DSA Driving Standard

8/17/2019 DSA Driving Standard

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DSA Driving Standard

All the material in this publication is copyright

© Copyright of The Queen’s Printer and Controller of HMSO, 25 March 2010

Safe and Responsible Driving (Category B)™

V 1.1.0

Driving Standard


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Introducing the National Standard for Driving - A message from the ChiefDriving Examiner

The National Standard for Driving describes the skills, knowledge and understandingrequired to be a safe and responsible driver of a Category B vehicle. The Standard will

contribute to DSA’s overall objective of reducing the number of people who are killed andseriously injured on our roads by describing good practice in the field of driving as well asproviding a benchmark for performance in underpinning lifelong driver development.

Trainers, driving schools and individuals will use it in addition to employers, Sector SkillsCouncils and standards setting bodies, regulatory authorities and awarding bodies, educationand training providers and producers of learning materials.

Based on extensive research and consultation, the National Standard for Driving provides afirm foundation to underpin improvements in the way in which we test and assess people’sability to drive. DSA’s learning to drive syllabus has been developed from the NationalStandard and it will be used by others who wish to develop their own.

The National Standard for Driving is written in a way which is compatible with existingNational Occupational Standards. We hope it will also provide a bridge between the work ofthe DSA, the standard setting organisation for safe and responsible driving, and theproviders of driving related vocational qualifications.

In line with our philosophy of safe driving for life, DSA recognises that the National Standardfor Driving will evolve and develop over time. We will be engaging with our key stakeholdersto ensure that it remains up-to-date and an example of best-practice for drivers.

Trevor WedgeChief Driving Examiner and Director for Safer Driving

Scope:

The content of this Standard applies to driving:

all types of vehicle covered by Category B,

manual and automatic vehicles,

on any class of road,

at any time,

in any weather conditions, with any number of passengers (subject to legal requirements the manufacturer’s

specification),

with any load (subject to legal requirements and the manufacturer’s specification),

for private use and for commercial purposes (subject to relevant legislation).

The requirements of the Category B licence acquisition process are included within theoverall specification.

N.B. This Standard makes frequent reference to the use of a ‘safe, systematic routine’. In allcases this should be taken to mean the use of routines such as Mirrors – Signal –Manoeuvre – Position – Speed – Look or Information – Position – Speed – Gear –

Acceleration


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Role 1 Prepare vehicle and its occupants for a journey

Unit 1.1 Prepare occupants of vehicle for a journey

Element 1.1.1 Choose an appropriate mode of transport

Performance Standards

To meet the standard you must be able to:

1. assess your own physical, psychologicaland other needs and those of any otherswho intend to make a journey with you,

2. use your understanding of the needs ofthose travelling and the environmentaland economic implications ofalternatives modes of transport to decidewhether it is appropriate to use a vehiclefor the journey.

Knowledge & Understanding Requirements

You need to be able to apply the followingknowledge and understanding:

1. the advantages/disadvantages andenvironmental impact of differentmodes of transport,

2. the particular environmentalimplications of using a car for very short journeys,

3. the environmental impact of vehicleexhaust gases, e.g. carbon dioxide,carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide andlead,

4. the environmental implications ofdifferent types of power unit and

different fuel types,

5. the full-life costs of owning and runningdifferent types of vehicle,

6. the potential impact of vehicle noise onthe environment.


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Element 1.1.2 Make sure you are fi t to drive



1. assess whether your ability to drivesafely and legally is impaired by the useof illegal or controlled substances or byover-the-counter or prescriptionmedicines or by alcohol,

2. assess whether your ability to drivesafely and legally is impaired by youremotional or psychological state, by ashort or long-term physical condition orby fatigue,

3. make alternative travel arrangementswhen your ability to drive safely or

legally is impaired,4. seek support to make any adjustments

necessary to enable you to drive safelyand responsibly if you have a long termphysical condition.



1. what the law says about driving whileyou have illegal or controlledsubstances or alcohol in your system,

2. how illegal or controlled substances oralcohol impair your ability to drivesafely,

3. that, regardless of any legal limits, thedesirable level of alcohol to have inyour system is zero,

4. the penalties that apply on convictionfor driving with illegal or controlledsubstances or alcohol in your

bloodstream,

5. how the strength of alcohol varies indifferent types of drink,

6. what a ‘unit’ of alcohol is equivalent toin different types of drink,

7. how the body metabolises drugs andalcohol and the rate at which they areremoved from your system,

8. how over-the-counter or prescriptionmedicines can impair your ability todrive safely,

9. the particular risks associated withcombining over-the-counter prescriptionmedicines with illegal or controlledsubstances or with alcohol,

10. the range of potential solutions that areavailable to help drive safely andresponsibly with a long-term physicalconditions,

11. how fatigue, before or during your

journey, impairs your ability to drivesafely,


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12. how a poor seating position and badposture can contribute to fatigue and areduced ability to drive safely,

