Better service for motorists at garages

admin — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:33:08 +0000

Motorists are set for improvements in customer service from garages under a package of transparency and value-for-money measures unveiled today by Transport Secretary Justine Greening.

An evaluation of existing MOT test standards and frequency took account of the views and evidence offered by a wide range of organisations.

In particular, it considered data from Department for Transport executive agency VOSA (Vehicle and Operator Services Agency) showing that more than a quarter (27.7 per cent) of vehicles tested in 2010-2011 had one or more car defects that were either missed by MOT test centres or incorrectly assessed.

The VOSA data also showed that the roadworthiness of one-in-eight cars (12.4 per cent) was being incorrectly assessed by MOT test centres.

As a result, the government will work with industry, motoring organisations and consumer groups to focus on the reliability and standards of garages. The government has decided to:

Retain the existing rules on MOT test frequency since the evidence shows that vehicle defects are being missed and roadworthiness mis-assessed.
Shine a light on the performance of MOT testing stations by releasing hitherto unpublished VOSA survey data on whether the sector is complying with test standards. This is published today.
Work with motoring organisations to find out what problems motorists experience and enable them to share examples of good customer service – in particular to find ways to make it easier for customers to give feedback on their experiences of garages in a way that others can see – potentially in the manner of existing online hotel and restaurant review websites.
Encourage the take up of industry codes of practice – and expand them to include MOT testing – so that customers can find garages signed up to schemes delivering the highest standards and take action if they have not received the service they expect.
Help motorists to spot ‘clocked’ second hand vehicles, by changing MOT certificates so that they carry the last three years’ mileage information as well as the mileage on the day of the test, and encourage car buyers to check full MOT histories using the online MOT database.
Arrange ‘mystery shopper’ tests to help improve performance in addition to those already carried out by VOSA.

Justine Greening said:

“Our garages are crucial to ensuring that Britain’s roads continue to be among the safest in the world. Most are doing good work but the latest data shows that there is room for improvement.

“I want each motorist to be confident that a visit to the garage ends with their car repaired to a high standard by reputable mechanics rather than uncertainty about cost and the quality of service.

“Giving drivers the very best information about garage performance is absolutely key to achieving this goal. It means that responsible garages will be well placed to reap the commercial benefits of transparency. Garages where performance is not up to scratch will find themselves under pressure to do more for their customers.”

Source: Department of Transport

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Fixed penalty fines could soon be increased to £100…..

admin — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:53:39 +0000

It has been reported that the Justice Secretary Kenneth Clarke, is undertaking a review into help for victims of crime. One of the proposals, is to increase fixed penalty fines for speeding, using mobile phones while driving and not wearing seatbelts, and they could rise to between £80 and £100, with £20 of each fine heading into the victims of crime fund. It is estimated that this move would raise an additional £50 million each year.

Another good way of raising income for the government, and great if all the money goes to the proposed fund. Many will not be happy, but if you drive safely, you won’t get collared with the higher fines. Could help road safety, if it encourages motorists to drive safer!

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New powers for councils to control road works

admin — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:42:35 +0000

New powers to help councils cut the disruption caused by road works were announced today by Transport Minister Norman Baker.

Under ‘lane rental’ schemes councils will be able to charge utility companies up to £2,500 a day to dig up the busiest roads during peak times when road works cause the most disruption. This will incentivise utility firms to carry out their works more quickly and at times when roads are quieter. Companies would be able to avoid the charges by carrying out works during off-peak periods or, if appropriate, at night.

Following consultation, the Department for Transport has today published guidance for local authorities wanting to put lane rental schemes in place. In order to gather evidence on the effectiveness of lane rental, the Department has proposed that schemes should initially be used in up to three pioneer authorities – one metropolitan area and two others – and is inviting applications from interested local authorities. The successful pioneer areas will need to have exhausted other options, including using a permit scheme. They will also be required to evaluate their lane rental schemes annually and this evidence will be used to decide how further lane rental schemes should be implemented.

Norman Baker said:

“It is incredibly frustrating to find vital roads being dug up in the middle of the rush hour or, even worse, traffic lanes closed when no one is even carrying out any work.

“This disruption is not only inconvenient but very expensive, with roadworks-related congestion costing the economy an estimated £4 billion a year, which is why we are taking firm action.

“While permit schemes are working well to reduce disruption from roadworks in areas where they have been sanctioned we think it sensible to try out a further option. We believe lane rental schemes provide a further incentive to utility companies and local authorities to carry out their works at times when they will cause the minimum disruption and to complete them as quickly as possible.”

The guidance which accompanies the new powers makes it clear that lane rental charges must be avoidable and proportionate to the costs of congestion. Councils are also being encouraged to apply the same principles to their own works and come forward with lane rental schemes which fit the needs of their local area.

Any revenue raised from the implementation of lane rental charges will have to be used by councils to fund measures which could help to reduce future road works disruption. This could include infrastructure work, research or measures to improve the management of works.

Source: Department of Transport

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Foreign lorries could be charged to drive on our roads…..

admin — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 22:50:03 +0000

The Department for Transport has announced that there is be a consultation, into charging foreign hauliers to use our road system. If introduced, it would only bring us into line with the rest of Europe, and the charges our hauliers have to pay. UK hauliers will also have to pay the charge, but they will be refunded, by cutting the cost of their tax disc or lower the fuel duty that is charged to them. The plans were also welcomed by a Freight Transport Association spokesman, ”Ensuring that foreign lorries pay for using UK roads is part and parcel of levelling the playing field across Europe and we welcome attempts to do this.

It would seem to make perfect sense, as there are estimated to be 1.5 million trips into this country by foreign lorries. All the wear and tear they cause on our roads, is either being paid for by ourselves, or not being repaired at all. This extra revenue (which is only fair for using our roads) should boost our road networks a great deal

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Calls for A-roads to be mandatory in driving tests…..

admin — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 23:30:14 +0000

The IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) is encouraging the government to include driving on A-roads to be standard during the testing process. As they correctly point out many test candidates are well prepared in low speed manoeuvres, but have limited (if any) knowledge or experience in key elements of out of town driving.

Currently the driving test routes are varied, due to available local roads and limited testing time. To make the roads safer, a longer test covering more key skills may be the way forward, or even having candidates pass two tests (in and out of town) to get their licence. Both these should improve road safety, but would more than likely be unpopular to the public (due to additional time and expense in gaining a licence), and therefore to governments that propose them

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Leicester man fails driving theory test 92 times…..

admin — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 22:19:02 +0000

It has been reported by the DSA, following a freedom of information request, that a 33 year old man from Leicester has taken and failed the driving theory test a whopping 92 times. The test in it’s current format contains fifty theory questions and a hazard perception element. When the written test was first introduced in 1996, there was only thirty-five questions to answer, which in 2007 was raised to fifty questions. The hazard perception testing has been part of the current test since 2002.

