Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Thing to Know Before Appearing For Motorbike Driving Practical Test

Motorbike driving practical test information

After passing the motorbike theory test you need to pass the driving practical test. The practical motorcycle test is made up of lots of different elements, an eyesight test, vehicle safety questions, a test of driving ability, a test of specific maneuvers and a question about riding with a passenger.

The new motorcycle practical test went live on Monday 27 April 2009. It aims to improve the standard of road safety for motorcycle and moped riders. This user group has been identified as having a high risk of injury or death, this is particularly the case for young and inexperienced riders.

In order to acquire their motorcycle licence, you need to pass the practical motorcycle test.
To pass the practical motorcycle test you need to pass its two separate modules within two years of passing your motorcycle theory test. The first module will test you doing set maneuvers on the motorcycle in a safe off-road area. The second module is the on-road test.
  • Module 1 – a specified off road maneuvers test
  • Module 2 – a road riding test including an eyesight test and safety questions
This modular approach allows DSA to conduct the test from a greater number of locations. Module 1 can be taken from 66 locations and module 2 from 105 locations, together with 30 occasional centers in Scotland.

The off-road motorcycling maneuvering area (MMA) can vary depending on whether a candidate is taking the Module 1 test from a new DSA test centre or from a VOSA or casual site.

88 per cent of customers will be able to reach a Module 1 site within 45 minutes of traveling and 97 per cent of Module 2 customers.

Minimum test vehicle requirements

You have to use a suitable machine for the practical test that meets the minimum test vehicle requirements. You must use the same motorcycle for both modules.
Minimum test vehicle requirements for mopeds and motorcycles

Wear the right clothing

You need to wear the right clothing for both modules. Examiners can refuse to carry out the test if they think the type of clothing you are wearing doesn’t give enough protection from injury.

There is an exemption to the safety helmet requirement for followers of the Sikh religion if they are wearing a turban.

Your test results

At the end of module one, the examiner will give you the result and you can ask for feedback on how you did. If you passed, you’ll receive your module one pass certificate.
At the end of module two, the examiner will tell you whether you have passed or failed and you can ask for feedback on how you did.

If you fail either module, you should ask the examiner for feedback to help you prepare for your next test. Your driving test report will identify areas where any mistakes were made.

If you pass both modules, the examiner will explain to you how to change your provisional licence into a full licence.

Booking and retaking your test

You can book both modules at the same time but you must have passed your module one test before you can take module two.
If you fail module one you must wait three full working days before being eligible to retake your test.

You must give the Driving Standards Agency three full working days' notice of cancellation of a module two test, or you will lose your module two test fee. All candidates should leave a long enough time between the two modules to prevent this risk of losing the module two fee.

Candidates should also use the period between the two modules to develop their riding skills in preparation for the on road ride.

If you fail your module two test, you must wait 10 full working days before being able to retake the module.

Monday, November 29, 2010

Car insurance: Over 50 car insurance advantages

Over 50 car insurance:

It has been observed that older drivers tend to have a more mature approach towards driving than new drivers. Car insurance companies are more and more eager to target drivers aged 50 plus or those that have retired as older drivers are more experience, fewer accidents and more consistent. We can say older drivers are present less of a risk. This means the over 50s are less likely to make a claim, therefore saving the insurer money.

Recent studies on drivers patterns have shown that the drivers over 50s are one of the more cautious in the whole sector, while the figures do change through some extent for the drivers those who are over 80s. The drivers over 50s, car insurance market is going through something of a boom time at the moment. This as you might expect has resulted in the formation of a number of UK car insurance companies being created to service this market - lower risk groups are the holy grail of any insurance market.

Between the ages of 50 and 70 gets the best car insurance deals. While it is great news for those aged 50 - 70, once you reach your 70th birthday it's possible that you will see a major change in your premium. The average increase is 33 per cent as insurers put premiums to cover the higher probability of accidents in this age group. So it's really essential that you save money in this 'golden' period of your life.


Why choose The Co-operative Insurance?

If you are over 50, you want more than just competitive car insurance quotes and due to this comprehensive car insurance policy is packed full of benefits tailored especially for you. As providers of car insurance for the over 50s we could help you pay less.

