Tips

How long has it been since you gave yourself a refresher course on the Highway Code? Now might be the time to get the books out, or to download an app to jog your memory on the way of the roads. As of 29^th January 2022, the Highway Code was added to – you need to know these rules! Let’s go over what they are so that you know how to use the road safely, and in line with the newest guidelines.

1. Hierarchy of road users

The new guidelines have outlined a new hierarchy on the road. So, who’s the new ruler of the kingdom? Pedestrians and cyclists have priority on the roads to ensure their safety, as they are the most vulnerable road users! Where safe, drivers must give way to people on foot and bikes. This is because they are most at risk in the event of a collision on the road.

2. Give way to pedestrians on junctions

Drivers on the road should give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting at the side of the road and junctions. This is relevant at zebra crossings and parallel crossings (which includes a cycle route alongside the stripes). In other words, if you are a driver you will need to give way to pedestrians in many situations to reduce the danger that they are put in.

3. Road position of cyclists

The ideal road position for a cyclist is now in the middle of the lane. This makes them more visible, and means that drivers will find it easier to be cautious around them. Where possible, cyclists should be 1.5 metres away from the pavement. This means that as drivers, we need to be aware of them!

4. Overtaking cyclists and horse riders

If there is a cyclist or horse rider near the pavement, drivers are now allowed to cross a double-white line if they need to overtake. If overtaking a cyclist, leave 1.5m of space between you and them. For pedestrians and horse riders, 2m is advised! If it’s unsafe to overtake, patience is key. Just wait them out until you can safely manoeuvre.

5. Cyclists on roundabouts

Due to the change in the hierarchy, drivers and motorcyclists must give priority to cyclists on roundabouts. We shouldn’t try and overtake cyclists within our lane, and instead should follow them slowly to ensure their safety. Cyclists are at risk of the greatest harm on the roads, so driving carefully and giving them right of way is a step to making them feel at ease.

6. The ‘Dutch Reach’

The ‘Dutch Reach’ is a new technique that makes it safer to open your door to leave your parked vehicle. This technique asks you to open your car door with the opposite arm, making you look behind your shoulder for any hazards such as cars or pedestrians. For example, if your door is on your right, open it with your left hand. This will save injuries!

Have these changes made you realise that you need to read up on the rest of the Highway Code? Here at Lanes School of Driving, we offer lessons to aid you through the learning for your practical test, and your theory test. Why not give us a call to start your journey? Contact us on 020 8166 5678 or email us at .

Unfortunately, the start of a brand-new year comes with a few more winter months with freezing cold weather. Driving in winter can be a little scary, especially if you’re a new driver. If you’re even a little bit apprehensive, reading this will mean you can have some advice under your belt. We’re here to give you some top tips on how to drive in the unforgiving winter weather.

Keep your distance

In super cold weather, the roads may be icy. If this is the case, stopping distances can increase by up to 10 times! This means that in a situation where you may need to stop quickly, you’ll need to be far away from the car in front to avoid a collision. Keeping your distance will ensure that you have this option, helping you drive safely.

Steer into a skid

On the off chance that your car is in a skid due to the icy weather conditions, it’s important to steer into the skid which will effectively stop it. This counteracts the process of a skid and should be done gently! This means if the rear of your car is going left, you should carefully steer to the left.

Slow speed and gentle manoeuvres

If you’re in danger of slippery roads, going slowly will be your best friend. As well as making you feel more in control, it will give you more opportunity to react to the weather and to other road users, ensuring you get home safely. It’s a similar story with gentle manoeuvres – caution is key in wintery weather!

Carry a breakdown and first aid kit

It’s always a good idea to have these kits in your car anyway, but in winter it’s especially important. Having a breakdown kit includes a fully charged phone or the facilities to charge it, high viz, a hazard triangle, a puncture repair kit and more. There will also be a blanket and warm clothing, and the first aid kit ensures you can stay safe until help arrives in the event of an incident or breakdown.

Pull away in second gear

In the event of ice and snow, first gear may not give you enough grip when moving off for the first time. Try pulling away in second gear – this will keep the revs down to a minimum which is what you want on snowy or icy roads. This may give you more confidence when driving in winter!