13. how particular emotional states such asanger, grief, depression and euphoriacan impair your ability to drive safely,

14. being careless, thoughtless and/orreckless are significant contributoryfactors in crashes,

15. how temporary physical impairment,e.g. a sprained ankle, can impact onyour ability to drive safely,

16. eyesight deteriorates and failure torecognise and respond to thatdeterioration may have an impact on

your ability to drive safely and legally,

17. if you need to wear glasses/correctivelenses to meet the licencerequirements you must wear them allthe time when driving,

18. how different sorts of tinted and light-sensitive lens/visors react in particulardriving conditions,

19. the need to see an optician regularly tocheck for conditions associated with

ageing, particularly if you have a familyhistory of eyesight problems,

20. the effect that changes to your physicaland psychological abilities, particularlybecause of the normal ageing process,can have on your ability to drive safely,e.g. slower reaction times and reducedmuscle strength.


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Element 1.1.3 Contro l the risks associated with carrying passengers, loads and animals



1. understand and manage the impactpassengers may have on your ability todrive safely,

2. ensure passengers are seated legally,correctly and securely,

3. ensure loads are secure and distributedaccording to the manufacturer’sguidelines,

4. understand and allow for the impact thatadditional loads may have on thevehicle’s handling characteristics,

5. ensure animals are secure and correctlyrestrained within the vehicle,



1. current legal requirements for the fittingand use of seatbelts,

2. current legal requirements for the fittingand use of booster seats and carry cots,

3. the importance of using head-restraints,where fitted, and of adjusting themcorrectly,

4. the correct operation of air-bags, forexample in conjunction with boosterseats or carry cots,

5. the law relating to the carriage of loads

on the outside of the vehicle,6. how to use the vehicle handbook to

identify best practice for the safe carriageof loads both internally and externally,

7. types of load-carrying and securingequipment available for use with thevehicle and how to fit and use them,

8. how to restrain animals safely,

9. how to ensure that you retain adequatevisibility if windows or mirrors are

obstructed by passengers or by a load,10. how to adjust the vehicle to allow for

additional weight and changed weightdistribution,

11. how to adjust your driving behaviour toallow for additional weight or changedweight distribution,

12. how to deal with the effects of socialpressure and distractions caused bypassengers.


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Unit 1. 2 Make sure the vehicle is roadworthy

Element 1.2.1 Make routine checks of vehicle roadworthiness



1. check all fluid levels, includingwindscreen washer reservoir(s),

2. check that the horn is workingcorrectly,

3. check that all lights and reflectors arelegal, clean and in good workingorder,

4. check electrical equipment is in goodworking order,

5. check there is no damage that wouldimpair your ability to drive the vehicle

safely or would have an adverseeffect on its environmental impact,

6. check that all tyres, including anyspare, are correctly inflated andlegally compliant and any associatedequipment, e.g. the carjack, is ingood working order,

7. check all controls are in goodworking order,

8. check windscreen, mirrors and otherviewing devices are clear andadjusted to give optimum view,

9. check registration plates are fitted,visible and legally compliant,

10. ensure that checks are carried out bya competent person where you areunable or unwilling to carry them outyourself.



1. different vehicles may permit differentlevels of access to check and maintainfluid levels, check electric systems etc,and some checks/maintenance onsome vehicles should only be carriedout by qualified mechanics,

2. the vehicle handbook identifies whichchecks can be carried out by theowner/user and explains how and whento carry them out, either directly orusing the vehicle’s instrumentation,

3. that using oil which is not to the

manufacturer’s specification canincrease fuel consumption, may causedamage and could affect the vehiclewarranty,

4. that overfilling with engine oil candamage your engine and increase theamount of environmental pollution thevehicle creates,

5. what fluids to add to the vehicle coolantsystem and the necessity to maintainthe level of coolant additive,

6. the rules that apply to the fitting ofdifferent types of tyres and how tocheck that tyres are correctly fitted andinflated,

7. how to ensure that tyres meet legalrequirements for tread depth e.g. bychecking tread-depth indicators, andthat they are free of defects whichwould make them unsafe or illegal touse,


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8. how to recognise signs of abnormaltyre wear and the need to have thevehicle checked if abnormal wear isidentified,

9. that the windscreen and other windowsshould be clean and free fromobstructions and that there are legallimits to the amount and location ofdamage to windscreens beyond whichthey must be replaced,

10. that lights, indicators, reflectors andnumber plates must be clean at alltimes,

11. what electrical equipment to check,

12. the legal requirement to dispose of or

recycle oil, batteries and tyresappropriately.


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Element 1.2.2 Check the vehicle is fi t for the journey



1. familiarise yourself with the vehicle if it isthe first time you have driven it,

2. conduct pre-journey checks andconfigure the vehicle appropriately,

3. make adjustments to ensure a safe andcomfortable driving position whichenables you to maintain good all-roundvisibility and control of the vehicle andminimises fatigue,

4. check there is sufficient fuel of the righttype.



