Is the learner driver ready to venture out onto the road? They must hold a provisional licence. It is advisable that the learner has already had some basic lessons with a qualified driving instructor in a dual control car. They should also understand the first principles of driving. Before venturing out get the learner to help you ensure the lights, brakes and tyres are all safe and working as they should.
Before venturing out on the open road with the student make certain of a couple of things first. First, make sure you are lawfully entitled to accompany a learner driver. You must be over twenty-one years old. You need to have held a driver’s licence for a minimum of 3 years.Check your insurance to see if a student is allowed to drive your vehicle. If you need to get the driver insured then consider Coverbox, a great provider of car insurance for young drivers. Read through the latest Highway Code or even take an advanced driving course.
Plan the route in advance. As it is a lot to take in for learners start with short routes. As the learner gains confidence venture out on longer trips. Also try and go out in different road conditions.Experience is needed of driving on a variety of road types – narrow to dual carriageway and in all weather conditions.
During driving practice, it is crucial to remain calm and give advice in a constructive manner. Give congratulations where it is deserved and avoid sarcasm. Ask the learner to point out any potential problems. Make sure that the driver is reminded to use the indicators properly and look in the rear mirrors before carrying out any manoeuvres. Good driving practices must be reinforced. If something dangerous happens, pull over somewhere safely and inform the driver what they did wrong but in a constructive fashion. At the end of the practice session discuss what occurred in a positive manner.
It is important to teach learners in a way that will stay with them once they are driving unsupervised, and occasionally supervisor a young driver even after they have passed the test.