Check your tyres

In the lead up to winter, it could be an idea to check your tyres. In the UK, winter tyres aren’t essential, but they do make the driving experience easier. Winter tyres or all-season tyres become effective especially under 7°, meaning you can have sturdier grip on the road and a safer journey.

Ensure the car is ready for the drive

In winter, it’s very common to step outside ready for your journey to work and be faced with an icy vehicle. It’s essential to make sure that you completely de-ice your car before your drive! This includes clearing your headlights, brake lights, hazard lights and making sure your wiper blades are free to move. You’ll need your car working at its top potential in the winter!

Keep calm and keep driving!

It’s important that you stay calm! Driving in the winter can be intimidating, but if you’re thinking clearly and you don’t let the nerves get to you, then your driving will be more confident and safer. Take your time to think about your next move, and your journeys will be as easy as in the summertime.

Hopefully with these tips you’ll feel more confident about driving in these winter months! Here at Lanes School of Driving, we help our students build up the confidence to tackle any hurdles they may come across during their learning process. We can do the same for you, just enquire now by calling 020 8166 5678 or email us at .

We all know that learning to drive can be a lengthy process. Theory test? Completed it. Gone through the stressful journey of learning to parallel park? Done and dusted. Now it’s time to smash your driving test. Your driving lessons are sure to have been enough for you to pass your test, so let’s set you loose on the roads!

Have you ever wondered what life will be like after your lessons? We’re here to tell you the little details that you may not have thought of after you’ve passed your test!

Get your certificate

When you’ve passed your driving test, you’ll be awarded with a certificate to mark the occasion. Before you frame this and put it pride and place where the family can see it, keep it on you. Until your driving licence is updated, your certificate will be proof that you’re legal to drive. If anyone stops you, you’ll need this! It can take up to three weeks for your full driving licence to be finalised.

No immediate driving!

After you’ve passed your test all you’ll want to do is drive in rings around the block and take your friends on a road trip. However, you can’t drive immediately. Your instructor will take you home, and you won’t be able to drive until you’ve updated your insurance from provisional to full. This will be an exercise in patience, but once the insurance is in place you can go anywhere. Freedom!

Insurance and tax

Similar to the last point, before you’re able to drive you must ensure that your car insurance and your tax is updated. Whether this is a car that you own or that your family owns, your insurance must apply to your full driving licence that you just gained (congrats) and the tax needs to be up to date. To buy your tax either apply by post or at the post office. Paperwork is boring, but necessary!

‘Passed’ accessories

Although P plates aren’t compulsory, it’s a good idea to place them on the front and back of your car. This will communicate to fellow drivers that you’re fresh on the road, and if you do have a minor driving blunder (unlikely, we have faith in you), they’ll be more a little more lenient. There are no guidelines on how long to keep these on for – just take them off when you feel confident!

Allow time for practice

Although you’re now a legal driver, you are still a beginner. It may be an idea to set aside time for some additional practice… You could use this time to go over any minors you got in your driving test (if any). It’s also an opportunity to get used to driving alone, on motorways and in the dark. These things may scare you, so it’s good to make sure you feel confident when those situations arise.

Begin the hunt for a car!

Now that you can officially drive, now may be the time to begin your hunt for a car of your own. When you’re looking for your first car, it may be likely that your budget is a little tighter. If you go for something with a low engine capacity, your vehicle will be cheaper to insure. You heard it here first! It’s a good idea to look for a car with low mileage, to make sure you’ll get the most out of it possible.

Just passed your test? These tips will mean that you don’t get a shock when something like this comes up! If you passed your test a while ago and you would benefit from a refresher training course, one of our approved driving instructors at Lanes School of Driving would be happy to help you. Call us on 020 8166 5678 or email and we’ll make sure that driving is second nature.

Is it just us, or has 2021 been a bit of a blur? Christmas is already right around the corner! Along with Christmas comes the nail-biting task of having to buy presents that impress; face masks, a Terry’s Chocolate Orange, a 2022 calendar – these are classic stocking fillers that are quickly overlooked once Boxing Day has passed. They all get a bit repetitive (apart from the chocolate).

This year, why not think a little further outside the box? We all have those friends or family members who are car enthusiasts, so let’s brainstorm some Christmas gift ideas that will make you their new favourite person. Follow this guide on gifts for car lovers – watch this space Santa Claus!