Amazing, that someone has been so unsuccessful on so many occasions, especially when there is so many quality training aids available. He has spent a great deal of time and money in fees over the years!

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Better testing for better drivers

admin — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 18:44:38 +0000

From Monday 23 January, the driving theory test will no longer use pre-published questions in a move to stop candidates from learning answers by rote.

Until now all the questions used in the driving theory test have been published. These changes will mean that learner drivers and riders gain a better understanding of driving theory, because they can no longer rely on simply learning which options are correct for individual questions.

Road Safety Minister Mike Penning said:

“By bringing a stop to publication of theory test questions we aim to encourage candidates to prepare by learning each topic area thoroughly rather than just memorising the questions and answers.

“The intention is to improve candidates’ knowledge and understanding of driving theory, so that they are more able to retain and apply it when they are on the road.”

The familiar theory test books and software still offer revision questions for candidates to test themselves and assess their progress. They now also have exercises so learners can practice applying their knowledge on each topic to case studies. There are also new sections of revision support for motorcyclists and a free e-book for car drivers.

The agency has also launched its first iPhone apps for theory test revision, which also help candidates to study and monitor their progress at their convenience as they approach their test date. These are available from the iTunes Store.

DSA books, electronic books and software are available to order or download from TSO at tsoshop.co.uk/dsa and all good bookshops.

Source: DSA

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UK motorists spend a year of their life in stationary traffic…..

admin — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 22:34:57 +0000

According to a study by continental tyres, will spend 58 working weeks in stationary traffic commuting to work. The study of 2,000 motorists for Continental Tyres established the routine and habits of commuters as well as their preferences. Tim Bailey, head of safety at Continental Tyres said: “People are clearly concerned about congestion and rising fuel costs, but using the car remains the preferred option for most. With 63 per cent of workers using their car on at least four of five days in the working week, planners and government need to recognise that the morning and evening rush-hour is going to be a feature of life in Britain for some time to come. For individuals it means frustration but for the economy as a whole it means lost productivity and increased emissions, so it remains a key issue to tackle.”

A substantial amount of time to take out of anyone’s life, and a massive potential loss to earnings and businesses. Many hold-ups on the road could easily be cured, with improvements to busy roundabouts and road junctions, where motorists are left frustrated every day, due to just volume of traffic.

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High costs forces motorists off the road…..

admin — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 08:27:37 +0000

A survey from AXA insurance, has shown the 40% will use their car less in 2012, due to increased car costs. The forever rising costs of fuel and insurance, means that 1 in 13 are forced to give up driving, and many enjoy their driving much less because of its expense. Some motorists, may find no financial benefit from car ownership, perhaps hiring cars or taking taxi’s for their infrequent journeys.

Maybe to late for some, but things need to change to help the motorists, who are always on the sharp end of increased costs. The government needs to review their stance on fuel taxations, and also look at the current way that insurance companies operate.

Drivers travelling to France warned to take breathalyser…..

admin — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 13:10:23 +0000

Over the years the French, have demanded that those driving on their roads, carry some mandatory items with them at all time. Spare headlight bulbs, his-vests and first aid kits, to be name but a few. These items would be seen as common sense and what you would want to carry in any case, but their latest directive is that a disposable breathalyser must now be carried in your vehicle. Fines of 17 euros (approx £14) will apply if caught without one.

Would seem a strange additional item to carry in order to make their roads safer, it could encourage some to drink and drive, if they tested slightly under the limit. Perversely if you only carried one unit and used it for testing before driving, you would open yourself up to getting a fine anyway!

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Report shows average motor policy now costs £844 per year…..

admin — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 14:31:33 +0000

A report from Confused.com/Towers Watson Car Insurance Price Index shows more dramatic increases, in cost of car insurance premiums. Bradford with 17.1% was shown to have the largest increase in 2011, with those in Falkirk fairing the best seeing reductions of 4.6% on their premiums. The average cost of a comprehensive policy at the end of 2011 is £844, with the average third party fire and theft policy £1162. The young did not get off lightly with 17-20 paying an average £2,590 per year to insure their motors.

Continuing bad news for motorists finances, especially for the young. Many now pay much more insurance, than the vehicle is actually worth.

MP’s tackling insurance companies over rising cost of premiums…..

admin — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 09:32:42 +0000

MPs are pushing for insurance companies to end ‘sharp practices’, that have led to increases in motor premiums. Something that needs to stop, is the passing of drivers data to third parties, in return for lucrative referral fees. This can potentially inflate motor claims, as costs are increased by car hire and personal injury claims. In their report the cross-party Transport Committee of MP’s, blames in particular the increase in uncontested claims for whiplash injury.

Louise Ellman, chair of the committee said: “The insurance industry must abandon sharp practices that push up premiums such as passing drivers’ personal data to other parties or taking secretive referral fees from solicitors, garages and car hire firms. Insurers, solicitors and claims management companies have themselves driven up the cost by encouraging people caught up in road accidents they did not cause to claim for personal injury, car hire, and other legal costs. Drivers should not be railroaded by cold callers into launching legal action.”

Something needs to be done to protect honest motorists from bogus inflating of accident claims. The massive increases in premiums over the past few years, need to be reversed as much as possible. If not many will struggle to remain on the road, this in turn does not help them, or business in the long term.

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Proposed MOT every two years will cost motorists more…..

admin — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 16:34:52 +0000

Europe has MOT testing every two years, and the government is considering moving into line with them. A recent report ”A Cost Too Far – the financial impact of ending annual MOT testing” has shown, that whilst motorists may save a small amount in less testing, they will incur more expenses through extra repairs.

Is the move sensible? Surely it will lead to more sub-standard vehicles on our roads, in turn possibly decreasing road safety. Two years is a long time between checks, a lot can go wrong, and potentially led to a dangerous vehicle being driven for many thousands of miles on the roads.

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Clarkson paid £2.14m from top gear last year…..

admin — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 11:52:32 +0000

It has been reported in the Telegraph, that Jeremy Clarkson raked in big money from Top Gear last year. His performance fee was £350,000, which is not too shabby in itself. The balance of his income coming from his share of merchandising from the show.
A nice pay packet for the popular and controversial presenter.

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Top Gear is top of the world!