1. the impact of filling a vehicle with thewrong sort of fuel,

2. how to check what sort of fuel yourvehicle uses,

3. the operation of low-fuel, mpg or rangeindicators and how much fuel is left inthe tank when low-fuel indicatorsoperate.


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Element 1.2.3 Make sure vehicle documentation meets legal requirements



1. ensure your driving licence is valid forthe category of vehicle being driven,

2. ensure the vehicle is registered and avalid tax disc is correctly displayed,

3. ensure you have valid insurance for theuse you intend to make of the vehicle,

4. ensure that the vehicle has a currentMOT certificate (where applicable),

5. display a red L plate, or if you so wish, ared D plate in Wales, if you are a

provisional licence holder,6. ensure that the appropriate

documentation is in place even if you donot own the vehicle,

7. where your journey will take you into adifferent jurisdiction, ensure the legalrequirements for travelling in that jurisdiction are met.



1. that you must have a valid drivinglicence for the vehicle you intend todrive and understand and comply withany restrictions associated with yourlicence,

2. that learner drivers, holding aprovisional licence, must be supervisedby somebody who is at least 21 yearsold and who has held a licence to drivethe category of vehicle for a minimumof 3 years,

3. that any vehicle driven by a learnermust clearly display legally compliant,red L plates. In Wales either red L orred D plates, or both may be used,

4. that L (D) plates should be removedwhen the car/light can is not beingdriven by a learner,

5. that the vehicle must be registered withthe DVLA,

6. the law relating to the taxation ofcars/light vans and the requirement tomake a statutory declaration (SORN) ifyou take the vehicle off the road andstop taxing it for any period of time,

7. that you are required to notify the DVLAif you change your name or address oryou have or develop a medicalcondition that will affect your ability todrive,


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8. that you must have a minimum of thirdparty insurance covering you for theintended use of the vehicle, and whatinsurance companies require you to doto meet your obligations under that

insurance,

9. that you must hold a valid MOT testcertificate for the vehicle if it is morethan 3 years old,

10. that, if required by an authorisedperson, you must be able to produceyour driving licence, a valid certificateof insurance, and a current MOTcertificate, if not immediately thenwithin seven days to a designatedPolice Station,

11. that if you borrow or rent a vehicle thereis still an obligation on you to ensurethat the correct documentation is inplace,

12. that if you lend somebody your vehiclethere is an obligation on you to ensurethat they have the appropriatedocumentation,

13. that if you drive outside Great Britainthere may be different requirements in

relation to documentation, e.g.requirements to carry yourdocumentation at all times.


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Unit 1.3 Plan a journey



1. plan an appropriate route taking intoaccount road and weather conditions,traffic, driving experience and vehiclecharacteristics,

2. calculate the time required to completeyour journey safely and legally, includingsufficient time for rest breaks andrefuelling stops,

3. consider alternative routes if yourplanned route is blocked.



1. the principles of mapping and thetechnologies available for routeplanning and for monitoring road trafficconditions, and the limitations of thesetechnologies,

2. the need to build in additional time toallow for adverse circumstances,

3. how congestion charges and road andbridge tolls may impact on your choiceof route,

4. how the risks involved in travelling onparticular routes can change at different

times, e.g. higher traffic concentrationsat rush hour or in the holiday season,

5. the relationship between your level ofskill and experience and whether youshould choose a particular route,

6. techniques for following routes.


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Role 2 Guide and control the vehicle

Unit 2.1 Start, move off, stop and leave the vehicle safely and responsibly

Element 2.1.1 Start the vehicle



1. carry out pre-start checks, e.g. doors,parking brake, seat, steering, seatbelt,mirrors and disengage anti-theft devices,

2. make sure the vehicle’s transmission isdisengaged,

3. consider the effect of starting the engineon other road users, particularlyvulnerable road users,

4. monitor vehicle instrumentation andgauges throughout engine start up,

5. respond correctly to information provided

by instrumentation and gaugesthroughout engine start up,

6. start the engine using the specifiedmethod,

7. switch lights on, if required.



1. how to read and respond toinstrumentation e.g. gauges, indicators,warning lights, on-board diagnosticsystems and other aids fitted to thevehicle to enable you to monitor itsoperation and performance,

2. that different models of vehicle may beequipped with a different startingmechanisms and different types ofinstrumentation and other aids and thatit is vital to use the vehicle hand bookto check your understanding of theiroperation,

3. how to start the engine when it is cold,

4. the benefits of using anti-theft devices,including both those fitted by thevehicle manufacture and thoseavailable for fitting retrospectively andhow to apply and disengage them.


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Element 2.1.2 Move off safely and smoothly



1. carry out all-round visual checks,including blind spots, to ensure that it issafe to move-off,

2. where appropriate, signal your intentionto move off to other road users,

3. move off straight-ahead, on the level andon gradients, safely and smoothly,maintaining control of the vehicle at alltimes,

4. move off at an angle from behind aparked vehicle or obstruction, safely andsmoothly maintaining control of the

vehicle at all times,

5. recover quickly and safely if the vehiclestalls.



