Tips

Stormy weather is unappealing at the best of times, and having to drive in it can be daunting. However, if you are careful and observe the right precautions you can navigate Britain’s roads safely and responsibly. We have prepared advice for driving in different stormy weather conditions so you can be confident and prepared when heading out on your journey.

Driving in the wind

Luckily, the UK is not affected by strong winds very often. The best advice is to reduce your speed, stay aware, and keep a firm grip on the steering wheel to keep control of your vehicle. You should take particular care on bridges or near cliffs as the wind will likely be stronger there. If you are driving at the bottom of a steep hill or beneath trees, reduce speed and be on the lookout for potential debris in the road. When driving near heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) be aware that their size makes them more easily moved by high winds. If you need to overtake one on a dual carriageway or motorway leave more room than you normally would and only move when it is safe.

Driving in the rain

Driving in the rain can be stressful but as long as you keep your wits about you and your eye on the road it can be done safely. The most important thing to do is stay alert and be aware of what other road users are doing around you, as well as the road ahead. Stopping distances double in wet conditions so leaving extra room between you and the car in front is essential to using the road safely. Other vehicles, particularly HGVs, will throw up spray from the road which can obscure your view, so extra distance is always a good policy. If you do need to slow down or stop, depress the brake gently rather than slamming it down. Braking too suddenly can cause you to lose traction on the slick road surface.

Driving in hail

While driving in a hailstorm can be intimidating, the good news is that hail can rarely cause anything more than cosmetic damage to your vehicle. While this isn’t ideal, it means that it is very possible to drive safely. Hailstorms are particularly challenging to drive in as they create both slippery conditions and reduce visibility. If you find the visibility is reduced to the point that you cannot safely navigate the road ahead, pull over at a safe place and wait for the storm to break. If you must continue travelling, leave a minimum of three car lengths between you and the vehicle in front. Build ups of hail can cause a similar phenomenon to aquaplaning or skidding on snow. If you feel your car begin to slide on a road covered in hail, don’t panic. Reduce speed by slowly removing your foot from the accelerator until completely off. Avoid using the brakes or making sudden movements with the steering wheel as this can cause you to skid.

Prepare for driving in storms

Before undertaking any long journeys, or driving in inclement weather, make sure you check your vehicle is safe. These checks are all quite straightforward but provide reassurance that you’ll be okay should bad weather strike.

• Test your brakes

You can test that your brakes are operating properly by driving in normal conditions somewhere clear and empty. Accelerate to around 30mph (speed limits permitting) and brake. This should be a smooth process with no shaking or juddering.

• Check lights and wipers

Visibility is key when driving in stormy weather. While stationary somewhere safe, check that your front and rear wipers function properly at full speed and refill the fluid is necessary. You can check that your lights are working even in the daytime by turning them on and having someone else verify they’re working, or while parked turning them on briefly to see if they are reflected in nearby windows or mirrors.

• Check the pressure of your tyres

You can do this at a petrol garage or with a handheld device if you have one. The correct pressure will be either in your vehicle’s handbook (usually stored in the glovebox), on the inside of the fuel tank flap, or on the sill inside the driver’s side front door.

• Assess your tyres’ tread depth

In wet conditions maintaining grip on the road surface is vital. You can assess that your tyres have the right tread depth by taking your vehicle to a professional, or at home by conducting the 20p test. Take a 20 pence piece, place it into the main groove of the tyre, and if the tyre covers the outer border of the coin the tread is deep enough. If you can still see the border, you may need to have your tyres replaced.

What is aquaplaning and what do I do if it happens to me?

When driving in wet conditions you may experience a build-up of water between the road and the tyres of your vehicle which causes them to lose traction. The steering may suddenly feel lighter, your engine becomes louder and unexpectedly revs, or the rear of your car might begin to drift. If you experience these then it is possible you are aquaplaning. If you find yourself aquaplaning slowly remove your foot from the accelerator and let your vehicle slow down. Try not to use the brakes unless absolutely necessary as this can cause you to skid which is extremely hazardous to you and other road users. You can mitigate against aquaplaning by reducing your speed in stormy conditions which will reduce the risk of the build-up of water occurring.