Visit: driving test product list

50 plus car insurance includes:
  • Lower premiums - It has been noticed that over 50s have very less accidents and lower mileage, so premiums are able to reflect.
  • Great discounts - Up to 70% No Claim Discount, named drivers earn their own No Claim Discount plus a further guaranteed discount when you take out your car insurance online.
  • Instant cover - Buying insurance today and your car insurance cover starts straight away.
  • European covers - For up to 8 days at no additional cost and at the same level of cover that you would receive within the UK.
  • Security - Keeping your personal information secure and confidential is important to us. To look after all customers we use a range of strict security measures including the latest encryption technology. So you can be rest guaranteed you details are in safe hands.
Other Top Post:

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

The Highway Code - Road users requiring extra care (Motorcyclists and cyclists)

211)
It is often difficult to see motorcyclists and cyclists, especially when they are coming up from behind, coming out of junctions, at roundabouts, overtaking you or filtering through traffic. Always look out for them before you emerge from a junction; they could be approaching faster than you think. When turning right across a line of slow-moving or stationary traffic, look out for cyclists or motorcyclists on the inside of the traffic you are crossing. Be especially careful when turning, and when changing direction or lane. Be sure to check mirrors and blind spots carefully.
Highway Code - Seat belts and child restraints
For more information visit: The Highway code book
212)
When passing motorcyclists and cyclists, give them plenty of 
room (see Rules 162-167). If they look over their shoulder it 
could mean that they intend to pull out, turn right or change 
direction. Give them time and space to do so.
213)
Motorcyclists and cyclists may suddenly need to avoid uneven road 
urfaces and obstacles such as drain covers or oily, wet or icy 
patches on the road. Give them plenty of room and pay particular 
attention to any sudden change of direction they may have to make.

Related posts :

The Highway Code Introduction
The Highway Code - Rules for pedestrians
The Highway Code - Rules for users of powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters
The Highway Code - Rules about animals
The Highway Code - Rules for cyclists
The Highway Code - Rules for Motorcyclists
The Highway Code - Rules for drivers and motorcyclists

Saturday, October 30, 2010

The Highway Code - Road users requiring extra care (Pedestrians )

204)
The most vulnerable road users are pedestrians, cyclists,
motorcyclists and horse riders. It is particularly important to be
aware of children, older and disabled people, and learner and 
inexperienced drivers and riders.

Visit: The Highway Code book

Pedestrians
205)
There is a risk of pedestrians, especially children, stepping unexpectedly
into the road. You should drive with the safety of children in mind
at a speed suitable for the conditions.
206)
Drive carefully and slowly when
in crowded shopping streets, Home Zones and Quiet Lanes (see Rule 218) or residential areas
driving past bus and tram stops; pedestrians may emerge suddenly into the road
passing parked vehicles, especially ice cream vans; children are more interested in ice cream than traffic and may run into the road unexpectedly
needing to cross a pavement or cycle track; for example, to reach or leave a driveway. Give way to pedestrians and cyclists on the pavement
Highway Code - Alcohol And Drugs
reversing into a side road; look all around the vehicle and give way
to any pedestrians who may be crossing the road
turning at road junctions; give way to pedestrians who are already
crossing the road into which you are turning
approaching pedestrians on narrow rural roads without a footway
or footpath. Always slow down and be prepared to stop if necessary,
giving them plenty of room as you drive past.

Visit: Driving test offer
207) Particularly vulnerable pedestrians. These include
children and older pedestrians who may not be able to judge
your speed and could step into the road in front of you. At
40 mph (64 km/h) your vehicle will probably kill any pedestrians
it hits. At 20 mph (32 km/h) there is only a 1 in 20 chance of the
pedestrian being killed. So kill your speed
older pedestrians who may need more time to cross the road.
Be patient and allow them to cross in their own time. Do not hurry
them by revving your engine or edging forward
people with disabilities. People with hearing impairments may not
be aware of your vehicle approaching. Those with walking difficulties
require more time
blind or partially sighted people, who may be carrying a white cane
using a guide dog. They may not be able to see you approaching
deafblind people who may be carrying a white cane with a red band
or using a dog with a red and white harness. They may not see or
hear instructions or signals.
208) Near schools. Drive slowly and be particularly aware of young
cyclists and pedestrians. In some places, there may be a flashing
amber signal below the ‘School' warning sign which tells you that
there may be children crossing the road ahead. Drive very slowly
until you are clear of the area.
209) Drive carefully and slowly when passing a stationary bus showing a
‘School Bus' sign (see ‘Vehicle markings') as children may be getting
on or off.
210) You MUST stop when a school crossing patrol shows a ‘Stop for
children' sign (see ‘Signals by authorised persons' and ‘Signs giving
orders') Law RTRA sect 28