From 2013 motorway speed limit to be 80mph!

admin — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 14:00:33 +0000

For the first time since the mid 60′s the speed limit will change, so next year we will be able to drive at 80mph on Britain’s motorways. Ministers in their wisdom, have decreed that motorists driving more than 80mph are ’perfectly decent people’ and that the old speed limit was ’out of date’. They have also suggested that the higher limit will bring more economic benefits to the country, while more consideration to more residential areas becoming 20mph zones will be given.

When the change happens, we will perhaps see not much of a change, as many travel at that speed on motorways already! It would still be wise to have flexibility with top speed limits, and reduce as necessary when weather or traffic conditions are not favourable, and have harsher penalties for those travelling over the new 80mph limit.

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Motorists worry over car crime!

admin — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 14:04:25 +0000

A survey of 2500 drivers recently commissioned by Admiral Insurance, has shown that three quarters worry about their vehicles being stolen or broken into. This is surprising considering that car crime is at a lower level now than it was ten years ago. Perhaps this heightened anxiety is due in part to the state of the country and economy, and their uncertain futures going forward.

Motorists expand a great deal of money on buying and running cars, so not understandable concerns. We can all do simple things to lessen the risk of car crime. Seems straightforward, but many cars may be stolen, if not locked or if the keys are left in the ignition, so remember to securely close windows and lock the vehicles. If you don’t leave valuables in the car, they won’t get stolen, so take all your electrical equipment with you.

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Norman Baker calls Satnav Summit to help motorists find way!

admin — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 17:45:38 +0000

Norman Baker, Local Transport Minister, will host the Government’s first ‘Satnav Summit’ to thrash out solutions to end the misery caused when lorry and car drivers follow out of date directions from their satnavs.

The Minister wants highway authorities, mapping providers and satnav manufacturers to work more closely to ensure everything possible is done to make sure the right vehicles are on the right roads.

At present, it can take months for map updates to make their way from local councils to satnavs. As a result, thousands of drivers follow out-of-date maps, and local residents end up with inappropriate traffic on their doorsteps. Furthermore, some motorists do not update their satnav maps, either because they forget or are not aware they can do, which makes the problem even more serious.

The summit will take place in early March, a month before local authorities gain important new powers to decide how their roads appear on maps – helping them to better direct traffic.

Norman Baker said:

“Out of date directions mean misdirected traffic – a scourge of local communities. It is vital highway authorities, mapping companies and satnav manufacturers work more closely together to provide drivers with accurate, up-to-date information on traffic restrictions such as narrow roads or low bridges.

“This will help prevent huge lorries from being sent down inappropriate roads and ensure motorists are given the best possible directions.

“The summit is timely because from April we are allowing local authorities to reclassify roads – ensuring A roads are placed where they want traffic to run and lowering the category of road in places they want traffic to avoid – rather than having to come to Whitehall for approval. These powers will help councils make sure that drivers are using suitable routes.”

The summit will be attended by the Association of Directors of Environment, Economy, Planning and Transportation (ADEPT) – which represents councils in transport – and ITS(UK) which promotes intelligent transport technology and whose membership includes satnav companies.

It is essential that there are clear lines of communication which allow councils to quickly get road classification information to satnav companies so route calculation software can be updated.

Ministers are also tackling the misery caused by lorry drivers following satnavs down narrow and inappropriate roads as part of a package of new traffic signs rules.

Under the new rules confirmed last month councils will no longer need Whitehall approval to introduce certain new signs or some existing ones that they need to use on a regular basis – including one to warn lorry drivers of unsuitable roads.

Source: Department of Transport

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PC correctness now arrives at traffic lights…..

admin — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 13:32:12 +0000

Everyone know the ‘green man’ at pedestrian crossings, but that is all set to change. Reported on the telegraph website, Lincolnshire County Council now have a ‘green figure’ and have made changes to their signs to tell us.

Why the need for change, how can this be an effective use of councils time and our money. Are there really many that are offended by the original sign?

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Advice for windy times on the road!

admin — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 22:24:49 +0000

With severe gales predicted this week, road safety charity the IAM is offering tips from Britain’s top advanced driver, Peter Rodger, for motorists to bear in mind during windy weather.

Plan your journey – is there a route with less exposure to the weather and less risk of fallen trees? Choose a sheltered route if you have the option.
Strong winds are not constant, they are usually gusty so ensure you hold the steering wheel firmly.
Overtaking high sided vehicles or driving past buildings can result in a sudden gust from the side as you clear.
Give cyclists, motorcyclists, lorries and buses more room than usual. They get blown around by side winds easily.
Watch trees and bushes on the roadside – their branches show you how strong the wind is. Look well ahead, that way you don’t need to take your eye off the road and you can see any windy patches before you get to them.
Go slow enough to cope with the gusts. Wind can get under a car and reduce its handling and braking significantly.
Keep an eye on what is happening to other vehicles – where they are affected will give you a pre warning.
Keep extra distance between you and the car in front.
Be careful of debris, try and have space beside you in case you need to dodge it.

Rodger said: “I have seen a parked car moved by the wind. Don’t underestimate how powerful it is and how it can affect you whilst in the car.”

To help drivers stay safe this winter, the IAM has launched a new website, drivingadvice.org.uk, with traffic updates, weather forecasts and tips on how to drive safely in winter.

Tips cover rain, snow, ice, fog and wind – everything you can expect in a typically unpredictable British winter. Check it out before you travel.

Source: IAM

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Driviers with heavy colds have reactions as bad as drink drivers…..

admin — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 16:50:04 +0000

Tests have shown have motorists driving with a heavy cold, can see their concentration drop by over half, making them more prone to unsafe driving and actions. Drivers reaction times would not be as sharp and as there would be less awareness of surrounding vehicles, driving will become more erratic, with potential problems not dealt with in time, leading to harsh breaking and ill-advised actions. Experts have likened the impairment to drinking at least four large whiskies, which would be over the drink drive limit and leave the driver prone to unsafe driving, and possibly crashing.

For anyone who has had a heavy cold and tried to concentrate on tasks, or even just watching the television, will understand how hard it is to remain focussed on the job at hand sometimes. Additionally drugs that may be taken to combat the illness, may well cause drowsiness, leading to even less concentration powers still. Always wise to stay off the roads, if impaired in any way, not worth the risk.

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New survey reveals two thirds of drivers unsure of road signs…..

admin — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:48:39 +0000

New findings by oil firm Castrol show that many British motorists are not as clued in on road signs as they should be. Half surveyed did not know what give way signs meant, and a third admitted to following the car in front as they were not sure of what needed to be done. Additionally over half of those surveyed, said that they had not looked at their highway code since passing their theory test.