1. the importance of carrying out all-round, effective observation of the roadand other road users before moving off,

2. the importance and location of blindspots and how to carry out blind spotchecks before moving away,

3. the importance of using a safe,systematic routine to support movingoff safely and smoothly,

4. the importance of applying thefootbrake before selecting drive on avehicle with automatic transmission,

5. the relevance of the ‘biting point’ i.e. thepoint at which the clutch plate and theflywheel come into firm contact andstart to transmit drive,

6. the operation of electronic parkingbrake release mechanisms, wherefitted,

7. the effects of “dry steering”, i.e. turningthe wheels when the vehicle is notmoving, on tyres etc.


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Element 2.1.3 Decelerate and bring the vehicle to a stop safely



1. use the accelerator and brakesappropriately to regulate speed andbring the vehicle to a stop safely,

2. stop the vehicle safely and under controlin an emergency,

3. make appropriate use of the parkingbrake when stationary.



1. how to apply a safe, systematicapproach when stopping,

2. the distance a vehicle requires to stopfrom varying speeds and in differentroad and weather conditions

3. that a vehicle’s overall stoppingdistance consists of two parts i.e.

a. thinking distance - which is thedistance travelled from whereyou decide to brake to the pointwhere you commence braking,

b. braking distance - which is thedistance travelled from the pointwhere you start to brake to thepoint where you stop,

4. the importance of anticipation and judgement to allow for progressive useof the brakes,

5. how aids such as ABS can assist insafe and effective braking.


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Element 2.1.4 Park the vehicle safely and responsibly



1. select a safe, legal and convenient placeto stop and park and, once stationary,secure the vehicle on gradients, facingboth up and down slope, as well as onthe level,

2. use the parking brake to hold thevehicle,

3. if appropriate, select a gear to hold thevehicle safely when parked,

4. switch the engine off,

5. ensure that vehicles fitted with automatictransmission are left with the lever in thePark position,

6. ensure appropriate lights are left onwhere required.



1. what factors to take into considerationwhen identifying a safe, legal andconvenient place to stop or park,

2. that you must switch off the headlights,fog lights if fitted and engine whenparked,

3. when to apply the parking brake,

4. the rules in the Highway Code whichapply when leaving your vehicle ondifferent roads and in different lightingand weather conditions,

5. the potential consequences of openinga door, particularly on the offside of thevehicle, when not safe to do so,

6. how and when to set the position of thesteering wheels of the vehicle toincrease its security when parked on agradient.


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Unit 2.2 Drive the vehicle safely and responsibly

Element 2.2.1 Monitor and respond to information from instrumentation, driving aids andthe environment



1. monitor and respond appropriately togauges, warning lights and other aidswhen driving,

2. make effective use of mirrors and otheraids to monitor other road users andhazards,

3. judge speed and distance correctly andeffectively,

4. signal your intentions correctly to other

road users within a safe, systematicroutine,

5. operate the vehicle’s lights, indicatorsand horn appropriately,

6. operate the vehicle’s windows, wipers,demisters and climate and ventilationcontrols to ensure you maintain themaximum ability to monitor theenvironment.



1. the purpose and meaning ofdashboard warning lights,

2. the location of switches andcontrols and how to operate themwithout being distracted or losingcontrol of the vehicle while on themove,

3. when and how to use dippedheadlights,

4. the rules that apply to the use of foglights,

5. how different types of mirror canmake other road users appear to benearer or further away than theyactually are,

6. how to identify and respond tochanges in road surfaces andweather conditions.


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Element 2.2.2 Operate the accelerator effectively



1. use the accelerator smoothly toachieve and maintain an appropriatespeed.



1. that appropriate use of theaccelerator will have positive effectson vehicle performance and on theenvironment,

2. the disadvantages of excessiveengine revolutions when movingaway and while stationary,

3. how to operate cruise controlsystems if fitted,

4. the importance of adopting a driving

position which permits consistent andsmooth operation of the accelerator.


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Element 2.2.3 Use gears cor rectly



1. change gear smoothly and in goodtime,

2. select the appropriate gear for theroad speed of the vehicle given theprevailing road and traffic conditions,

3. coordinate the use of gears withbraking and acceleration,

4. use an automatic gear boxeffectively when fitted.



1. that different vehicles may be fittedwith different numbers of gears andthat those gears may be configureddifferently,

2. the impact that inappropriate gearselection can have on theperformance of the vehicle, on thedriver’s ability to drive safely andresponsibly and on environmentalimpact,

3. the use of selective gear changing

(sometimes known as blockchanging),

4. the benefits of timely gear selectionwhen ascending and descendinggradients, particularly when carryinga load,

5. the use of ‘kick down’ and ‘lock up’when using an automatictransmission,

6. how to use gears to assist safeparking.


