Those very first driving lessons can be nerve-racking at the best of times.
Whether opting for standard driving lessons or an intensive driving course, it’s natural to be apprehensive when taking the wheel for the first time.
On the plus side, the whole thing can be made slightly less daunting with a little proactive preparation. With this in mind, here’s what you need to do and prepare for your first driving lesson:
Study the Highway Code
First and foremost, this is basically the road safety ‘rulebook’ for the United Kingdom. By getting to know as much of the Highway Code as you possibly can, you’ll be in a much better position to drive safely and confidently when that time comes.
Wear Something Practical
Don’t make too much effort to look good – comfort and practicality are more important when dressing for driving lessons. Hence, flip flops and high heels should be avoided at all costs!
Remember Your Glasses or Contact Lenses
Your eyesight will be tested before you’re allowed anywhere near the vehicle, so be sure to take your glasses or contact lenses along for the ride.
Ask Plenty of Questions
If there’s anything you aren’t sure about, feel free to ask as many questions as you like. There’s no such thing as a ‘silly’ or ‘pointless’ question where road safety is concerned.
Learn the Cockpit Drill
This is something you will need to perform prior to moving off each time you get behind the wheel. It’s a basic series of checks that includes making sure the doors are closed, ensuring your seat is in an appropriate position, fastening your seatbelt, positioning your mirrors appropriately and so on.
Learn Which Pedals Do What
Obvious but important nonetheless, try to clearly memorise which pedal is which and what they do. This is less important if you’re learning to drive in an automatic – way more important where there’s a clutch involved. The good news being that after just one or two lessons, the whole thing will become second nature.
Observation is Everything
Try to remember that in the eyes of an examiner, observation is just as important as practical aptitude. Roughly translated, you need to make sure you’re aware of your surroundings at all times and make it clear to your instructor/examiner you’re looking for potential hazards in all directions.
Ask for More Time
You’ll initially be taken to a quiet road to get to grips with the basics. If your instructor wants you to progress to a busier road but you’re not quite ready to cope with driving on main roads feel free to ask for more time.
Last but not least, don’t forget that your instructor will have access to dual controls on his/her side of the car. This means you don’t need to panic too much about making a mistake, or putting yourself in harm’s way.
For more information on any of the above or to discuss any aspect of driver tuition in more detail, contact a member of the team at Manchester Driver Training today.
Craig Upton