overcome Driving Anxieties

Driving is a skill many of us take for granted. But for some, it’s a real source of anxiety..

Whether it’s the thought of merging onto the motorway, the fear of shifting from an automatic to a manual vehicle, or simply the worry of getting behind the wheel of your used car, driving anxieties are common.

Mental health coach Jeremy Schneider states: “Driving is challenging because it highlights the anxieties we feel about not feeling in control. But there are ways we can help ourselves when we feel that way – whether it is driving or in other life situations.”

Anxiety specialist Zoe Clews echoes this idea: “Parking, motorway driving, and driving at night can all be big triggers for nervous drivers simply because they require more focus and are therefore more intense. In all of these situations, which demand a higher level of control and concentration, there is more ‘scope’ in an individual’s mind for things to ‘potentially go wrong’.”

Sam Sheehan, a motoring editor at cinch, the UK’s leading online used car retailer, has teamed up with Zoe and Jeremy to help anxious drivers overcome their fears and be more confident on the road.

Motorway driving

A lot of drivers find motorways intimidating – it’s especially common in new drivers who don’t have much experience on them. Higher speeds, multiple lanes, and merging into traffic are some of the things people find stressful.

Sam Sheehan recommends easing into it and taking your time to get used to motorways: “There’s no rush to get comfortable driving on the motorway. It’s key to take your time and start with short trips when the roads are quiet, if possible. Don’t be afraid to ask a more experienced or confident driver to come along with you for support either.

“Before setting out, plan your route to decide where you’ll get on and off the motorway and brush up on lane discipline. When you get onto the motorway, stick to the left lane until you feel confident enough to overtake in the middle and right lanes.”

Going from automatic to manual

Research by Direct Line Group shows the number of people taking driving tests in automatic cars rose to 42% of all driving tests in 2020/21.

Sam Sheehan suggested this trend could be due to, “drivers feeling intimidated by driving manual” and that, “maybe tech is making us less likely to master or refresh manual driving skills.”

Also, 2.2 million people who learnt to drive in an automatic car are aged under 35, and younger drivers (18-24 years old) report the highest stress levels at 59%. That suggests young people could be so worried about driving a manual car that they avoid it completely and won’t have the chance to get over it unless they pass a manual driving test.

It can be the same for drivers who took their tests in a manual car but have been driving an automatic for some time, too. Relearning the skill may also make them feel apprehensive.

Sam Sheehan has offered some advice to those looking to make the switch and ease their anxieties:

“If you have a manual license, don’t be afraid to take your time to get back into using gears after driving an automatic.

“Start by practising during quieter times in a safe, open space such as an empty car park. This environment allows you to focus on the mechanics of driving a manual without the stress of traffic, while you rebuild your muscle memory.

“Practice regularly and be patient with yourself. It’s normal to stall or make mistakes initially, but with consistent practice, your confidence and skills will return.”

General Driving Anxiety

General driving anxiety can stem from a few things, including past negative experiences, fear of accidents, or lack of confidence. Overcoming these challenges takes a combination of mental and practical strategies.

The mental approach

Anxiety specialist Zoe Clews explains that the most common causes of driving anxiety include being involved in or witnessing a car accident. “The subconscious mind is your inner protector and doesn’t understand time. When you experience shock or trauma, it sets up a protective defence mechanism – anxiety – to keep you safe, even if the incident occurred decades ago.

“The individual may understandably start avoiding specific roads, like motorways, or driving altogether, as human behaviour tends to avoid perceived painful situations. However, the issue is that anxiety thrives on avoidance, causing the fear to grow.”

She also recommends self-talk as a way of working through this anxiety: “Our ability to bounce back from adrenaline spikes, catastrophising thoughts, panic attacks, and anxious moments comes from our self-talk.

“When we get anxious, we tend to judge ourselves harshly, often telling ourselves we are foolish for panicking over certain things. But the more we judge ourselves, the more anxious we become, creating a vicious cycle of anxiety and self-criticism.

“Learning to talk to ourselves in a kind, reassuring, and encouraging way when facing driving anxiety may feel strange and indulgent, but it is the foundation to overcoming your fears.”

Physical techniques

According to mental health coach Jeremy Schneider, one of the best ways to combat the physiological effects of anxiety is by breathing.

“We take about 20,000 breaths per day without ever thinking about it. But if we take a big breath in and then exhale longer than we inhaled, we will slow down our nervous system.

“For instance, breathe in for 5 seconds and out for 7 seconds. Do that for ten breaths and see how you feel and then repeat.”

Driving anxieties, whether specific or general, are more common than we might think. The key to overcoming these anxieties lies in preparation, practice, and patience.

Remember, it’s perfectly normal to feel nervous about driving, but with the right strategies and support, you can become more confident and relaxed.

 

A NEW WAY TO PAY FOR YOUR CAR INSURANCE

 

Pay Per Mile Schemes: A New Way to Pay for Car Insurance

In today's fast-paced world, driving has become a normal part of life. But have you ever thought about how much you truly drive? That's where pay-per-mile schemes come into play. This fresh approach to car insurance charges you based on how much you actually drive. Let’s break it down!

What Are Pay PerMile Schemes?

So, what exactly are pay per mile schemes? Simply put, these insurance plans charge you for each mile you drive. Instead of paying a flat fee, you pay a small amount for every mile you hit the road. This type of insurance is perfect for folks who don’t drive very often and want to save on costs.

How Do They Work?

Getting started with a pay per mile scheme is usually pretty simple. You sign up with an insurance company that offers this option, and they’ll often give you a device to track your mileage. Or, they might ask you to use an app on your phone to keep tabs on how much you drive. The less you drive, the less you pay!

