Mastering the Road – Becoming an Advanced Driver

Earlier this year, I was given the opportunity to enrol in the Advanced Driver course with IAM RoadSmart and I jumped at the chance. Initially, it was to prove a point to my wife, who loves nothing more than to comment on my driving from the passenger seat, but in the knowledge that I am due to become a father soon, I also wanted to make sure I was as safe as I could be.

Having joined RTA Law almost a year ago, I see every day the consequences of a driver’s momentary inadvertence and it was important to me to build on my own knowledge and understand the bad habits I have picked up over the last 20 years of driving.

Driving is more than just a means of transportation; it’s a privilege and should be treated as such. It is also a skill that requires precision, awareness, and an understanding of road safety. While I saw myself as a safe driver, one element of the Advanced Driver course I was keen to build on was reacting to other road users. While I can control what I do in my vehicle, anticipating and reacting to others is a skill that takes time and practice.

It was rather daunting working my way through some of the literature and getting in a vehicle with an Observer whose sole objective is to comment on your driving ability. Unlike when my wife is in the car, I had to listen and learn. I had the benefit of a fantastic Observer in Sandy Thomson (Edinburgh & District Group of Advanced Motorists). He put me at ease straightaway and I could tell he was not only knowledgeable but also passionate about driving and safety.

He always provided constructive feedback that I could work on for my next session. I never felt judged but rather that I was gaining and building on my skills every week.

Advanced drivers should be able to drive in a safe, smooth and efficient manner at all times. You are taught to improve your information gathering. You need to be in the correct position on the road at the right speed with an appropriate gear engaged and ready to respond to changing information. When you have been driving for a long time, you have a tendency to go onto auto pilot, but the training within the course forces you to think about every step.

While I was slightly sceptical at first about what I would learn, I understand now that the whole purpose of the course is to create a safer and more enjoyable driving experience. I better understand the road, think about my own surroundings more and my attitude towards other road users has changed.

Within a month, I sat and passed my full motorcycle test and then achieved a F1RST in my Advanced Driver assessment. I must admit, I was pretty chuffed. I feel they compliment each other when it comes to safety, first and foremost, but also how to react to ever changing circumstances on the road. My sights are now set firmly on undertaking my Advanced Rider certification.

I’m delighted to be part of a team that promote and actively encourage their staff to constantly learn, develop and build on their road knowledge and understanding. There are now four Advanced Riders and four Advanced Drivers within the team with four more already booked onto the course.

Working with Sandy over the last few months has made me consider taking the next step and training to become an Observer. However, right now, my focus is on becoming a father, but it is certainly something I am keen to explore in due course. I would also consider the Masters programme.

For those looking to take their driving abilities to the next level, the Advanced Driver course is an excellent way to refine skills and gain confidence. I would actively encourage anyone, no matter how long you have been driving, to look into courses near you.