Wireless car charger

We all know how it is. You’re in the biggest rush in the world and the time pressure has you flustered, then you get in the car and realise… your phone is on 10%. If only you kept a charger in your car. Buying someone a wireless phone charger for their car will definitely be a hit. It simply clips onto an air vent or plugs into your cigarette port. Just make sure their phone is compatible which your chosen charger!

Car hoover

Dirt and dust can easily build up, and it seems to happen quicker and quicker between every clean. Although a car wash isn’t the biggest expense, everything adds up! Gifting someone a compact car hoover is a brilliant way to keep their vehicle’s interior clean, allowing them to save some pennies in the process. These hoovers are one of the most effective car accessories, especially if you opt for a high-quality model.

Interior LEDs

Have you ever noticed how all the cars in the adverts have mood lighting in the interior? Now you can achieve the same, with car LEDs. They come in peel and stick strips for you to decorate the inside of your car. With a variety of colours and lighting modes, you could even create a party atmosphere! It’s a great, playful present that can transform how someone feels about their daily transport.

Phone holder

It’s rare that anybody uses the sat nav in their car. Most of the time, Google Maps is used much more frequently! The thing is, where do you put your phone so that you can see the directions? A phone holder is a simple but effective present that can be of use to anyone. Let them know to put it in a safe place, and nowhere that could distract them for their journey.

Car bin

We’re all guilty of a messy car sometimes. Whether it’s snacks on a long road trip or the odd breakfast as you’re driving to work, empty packets and tissues are bound to build up over time. That’s why a car bin is such a useful gift! By keeping their vehicle clean and tidy, someone is bound to thank you for this present (if they don’t, you can blame us – we won’t mind).

Cleaning kit

As well as a hoover, a cleaning set for your car is going to come in handy regularly. This is an especially good gift for pet lovers, as animal hair can get all over your seats and interior. Car kits come equipped with a lint roller, packs of flash wipes, and much more for when your car needs a little spruce up. This gift is useful and practical, and car enthusiasts are bound to want their car looking tip top!

If you or someone you know could do with a refresher course, or you need to obtain your licence so that you can put the car gifts you’ve received to good use, contact Lanes School of Driving. We have many courses to help you improve your skills, as well as the capacity for female led lessons. Call us on call on 020 8166 5678 or email us at  to get started.

Driving too fast, which we’re all guilty of sometimes, can be extremely dangerous – it’s not big, and it’s not clever… With conditions on the road always affecting the way we drive, they’re something we need to consider when leaving ourselves enough space to brake. Stopping distance is an equation made up of the thinking and braking distances (but don’t worry, we’re not about to make you complete a physics test!). Essentially:

Thinking distance + Braking distance = Stopping distance

So, what are these distances and how can the factors make a difference?

Thinking distance

Thinking distance is the amount of time it takes for you to register a hazard and start to brake your vehicle. No matter how hard you try, you’ll never be able to brake immediately – we can’t all have reflexes like The Flash. The trouble is that the faster you’re driving, the further you’ll travel during the time it takes you to slam your foot on the brake. It then affects your braking distance. Some of the factors you should take into account are…

• Tiredness – Lack of sleep plagues all of us sometimes, and can cause our attention span to suffer. Our reaction times may not be up to scratch, so take regular breaks if you’re tired.
• Distractions – Lack of focus, as we all know, can result in catastrophe. It’s illegal to hold a mobile during your drive, but even hands-free driving can be dangerous.
• Inebriation – You should never drive under the influence. Drugs and alcohol can severely impact your reaction time, and slower reactions will increase your chance of an accident.

Braking distance

Your braking distance is defined as the time that it takes for your car to stop once you’ve started to brake. The faster your speed, the longer it will take for you to come to a complete halt. Due to this changeable distance, the Highway Code outlines distances for a range of speeds. Whereas the thinking distance is often down to the condition of the driver, braking distance factors are often out of our control – deep breaths, control freaks…

• Weather conditions – The weather can have a massive impact on driving. If the roads are wet or icy, it takes much longer to stop. It’s recommended to leave double the amount of space between you and the car in front when it’s wet, and up to 10x that amount if it’s icy.
• Road conditions – Potholes are the least optimal road conditions, and we all know how uncomfortable they are to drive over. Muddy surfaces will also increase your braking distance, so drive with care along these roads.
• Car conditions – This is something we do have control over. The condition of your brakes will dictate how quickly you stop, so make sure they’re as responsive as possible. The condition of your tyres is imperative – if the tread is too worn then it can take longer to brake.