For example, if you only drive 5,000 miles in a year, your bill could be much lower than someone who drives 15,000 miles. Isn’t that neat?

Who Benefitsfrom Pay Per Mile Insurance?

Many people can benefit from pay per mile schemes. If you work from home, take public transport, or only drive on weekends, this insurance could save you cash. It's like only paying for the gas you use—why pay for a tank if your car’s mostly parked?

Moreover, this type of insurance can appeal to younger drivers or those with less driving history, where traditional insurance can be pricey.

Pros of Pay Per Mile Schemes

1. Cost Savings

One of the biggest perks is the potential for cost savings. If you drive less, you could see significant reductions in your insurance fees. Think of it like paying for your gym membership based on how often you actually go. If you rarely hit the gym, you shouldn't pay a high fee!

2. Encourages Safer Driving

With pay per mile schemes, there’s a built-in incentive to drive safely. Since you want to keep your miles low, smooth driving can lead to fewer accidents and claims. It’s all about driving with a purpose!

3. Environmentally Friendly

Less driving means less fuel consumption and fewer emissions. If you care about the planet, choosing a pay per mile scheme can help you feel good about your impact. You’re saving money and being kinder to Mother Earth at the same time.

Cons of PayPer Mile Schemes

1. Not Ideal for Heavy Drivers

If you’re someone who drives a lot—like for work or long commutes—this option might not be for you. The costs could rack up quickly, and you may end up paying more than you would with traditional insurance.

2. Tracking Concerns

Some people may feel uneasy about being tracked. While most companies ensure your data remains private, the idea of someone always knowing where you are might not sit well with everyone.

IsPay Per Mile Insurance Right for You?

To sum it all up, pay per mile schemes offer a modern solution to car insurance. They can save money, reward safe driving, and help the environment. Think about how much you actually drive before deciding if this type of insurance is the right fit for you.

In the end, it’s about choosing what works best for your lifestyle and budget. Are you ready to hit the road and only pay for the miles you use?

PRO AND CONS OF LEARNING TO DRIVE IN AUTOMATIC CAR

 

Pros and Cons of Learning to Drive in Automatic Car.

The latest data from the DVSA reveals that automatic driving tests are at an all-time high. There was an increase of  40%  in new drivers taking automatic driving tests since last year.

Here are some differences that should be taken into account when deciding whether to learn in automatic car or manual car.

When learning how to drive, there’s are many  decisions to be taken , one of them being the type of car you want to learn in. And it’s important to make the right decision for you.

The key difference between a manual and an automatic car is how much work you will need to do as a driver. In a manual car, there are three pedals – accelerator, brake, and clutch, using the gears to increase or decrease your speed.

In an automatic car, there are only two pedals – an accelerator and a brake, with the automatic gearbox doing the hard work for you.

So, with automatic cars seems doing all the hard work, it’s important to understand the pros but also the cons of learning in an automatic before taking final decision.

The pros of learning in an automatic car

1. No clutch control required

Being able to stop/start the car without the added stress of using the clutch can be beneficial for new drivers. As an automatic car will change your gears for you, you don’t have to worry about gear changes in busy traffic.

2. Automatic cars are more inclusive

Automatic cars are a great choice for those learning to drive who have physical disabilities or medical conditions. Especially for those who have limited mobility, the two-pedal option is a great choice instead of 3 and gear box.

3. Less risk of stalling

Something that is really common when learning to drive is stalling. There is very little risk of stalling an automatic as there is no clutch, which some learners prefer.

4. Easier to drive

An obvious pro is of course, that an automatic is easier to drive. With the car changing gears for you, this gives you more time to focus on manoeuvres and other aspects of the driving test.

The cons of learning in an automatic car

1. Higher car costs

Automatic cars are usually more expensive to buy than manual, so be prepared to pay a little more when it comes to buying your first car.

2. Expensive Driving Lessons

Generally  driving lesson rates for automatic cars are higher than manual cars and you can  pay around £10-20  per hour more for driving lessons in an automatic car.

2. More expensive to repair

With more advanced technology and complex mechanics, automatic cars are usually more expensive to repair. So, these costs are definitely something to budget in when planning to purchase your first automatic car.

3. Limitations in the future

If you choose to learn in an automatic, this does limit you to only driving automatic cars in the future. While electric cars continue to rise in popularity, passing your driving test in a manual car still offers more flexibility, as it allows you to drive both manual and automatic car models in the meantime.

MOTORISTS TO TAX VEHICLES WITHOUT LOG BOOK

Motorists to tax vehicle without log book and tax reminder letter

 

Motorists applying for a duplicate V5C (log book) can now tax their vehicle without needing to wait for their log book to arrive.

V5C - Log Book

DVLA has announced a new service update that allows motorists to tax their vehicle even if they have lost their V5C (log book) and their vehicle tax reminder letter (V11).

Previously, customers who had lost these documents would have had to wait up to 5 days for a replacement V5C to arrive, or phone DVLA’s Contact Centre to tax their vehicle. This latest update will allow customers to apply online for a new V5C and tax their vehicle at the same time.

This is the first time that DVLA has linked their online registration service with their online licensing service, allowing the customer to self-serve through the 2 digital channels in one seamless customer journey.

Julie Lennard, DVLA Chief Executive, said:

We are always looking for ways to improve our digital services to provide more convenience for motorists. This latest enhancement will enable customers who have misplaced or lost their V5C to get a replacement and tax their vehicle quickly and easily.