If you’re looking for more confidence on the road and would like professional instruction so you can handle everything the British weather can throw at you, contact Lanes School of Driving. We’ve been helping pupils get on the road for over a century and draw on that experience to deliver excellence in every lesson. To get started, get in touch with our team by calling 020 8166 5678 or emailing . We also provide driving instructor training for those looking to start a career in teaching others to drive.

As UK driving instructors, one of the most important aspects of our jobs is ensuring that learners not only master the art of driving but also stay up-to-date with the legal requirements surrounding their driving licences. Over the years, we’ve noticed that many new learners are unaware of when and how they should renew their driving licences. Therefore, in this blog, we will shed light on the renewal process, particularly for new learners and drivers over 70, helping you navigate the system and avoid any unwanted legal troubles.

1. Renewing the photocard: every 10 years

For all new learners and experienced drivers, it is crucial to be aware that the photocard driving licence must be renewed every 10 years. This photocard serves as proof of identity and enables you to legally drive on the UK roads. Many learners are often focused on passing their driving tests, which might lead them to overlook this essential aspect.

The renewal process for the photocard is quite simple. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) will usually send you a reminder letter approximately 90 days before your photocard expires. You can apply for a renewal online, by phone, or by post. Make sure to keep your contact information updated with the DVLA to receive timely reminders.

2. Renewal for drivers over 70: every 3 years

Once a driver turns 70 years old, there are additional renewal requirements to consider. Unlike the 10-year renewal for everyone else, those over 70 need to renew their driving licence every 3 years. This process ensures that elderly drivers are still fit and safe to drive, as health conditions and capabilities may change with age.

To renew your licence once you’ve reached 70, you will need to complete a medical self-assessment. This assessment is a series of simple questions about your health and any medical conditions that may impact your driving ability. In some cases, you may need to provide a medical report from your doctor. These measures are in place to prioritise road safety and ensure that all drivers are in good health to operate a vehicle.

3. Be proactive: don’t wait for reminders

While the DVLA sends out reminder letters for photocard renewal, it’s crucial not to rely solely on these notifications. Life can get busy, and important letters may get overlooked or misplaced. Being proactive about the renewal process is essential to avoid potential penalties and ensure that your driving licence is always valid.

A useful tip is to set a personal reminder on your calendar or smartphone at least six months before your licence expires. This way, you’ll have ample time to renew your photocard and complete any necessary assessments or medical checks.

4. Keep your details updated

Maintaining accurate and up-to-date personal information with the DVLA is crucial throughout your driving life. Whenever you change your address or contact details, make sure to notify the DVLA promptly. This ensures that you receive any important communication regarding your driving licence renewal without delays.

As a responsible and informed driver, staying on top of your driving licence renewal is vital. Remember to renew your photocard every 10 years and if you are over 70, you need to renew it every 3 years. Keep your details updated with the DVLA, and don’t solely rely on reminder letters. By being proactive and following these simple steps, you can ensure that your driving journey remains smooth, safe, and legally compliant.

It’s a well-known fact that many people dread parking during their driving experiences. As well as the act of parking your car, however, there is often the added complication of knowing where you can and cannot leave your car. If you have found yourself needing a refresher on where you are able to park, you’ve come to the right place. Here is the guide you need able where you can park, and where you definitely can’t.

Tips for the best parking practices

When parking, there are a few things that you should make sure to do no matter where you are. This consists of:

• Ensuring your handbrake is on before leaving the vehicle
• Parking as close to the kerb as possible, leaving driving room for other road users
• Parking with the flow of the traffic, facing the same way as driving cars
• Don’t park across someone’s driveway – this could block them in and ruin their day!
• Pay attention to road signs – these will let you know when you can park in certain places

Pay attention to permit holder areas

There will be roads that are permit holder areas only, who will be the residents of the road. Ensure you pay attention to these – if you park there during certain roads, you could be at risk of receiving a parking fine. There will be road signs signalling which hours are unavailable to the public, which are the times you aren’t allowed to park there. Outside of these areas, feel free to leave your car there and move on with your errands.

