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Dumfries and Galloway IAM

Institute of Advanced Motorists And Motorcyclists

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John

My reasons for taking the Skill for Life were both professional and personal.

During my work as Procurator Fiscal for Dumfries and Kirkcudbright, I am afraid that I saw the results of bad driving on our local roads. We have a high proportion of road traffic deaths and each case marks the waste of a life and the tragic consequences which that has for families and friends. Anything which can be done to raise the standard of driving among drivers of all ages can only help. I am convinced that the IAM approach can improve driving and help reduce the damage caused by bad driving in Dumfries and Galloway.

From a personal point of view, I realised that I had picked up a number of bad habits in 25 years of driving. The Skill for Life programme has helped me to review the way I drive and take steps to get rid of my bad habits. It has not been easy, but it has been very worthwhile.” – John

Gradually as the weeks have passed I have subconsciously adopted the techniques, which come from being an advanced driver. Some of these techniques I have to admit I have not enjoyed or seen the necessity in adopting, for instance the continual commentary which accompanies a drive. I have struggled with this technique as my Observer will testify and came home regularly to complain about it, but in this case I seem to be wrong. I now see the benefits of commentating, as it helps keep your concentration whilst driving, which is of course essential. It may take time as I am sure you all understand since it is a difficult technique to pick up and adopt easily, but I know it will be beneficial to my driving in the long term.

Another technique essential to being an advanced driver is the planned system of driving, which once understood and memorised becomes an automatic response in dealing with any hazard. This five point system: information, position, speed, gear and acceleration, when applied, come as close as possible to a fool proof system at avoiding hazards. However, yet again I admit this system of driving has not come as naturally or as quickly to me as I had hoped, but I know it is crucial and I will continue to persevere.”

Lucy


- Lucy
 
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