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Element 2.2.4 Steer the vehic le safely



1. steer the vehicle safely and responsiblyin all road and traffic conditions,

2. hold and control the steering wheelappropriately to steer the vehicleaccurately and safely,

3. continue to steer the vehicle safely andresponsibly while operating othercontrols.



1. the techniques that can be used toensure safe and effective control of thesteering wheel,

2. the impact that the vehicle’s turningcircle has on steering and manoeuvringthe vehicle.


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Element 2.2.5 Manoeuvre the vehicle



1. coordinate the operation of all controlsto manoeuvre the vehicle safely andresponsibly in all road and weatherconditions in forward and reverse gear,

2. continue to make effectiveobservations, including checks of blindspots, while undertaking a manoeuvre.



1. how the use of safe, systematic routines will

contribute to safe and responsiblemanoeuvring,

2. the correct procedure for reversing into aside road on the left,

3. the correct procedure for reversing into aside road on the right,

4. the correct procedure to carry out a turn-in-the-road / U-turn manoeuvre,

5. the correct procedure for carrying out anyreverse parking exercise on and off road,

6. the rules about when and where you areprohibited from making U-turns,

7. the effects of sudden or harsh application ofthe accelerator, brakes or steering whilstundertaking a manoeuvre,

8. that different vehicles will react differently ina potential skid situation depending on theirconfiguration, e.g. front-wheel or rear-wheeldrive and on the technologies which havebeen fitted e.g. ABS, ESP,

9. how to avoid skids and correct them if they

do occur,10. the issues associated with vulnerable road

users when carrying out a manoeuvre andhow to allow for them,

11. the benefits of engine braking and when itshould be used,

12. the risks associated with reversing a vehiclefurther than necessary,

13. the risks associated with ‘coasting’.


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Unit 2.3 Drive the vehicle while towing a trailer or caravan



1. ensure you have the correct licence todrive the intended combination ofvehicle and trailer / caravan,

2. ensure that the trailer/caravan issuitable and legal for use on the road,

3. ensure that you are insured to drivethe intended combination of vehicleand trailer / caravan,

4. ensure that your vehicle is capable oftowing the intended trailer / caravan,

5. ensure that the trailer/caravan is safelyand correctly coupled to the vehicle,

6. carry out correct safety checks,

7. ensure that any load is evenlydistributed and secure,

8. allow more time and brake earlierwhen slowing down or stopping,

9. allow sufficiently more distance andtime to overtake safely,

10. make allowances for extra length ofthe vehicle with the trailer/caravanparticularly when turning or emerging

at junctions,

11. ensure that the trailer/caravan is safelyand correctly uncoupled from thecar/light van when it is no longerrequired,

12. reverse the vehicle with the trailer orcaravan attached.



1. the driving licence regulations relating totowing trailers or caravans,

2. that not all insurance policies cover towing atrailer or caravan,

3. that most manufacturers makerecommendation for the maximum size oftrailer or caravan that can be safely towed byeach type of vehicle, and for how they shouldbe attached, and that theserecommendations must be complied with,

4. what is meant by a trailer or caravan’s ‘noseweight’ and how to check that this does notexceed the limitations of the tow bar fitted to

the vehicle,

5. that towing a trailer or caravan may increasethe number of blind spots, when makingobservations prior to pulling out andmanoeuvring,

6. how and when to use aids to observation,e.g. additional mirrors,

7. the checks that should be made on a traileror caravan e.g. that it is loaded correctly, iscorrectly coupled, that lights and indicators

are connected, jockey wheel and assembly isfully retracted, braking system is workingcorrectly, windows, roof light and door areclosed, tyre pressures are correct,

8. the speed limits which apply when towing atrailer or caravan,

9. that vehicles towing trailers on motorways arenot allowed in the outside lane where thereare three or more lanes,

10. that towing a trailer or caravan will change

the vehicle’s handling characteristics, andhow to compensate for those changes,


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11. that it may be necessary to take up adifferent position on the road whennegotiating junctions or roundabouts,

12. what “snaking” is and how to remedy it,

13. how to steer correctly when reversing avehicle with a trailer or caravan attached,

14. the impact that towing a trailer or caravanmay have on braking, the concept of brakefade and what to do when descendinggradients to ensure control is retained,

15. how to uncouple a trailer or caravan safely,

16. that you may have to consider height or widthrestrictions on your route when you tow atrailer or caravan,

17. that rescue services may not automaticallyinclude recovery of a trailer or caravan,

18. the benefits of carrying a spare wheel andany other necessary equipment for the traileror caravan.


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Role 3 Use the road in accordance with the Highway Code

Unit 3.1 Negotiate the road correctly

Element 3.1.1 Maintain an appropriate position on the road



1. select and maintain an appropriateposition on the road,

2. change lanes safely and responsibly,

3. overtake other road users legally,safely and responsibly.

.