Its very worrying to think that many are not sure of what to do on the roads, especially in rights of way issues. There must be high numbers of crashes that can be avoided, saving lives and money. Many do not learn the highway code and its rules thoroughly, when learning to drive, just ‘doing enough to scrape a pass’. This lack of knowledge leads to firstly driving test fails, and a potential lack of safe and secure driving for years to come.

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Mobile phone fines while driving up by a third…..

admin — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 09:04:28 +0000

Figure have shown in the past year more than 171,000 drivers were fined for being caught using their mobiles when they shouldn’t, and the figure could be higher still. The rise could be attributed to the increasing use of social networking sites, and lack of regard to the law, when drivers are unlikely to get caught, so deem mobile phone use acceptable.

Drivers need to be educated more to the risks that mobile phones have on safe driving, as only a small distraction can lead to major incidents developing. This needs to be enforced on the roads, as drivers flout the law at present, as there is a limited chance of being caught.

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Good first time pass rate in 2011 for the driving school!

admin — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 08:18:24 +0000

In 2011 it was a great year for driving tests. Nick helped 78% of his students to pass their driving tests first time, under his instruction.

Well done to everyone, not just with the driving test, but also those who now have the Pass Plus certificate or the Drive iQ PRO qualification.

Also in 2011, Nick successfully completed his Diploma in Driving Instruction, joining a very small number of instructors who hold this award.

£409m the cost of bad reversing each year…..

admin — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 22:21:14 +0000

It has been reported by Accident Exchange, that more than 500 reversing accidents occur each year, adding up to £409 million of damage during the year. Reversing accidents account for 8% of accidents in the UK, and are mainly due to the at fault driver reversing into a stationary vehicle, or out of a driveway.

A high number of incidents, that could easily be avoided by checking for other vehicles behind you before reversing. Another way to lesson problems is to reverse into spaces or driveways, so that reversing at the start of a journey is kept to a minimum.

BMW drivers are quick to get on the horn….

admin — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 21:46:07 +0000

A recent study of 2000 motorists by webuyanycar.com shows that 53% of BMW drivers are using their horn at least once a journey. Alternatively only 5% of Nissan drivers were likely to blast their horn unnecessarily. The main reasons reported for sounding the horn were vehicles pulling out in front of drivers and vehicles stationary at green traffic lights.

Motorists will sound their horns for many reasons, but if unsure when to honk, our friend the highway code gives us this advice from rule 112:

Use only while your vehicle is moving and you need to warn other road users of your presence. Never sound your horn aggressively. You MUST NOT use your horn

while stationary on the road
when driving in a built-up area between the hours of 11.30 pm and 7.00 am

except when another road user poses a danger.

Blue Badge fraud crackdown for new year

admin — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 18:12:06 +0000

New badge “as secure as a banknote” says Minister

Tough new measures to crack down on drivers who abuse the disabled parking system – including a new Blue Badge design which is harder to forge – will come into force on 1 January, Transport Minister Norman Baker said today.

Previously, Blue Badges were made from card and handwritten but from the New Year disabled drivers will be able to apply for an electronically printed badge, much like a driving licence. The new badge will have security features such as a unique hologram, digital photo and serial number allowing parking attendants to check for genuine badges more easily through the windscreen.

Blue Badge fraud is estimated to cost the UK £46 million a year and it is generally accepted that reform is urgently needed. The new badge is part of a wider crackdown on misuse of the scheme to ensure disabled parking spaces can only be used by those most in need.

Other measures include:

* shared administration between authorities resulting in faster renewals, less abuse and operational efficiency savings of up to £20 million a year;

* better customer service for badge holders, including being able to apply for and renew badges online using Directgov, as well as access to a new national helpline number. From April 2012 customers will also be able to report lost and stolen badges online;

* wider use of independent mobility assessments to determine eligibility. To support this local authorities will now have control of National Health Service spend on Blue Badge assessments; and

* extending the scheme to more disabled children under three years of age and severely disabled Armed Forces personnel and veterans; and removing residency requirements for disabled service personnel and their families who are posted overseas on UK bases.

Transport Minister, Norman Baker, said:

“Motorists who pretend to be disabled to get some free parking are frankly disgraceful. They prevent real Blue Badge holders from using parking bays designed for those genuinely in need and they cheat the vast majority of road users who play fair when they park their cars.

“Our new Blue Badge will be as secure as a banknote and anyone thinking of faking it can forget it. We are also tightening up on enforcement and eligibility so there will be no way to scam the system.”

Blue Badges provide a vital lifeline to more than 2.5 million disabled people every year by prioritising key parking spaces close to important services. However, increasing levels of badge fraud have meant those spaces are often full.

Earlier this year, the Government announced the most comprehensive changes to the Blue Badge Scheme for 40 years. The launch of the new badge is the last stage in a raft of measures which have begun to come into force since April.

Helen Dolphin, Director of Policy and Campaigns at Disabled Motoring UK, said:

“After years of campaigning for improvements to the Blue Badge Scheme, I’m delighted that changes that make the scheme fit for the 21st century have been introduced. The new badge design will stop badges being so easily forged and new guidance to local authorities will make the issuing of badges fairer. The Blue Badge is a fantastic scheme and all these changes will help ensure the scheme will only benefit those it was intended for.”

Source: Department for Transport

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Government awards police forces £2.7 million to tackle motorway closures!

admin — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 21:30:49 +0000

Drivers across England are to benefit from shorter motorway closures after crashes thanks to the roll-out of 3D laser scanning technology funded by the Government and police, Roads Minister Mike Penning announced today.

The Department for Transport has awarded 27 police forces across England a total of £2.7million. The funding, together with police and the National Policing Improvement Agency (NPIA) contributions, will enable them to purchase 37 scanners.

The technology saves time by quickly making a 3D image of the whole crash site, rather than investigators painstakingly surveying multiple sections of a scene. This digital image of the site can then be viewed on a computer screen remotely allowing investigators to take measurements of where vehicles are in relation to each other and examine other important evidence.

The wider roll-out of 3D laser scanning technology is part of a Government-led initiative known as ‘CLEAR’. This initiative is delivering an action plan aimed at reducing delays caused by incidents in order to keep traffic moving – a vital element in securing the UK’s prosperity.

Mike Penning said:

“There is nothing more frustrating than being stuck in a traffic jam for hours on end. But even worse than that is the shocking £1 billion cost of those lost hours for our economy. That is why we are determined to improve the clear-up of accidents so we can get our motorways re-opened as quickly as possible.