Related posts :

The Highway Code Introduction
The Highway Code - Rules for pedestrians
The Highway Code - Rules for users of powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters
The Highway Code - Rules about animals
The Highway Code - Rules for cyclists
The Highway Code - Rules for Motorcyclists
The Highway Code - Rules for drivers and motorcyclists

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

The Highway Code - Using the road (Reversing)

200)
Choose an appropriate place to manoeuvre. If you need to turn your 
vehicle around, wait until you find a safe place. Try not to reverse 
or turn round in a busy road; find a quiet side road or drive round
a block of side streets.

Visit: Driving test book

201) Do not reverse from a side road into a main road. When using a
driveway, reverse in and drive out if you can.
202)
Look carefully before you start reversing. You should
use all your mirrors
check the ‘blind spot' behind you (the part of the road you cannot
see easily in the mirrors)
check there are no pedestrians (particularly children), cyclists,
other road users or obstructions in the road behind you.
Reverse slowly while
checking all around
looking mainly through the rear window
being aware that the front of your vehicle will swing out as you turn
Get someone to guide you if you cannot see clearly.
The Highway Code
Highway 
code book
203) You MUST NOT reverse your vehicle further than necessary.
Law CUR reg 106
Related posts :

The Highway Code Introduction
The Highway Code - Rules for pedestrians
The Highway Code - Rules for users of powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters
The Highway Code - Rules about animals
The Highway Code - Rules for cyclists
The Highway Code - Rules for Motorcyclists
The Highway Code - Rules for drivers and motorcyclists

Friday, October 22, 2010

The Highway Code - Using the road (Pedestrian crossings)

191) You MUST NOT park on a crossing or in the area covered by the
zig-zag lines. You MUST NOT overtake the moving vehicle nearest
the crossing or the vehicle nearest the crossing which has stopped to
give way to pedestrians.
Laws ZPPPCRGD regs 18, 20 & 24, RTRA sect 25(5) &
TSRGD reg 10, 27 & 28 

Visit: http://www.theory-test.co.uk
192)
In queuing traffic, you should keep the crossing clear.
Highway Code - Seat belts and child restraints
193) You should take extra care where the view of either side of the crossing
is blocked by queuing traffic or incorrectly parked vehicles. Pedestrians
may be crossing between stationary vehicles.
194) Allow pedestrians plenty of time to cross and do not harass them
by revving your engine or edging forward.
The Highway Code book
The Highway Code
195) Zebra crossings. As you approach a zebra crossing
look out for pedestrians waiting to cross and be ready to slow down
or stop to let them cross
you MUST give way when a pedestrian has moved onto a crossing
allow more time for stopping on wet or icy roads
do not wave or use your horn to invite pedestrians across; this could
be dangerous if another vehicle is approaching
be aware of pedestrians approaching from the side of the crossing
A zebra crossing with a central island is two separate crossings
(see Rule 20). Law ZPPPCRGD reg 25
      Signal-controlled crossings
196)
Pelican crossings. These are signal-controlled crossings where flashing amber follows the red ‘Stop’ light. You MUST stop when the red light shows. When the amber light is flashing, you MUST give way to any pedestrians on the crossing. If the amber light is flashing and there are no pedestrians on the crossing, you may proceed with caution. Laws ZPPPCRGD regs 23 & 26 & RTRA sect 25(5)
Highway Code - Seat belts and child restraints
197) Pelican crossings which go straight across the road are one crossing,
even when there is a central island. You MUST wait for pedestrians
who are crossing from the other side of the island.  
Law ZPPPCRGD reg 26 & RTRA sect 25(5) 

198) Give way to anyone still crossing after the signal for vehicles has
changed to green. This advice applies to all crossings.
199) Toucan, puffin and equestrian crossings. These are similar to pelican
crossings, but there is no flashing amber phase; the light sequence for
traffic at these three crossings is the same as at traffic lights. If the
signal-controlled crossing is not working, proceed with extreme
caution.
Related posts :

The Highway Code Introduction
The Highway Code - Rules for pedestrians
The Highway Code - Rules for users of powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters
The Highway Code - Rules about animals
The Highway Code - Rules for cyclists
The Highway Code - Rules for Motorcyclists
The Highway Code - Rules for drivers and motorcyclists

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Advanced driving lessons- Become a safe, responsible driver

Britain's roads are getting busier and busier, and more motor accidents are happening each year as a result. There are about 40,000 serious road accidents in the UK every year. In most cases, accidents happen due to driver error. Driver negligence can lead to devastation. Most people think of themselves as good drivers, but no matter how old experience driver you can still make mistakes.

