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The
TEN COMMANDMENTS - when driving with a Learner
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1.
Use a vehicle that is mechanically sound and
roadworthy.
It is
very distracting otherwise. Plus you are giving a bad
example to your learner.
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2.
Learner must wear proper footwear
Thongs,
high-heels, platform shoes or driving barefoot is
dangerous and distracting. Shoes with thick soles make
it harder to feel the accelerator.
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3.
Do not start (or finish) the first lesson in your driveway
or on a
public road. Drive the student to a large, empty space
to commence, so you both can concentrate on the
mechanics, before having to worry about steering,
observation etc.
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4.
Don’t expect too much
on the
first drive. One teenager may be totally different to a
brother or sister. It is safest to stay in first gear in
a carpark, or open space, until the brake, accelerator
and steering are reasonably under control.
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5.
Don’t shout or criticize.
Concentrate
on one aspect at a time. Give praise when a task
has been properly learned and demonstrated.
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6.
Explain before starting out:
"If
I say stop, it means clutch down and press the
brake" (or just "brake" in a car with
auto transmission). It is best to also explain that
unless you give other directions, it means go straight
ahead. Keep your hand discreetly near the handbrake.
Ensure it works.
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7.
Teach concepts
according
to the skill level of the new driver. Don’t be too
optimistic about the ability to manage heavy traffic at
an early stage. Avoid risks.
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8.
Give early directions
e.g.
“Not at this street, but at the one after, turn left.
“ Use landmarks e.g. “See the green fence? Turn left
at the street after that.”
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9.
Buy a stick-on mirror
(available
in auto-accessories shops) To see traffic behind places
you a step ahead of the learner. It adds to solving
problems before they arise!
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10.
Everything can and has to be taught.
Even
simple concepts (e.g. press accelerator down harder
going uphill) must not be taken for granted. Our
Low-Risk Driving workbook is a detailed guide on what to
teach a learner driver.
To
clarify certain basic concepts, please check our FAQ
page.
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