“Today’s £2.7 million DfT funding award will see 3D laser scanners rolled out quickly where they are needed most. This will benefit drivers by reducing incident clear up times by 39 minutes on average.

“I would like to thank police forces for seizing this opportunity to purchase laser scanners and contributing funds towards the purchase. This clearly demonstrates how forces are committed to helping to keep traffic moving, in support of economic growth, as well as continuing to deliver their vital role in ensuring the safety and security of all road users. I would also like to thank the National Policing Improvement Agency for providing a contribution to the funding.”

Last year (2010) there were more than 18,000 full or partial motorway closures lasting a total of more than 20,000 hours.

A Government strategy to tackle congestion caused by motorway closures and drive down the £1bn annual cost to the economy was published in May by the Minister.

Assistant Chief Constable Sean White, of the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), said:

“On behalf of the police service we welcome enormously this important funding opportunity that has been made possible by Government through the Department for Transport. The provision of the latest, leading edge 3D laser scanning technology to assist in the expeditious and detailed scanning of collision scenes will make a very important contribution to properly investigating fatal and life changing collisions whilst always being mindful of the level of economic and other disruption that closures of the strategic road network inevitably cause.

“Police forces acquiring this equipment will be in a better position to manage such critical events in a more efficient way and present the most accurate and detailed evidence from the laser scanning devices to criminal, civil and coroners’ courts. The equipment will be deployed day and night across England and will make a real difference to improving the capability of collision investigators, reducing delays for all road users and re-opening motorways and other strategic roads at the earliest opportunity.

“As agencies we will work together in the months ahead to closely monitor the introduction of this new equipment to ensure that the benefits of this investment are fully realised both for collision investigation and the free flow of traffic.”

Chief Constable Nick Gargan, the Chief Executive of the National Policing Improvement Agency (NPIA), said:

“The 3D laser scanning project is innovative and will enable motorways to be opened more quickly after incidents, passing a direct benefit to the public. The National Policing Improvement Agency is pleased to support the project, which also brings significant improvements in supporting better outcomes in policing and increased efficiency in officer time.

“The project also supports a standardised approach to surveying motorway incident scenes, in line with the police service’s Information Systems Improvement Strategy (ISIS) strategy of using IT to enable business change within the service.”

Source: Department for Transport

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Authorities not sure what a pothole is…..

admin — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 22:54:35 +0000

The recent government potholes reports that “There is no national standard definition of a pothole, only guidance based on best practice including risk assessment and defect thresholds.” Apparently there is a manual on keeping the highways well maintained, but this provides limited advice on the hole discovered. Various organisations have their own definition of sizes for a potential pothole.

Road users pay a lot to use the roads, through various taxes attributed to motoring, so seeing the roads in such a poor state is annoying in the least. Time and money must be wasted in officials travelling to view potential holes, then reporting. More mobile units could be more use in repairs holes when spotted by themselves, or reported by the public or other officials.

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Experts advise on drug-driving becoming an offence…..

admin — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 22:32:03 +0000

Around the world we see many areas where there is a much tougher stance on driving under the influence of drugs, both prescription and social. An expert panel is to advise the government, on whether it is possible to introduce maximum levels for drugs, similar to what is currently in place for alcohol. Saliva-based drug testing kits are currently being considered for use by police like a breathalyser.

This is a very under-estimated problem on the roads, as amounts of any type of drugs can cause massive impairments to drivers judgements, and therefore road safety. Surely a combination of driver education to the risks and potential dangers of all types of drugs would be a start. Then backed up by tougher rules and testing as required.

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Survey shows most drivers not sure of legal drink drive limit…..

admin — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 18:41:42 +0000

It has been reported by Confused.com that 51% of drivers are not aware of the legal alcohol limit when driving. Even with the legal levels when the Police take samples, the actual amount of alcohol consumed by each individual to safely drive varies a great deal due to sex, age, weight and recent food intakes. Worryingly 44% of people know someone who has been caught drink driving. When convicted of drink driving insuring a vehicle in the future, they will see premiums much increased, for many years after. Department of transport statistics show that 250 people were killed and 1230 injured in 2010 by drivers of the drink driving limit.

In some countries there is a zero figure for alcohol levels when driving, maybe we will find that level arrive here in the future. If not we need to educate drivers more, on the risks of drinking and driving, so that deaths and injuries from alcohol related crashes are reduced to zero.

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Girl killed by learner driver who did not know how to use brake pedal!

admin — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 18:26:01 +0000

A learner driver who killed a nine-year-old girl during her first lesson with her husband was “profoundly ignorant” about motoring and did not know what the brake pedal was for, a judge said. Beatrice Mawamba, 34, was jailed for two years after she crushed Shamirah Grant and injured two other girls, one seriously. Driving for the first time with her husband, she panicked and careered down a narrow alleyway into a grassed children’s play area, Leeds Crown Court was told. Mawamba had a provisional licence but had only done online theory lessons and had not driven a car before. Michael Smith, prosecuting, said: “The children describe playing in the early evening and saw a man and woman in a green Vauxhall car. “The man was giving some sort of instruction to the woman. The children heard the engine revving and saw it stutter and come flying down towards them fast.’’ The vehicle was earlier described as “bunny hopping’’ before Mawamba lost control, going down the steps of an alleyway and on to a grassed children’s play area in the Chapeltown area of Leeds. The defendant described the car going very fast and her husband telling her to brake but she did not know how to. Her husband also tried to stop the car. Mr Smith said: “When challenged by the police, she was unable to say which pedal was the brake.” More

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DSA Change Theory test booking confirmations!

admin — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 17:55:13 +0000

Theory test booking confirmations

DSA has made a change to online bookings for theory tests. When booking online, you’ll need to give a contact email address to get your confirmation.

If you book via DSA’s contact centre

If you book your test via DSA’s contact centre, you’ll automatically be asked to give an email address for where you want the confirmation to be sent. You’ll only get a posted confirmation if you are unable to give an email address over the phone.

If you’re booking more than one theory test at a time

If you need to book more than one theory test at the same time, if all your bookings are allocated to a single order number, you’ll only get one booking confirmation.

This confirmation will give details of all the tests and candidates that have been booked under that single order number. If you want to make multiple bookings over the phone, you’ll need to consider which email or postal address you give for receipt of the booking confirmation. Online bookings are not affected.

Viewing, checking and printing your booking confirmation

You can go back into the online system at any time and view your theory test booking and appointment confirmation. The system will then allow you to re-print your booking confirmation.

To check a theory test online go to: direct.gov.uk/changetheorytest

You now won’t need to bring your theory test booking confirmation when turning up for your theory test.