Parking on pavements

Parking on pavements is only allowed in the circumstance that there is a road sign which signifies this to you. This may be on an extremely narrow road, but it usually isn’t common practice. It’s also important to note that you must never park on a dropped kerb. Dropped kerbs usually signify a driveway for a homeowner to enter and exit their home, or for pedestrians. Ensuring these spaces are free is crucial to the rest of the public.

Parking on road lines

Parking on road lines is often the part that trips some drivers up. There are so many parking lines on the roads that you may lose track of which ones mean what, but it’s important to keep this in your mind to avoid a fine!

• Zig zags

  You must never park on zig zags on the road, as they are signifying the lead up to a passenger crossing point.

• Yellow lines

  Yellow lines are always dictated by the signs that accompany them. If there are yellow lines on the road, there will be a sign that tells you of the hours during which you can’t park there. Keep an eye out!

• Double yellow and red lines

  It’s safe to assume that you can’t ever park on a double yellow line or a red line. There are sometimes circumstances during which you are able to park here, but they are rare, and to avoid a ticket it could be wiser just to steer clear of these.

We hope this little parking refresher has helped you out! Here at Lanes School of Driving, we ensure all our learner drivers are confident in driving on the roads, and this includes the process of parking. Whether you require a few single lessons to pass your test, or block lessons to start your driving journey, we can help you. Call our team on 020 8166 5678 or email us at .

Becoming a qualified DVSA driving instructor can be a fulfilling career choice for people who enjoy driving and have a passion for road safety and teaching. If you dream of becoming an instructor – and think you have the skills and confidence to pass on to others – read on for more advice about this highly satisfying career choice.

The pros of being a qualified driving instructor

• You’ll find job satisfaction daily whilst helping others develop an essential life skill and gain independence can be highly rewarding.
• You can often choose your working hours and have the flexibility to set your own schedule.
• There is a constant market for driving instructors, which shows no sign of slowing.
• Many driving instructors work on a self-employed basis, allowing them to be their own boss and manage their own business.
• The industry offers opportunities for professional development, allowing you to continually expand your skills and knowledge and keep your career interesting.

Control your own earnings

Average wages for driving instructors vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the number of students. According to the National Careers Service in the UK, qualified driving instructors can earn between £18,000 and £30,000 per year. However, earnings can increase with experience and if you operate as a self-employed driving instructor, and the more hours you spend on the road, the more you wil allow yourself to earn.

Have you got what it takes?

To be a patient driving instructor, having a calm and understanding temperament is essential. Here are our top tips and tricks for dealing with nervous drivers.

1. Create a comfortable environment. Establish a supportive and relaxed atmosphere to help alleviate nervousness. Encourage open communication and let the learner know that it’s normal to feel anxious when starting to drive.
2. Start slowly. Begin with simple driving tasks in low-stress environments to gradually build confidence. Focus on basic manoeuvres before progressing to more complex situations.
3. Provide clear instructions. Clearly communicate instructions and expectations, breaking down tasks into manageable steps. Use simple and concise language to avoid overwhelming the learner.
4. Practice positive reinforcement. Encourage and praise the learner for their progress, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement can boost confidence and motivation.
5. Patience and empathy. Understand that each learner is unique, and everyone learns at their own pace. Be patient, empathetic, and understanding when addressing concerns or mistakes.
6. Stress management. Share strategies for managing stress and anxiety with pupils, such as deep breathing exercises or visualisation techniques.
7. Offer support. Recommend useful resources like online tutorials, practice materials, or books that can supplement learning outside of lessons.
8. Continuous Assessment. Regularly assess the learner’s progress and provide constructive feedback. Identifying areas of improvement can help them focus on specific skills and build confidence.

Remember, every learner is different, so adapting your teaching approach to meet their individual needs will greatly contribute to their success and ease their nerves… and give you increased job satisfaction.

Lanes’ Driving Instructor Training Courses provide an ideal starting point. Every course is run by trained experts who are experienced, knowledgeable and DVSA qualified, and we cover all the latest training methods and techniques. Participants receive over 50 hours of on the road training plus classroom training. In the Southeast, Lanes School of Driving is the pinnacle of driving schools, and our ADI courses are highly regarded so what are you waiting for? Give us a call on 020 8166 5678 to get started.