1. how to select an appropriate position onthe road,

2. where you may not drive, e.g. on thepavement, hard shoulder or indesignated cycle lanes,

3. what lane discipline is and why it isimportant,

4. that your position on the road may beinfluenced by a range of factors includingthe weather, road and traffic conditions,

5. the importance of scanning the road

ahead for factors that may require you tochange your position, e.g. road worksand taking timely action to repositionyourself to avoid them,

6. how to apply a safe, systematic routine ina timely manner to enable you to changeposition safely and responsibly,

7. how the performance of your vehicle willaffect your ability to overtake safely andresponsibly in a given situation,

8. where you may and may not overtake.


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Element 3.1.2 Negotiate bends



1. assess bends correctly on approach,

2. select a safe position to enter thebend at an appropriate speed,

3. maintain safe speed and controlthroughout a bend,

4. exit bends safely.

.



1. how to use various methods such as

‘limit point analysis’ to judge theseverity of a bend,

2. the need to take into account factorssuch as adverse camber, banking,uneven or slippery surfaces, weatherconditions, visibility, road junctions andother road users when deciding on theline to take and the speed at which it ispossible to negotiate a bend safely,

3. the importance of coordinating the useof gears, throttle, brakes and steering

to negotiate a bend safely andresponsibly,

4. how the use of a safe, systematicroutine will support the safenegotiation of bends,

5. the effect that loads and passengersmay have on the handlingcharacteristics of the vehicle whennegotiating bends,

6. that failure to judge line and speed

through bends correctly can result inloss of traction, striking the kerb,swinging into oncoming traffic andovershooting and is a commonlyreported cause of crashes.


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Element 3.1.3 Negotiate all types of junctions, including roundabouts, and all types ofcrossings



1. apply an appropriate, safe, systematicprocedure to negotiate all types of junctions/roundabouts and crossingssafely and responsibly,

2. turn left / right and go ahead safely andresponsibly,

3. emerge safely and responsibly intostreams of traffic,

4. cross the path of traffic safely when

turning right,

.



1. the rules that apply to particular junctions and roundabouts e.g. priorityrules,

2. how to turn left and right safely andresponsibly,

3. the issues that apply to turning right ata cross roads,

4. the rules that apply to merging into astream of traffic,

5. the rules that apply to crossing the pathof an approaching stream of traffic,

6. the rules that apply to all types ofpedestrian crossing,

7. the rules that apply to train and tramcrossings,

8. the meaning of warning lights used atpedestrian and train and tram crossingsand how to respond correctly,

9. how the use of a safe, systematicroutine will support the safe negotiationof junctions and roundabouts,

10. how and when to take effectiveobservations when negotiating junctions, roundabouts or crossings,

11. the particular need to actively scan formore vulnerable road users at junctions, roundabouts and crossings –e.g. cyclists and motorcyclists.


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Element 3.1.4 Driving on motorways and dual carriageways



1. join a motorway or dual carriagewaysafely and responsibly from the left orthe right,

2. leave a motorway or dual carriagewaysafely and responsibly to the left or tothe right,

3. drive in the appropriate lane,

4. allow for other road users joining orleaving the motorway or dual

carriageway,

5. change lanes safely and responsibly.

.



1. how to join a motorway or dualcarriageway, safely and responsibly, froma controlled or uncontrolled slip roads,

2. how to leave a motorway or dualcarriageway safely and responsibly,including the need to position yourself wellin advance to allow other road userssufficient time to react,

3. that you may not stop on a motorway

except in an emergency,4. when and for what purposes you are

allowed to use the hard-shoulder,

5. that you must not pick up or set downanybody, or walk on a motorway, except inan emergency,

6. that you must not cross the centralreservation, or drive against the traffic flowon a motorway or dual carriageway unlessdirected to do so by an authorised personor traffic signs,

7. the rules that apply when using amotorway or dual carriageway,

8. that particular stretches of motorway mayhave local, active traffic managementcontrol systems installed, e.g. signalswhich will change the direction of flow inparticular lanes, and that it is vital to obeythe instructions given by such systems.


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9. the need to scan well ahead on theapproach to junctions to ensure you areaware of other road users joining orleaving and of queuing traffic,

10. the correct use of hazard warning lights,

11. the risks posed by drivers of left-hand-drive vehicles, in particular large goodsvehicles,

12. how the use of a safe, systematic routinewill support safe joining/leaving of amotorway or dual carriageway.


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Unit 3.2 Comply with signals, signs and road markings



1. respond appropriately to all permanent

and temporary traffic signals, signs androad markings,

2. respond appropriately to signals givenby authorised persons,

3. respond appropriately to signals givenby other road users.

.



1. the meaning of all mandatory traffic

signs and how to comply with them,

2. the meaning of all warning signs andhow to respond to them,

3. the meaning of all road markings andhow to respond to them,

4. where you cannot see speed limit signshow to determine the likely speed limitin place,

5. the meaning of, and how to respondappropriately to, signals given by Police

Officers, Crossing Patrols and othersauthorised to control traffic,

6. all those persons who are authorised tocontrol traffic,

7. signals that other road users are likelyto employ and how to respond safelyand responsibly to them.