Source: DSA

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Unreliability is motorists biggest regret!

admin — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 23:26:54 +0000

Unreliability and breakdowns soon after purchase are the biggest regrets revealed by motorists in a recent survey by Manheim Auctions. Nearly a third of all respondents mentioned that their biggest regret was buying an unreliable car and 24% claimed their car broke down soon after they bought it. Nearly 15% of motorists regretted buying a car because they found it to be too expensive to run while 11% admitted that they paid too much for their car. Only 3% of motorists did not like the colour of the car they had bought, proving that colour choice is a key buying decision factor. Least worrying to motorists was the car’s ‘green’ credentials with just 2% concerned that it was not as environmentally friendly as they had thought at the time of purchase. More

Electric Routemaster bus runs out of fuel on M1…..

admin — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 22:41:04 +0000

It has been reported that the new prototype London Routemaster bus, just days from being officially unveiled, has run out of fuel. The hybrid bus was en route to testing at Millbrook, in Bedfordshire. The bus battery charges itself through energy from its breaks, so is ideal for stop start driving, but on longer journeys would run on diesel.

An embarrassing oversight not to have enough diesel for the motorway trip, something unlikely to be repeated. Over the new few years as more advances in batteries and green technology increase, these types of buses will be commonplace on our roads.

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Sat-navs falling out of favour with motorists!

admin — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 21:30:55 +0000

Growing numbers of motorists are abandoning satellite navigation systems and returning to traditional maps, a report said yesterday. Maps are favoured by 81 per cent of drivers, who believe they can find their way without the help of the dashboard gadgets. The report, for Kia Motors, found that 34 per cent of the 1,100 UK drivers surveyed admitted losing their way despite using a Satnav. Some drivers said they had abandoned the devices because they preferred to listen to music rather than Satnav instructions. Steve Kitson, of Kia Motors, said: ‘Only one-fifth of us claim to be confident enough to find our own way based on knowledge alone, and with three-quarters of Brits abandoning using navigation systems this festive season let’s hope an A-Z is on the Christmas list.’ More

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The Highway Code joins Twitter and Facebook

admin — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 18:58:28 +0000

The Official Highway Code has joined Twitter and Facebook to share reminders about the rules for road users..

Twitter
Get reminders about The Highway Code in 140 characters, and retweet them to your followers
Facebook
Get reminders about The Highway Code in your newsfeed, and share them with your friends
Email
Get topical reminders about The Highway Code by email alert

The Highway Code applies to England, Scotland and Wales. It’s essential reading for everyone.

The most vulnerable road users are pedestrians, particularly children, older or disabled people, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders.

It is important that all road users are aware of the code and are considerate towards each other. This applies to pedestrians as much as to drivers and riders.

Knowing and applying the rules contained in The Highway Code could significantly reduce road casualties. Cutting the number of deaths and injuries that occur on our roads every day is a responsibility we all share.

Source: DSA

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Crazy council paints double yellow lines of less than half a metre!

admin — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 21:18:50 +0000

A council has painted what is believed to be Britain’s shortest ever set of double yellow lines – measuring just 17 inches. The lines have been daubed on the gap between a new permit parking area for residents and a two hour waiting zone in Stafford Street, Norwich, Norfolk. James Little, 56, who is landlord of the Alexandra Tavern in the street, said he was shocked to see the lines had appeared opposite his pub last week. He said: ‘I thought the country was skint – but it appears that people can still spend money on daft things like this. ‘There just doesn’t seem any point in having such short lines. You would have to park a toy car on there to get a ticket. ‘It has caused a bit of mirth in the pub. Everyone thinks it is hilarious and we are looking forward to seeing if a traffic warden comes down here to monitor it.’ More

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Speed limit could now be raised to 80mph on dual carriageways!

admin — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 22:06:41 +0000

Ministers are considering extending the proposed higher limit to a far wider range or roads than had previously been thought. A formal consultation on allowing motorists to drive at 80mph on motorways is due to be launched early in the New Year. Proposals to increase the national 70mph limit on limit on other trunk roads emerged in the Department for Transport’s proposals to cut red tape. “We have announced our intention to consult about changing the national speed limit on motorways from 70mph to 80mph,” the DfT said in the document. “We are also examining whether an 80mph should be extended on a case by case basis to some other dual carriageways.” The original proposal to push up the speed limit was put forward by Philip Hammond, the former Transport Secretary. Supporters of raising the limit believe that it would aid the economy and also reflect advances in car safety technology in recent decades. But the plans are understood to have divided ministers, with Chris Huhne, the Energy Secretary, opposing the plans because it would lead to an increase in carbon emissions. Road safety groups have also voiced concern especially with existing police guidelines allowing motorists a measure of leeway under the “10 per cent plus 2mph” formula. If applied to an 80mph limit, this would mean drivers would be unlikely to face prosecution at speeds lower than 90mph. More

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Paper licences to be scrapped as red tape madness addressed!

admin — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 23:20:49 +0000

Drivers are to be released from reams of red tape currently required by government, Transport Secretary Justine Greening announced today.

As a result of the Road Transport Red Tape Challenge – the government wide process to get rid of unnecessary, burdensome and overcomplicated regulation – the Department for Transport is:

Scrapping the regulation requiring motorists to hold a paper counterpart to their driving licence by 2015 – saving drivers up to £8m.
Improving the regulation surrounding the notification process for vehicles that are not in use on the road (Statutory Off Road Notification or SORN). Once drivers have notified the DVLA that their vehicle is SORN, they will no longer have the burden of annual SORN renewal.
Only issuing hard-copies of V5C vehicle registration certificates for fleet operators when needed, with the potential to be rolled out to private motorists.
Introducing a limited exemption from drivers’ hours rules so that those who also drive as Territorial Army reservists in their own time can continue to do so.

Following a vigorous process of challenge, both by the public and within Whitehall, a total of 142 road transport regulations will now be scrapped or improved.

Justine Greening said;

“Motorists shouldn’t have to keep numerous bits of paper just to prove they can drive and have bought insurance – we live in digital age and we need to embrace that.

“Reducing the number of rules and regulations in our life is absolutely vital to removing barriers to economic growth and increasing individual freedoms. This whole process just proves that there’s so much sitting on our statute books that at the very least needs a good spring clean or can be scrapped entirely.”

Business and Enterprise Minister Mark Prisk said:

“I’m delighted that so many motoring regulations will be scrapped or improved, particularly those that affect business.

“The Red Tape Challenge has built up real momentum since it was launched in April. Overall, of over 1,200 regulations considered so far, we have agreed to scrap or improve well over 50 per cent.