The hazard perception test is an important part of the driver licensing process in many countries. In the UK it is administered by the DVSA and is an integral part of passing your driving test. The module assesses your ability to identify and respond to potential hazards on the road.

These are some of our top tips to help you prepare for success with this tricky test:

1. Understand the test format

   Familiarise yourself with the structure and requirements of the hazard perception test. Know how many clips you will be shown, the duration of each clip, and how you will be scored. Read the government guidelines online so you’re well set.

2. Study the rules of the road

   Refresh your knowledge of traffic rules, signs, and signals. Understanding these rules will help you recognise potential hazards more effectively.

3. Practice situational awareness

   Develop good observation skills and be aware of your surroundings while driving. Pay attention to potential hazards such as pedestrians, cyclists, other vehicles, and changing road conditions.

4. Anticipate potential hazards

   Look ahead and anticipate potential hazards before they become immediate threats. This includes identifying possible dangers like a car suddenly pulling out in front of you or a pedestrian waiting to cross the road.

5. Use the two-second rule

   Maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you by applying the two-second rule. This means keeping at least two seconds of space between your vehicle and the one ahead, which will give you more time to react to sudden changes.

6. Scan your environment

   Continuously scan the road, checking your mirrors and blind spots regularly. Keep an eye out for any potential hazards, including vehicles merging, pedestrians crossing, or road obstructions.

7. Be mindful of road conditions

   Hazards can be influenced by weather conditions or the state of the road. Adjust your driving style, accordingly, considering factors like rain, snow, ice, or uneven surfaces.

8. Practice hazard perception mock tests

   Many online resources provide hazard perception mock tests that simulate the real exam. These tests can help you become familiar with the format and train your hazard perception skills.

9. Use peripheral vision

   Train yourself to use your peripheral vision effectively. Spotting hazards on the periphery can give you extra time to react and respond appropriately.

10. Stay calm

    During the test, try to stay focused. Avoid getting flustered or panicking when you spot a hazard. Maintain a steady approach and respond promptly but safely.

Remember, the hazard perception test assesses your ability to identify potential hazards and react accordingly. By practicing and developing your observation skills, situational awareness, and knowledge of road rules, you can greatly improve your performance in the test. If you have any worries or questions about the test do please speak to your instructor. They will be pleased to help.

Failing a driving test is incredibly disheartening but remember many, MANY, people have faced similar setbacks in their quest to secure a licence.

You will have received detailed feedback from the examiner regarding your specific faults, so you know which areas you need to concentrate on, but there are a few general tips to also bear in mind ready for your next attempt.

At Lanes School of Driving, we’ve pretty much heard every reason why candidates fail their driving test. And none are insurmountable.

Most common reasons:

Nerves

Many candidates experience anxiety during their driving test, which can affect performance. It’s important to try and remain calm and composed, focusing on the task at hand. Nerves are cited as the number 1 problem for most candidates during their 40-minutes of hell. There are 100s of mental health apps and websites offering calming advice, relaxing music and sleep tips for the night before, these things are worth a try, but nothing beats the confidence of knowing you’re fully prepped.

Observation

Failing to be constantly aware of your surroundings is big issue. Ensure you’re regularly checking your mirrors, using signals appropriately, and anticipating potential hazards as you’ve been taught. It’s often hard to keep everything top of mind but try to switch off from all other thoughts. You can work on improving your concentration skills by completing a complex multi-tasking activity for at least 40 minutes without a break, without checking your phone and without chatting to anyone. Competitive ball sports are surprisingly good for developing hand, feet and eye coordination skills.

Control of the vehicle

Maintaining proper control is crucial. Failing to use all the controls correctly, such as steering, braking, accelerating smoothly, and clutch control, will always lead to a failed test. Nothing is truer, than “practice makes perfect.”

Decision-making

Making incorrect or unsafe judgments, such as misjudging the speed of other vehicles, inappropriate overtaking, or not yielding right of way result in an immediate test failure. Even as a passenger you can be mindful of the road and practice virtual decisions, just don’t become a backseat driver! Imagine you are driving whenever you’re in a vehicle; watch the road for hazards and plan out moves in your head.