So DSA says- "There is more to driving or riding safely than just passing your driving test or riding test. You should consider doing further training, leading to an advanced driving test. Passing an advanced test shows that you have developed your driving or riding skills to keep you and your passengers safe."

So get an advanced driving qualification. The more you know about driving, the better you can control your car in a dangerous road situation. High quality advanced training certainly reduces accidents risk very substantially.


The standards for advanced driving or riding involve:
  • The ability to control the position and speed of the vehicle safely.
  • Using road and traffic conditions to make reasonable progress.
  • A standard of driving based on concentration, observation, anticipation and planning.
  • Co-ordination with good handling skills.
  • The vehicle at the right place on the road.
  • Travelling at the right speed with the correct gear engaged.
  • Stopping safely in the distance that can be seen to be clear.

If you apply advance driving techniques
  • Fuel consumption will be better.
  • Level of stress while driving will be reduced.
  • Better skills will lead to safety on roads.
  • Your vehicle will be less harmed.
And you will get pleasure from driving!

Advanced driving lessons are not just for older, even experienced drivers also go for this course if they would like to drive more safely, economically, with a better consciousness for other road users and who wants to enjoy driving. This training is also ideal for those who wish to make their career in driving. Another advantage of advanced driving test is you get discounts on your vehicle insurance!

If you want to progress your driving skills further there are a number of organisations which offer an advanced driving test and should be able to offer you training and advice on how best to prepare.

British School of Motoring

RAC Building,
2610 Quadrant,
Aztec West Business Park,
Bristol,
BS32 4TR.
Tel: 0845 851 9571

DIAmond Advanced Motorists
Safety House,
Beddington Farm Road,
Croydon,
CR0 4XZ.
Tel: 020 8665 5151

Institute of Advanced Motorists
510 Chiswick High Road,
London,
W4 5RG.
Tel: 020 8996 9600

RoSPA Advanced Drivers Association
Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents,
353 Bristol Road,
Edgbaston Park,
Birmingham,
B5 7ST.
Tel: 0121 248 2099

Main aim of these organisations and advance driving tests is to improve road safety standards, thus making the roads safer for everyone.

Reporting for driving practical test

On the day of your driving practical test, the examiner will be looking only to see that are you able drive safely when you are taken to the road demonstrating that you have.


  • Responsibility towards other road users
  • Confidence in driving the car on you own
  • Awareness and anticipation of hazards and dangers
  • Consideration and attitude, especially the vulnerable road users
  • Add to this the driving test set of manoeuvre.
If you forget to bring licence and photo you will lose your fee and will be not allowed to give your test. Arrive at the Test Centre in good time. If you arrive late, you may not be allowed for the test.
DSA (Driving Standards Agency) may reject to take your test if you forget to bring following documents: or riding involve:
  • You are required to bring both your multiple choice and hazard perception pass letters or your overall theory test pass certificate letter, an appropriate theory test pass certificate (or confirmation) if you are not exempt; for lorry or bus theory tests.
  • Correctly insured and licensed vehicle, displaying L plates (except for taxi and Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) part two tests), which is appropriate from test point of view.
  • You will be not allowed to give test and you will lose your fee if you forget or don't carry photo card and licence.
  • If you have an old-style paper licence, you must take your signed driver licence and a valid passport - no other form of photographic identification will be accepted if you don't take both parts of your licence.
  • You must produce your compulsory basic training certificate (CBT) for both modules of the motorcycle test.
  • You must present your motorcycle module one test pass certificate for module two of the motorcycle test
  • Before applying for the test in case if you misplace your driving licence, you must apply for a replacement from the Driver and Vehicle
Independent driving element in driving test will come in effect from Oct 2010. Independent driving is tasking the candidate to drive for approximately 10 mins either following a series of directions, following traffic signs, or a combination of both.

