Welcome to the Drivers' Area...
Where you will find lots of information to help you improve your driving skills.
Whether you are looking for better driving tips to help with your advanced driving test, information about driving phobias, essential information about driving emergencies, road rage or car control, you will find it here. The information is also useful for anyone who is is interested in training to become a driving instructor.
Use the links on the menu bar above for driving info – browse driving news using the picture links on the right...
Introduction to better driving
There are lots of experts or 'advanced' motorists who will offer you advice and 'put you right' on all the do's and don'ts of driving. I am a little uneasy with the term 'advanced driver' simply because it can lead to an "I'm the expert" attitude. Having said that, if you think you're good, go out and take an advanced test to prove it...
Driving can be broadly split into two categories: Good and Bad.
Good drivers adopt their methods and attitudes for the driving environment. Bad drivers don't.
So -what's appropriate?
Consider a situation where a racing driver spins off during an aggressive overtaking manoeuvre. Is this bad driving - or just bad luck? Motor racing is about focused aggression and car control skills. Most racing drivers have superbly honed car control skills when compared to the average driver, and 'above average' reaction times.
Good car control is a great for road driving, but in itself it doesn't make you a good driver, either on the track or on the road. A problem on public roads is that some drivers equate car control and the ability to get ahead with 'advanced driving'. Sadly,many drivers with good control help to keep hospitals in business!
One of my main areas of interest in life, is surviving to be at least ninety-six years old. In pursuit of this, I drive defensively and enjoy helping other drivers to do the same.
Get defensive!
Defensive driving is a style of road driving that keeps you away from other people's problems. It's an intellectual approach that helps you to save brakes, tyres and fuel (fuel saving of up to 25%) but more importantly - it saves lives.
All the 'on-road' driving information featured on this site will follow the basic principles of defensive driving. Whether you are out for a Sunday drive, rushing to an urgent appointment, or simply having a good time, being defensive in your driving approach will reduce stress, save money and get you there in one piece - and usually, get you there quicker! It's also essential reading for anyone who wishes to start driving instructor training.
SmartDriving is about learning to enjoy your driving, at least some of the time! You might not agree with everything you read about driving on the site, but remember, the more you know, the more choices you have...
Enjoy these pages.
For information about how to become a driving instructor, the SmartDriving i-Course and how it can help save £££'s on driving instructor training visit www.smartdriving.org.