As we can see, stopping your car is a little higher maintenance than you may have thought… Since your stopping distance is a combination of your thinking and braking times, we can see how it quickly adds up. Here are the recommended stopping distances for different speeds:

• 20mph – Thinking 6m + Braking 6m = Stopping 12m (around 3 car lengths)
• 30mph – Thinking 9m + Braking 14m = Stopping 23m
• 40mph – Thinking 12m + Braking 24m = Stopping 36m
• 50mph – Thinking 15m + Braking 38m = Stopping 53m
• 60mph – Thinking 18m + Braking 55m = Stopping 73m
• 70mph – Thinking 21m + Braking 75m = Stopping 96m

So, when you’re on that drive with friends or you’re running a few errands, make sure you keep your stopping distance in mind and leave room between yourself and the car in front. At the moment we’re all used to our personal space anyway…

For more on-the-road tips or to arrange your driving lessons, give Lanes School of Driving a call on 020 8166 5678 or email us at . We’ve helped thousands of students pass their test – you’ll never catch Lanes graduates driving too fast!

In April of 2019, our London Mayor introduced the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) operating in Central London. Due to its success, the zone is being expanded to further the environmental benefits that we’ve seen from the ULEZ so far. Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the zone expansion on 25^th October 2021:

What is the ULEZ?

The ULEZ came about so that the level of air pollution in our city decreases. It discourages drivers with older, more harmful vehicles from driving through the area. If your vehicle doesn’t comply with the Euro 6 standards, you will regrettably have to pay a daily charge of £12.50 when you enter. You’ll be glad to hear, though, that four out of five cars on the roads are already in line with the ULEZ standards.

Every entry point into the ULEZ zone will be sign posted meaning that you’ll never be caught off guard, finding yourself in the zone unnecessarily. Keep your eye out for signs on the road, and you’re bound to be able to avoid it if you need to.

The ULEZ is in action 24/7, 364 days out of the year with 25^th December being the only exception – Merry Christmas… Although this may seem inconvenient, the ULEZ has undeniably helped pollution in the area since its launch in 2019, with a 44% drop in nitrogen dioxide in roadside atmosphere within the boundaries.

Which areas will be affected?

At the moment the ULEZ area is quite contained, mirroring the area of the Congestion Charge (driving around London could sadly hit you with a double-whammy bill), but this will soon change. The area will be expanding up to the North and South Circular Roads, meaning the zone will be much larger – you may not be able to escape it this time. Some areas that should keep an eye out for the encroaching ULEZ are:

• Hackney
• Lambeth
• Lewisham
• Haringey
• Barnet
• Ealing
• Newham

What are the ULEZ standards and does my vehicle comply?

The standards will be staying the same, but if you’re driving in the new area of the ULEZ don’t forget to check that your vehicle meets these. The standards are…

• Motorbikes, mopeds, quadricycles and motorised tricycles – Euro 3
• Petrol cars, minibuses, vans and other specialist vehicles (up to and including 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle weight) – Euro 4
• Diesel cars, vans, other specialist vehicles (up to and including 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle weight) and minibuses (up to and including 5 tonnes gross vehicle weight) – Euro 6

If you’re wondering whether your vehicle is in line with these standards, or you don’t even know what Euro 6 means, don’t worry! You can use TFL’s vehicle checker to find out if you will have to pay the daily £12.50 when driving through the zone.

What happens if I don’t pay?

If you fail to pay the daily charge for driving through the Ultra Low Emission Zone, you will receive the dreaded Penalty Charge Notice, and you could be asked to pay up to £160! So, in the long run, making sure your vehicle is ULEZ compliant is a much more cost-effective option than the alternative. This is something important to look out for if you’ve just passed your test, and you’re looking for a vehicle to buy.

If you need some more information on the ULEZ regulations, don’t hesitate to contact us. If this doesn’t yet apply to you and you’re still looking for someone to give you the perfect driving lessons, let us know! Contact Lanes School of Driving on 020 8166 5678 or email .