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Role 4 Drive safely and responsib ly in the traffic system

Unit 4.1 Interact appropriately with other road users

Element 4.1.1 Communicate intentions to other road users



1. use indicators and arm signals to signalintentions in a timely fashion,

2. reinforce the use of any signals given bypositioning the vehicle correctly andsafely,

3. use horn and lights as a means ofcommunication to other road userswhere appropriate.



1. the arm signals shown in the HighwayCode and when they may need to begiven,

2. when and how to use indicators,

3. the importance of ensuring signals aregiven in good time and cancelled assoon as is appropriate,

4. how to employ a safe, systematicroutine to ensure the best use ofsignals,

5. when signals must be given and when

it is acceptable not to use them,6. the law governing the use of the horn,

7. when the flashing of headlights may bean appropriate means of warning ofapproach or as an alternative to thehorn,

8. the risks associated with incorrect useof headlights or the horn as a signal,

9. how and when to use hazard warninglights,

10. how and when to use road positioningto confirm your intentions.


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Unit 4.1 Interact appropriately with other road users

Element 4.1.2 Cooperate with other road users



1. be aware of and anticipate the likely

actions of other road users,

2. give other road users sufficient time toperform manoeuvres,

3. monitor and manage your own reactionto other road users,

4. respond to emergency vehiclesappropriately,

5. progress in the traffic stream andovertake with due consideration for otherroad users.



1. how to scan the road ahead effectively

to gather information,

2. the importance of anticipating theactions of other road users, withparticular reference to vulnerable roadusers e.g. cyclists, motorcyclists,children, the elderly.

3. that other groups of road users may beparticularly vulnerable,

4. the importance of always maintaining asafe stopping distance between the

vehicle and other road users,5. how traffic and weather conditions may

affect other road users, e.g. byreducing visibility, and how to makesuitable allowances,

6. how to act safely and responsibly whenemergency vehicles are responding toincidents,

7. how to progress safely and responsiblyin the traffic stream,

8. the rules which apply to overtaking onthe left,

9. that driving without due care andattention and reasonable considerationof other road users is an offence.


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Unit 4.2 Minimise risk when driving

Element 4.2.1 Identify and respond to hazards



1. use appropriate techniques to

continually scan the driving space closeto the vehicle and into the distance,

2. use visual clues and precursors topredict possible hazards and anticipatesituations which may arise,

3. judge the significance of potentialhazards and prioritise your responses,

4. respond to hazards appropriately,

5. maintain your concentration when facedwith distractions.



1. techniques which can be used to scan

your driving space effectively, bothclose to and into the distance,

2. what factors can limit your zone ofvision, e.g. parked vehicles, and how toallow for those limitations,

3. how the construction of your vehicle,e.g. wide pillars, may affect your field ofvision and techniques to overcome this,

4. what is meant by aquaplaning and theconditions in which it might occur,

5. factors which might cause you to skide.g. oil or gravel on the road,

6. how to read the road ahead and beprepared for the unexpected,

7. when other road users are vulnerableand how to allow for them,

8. factors that can distract the driver e.g.other people using mobile phones,talking to passengers, using a satellitenavigation system and how to manage

them to ensure continued awareness ofthe driving space and potentialhazards,

9. the law relating to the use of mobilephones whilst driving.


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Element 4.2.2 Drive Defensively



1. create and maintain a safe driving

space,

2. scan and check your surroundings withparticular reference to blind spots,

3. position your vehicle to maximisevisibility to other road uses,

4. where daylight running lights are notfitted use dipped headlightsappropriately during daylight hours,

5. manage your own physical andpsychological state to ensure you can

effectively manage risks to your safety,

6. drive at such a speed that you canalways stop safely in the distance youcan see to be clear.



1. the importance of using a safe,

systematic routine to ensure that youare always in control of your vehicleand travelling at the right speed withthe right gear engaged and in thecorrect position on the road for allprevailing conditions,

2. the importance of understanding andmaintaining an appropriate separationdistance in all weather and trafficconditions.


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Element 4.2.3 Follow the princ iples of ecologically responsible driving (Eco-safe)



1. accelerate and decelerate smoothly and

progressively,

2. anticipate the need to stop, using timelyand smooth deceleration, therebyreducing fuel consumption and generalvehicle wear and tear,

3. drive in the highest responsive gearwhile maintaining full control andavoiding labouring the engine,

4. remove excess load from the vehiclewhen not required.



1. what factors affect a vehicle’s fuel

consumption,

2. how effective scanning and planningaids smooth acceleration ordeceleration to maintain momentum,

3. how fuel consumption is increased byunnecessary load or wind resistance,e.g. from carrying luggage on roofracks and incorrectly inflated tyres,

4. that selecting the most appropriate gearwill avoid engine labour and maximise

the effects of engine braking,5. the operation of technologies designed

to reduce exhaust pollution,

6. that safety should never becompromised for economy.