Manoeuvres

Many candidates struggle with manoeuvres such as parallel bay parking, reversing, hill starts and 3-point turns. Practice these moves thoroughly to build confidence and accuracy, if you can find an empty carpark or quiet road just repeat them over and over again.

Poor eyesight

If you unwittingly failed the eye test prior to your driving test please book an optician’s appointment with immediate effect. All drivers need to prioritise safety first on the road. It is hugely irresponsible to get behind the wheel in the knowledge you have poor vision. This is not your driving instructor’s issue and is purely down to personal common-sense. Rant over!

Book a new driving test straight away. There are long backlogs in some areas. Visit the official website of the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and use the online booking service to select the first suitable date and test centre. Try and book a time that suits your lifestyle. If you’re not a morning person and know you’ll be rushed and stressed with an early appointment aim for a PM slot. Likewise consider the rush-hour traffic and whether it adds to your anxiety levels. Use this waiting period to adequately prepare and practice. Whatever you do don’t stop driving and forget all your valuable learning.

At Lanes we actively encourage non-passes to get straight back in the saddle and keep pursuing their goal. Bank previous test experience as a valuable learning opportunity so you hopefully don’t make the same mistake/s twice. Focus on the areas where you need improvement, practice consistently, and consider taking additional driving lessons if necessary.

With dedication and perseverance, you can overcome this setback and achieve success on your next driving test. Remember, every driver has faced challenges along the way, and failing a test does not define your ability to become a competent driver. Stay positive, believe in yourself, and keep working towards your goal. Good luck!

Many individuals face challenges when it comes to feeling confident and relaxed behind the wheel. However, with targeted strategies and practice, you can overcome your driving anxiety and build the necessary skills to navigate any road, including the motorway.

Motorway madness

In this article, our advanced driving instructors provide their tips tailored to nervous drivers, specifically addressing concerns about motorway driving.

1. Exposure

   If motorways trigger anxiety, start gradually and build up driving time as you feel more comfortable. Begin with short journeys or sections of the motorway that you find less intimidating. As you gain confidence, increase your exposure to longer stretches and more challenging scenarios. This step-by-step approach will allow you to familiarise yourself with motorway driving while maintaining a sense of control and building your comfort level.

2. Plan your journey

   One of the keys to managing anxiety on the motorway is planning ahead. Before setting off, familiarise yourself with the route, including junctions and exits. Having a clear understanding of where you’re going will reduce uncertainty and contribute to a calmer experience. Try using navigation apps or devices that provide real-time traffic updates to avoid unexpected delays or diversions which can heighten anxiety.

3. Defensive driving

   Adopting defensive driving techniques is particularly important on the motorway. Maintain a safe following distance, allowing enough space to react to sudden braking or lane changes by other vehicles. Stay vigilant, constantly scanning the road ahead and checking your mirrors for potential hazards. By actively observing and anticipating traffic patterns, you’ll feel more in control and prepared to handle any situation.

4. Get additional instruction

   If your anxiety persists, consider taking additional instruction or an advanced driving course. Lanes’ professional instructors provide specialised guidance tailored to specific motorway concerns. Our extra-long motorway lessons can help you develop strategies for managing anxiety, enhance your motorway driving skills, and build your confidence as a driver.

5. Relax

   When anxiety strikes employ relaxation techniques to regain composure. Deep breathing exercises can help calm your mind and relax your body. Take slow, deep breaths, and exhale gradually. Visualise yourself driving confidently and smoothly on the motorway. Combined with breathing exercises, positive visualisation can help alleviate anxiety and reframe your mindset.

6. Challenging scenarios

   To build confidence, gradually expose yourself to more challenging motorway scenarios. This may include merging onto busy motorways, changing lanes in heavy traffic, or navigating complex interchanges. By taking small steps and gradually pushing your comfort zone, you’ll expand your skills and reduce anxiety over time.