When driving, you’ll begin to find quite quickly that not every road displays a speed limit sign – at least not in the moment that you’re specifically looking for one! It is important to be aware of the possible speed limits for each different road type to avoid facing a fine, gaining points on your licence or causing harm to yourself or other road users and pedestrians. So, what are the limits?

Built up areas

In built up areas, often signified by roadside parking or regular lampposts, the speed limit for all vehicles is 30mph, unless a local speed limit specifies otherwise.

Single carriageways

For cars, motorcycles and motorhomes (under 3.05 tonnes), the speed limit is 60mph. If these vehicles are towing a trailer, the limit reduces to 50mph.

For motorhomes (over 3.05 tonnes), busses, coaches, minibuses and goods vehicles (under 7.5 tonnes), the limit is 50mph.

For goods vehicles (over 7.5 tonnes), the speed limit is 40mph.

Dual carriageways

For cars, motorcycles and motorhomes (under 3.05 tonnes), the speed limit is 70mph. If these vehicles are towing a trailer, this reduces to 60mph.

For motorhomes (over 3.05 tonnes), busses, coaches, minibuses and goods vehicles (under 7.5 tonnes), the limit is 60mph

For goods vehicles (over 7.5 tonnes), the speed limit is 50mph.

Motorways

For cars, motorcycles and motorhomes (under 3.05 tonnes), the speed limit is 70mph. If these vehicles are towing a trailer, this reduces to 60mph.

For motorhomes (over 3.05 tonnes), busses, coaches, minibuses and goods vehicles (under 7.5 tonnes), the limit is also 70mph.

For goods vehicles (over 7.5 tonnes), the speed limit is 60mph.

Local speed limits

Local speed limits are often enforced by councils in areas of heavy build up or regular pedestrian flow, such as outside schools and colleges or along a high street. These signs are rectangular and will feature a speed limit displayed in a red circle above the word ‘zone’. The end of the speed limit zone will be specified by a ‘zone ends’ sign, specifying the new limit, whether that is a displayed speed, or the national speed symbol.

National speed limits

The national limit, as specified above for all vehicle types, will be indicated by a white circular sign with a black diagonal line through. They will often be followed by a fixed speed camera or temporary traffic van positioned with a speed radar gun, filtering out those who are travelling dangerously and issuing them with a penalty.

Variable speed limits

Variable speed limits will be seen on smart motorways, where the cameras are able to monitor traffic and alter the speed limits to reduce congestion or slow traffic down. These variable limits will be displayed clearly on the framework above the road. In some instances, the speed limit may stay the same as expected, but the hard-shoulder may be opened to create another lane and reduce build-up. These speed limits are legal instructions and should be followed.

Minimum speed limits

Although they are rare, minimum speed limits can be found throughout the UK. They will be displayed within a blue, circular sign and it is then compulsory – if safe to do so – that you travel at this speed at a minimum. These signs can be found in areas where slow travelling or congestion could be a safety risk, such as tunnels.

It can also be classed as ‘unsafe’ to drive at a slow speed on a motorway and, although this is unlikely to not be defined by a minimum speed limit sign, you may attract the attention of police and risk being pulled over for dangerous driving.

Remember: There will be a penalty for driving at dangerous speeds or disregarding limits. From £100 fines to 3 points on your licence and a court hearing. Repeated penalties could also result in a permanent driving ban. Stay safe and smart on the road.

At Lanes School of Driving, our team of experienced driving instructors are available to guide drivers of all abilities and ages, from 17 to 70, to safe and knowledgeable driving. To find out more about how we could help you, give us a call on 020 8166 5678 or drop us an email at  today.

Road safety – it’s a topic we speak about a lot, and one that is bound to be mentioned through the course of your driving lessons, but a factor of safety that people just don’t hear enough about is how to keep children protected in the car. Whether they be your own, a sibling or relative or children you look after, the action of transporting a child within your vehicle involves additional caution and careful planning.

Where should children be seated?

It is recommended that young children should sit in the back seat of the vehicle, facing the rear, for as long as possible. However, small children are able to be seated in the passenger seat if the correct safety precautions are followed. These include:

• Seating the child facing the rear and deactivating the front airbags
• If the child is to be seated facing the front of the vehicle, you must push the chair back as far as it will go to maximise space between the child and the dashboard. The airbags should remain on.