“We have already published regulations covering 12 themes, and there are 13 themes to come, so there remains huge scope for reducing the burden of regulation on business and individuals even further.”

Other proposed changes to road transport regulations include:

Removing the need for an insurance certificate. The Department for Transport will work with the insurance industry on removing the need for motorists to have to hold an insurance certificate.
Abolishing the requirement for drivers to prove they have insurance when applying for tax meaning 600,000 more people will be able to tax their car online. This has been made possible by new checks of existing databases for insurance under new Continuous Insurance Enforcement rules. The DVLA’s records are compared regularly with the Motor Insurance Database (MID) to identify registered keepers of vehicles that appear to have no insurance.
We will look at experience in other countries on driver Certificates of Professional Competence (CPC) – the qualification for professional bus, coach and lorry drivers. In particular, to see if we could remove the need for some sectors, such as farmers who drive stock to market, from needing a CPC.
Local Authorities will now have to ensure business interests are properly considered as part of any future proposed Workplace Parking Levy scheme. They must show they have properly and effectively consulted local businesses, have addressed any proper concerns raised and secured support from the local business community.
Abolishing the regulations on the treatment of lost property on buses. Bus companies currently have to wait 48 hours before they can throw away perishable items left on the bus.

From Department of Transport press release

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Pensioner lost on M25 for 30 hours!

admin — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 23:17:37 +0000

Pensioner Dennis Leighton spent more than 30 hours driving around the M25 motorway after getting lost en route to visit his daughter. Dennis Leighton, 82, was eventually found by police still at the wheel of his silver estate after worried family members reported him missing. The retired carpenter had set off from his home in Windsor, Berks., to see his daughter Hazel, 55-miles away in Swanley, Kent. But after getting “a little lost”, what should have been a straightforward, hour-long drive instead became a two-day journey. Officers eventually found him still in his Vauxhall Astra in south London. A police source said yesterday: “He had been driving around the south of the country, predominately on the M25 motorway but had also gone onto some A roads in the area. “He had stopped to catch up on some much needed sleep – we think in a motorway service area, before setting off again. More

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OFT to investigate high insurance costs!

admin — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 21:44:22 +0000

An inquiry into the soaring cost of motor insurance has been launched by the Office of Fair Trading as motorists have seen the price of their premiums rise by more than nine per cent since the start of the year. It will focus on the bill faced by insurers for repairing cars after a cash as well as providing a loan vehicle. The OFT voiced fears that insurance companies were using accidents to extract money from each other rather than competing by trying to keep the cost of premiums down. A separate investigation into the impact of personal injury claims on the cost of insurance is being carried out by the Ministry of Justice. The move by the OFT reflects mounting concern within Government at how the cost of a crash is being inflated by the “accident management” industry. It is believed that it is this industry which leaves insurers paying over the odds for repairs and replacement cars as well as picking up the bill for referral fees. More

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Motorist gets ticket overturned after warden blunder!

admin — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 21:41:57 +0000

A motorist has won his appeal against a parking ticket after the traffic warden claimed he had visited two towns 28 miles apart in 35 seconds. Leighton Leyton-Purrier, 53, obtained official logs which appeared to show that the warden had travelled between the Shropshire towns of Shrewsbury and Ludlow faster than a jet. Mr Leyton-Purrier, who got the ticket in Ludlow, took the case to an independent tribunal, claiming the suspect statistics undermined the council’s credibility, and the tribunal ruled in his favour. He said he believed the council had attempted to find a way to make the penalty stand despite the bizarre statistics. Mr Leyton-Purrier, a publisher who lives in Ludlow, said: “I parked my car but moved it for more than two hours when I went home. “When I came back later in the afternoon the same space was available and so I parked in it. Later, I found I had a parking ticket. More

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Petition launched against motorway lighting turn-off!

admin — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 22:43:55 +0000

A while back the government started switching off motorway lighting at night, to save money and helpfully reduce our carbon footprint. The switch off affects some of our busiest roads, including the M1, M2, M4, M5, M6, M27 and M54. New research from Confused.com, said that the number one worry for drivers is not being able to see clearly, and under half surveyed said they feel less confident driving in the dark. A petition has been started for those who are against the great switch off.

Switching off the lights should not pose too much of a problem for drivers, who will have to drive on a great many unlit roads anyway. It would seem sensible to turn off some lights as the roads quieten down, then some more could be lost in the middle of the night, this way we could save money and keep roads safe.

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Learner drivers to be allowed on motorway lessons!

admin — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 23:22:34 +0000

Learner drivers are to be allowed to have driving lessons on motorways in an attempt to cut the death toll among novice motorists. The change, which will come into force next year, is intended to end the situation in which young drivers can be confronted with traffic driving at speeds of 70 mph or above without any preparation. Under the plans announced by Mr Penning, it will be possible for learner drivers to undergo some training on a motorway but only if accompanied by a qualified driving instructor. Addressing the Institute of Advanced Motorists, Mr Penning cited the example of his own daughter who, within minutes of having passed her test, would have been able to drive on a motorway. The change, however, will not be made compulsory because of the difficulties learner drivers in remote areas of the country would face in finding a motorway within a reasonable distance of where they lived. Underpinning the move is concern at the number of young drivers being killed and seriously injured on the country’s motorways. More

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DSA Opening times over the holidays announced!

admin — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 22:04:20 +0000

Find out when the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) customer service centre and driving test centres are open over Christmas and New Year.

Online services available as normal

DSA’s online services will be available throughout Christmas and the New Year at direct.gov.uk/drivingtest. You can book, check, change or cancel your:

theory test, 24 hours a day, seven days a week
practical test, between 6.00 am and midnight, seven days a week

Friday 23 December 2011

DSA is operating as usual
DSA’s customer service centre will be open from 8.00 am

Monday 26 December 2011

Monday 26 December is a public holiday, so DSA’s test centres and customer service centre will be closed
online services will be available
automated telephone lines for general information such as fees, and interactive voice recognition to change an existing practical test will be available from 6.00 am to midnight

Tuesday 27 December 2011

Tuesday 27 December is a public holiday, so DSA’s test centres and customer service centre will be closed
online services will be available
automated telephone lines for general information such as fees, and interactive voice recognition to change an existing practical test will be available from 6.00 am to midnight

Wednesday 28 December 2011

DSA’s driving test centres in England and Wales will be closed – test centres in Scotland will be open
DSA’s customer service centre will be closed
online services will be available
automated telephone lines for general information such as fees, and interactive voice recognition to change an existing practical test will be available from 6.00 am to midnight

Thursday 29 December 2011

DSA is operating as usual
DSA’s customer service centre will be open from 8.00 am

Friday 30 December 2011

DSA is operating as usual
DSA’s customer service centre will be open from 8.00 am

Monday 2 January 2012

Monday 2 January is a public holiday, so DSA’s test centres and customer service centre will be closed
online services will be available
automated telephone lines for general information such as fees, and interactive voice recognition to change an existing practical test will be available from 6.00 am to midnight

Tuesday 3 January 2012

DSA’s driving test centres in England and Wales will be open – test centres in Scotland will be closed
DSA’s customer service centre will be open from 8.00 am

Wednesday 4 January 2012

DSA is operating as usual
DSA’s customer service centre will be open from 8.00 am

Changing or cancelling a driving test without losing your fee

The quickest and easiest way to change or cancel a theory or practical driving test is online at direct.gov.uk/drivingtest.