Smart motorways

The new smart motorways are a big red-flag for nervous – and experienced – drivers alike, and the government has now halted their roll-out to review safety concerns. However, there are many miles of smart motorway already in place across the UK, so it’s vital drivers get to grips with how to use them. Before setting off, watch one of the many online driving tutorials, this one by the RAC offers particularly simple explanations and very clear instructions for dealing with the new signage and variable options. Our instructors take great care of nervous drivers and are always happy to offer lessons on smart motorways.

Remember, it’s just a journey, and with persistence, practice, and the right strategies, you can conquer your anxiety and will eventually enjoy going on longer trips to many of the exciting destinations made accessible by modern motorways. Embrace the learning process and enjoy the journey to becoming a skilled driver.

As a learner driver, there are rules that you’ll want to live by. The rules of the road are incredibly important, as they can help you secure the safety of fellow road users. There are often rules that learners may not be aware of but would be handy to know. So, what are the rules? As well as your theory knowledge, these facts are the ones that can allow you to feel like you belong on the road.

Obtain a provisional licence and the right insurance

It’s imperative that you have a provisional licence before you start driving. This registers you for driving on the road. It’s a criminal offence to drive without a licence, and this goes for learners too! If you are going to practice in a car other than your driving instructor’s, you must be insured on this vehicle in a learning capacity – this is different to regular insurance.

You can never drive alone

Driving alone as a learner is a big no-no, you must always be supervised by someone. This someone should be over 21 years of age, and should have had a driving licence for more than 3 years already. This ensures they have enough relevant experience and knowledge to guide you and give advice so that you aren’t forming bad habits.

Motorway driving: Is it a possibility?

Prior to 2018, learners were not permitted to go on the motorway. That has changed now, though! Although it might be intimidating, driving on the motorway is great practice for when you’ve passed your test, as you won’t be left in the deep end when you take your first trip. If driving on the motorway, the rule is that you must be with an instructor in a dual controlled car, not with a parent or casual supervisor.

Know your theory

Although it isn’t an official rule, and you can start taking practical lessons even when you haven’t completed your theory test, it is so beneficial if you know the theory before driving on the roads. This will allow you to understand road signs, practice your hazard perception in a safer environment, and feel confident in your abilities.

Display your learner plates

If you are practicing your driving skills in a car that isn’t your instructor’s, such as your parents’ car or a friend’s, you should always display learner plates. This will communicate to others on the road that you may be slightly greener than them, which could offer you some leniency. The worst situation to be in is trying to drive calmly and having another driver add to your stress.

Don’t drive without your glasses

You may think that if you forget to wear your glasses just once, it will all be fine… However, you should never drive without wearing your glasses or contact lenses. The standard for eyesight when driving is being able to read a number plate at least 20m away. If you have an accident whilst you aren’t wearing your glasses, this will be a criminal offence, and you could pose as a danger to others.

If you’re a new learner looking to solidify the rules in your mind, the help of an experienced instructor can help you out. At Lanes School of Driving, we offer single and block lessons, as well as the option to learn in an automatic car. We can help you feel confident enough to pass your test with flying colours. Get in touch with us on 020 8166 5678 or email us at . We’ll be happy to speak with you and organise your lessons.

Parallel parking can be a challenging manoeuvre for many new or learner drivers, but with the right technique and practice, you’ll master it in no time. Parallel parking is a skill that is necessary for passing your practical driving test in the UK, and it is also a skill that will be helpful in your everyday driving.

Step 1: Find a suitable parking spot

The first step to parallel parking is to find a suitable parking spot. Look for a space that is big enough to fit your car with some extra room on both sides, and make sure it is legal to park there. Before you start parking, check your mirrors, and signal your intention to other drivers on the road.

Step 2: Position your car

Drive up next to the car in front of the space you want to park in, leaving about half a metre between your car and the parked vehicle. Align your car’s rear wheel with the other car’s rear wheel, so that the two vehicles are parallel. Make sure that you are not blocking any traffic while positioning your car.

Step 3: Reverse and turn

Once you have positioned your car, start reversing slowly while checking your surroundings. Turn your steering wheel towards the kerb once you can see the rear of the other car in your back left window. Keep reversing slowly and straighten up your steering wheel when your car’s rear is level with the rear of the car in front of you. You should aim to end up at a 45-degree angle to the kerb.