There isn’t really a right or wrong when it comes to choosing which side of the vehicle the child should sit when in the back seat. It is most often down to personal preference. For younger, rear-facing children, some drivers like to install a mirror to the headrest, allowing them to see their face when looking in the rear-view mirror. For older children, drivers use regular verbal communication and so don’t feel the need to see the child at all times. If you do feel anxious, position them in a seat that remains visible in your rear-view mirror, preventing you from turning around whilst on the move and risking an accident. Additionally, you should get into the habit of parking in a location where you can safely remove the child from the car on the kerbside, away from moving traffic.

The laws on booster seats

All children under the age of 12 or the height of 1.35 meters are required by law to remain in a booster seat. Those under this age and height must be seated within an appropriate child restraint that is suitable for their own size. This can mean a baby seat, child seat, booster seat or cushion. If children are seated on the cars own seating, the seatbelt could cut into their neck or face rather than fit across their chest, causing injury whilst on the road or becoming ineffective if a road traffic accident did occur. If you weren’t to follow these laws, you could face a penalty of £100 as well as receiving points on your licence.

Before seating the child in the correct restraint, you must check that it is secured correctly. You should also remove any padded outer-clothing such as coats before buckling up, allowing the seatbelt to remain tight to the body and therefore, more protective.

Secure those seatbelts

Did you know that in the UK, it is actually illegal for drivers and passengers of all ages to travel in a vehicle without a seatbelt? It will be the responsibility of the driver to ensure that all passengers are secured correctly, or they could face a penalty up to £500. This includes the seatbelts of children. Securing two children into one seatbelt is classified as a law-breaking offence, as is travelling with a child on your lap.

If child passengers are old (and mischievous) enough to unplug theirs whilst on the road, they should be educated on safety and the law before the journey begins. With all children, you should check in regularly throughout the course of the drive to ensure that they remain securely buckled up at all times.

Check the doors and windows

Child locks are a saviour for drivers whilst on the road. Children of all ages are experimental and learn by touching things, but you wouldn’t want this to be their door handle. By activating the child lock, the doors in the back seat of the vehicle will only be able to open by use of the external handle, leaving the internal one ‘useless’ until the lock is removed again.

Windows can be operated in the same way. Although they may appear to be less dangerous if opened, electric windows are causing a surprising rise in injuries to children travelling in the back seat, with drivers doing up the windows without the knowledge of an arm remaining out of it which then becomes trapped. Whilst on the move especially, drivers should keep the back windows up and locked, preventing waving arms from excitable children from causing harm to passing cyclists and other road users, or harm to themselves.

The aspect of keeping children safe in the car can be daunting, but our team at Lanes School of Driving are available for any advice you are seeking before heading out on the road with one in tow. Give us a call on 020 8166 5678 or drop us an email at and we will be happy to help you.

In the unlikely but possible event that you breakdown, an emergency breakdown kit can be vital in keeping you and your passengers safe whilst waiting for roadside assistance. Although these kits are available to buy, many drivers find that they already own the required items and so find it simple to create their own. Within or alongside your emergency breakdown kit, you should also assemble a first aid kit. In this month’s blog, we run through the items that you should pack within these to keep you safe whilst on the road.

Emergency breakdown kit

Within your emergency breakdown kit, you should stock the following items:

• High visibility vests or clothing, allowing you to be seen by other road users no matter the hour
• A torch with spare batteries, allowing you to see your surroundings and vehicle
• A hazard warning triangle which can be placed around 10 paces behind your vehicle, alerting other drivers of the oncoming hazard
• Tissues or paper towels, allowing you to clear any fluid or oil spillages on your skin or vehicle
• A bottle of engine coolant, allowing you to cool an overheated engine
• A foot pump or puncture spray, allowing you to temporarily repair pressure loss or a puncture within your tyres
• Warm, waterproof clothing and shoes, allowing you to remain as warm and dry as possible whilst standing a safe distance from the roadside. A blanket would also come in useful in such an event.
• Bottled water and packaged food, allowing you to replenish your hunger or thirst whilst waiting for roadside recovery
• A spare phone charger, allowing you to charge your phone in a nearby service station, shop or café to contact and wait for assistance
• A shovel is particularly useful in winter months as, if stuck in snow, you can dig small slopes infront of your front two wheels that can help you to drive out