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Unit 4.3 Manage incidents effectively

Element 4.3.1 Take appropr iate action i f your vehicle breaks down



1. bring the vehicle to a stop, in a safeplace if possible, and switch off engine,

2. make sure passengers, animals andloads are managed safely,

3. where appropriate, give adequatewarning to other road users,

4. seek appropriate help.



1. where possible, how to maintain controlof the vehicle should a breakdownoccur,

2. the law which applies to the use of thehard-shoulder on motorways and theguidance on waiting for breakdownservices etc,

3. how to identify your precise location onmotorways, to enable breakdownservices to reach you quickly,

4. why it is better to use an emergencyroadside telephone rather than a

mobile phone, i.e. because it allows theoperator to locate your position exactly,

5. how and when it is appropriate to use awarning triangle,

6. how and when it is appropriate to usehazard warning lights.


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Role 4 Drive safely and responsibly in the traffic system

Unit 4.3 Manage incidents effectively

Element 4.3.2 Take appropr iate action when involved in, or witness to, a crash



1. where appropriate, stop and park the

vehicle in a safe place,

2. make sure passengers, animals andloads are managed safely,

3. ensure adequate warning is given toother road users,

4. assess the incident scene and personalsafety,

5. note the condition of any casualties,

6. give clear and accurate information to

emergency services,7. give appropriate help to others at the

scene,

8. where possible record information aboutwhat you saw or the scene as you foundit, including taking photographs anddrawing sketch plans,

9. comply with legal requirementsaccurately and in good time, if required.



1. the importance of ensuring further injury

and damage is not caused by managinguninjured passengers, animals andpassers-by and by giving warning toother road users as quickly as possible,

2. how to contact the emergency servicesand the vital importance of giving themaccurate information,

3. the importance of being able to give theambulance service information about thecondition of casualties,

4. the benefits of gathering and recordinginformation about an accident as soon aspossible after the event,

5. the law which applies to stopping,providing your details, giving statementsand producing documents, if you areinvolved in an incident which causesdamage or injury to any other person,vehicle, animal or property,

6. the principles of first aid and the limits ofyour own first aid capabilities.


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Role 5 Review and adjust dr iving behaviour over lifetime

Unit 5.1 Keep up-to-date with changes



1. demonstrate that your understanding of

the meaning of road signs and markingsis current,

2. demonstrate that your understanding ofthe law relating to the use of a vehicle onpublic roads is current,

3. make relevant adjustments to themaintenance regime of your vehicle as itages and its condition changes,

4. keep up to date with changes to vehicletechnology especially if you change the

vehicle you are using, 5. ensure that you respond to any changes

in the MOT requirements that apply tothe vehicle,

6. ensure that you take all steps to ensureyour licence remains valid for the type ofvehicle you are driving.



1. where to find information about

changes to signs, markings andlegislation, e.g. Highway Code updates,Government internet sites, Governmentpublications, motoring organisationinternet sites,

2. the importance of referring to themanufacturer’s handbook for thevehicle,

3. where to find information aboutchanges to vehicle technologies, e.g.manufacturers’ internet sites and trade

magazines and web-pages,

4. where to find information aboutchanges to registration, MOT, ortaxation regulations, e.g. Governmentinternet sites, Government publications,motoring organisation internet sites.


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Role 5 Review and adjust dr iving behaviour over lifetime

Unit 5.2 Learn from experience



1. evaluate your own driving behaviour andidentify areas needing improvement,

2. recognise that your ability to drive safelyand responsibly may deteriorate if youhave a substantial break from driving,

3. recognise that your ability to drive safelyand responsibly may deteriorate if youattempt to drive a vehicle with which youare not familiar,

4. identify personal characteristics andchanges which are affecting or mayaffect your ability to drive safely and

responsibly,

5. identify any physical or age relatedfactors or changes which are affecting ormay affect your ability to drive safely andresponsibly,

6. evaluate the seriousness of the factorsthat you have identified as impacting onyour ability to drive safely and identifystrategies for improving your drivingability,

7. adjust your immediate driving behaviourto minimise the risks associated with thefactors you have identified,

8. seek professional assistance to improveyour driving where appropriate,

9. advise DVLA Swansea where you aresubject to a physical or psychologicalimpairment,

10. continue to actively update and developyour driving skills.



1. how to assess your own ability to drivesafely and responsibly against bestpractice,

2. how to evaluate and learn from others’driving behaviour,

3. how to use feedback from others tohelp you be clear about your own abilityto drive safely and responsibly,

4. when to seek professional guidance,

5. the advantages of having periodicdriving development sessions with a

competent instructor to keep up to dateand eliminate poor practice before itbecomes an issue,

6. the advantages of having an initial inputfrom a competent instructor if you arereturning to driving after a break or youare changing to a vehicle with whichyou are not familiar,

7. that you can learn from experience andcontinue to improve your ability to drivesafely and responsibly all through your

driving career.


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Documents

DSA Driving Standard