The last date to change or cancel a test online booked for 3 January 2012 without losing your fee is 28 December.

If you change or cancel a test booked for 3 January by phone, you need to do it on or before Friday 23 December, as DSA’s customer service centre is then closed until 29 December.

Source: DSA

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Designated drivers rewarded this Christmas!

admin — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 11:19:26 +0000

Designated drivers will be rewarded in more than 8,000 pubs and student union bars across the country as part of the THINK! Christmas drink drive campaign, launched today by Road Safety Minister Mike Penning. This year’s THINK! Christmas drink drive campaign will include radio advertising, posters in pub washrooms, online search activity and targeted Facebook advertising to remind drivers of the personal consequences of a drink drive conviction. THINK! have also teamed up with Coca-Cola’s Designated Driver campaign to offer drivers across the country free soft drinks at venues this Christmas as part of the Driver Friendly campaign. Drivers will be able to find participating venues using the Coca-Cola ‘Pub Finder’ tool, either online or via their smart phones. THINK! campaign activity will be aimed at young men aged 17-29, who are consistently over-represented in drink drive casualty figures. Mike Penning said: “The number of drink drive deaths has fallen by more than 75% since 1979, but drink driving is still devastating lives with around 250 people killed in collisions where a driver was over the limit last year. “Our THINK! campaign makes it clear that drivers who get behind the wheel over the limit risk losing their licence as well as facing a fine and even a prison sentence. “We are also teaming up with Coca-Cola and pub chains across the country to reward designated drivers as part of our Drive Friendly initiative, as well as reminding people of the consequences of getting a drink drive conviction. “No one wants to spend their Christmas in a police cell. My message is clear: don’t drink and drive.” Jon Woods, General Manager, Coca-Cola Great Britain and Ireland said: “The holiday period is coming around quickly and everyone is beginning to make their plans. With the majority of adults preparing to visit a pub or bar over the festive period we are proud to be partnering the Government’s THINK! Initiative to reward responsible drivers. Designated Drivers provide a fantastic service by helping their friends and family get home safely at the end of a night out. That’s why we think it is so important to recognise and reward them. To do this we will be offering a free Coke or Diet Coke to drivers, ensuring they have a good night too and to encourage others to do the right thing.” The THINK! drink drive campaign runs from 1 December 2011 to 1 January 2012. Designated drivers should ask at the bar about how to take advantage of the buy one, get one free offer on Coca-Cola or Diet Coke at participating venues from 9 December 2011. More

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‘Young Driver’ programme is rolled out nationwide!

Road signs on display in museum!

admin — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 23:42:56 +0000

An M1 sign, among other British road signs, is among 13 new items on the Design Museum’s list of new acquisitions. Designing the distinctive British roadsign, which has remained unchanged since 1960, was all about safety, according to its makers. ”Style never came into it,” Margaret Calvert, who designed the typeface with Jock Kinneir in 1958. The pair were commissioned by the British government to create the signs that would adorn Britain’s new network of motorways. More

Youngsters spend more on a TV than their first car!

admin — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 23:20:45 +0000

Maybe it’s a reflection of the price of televisions – or just how little cars used to go for. But more than one-fifth of young Britons admit that their current television cost more than their first car. The average Briton between 18 and 30 spent just £500 on their first car – whereas they blew an average £700 on their first television. That’s rather a lot considering you can easily pick up a 32-inch HD flatscreen for less than £300. But for the 1,993 adults polled, a TV was an ‘investment’. The majority said that their reason for doing so was because they would have their TV for longer. More

Welsh schoolboy drives the school bus!

admin — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 23:18:33 +0000

When Joseff Edwards’ friends ask him to give them a lift to class they know he’ll never turn them down – because he’s their school bus driver Sixth-former Joseff qualified to take the wheel of the 54-seater coach after passing his bus driving test at the age of just 18. And every morning at 7.30am, the Welsh schoolboy pulls on the official bus driver’s jacket over his school uniform to go on a 10-mile trip around country villages. He picks up 38 children, parks the bus at the school, goes to his A-level lessons and then drives them all home again at 3.30pm. Joseff said: ‘I love driving the bus. It’s really fun – much better than a car. More

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Types of Road Accident

admin — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 18:09:04 +0000

Driving poses many dangers. It is important that drivers drive defensively. They need to anticipate these dangers and be ready to respond to them should they occur. Often this can keep accidents from occurring. However, in many situations, accidents are simply unavoidable. There are major types of road accidents that stem from specific causes. Knowing these can help a driver be more proactive when operating their vehicle on the road.

Many accidents are a result of driver error. In fact, this is the number one reason for accidents. Driver error refers to any sort of mistake the drive makes while on the road. For instance, they might underestimate a braking distance. They may also fail to check their blind spots. Tailgating is another driver error that can result in rear end collisions. Given the fact that driver error is responsible for more road accidents, it further emphasizes the importance of defensive driving.

Speeding or reckless driving can also result in other types of road accidents. Many drivers simply do not observe speed limits. These limits are set with safety in mind. Whenever they are exceeded, the driver is asking for potential problems. For every increase in the speed of a vehicle, the greater the chance that a road accident will occur.

Another type of road accident involves drunk driving. The accident occurs as a result of the driver’s blood alcohol level. This creates impaired judgment on the part of the driver. Some drivers may also be under the influence of other mind altering substances.

Road accidents can also be due to malfunctions within the vehicle itself. For example, brake failure can cause a car to be unable to stop or slow down. This creates the potential for a collision with another vehicle or stationary object on the roadside. Sometimes tires can fall apart which leads to a road accident.

Whiplash is a common injury after a car accident. If you want to know more about making whiplash claims, then visit www.roadtrafficaccidentsite.com.

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