Emergency first aid kit

Your emergency breakdown kit should include a visible, easy to reach first aid kit within its own sterile compartment or bag. You may require this whilst on the move – it doesn’t necessarily have to be saved for use during a breakdown. Within this, you should have:

• Plasters to protect and cover wounds or scratches
• Anti-septic wipes to clean any wounds or open injuries as well as medical equipment before use
• Disposable gloves to protect yourself and the injured person from infection
• Tweezers to remove any items safely and effectively from within the skin, such as splinters or glass
• Sterile eye wash and dressings to clean the eye effectively and prevent any ongoing injury or risk
• Sterile gauze swabs of multiple sizes to clean and dry wounded areas
• Medical tape to secure gauzes and bandages
• Painkillers to fend off a aches and pains whilst on the road

The idea of breaking down can often be scary, but with the right preparation, there needn’t be a reason to fear. For more advice on packing your emergency kits, get in touch with our team who will be happy to help. Give us a call at Lanes School of Driving on 020 8166 5678 or email us at . Having successfully passed pupils for over 100 years, we have the humbled experience that allows us to help drivers with every requirement.

Have you been waiting for the chance to take the leap and delve into a new career that fits around your schedule, gives you an element of freedom and provides you with a sense of fulfilment each day? Why not consider becoming an ADI (Approved Driving Instructor) – there is no better time than now!

With our teaching here at Lanes School of Driving being put on hold for the last year for the safety of our staff and students, there are hundreds of locals across the country who are itching to get out onto the road again, and you could be the one that allows them to do that!

As well as passing pupils for over 100 years, we have also been training and passing instructors for over 40, so we’d like to think we know our stuff! Allow us to explain just how our instructor training course is carried out in our simple three step process.

The course

Step 1: Theory and hazard perception
As well as having access to DVSA approved reference books, we provide classroom sessions at our training sites with approved driving instructors. With over 400 hazard perception clips available for you to revise, as well as a range of supportive DVD’s, your theory examination could be a breeze. However, if you fail, don’t fear. Step 1 allows you to retake as many times as you need.

Step 2: A test of your practical driving
Qualified trainers will accompany you on the road for 20 hours to assess your driving skills and train you to fine-tune your actions if needed, ensuring that they are on par with DVSA standards. Once you have passed this assessment section, you will be able to drive as a Trainee Driving Instructor with Lanes Group of Driving Schools.

From here, you will be provided with a provisional licence for a six-month period, allowing you to teach pupils within a sponsored driving school. Within the first three months of this provisional period there is a requirement to train for an additional 20 hours. Completing this will allow you to feel confident in your instructing ability and begin to earn as you move onto the final stage of our three-step process.

Step 3: Test of instructional ability
The final assessment will take place over two 30-minute sessions where you in-car trainer will act as a pupil. The preparation for this includes 40 hours of 1-to-1 training (carried out in two-hour blocks), as well as classroom tuition. You can tailor these resources to suit you and your way of learning, as well as current working commitments.

Whilst step one of the training allows multiple retakes, steps two and three require a pass within three attempts. However, with the resources we provide and the one-to-one sessions both within the classroom and vehicle, we have no doubt that you will pass these!

Once you have completed all three stages and passed your training, you will become a fully qualified ADI and be granted a job with our team at Lanes School of Driving.

Payment for our driving instructor training course is split over a 12-month period, so no matter how long it takes you to train and gain your qualification, there will be no large upfront investment.

The benefits of working as a qualified ADI with Lanes School of Driving

• You will be provided with a full diary that you can alter around your lifestyle and commitments
• You can experience uncapped earning potentials
• You will receive support from a driving school who have been successful for over 100 years
• You will be provided with the latest model vehicles
• You can benefit from our in-house loyalty schemes
• A fully managed social media account will operate in your training area, providing you with new teaching opportunities all year round
• You will work alongside a trained office team who will successfully manage your bookings for you

Already qualified?

If you are already a trained and qualified driving instructor looking for a new opportunity, get in touch with our team today. We would love to hear from you and get you on the road in the hoot of a horn!

For more information on our driving instructor training course, or to find your nearest Lanes School of Driving centre, get in touch with us today. Call 020 8166 5678 or email and we will be delighted to help you.