Independent driving is when the learner get out on the road He/She will be driving alone and they need to know how to drive safely. Simultaneously it is very important for a learner to look at the signs at the time of driving because that's in normal life what the learners are going to do. It actually puts theory and practical test together. It makes you think about the signs, makes you think independently and makes you feel much more confident. Licensing Agency (DVLA), as it may take up to 15 days. Your test may have to rearrange if this situation takes place.

You can take someone along with you on your driving test. Generally it will be the person from whom you have learn driving, relative or a friend but they should be over 16 years old then only they can take part. The person is only allowed to see how you perform during your driving test.

The main aim behind is to feel yourself confident and comfortable while driving. If you wish to take someone with you, it is suggested that you should ask your driving instructor to accompany you, because after completion of your test they can advice you on how to improve your driving; whether you pass or fail.On the day of your driving practical test, the examiner will be looking only to see that are you able drive safely when you are taken to the road demonstrating that you have.

Friday, October 15, 2010

The Highway Code - Using the road ( Roundabouts )

184) On approaching a roundabout take notice and act on all the
information available to you, including traffic signs, traffic lights
and lane markings which direct you into the correct lane. You
should
use Mirrors – Signal – Manoeuvre at all stages
decide as early as possible which exit you need
to take
give an appropriate signal (see Rule 186). Time your signals
so as not to confuse other road users
get into the correct lane
adjust your speed and position to fit in with traffic conditions
be aware of the speed and position of all the road users
around you.

Visit: Driving test information

185)
When reaching the roundabout you should
give priority to traffic approaching from your right, unless directed otherwise by signs, road markings or traffic lights
check whether road markings allow you to enter the roundabout without giving way. If so, proceed, but still look to the right before joining
watch out for all other road users already on the roundabout; be aware they may not be signalling correctly or at all
look forward before moving off to make sure traffic in front has moved off.
Highway Code - Alcohol And Drugs
186) Signals and position. When taking the first exit to the left, unless
signs or markings indicate otherwise
signal left and approach in the left-hand lane
keep to the left on the roundabout and continue signalling
left to leave
When taking an exit to the right or going full circle, unless signs
or markings indicate otherwise
signal right and approach in the right-hand lane
keep to the right on the roundabout until you need to change
lanes to exit the roundabout
signal left after you have passed the exit before the one you
want
When taking any intermediate exit, unless signs or markings
indicate
otherwise
select the appropriate lane on approach to the roundabout 
you should not normally need to signal on approach
stay in this lane until you need to alter course to exit the
roundabout
signal left after you have passed the exit before the one you
want
When there are more than three lanes at the entrance to a
roundabout, use the most appropriate lane on approach
and through it.
187) In all cases watch out for and give plenty of room to
pedestrians who may be crossing the approach and exit
roads
traffic crossing in front of you on the roundabout, especially
vehicles intending to leave by the next exit
traffic which may be straddling lanes or positioned
incorrectly
motorcyclists
cyclists and horse riders who may stay in the left-hand lane
and signal right if they intend to continue round the
roundabout. Allow them to do so
long vehicles (including those towing trailers). These might
have to take a different course or straddle lanes either
approaching or on the roundabout because of their length.
Watch out for their signals.
188) Mini-roundabouts. Approach these in the same way as normal
roundabouts. All vehicles MUST pass round the central markings
except large vehicles which are physically incapable of doing so.
Remember, there is less space to manoeuvre and less time to signal.
Avoid making U-turns at mini-roundabouts. Beware of others
doing this. Laws RTA 1988 sect 36 & TSRGD regs 10(1),
& 16(1) 

189) At double mini-roundabouts treat each roundabout separately and
give way to traffic from the right.
190)
Multiple roundabouts. At some complex junctions, there may be a series of mini-roundabouts at each intersection. Treat each mini-roundabout separately and follow the normal rules.
Highway Code - Seat belts and child restraints

Related posts :

The Highway Code Introduction
The Highway Code - Rules for pedestrians
The Highway Code - Rules for users of powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters
The Highway Code - Rules about animals
The Highway Code - Rules for cyclists
The Highway Code - Rules for Motorcyclists
The Highway Code - Rules for drivers and motorcyclists