Testing Times CHRISTMAS CHEER? ARE YOU CONSIDERING
BEING THE DESIGNATED DRIVER? Tips from IAM RoadSmart
New research suggests that half of all young motorists use a mobile phone for navigation while driving, calling into question the changes to the driving test.
The new test, which will now include taking directions from a sat nav and different driving manoeuvres, has caused concern for driving test examiners, who plan to strike for the first time over changes when they come in to force on Monday 4th December. The
study of 2,000
motorists for Continental Tyres revealed people want to see a revised driving exam that is more focused on safety like understanding the laws around mobile phones (64 per cent) and routine checks including the minimum tyre tread depth (57 per cent). Checking oil and other fluid levels were also rated as important. Mark Griffiths, safety expert at Continental Tyres, said: “It is clear to see that people want the new test to support improved road safety and deliver good driving practice as well as test skills. It’s good to know people want a stronger focus on safety checks, like how to check tyres, as well as the safe and legal use of mobile phones while driving.” The extent of the issue is revealed as one in eight people admit to having a phone in their hand or lap when following driving directions. The driving test was introduced in 1935 and the changes on 4th December marks the eighth revision to the practical test.*
Mark Griffiths continued: “Our research found that six in ten people are unaware that the driving
test is about to change but when prompted people clearly want a different focus as well as regular test reviews.” Almost half of all motorists (47 per cent) think that the driving test should be updated when required to reflect new automotive technologies and changing driving practices. *Information from AutoExpress.
Being the designated driver for an evening out is not everyone’s top choice during the Christmas season, however there are some options which could change your opinion. This week’s tips, presented by IAM RoadSmart’s head of driving and riding standards, Richard Gladman, are for those who feel they have drawn the short straw and been nominated to drive on a night out. 1. Being the nominated driver can have its benefits, some places offer free soft drinks on a buy one get one free basis, so check out this website to see if any of your local haunts are included.
https://www.cocacola.co.uk/coca- cola/designateddriver/ 2. If you are the driver, make sure your friends are not so tipsy that they are no longer controllable in your car. The last thing you need is a drunk friend giving you driving advice. Having someone behaving badly in a vehicle can be dangerous, and, if a passenger is proving too much of a distraction, you should pull over and stop as soon as it is safe to do so. 3. Agree a leaving time with your friends and ask them to cover the parking charges (technically you may invalidate your insurance if you take any ‘petrol money’). 4. Very often people just want their transport arranged and don’t mind who drives as long as it’s not them! In which case it might be worth pre-arranging a cab or minibus – don’t leave it too late as these things are best booked and paid for in advance. Research shows that women are
much better at this, so gentlemen take at leaf out of their book and plan ahead.
5. What about public transport? For many people taking a journey on public transport is the best option, especially if there are only one or two of you going in the same direction. But if you are in a larger group then a taxi might even work out cheaper per person. 6. Remember if you are the nominated driver it’s best to have no alcohol at all, even one drink will affect the way you drive without you being aware of it.
7. Not being the designated driver on a night out can also have ramifications for getting in the car the morning after. As a rough guide it takes the body one hour to rid itself of one unit of alcohol (a strong pint of lager or 250ml glass of wine may contain three units each). And the clock starts from when you finish drinking, not when you start. 8. Last but not least, if you are travelling the last part of the journey on your own, have an arrangement with someone to text them and let them know you are safely home. Richard said: “It’s never been easier to be the designated driver with lots of national and local schemes in place to reward you for being responsible. You may even enjoy the evening more if you can remember all about it. In a close knit group of friends, if you all take your turn being the designated driver then you’re able to share the fun. Have a safe and enjoyable Christmas and remember that the designated driver doesn’t get a hangover.”
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Cardiff & South Wales Advertiser – Friday 8th December 2017 - 27
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