Practical driving tips

Don't worry. We know there’s a lot to learn. Thousands of drivers have passed their test with Bill Plant, and it’s safe to say that not one of them knew everything on the first day.

Over the course of your instruction, your instructor will show you how to do everything you need in order to pass your test and be a safe driver from then on in. Here are some top tips we think might be useful to anyone – be you a new driver or experienced hand.

In Car Safety

The Cockpit Drill

This is the name given to the set of checks you need to perform when you first get into a car. Both your driving instructor and examiner will both be watching you to make sure you follow the drill, so it's worth making a note of.

• Make sure all the doors are closed
  Most cars have either a warning light on the dashboard, or an audible alert if any of the car doors are open when the engine is running. It is your responsibility to make sure that all the doors are closed.
• Ensure your seat and head restraint are properly adjusted
  To properly operate the foot pedals and ensure your own comfort when driving, you must check the height and position of the seat and head rests. If you don't, you may find your knees trapped under the steering wheel.
• Check your mirrors are properly adjusted
  To drive safely requires that you can see all around your car. This means making sure that your mirrors are properly angled to give you the maximum field of view without craning your neck. There are three mirrors – one on each front door and one on the windscreen. All of them must be checked and aligned correctly.
• Fasten your seatbelt
  You're breaking the law if you don't fasten your seatbelt before setting off. And you certainly won’t pass your test!

Driving Skills

Mirror, Signal Manoeuvre

Before you perform any manoeuvre, your driving instructor and examiner will expect you to perform the “MSM” routine. This is short for 'mirror, signal manoeuvre' and it is as simple as it sounds.

Whether you are pulling away from a parked position onto the road, or about to perform a manoeuvre such as a turn in the road (three point turn) you must be sure that the way is clear and that you have alerted other road users of your intentions before beginning. This makes it safer for both yourself and other drivers - and is a lesson you should carry with you as long as you drive.

1. Mirror
   Check your mirrors to make sure that the road is clear enough for you to perform your manoeuvre.
2. Signal
   Indicate which way you are going to turn your car using the indicators to let other road users and pedestrians that you are about to perform a manoeuvre.
3. Manoeuvre
   Carry out the manoeuvre – checking all the time for hazards and obstructions using your mirrors.