Step 4: Straighten up

Once you are backed into the space, turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction to bring the front of your car into the space. This will also straighten the vehicle to bring it parallel with the kerb. Check that you have left enough room in front and behind your car and make any adjustments if necessary.

Step 5: Final adjustments

Feel free to shift back and forth a little to give the cars behind and in front room to leave their spaces, and to make sure you are properly inside the space. Once you have parked, switch off your engine, and apply the handbrake. If necessary, adjust your wing mirrors to ensure that you have a clear view of the road.

Tips for parallel parking:

Practice makes perfect: The more you practice parallel parking, the easier it will become. Try to find different spaces to park in, with varying degrees of difficulty, to help build your skills.

Use your mirrors: When parallel parking, it’s important to check your mirrors regularly to ensure that you are aware of your surroundings.

Take your time: Don’t rush when parallel parking. Take your time and make small adjustments to ensure that you park safely and accurately.

Be aware of other road users: Keep an eye out for other road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, when parallel parking.

Keep calm: If you feel nervous or stressed when parallel parking, take a deep breath and try to relax. Remember, it’s only a parking manoeuvre, and with practice, you’ll get better at it.

Parallel parking is an essential skill for both new and experienced drivers, and it’s something that takes practice to perfect. Remember to follow these steps carefully, take your time, and be aware of your surroundings. With patience and practice, you’ll soon be able to parallel park with ease. However, nothing can replace instruction from a dedicated instructor. For professional instruction from a well-established driving school, get in touch with Lanes today. You can call us on 020 8166 5678 or send an email to .

It’s essential to remain focused at all times whilst driving. With so many possible distractions, ranging from mobile phones to loud music, your attention could be momentarily diverted from the road, and this is all it takes to cause a collision. As soon as you are behind the wheel, you should make sure any potential distractions have been minimised so that you can keep your concentration and reach your destination safely. Find out more about driving distractions and how to avoid them.

What causes distractions while driving?

Various different distractions both inside and outside your car can put you and your passengers in danger. These include:

Electronic devices

Devices such as mobile phones and sat navs can divert your eyes away from the road. Not only is using these devices whilst driving dangerous, but you can also get up to 6 penalty points on your licence. Your car radio can also cause a distraction if you are adjusting the volume or changing the station while driving.

Passengers

Driving with passengers in the car can help the journey become more enjoyable and pass the time quickly, but you shouldn’t allow your passengers to sway your attention from the road. Whilst you will be able to engage in conversation whilst driving, you shouldn’t allow occupants of the vehicle to take your eyes away from the road, and any loud conversations could prevent you from hearing oncoming traffic.

Concentration

If you are on a long journey, it can be easier for your mind to wander and take your focus off the road. You may be thinking about other things or find your eyes drawn to something you are driving past, which could put you at risk of not anticipating any potential hazards.

Why is driving distracted dangerous?

Driving whilst distracted not only puts the lives of you and your passengers in danger, but other road users too. Whilst you may think that a quick glance at your phone or adjusting the radio isn’t particularly risky, a split-second distraction could be all it takes to cause a collision, particularly when travelling at speed.

How can you stay focused while driving?

Taking these precautions will help you stay focused on the road:

Put electronic devices out of reach

It can be tempting to check your phone or adjust your sat nav whilst driving, but putting them out of reach will eliminate this temptation, and allow you to keep your eyes focused on the road at all times.

Adjust radio before driving

Make sure your radio is set to the correct station and volume before you set off. This will avoid you having to lose your focus by adjusting it whilst driving. This also applies to your sat nav, as you will not want to have to change destination during your journey.

Take breaks

On a long drive, as soon as you find yourself losing concentration and struggling to keep your eyes on the road, you should take a break. As a general rule, try to take a break every two hours to give your eyes a rest and stretch your legs.

Taking these steps will help you remain focused while driving and they are important to remember, particularly if you are a new driver. If you want to learn to drive safely and feel confident behind the wheel, speak to us at Lanes School of Driving. You can book single or block lessons with our experienced instructors. Give us a call on 020 8166 5678 or email us at  to get booked in.