1.5  DRIVING AS EASY AS - ABC

If I asked you to please tell me the first six letter of the alphabet backwards, I guess you would be struggling for a moment. But starting at the letter A, it would flow out naturally. The tasks for driving a motor vehicle have been put into an order that is called the System of Car Control.

It was first introduced in the 1930's by the Police Driving Academy in Hendon, UK. Therefore it is also referred to as the 'Hendon System'. Driving in this methodical fashion will enable you to always know what to do next and when to do it, just like saying the alphabet.

The System of Car Control simply puts braking, indicating, looking into the mirror etc. into a logical sequence. With constant practice, it will soon become a habit. Unless you drive by this method, no matter how well you can handle the car, you will not pass the driving test:

Step 1: Course - Plan your course of action. Don’t change your mind at the last moment, especially if you have started turning into the wrong road.

Step 2: Mirrors - Look for overtaking traffic.

Step 3: Signal - Indicate early! When going straight ahead, the light touch on the brake to illuminate the brakelights is also regarded as a signal.

Step 4: Position and Speed - Take up the correct position on the road and reach the correct speed!

Step 5: Gearchange - Select appropriate gear (mostly in manual vehicles).

Step 6: Check mirror again, if there was a time lapse or traffic was present on first mirror check.

Step 7: Evasive action - Give way according to road law or take any action to avoid a collision. Remember, speeding up may also be an evasive action.

Step 8: Take the course of action - this usually means accelerate out of the hazard.

We have simplified the system to be able to remember it better. Since the second mirror check is not always necessary. Therefore, after you have decided what action to take, (with the brain) follow with:

 

1. Mirror   (eyes)	4.  Gearchange
2. Indicator   (hands)	5.  Give Way
3. Brake   (feet)	6.  Go

 

When practicing this system, take note that you start at the top of the head (brain) and work your way down: eyes, hands, feet, followed by three actions starting with the letter G.

Driving straight ahead means you don’t have to indicate, of course, or if you are in the correct gear, there is no need to gearchange. Just skip unnecessary tasks, but still consider each one at the right moment.

Driving by the 'System of car Control' takes much practice. Once mastered, it is a very safe and enjoyable method of driving. When you consider that you will use the skill of driving a motor car for a very long time, it is worthwhile learning this simple system and perfecting it.

Your safety is

DRIVING PLUS

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Disclaimer: Above information is for Australian learner drivers. Regulations could vary in your part of the world. We take no responsibility for any accidents, failed driving tests, even if the advise in this book has been followed. We recommend to use above information in conjunction with a professional driving instructor. 

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