Mag1calTrev0r's IAM 'Skill for Life' Diary
Discussion
This thread will hopefully become a complete diary following my experiences (good and bad) of the IAM 'Skill for Life' course.
The start...
This journey started life by asking the good people of Pistonheads for advice about whether the IAM course really was the right course for me, my thread is here, this might be a good place to start if you, like me, want to know how the course works and whether it will suit you.
First step, for me, was to see how I'd get on with the driving style, technique and the way in which the lessons were taught. Even though it's part of the 'Skill for Life (SFL)' course, I decided to dip a toe in the water and do the DriveCheck before commiting to the full course.
I managed to find an Observer on here that was very helpful, we had a similar view about driving and felt that a run out with him would be positive. Having paid the bargain price of £25 which gets a 35-40min drive out on local roads where you get an evaluation of your driving and pick up a few helpful hints at the same time.
Saturday 6th December
Prior to the drive I'd thought about what score I'd give myself out of 5. 5 being an Excellent Driver (Traffic Cops) and 1 being a s
t driver (Somebody who really out to have their license removed).
I figured that I'd like to think of myself as a 4... but in reality, like most, I'm probably a 3.5. Not good enough in my book, I want to be better!
It came to the day of the DriveCheck assessment, I'd previously spoken to the Observer and agreed to meet at his house which wasn't too far from me. I was actually quite excited about the drive and really looked forward to it. I was generally confident about my ability (see above) but I also realised that whilst most people think they are a good driver ... most people aren't!
I felt at ease during the entire drive, never felt the Observer was ever critical or negative with me. We chatted whilst driving and I was encouraged to make good progress but keeping it within the limits of the law (and of course the conditions).
I tried to drive exactly as I'd normally drive, i.e. not trying to be safer than normal or do anything like feeding the steering wheel (like you're supposed to!
). Half way round we stopped, briefly discussed positive and negative points (most of which I was aware of, thankfully). The second part I was under more detailed instruction, I was advised on certain techniques, what to look for on the road, hazard awareness, that sort of thing. This part in itself was brilliant, I learned a lot in such a short amount of time and, for the most part, it felt fairly natural.
Negatives so far
Wednesday 27th January - Classroom Session #1
This was the official start to the course, this consisted of a 2 hour classroom session in a local club. The facilities were surprisingly good with proper conference facilities, projector, coffee and horrendously uncomfortable chairs!! Oh well, we can't have it all can we?
The session was split into two distinct parts. I'll try and revisit this bit with further details (as I've left the notes at home). The first part pretty much consisted of what IAM is all about, how it started and what the objectives of the course are.
It was great to hear about the evolution of the organisation.
We had a short break where I got chatting to one of the observers who was interested in why I chose the IAM course and generally what I wanted from the course. My first instinct is there is no preconceptions, no holier than thou attitude and everyone, so far, is extremely friendly and encouraging. Excellent, just what they need to encourage people to stay.
The second session got to the 'proper' stuff, the meat of the early technique. I'm not going to start regurgitating the course material here as it would detract from the learning experience.
We learned about 'the system' that advanced drivers apply to driving. This was very interesting and presented in a very natural and friendly way. It wasn't too daunting despite there being a lot of learn... it's quite clear that we'll learn quickly when we get on the road
.
I'm very keen to get started properly now... I've been allocated an observer who I have yet to meet. I suppose I'd hoped to get a certain member from here but that's maybe a bit selfish. Every observer meets the same standards and I'm sure my observer will be as good (maybe better
) than the rest.
Nothing that negative this week:
Wednesday 3rd February - Classroom Session #2
The next lesson got into much more detail, I really enjoyed the lesson it provided many opportunities for discussion (which I like).
One significant point is the use of the 'pull/push' steering method... I still don't really get why (please feel free to educate me on this thread!), I just don't seem to be able to do it fast enough without looking like a complete tt. This could take some getting used to!!
We also learned about the 'Limit Point' which I think I've got my head round, unlike the 'pull/push' steering I like this technique (why wouldn't you) it makes perfect sense to me and an excellent gauge of 'am I heading into this corner too fast'. It's bound to stop those trouser browning moments.
Something that people might be surprised about is the IAMs attitude to acceleration/overtaking and braking. The whole 'making progress', within the confines of the law and safety, is encouraging. We are being encouraged to use the revs of the engine and accelerate up to the speed limit (not a target of course )
There is not very much I can really discuss here about the actual content, as I've said before, I don't want this to be something to teach you techniques as that's not fair on IAM and I would never be able to do a good enough job.
Things should start to get interesting though as, after a mix up with phone numbers, I will be getting in touch with my observer and I'll be out on the road where the fun/real learning begins, at that point the updates here should get more interesting and more frequent.
Of course, feel free to ask me any questions about my experience.
Saturday 6th February - Out on the road #1, duration 1hr 45m
Had my first session out on the road this morning, and I'm very pleased
. This is turning out to be everything that I'd hoped for.
The drive was reasonably informal and was really to let the Observer determine what I was like (and vice versa of course). It was suggested that I just drive as I normally would, however I'll tell the truth... I didn't. You see, ever since my DriveCheck drive with Mr Gonzalez I have tried to listen to what I've been taught and put it into practice, so out with the cross arm steering, no more changing down through the gears, etc. It's been alien so far but, with practice, I'm getting better at it
We intended to go out for 1hr ish but things were going well so we stayed out for a bit longer. I was quite pleased that my observer commented that I was doing the push/pull (or should that be pull/push as you pull first?
) steering correctly, my speed was appropriate and overall I was ok/good. Well that's good enough for me after the first session, there is a huge mountain to climb and I feel more confident than ever about being able to climb it.
The next stage is to start doing the commentary more and more, I try and do it in my head but I need to start doing it out loud. Again, it's alien but I think it will help a lot with hazard perception.
In way it's funny to see what speeds the traffic around you travels when you are trying to drive correctly. I don't mean this to sound 'holier than thou' but you drive through, say, a 40mph zone and people travel faster than this but then you get to a NSL zone and you quickly catch them up, and all the while driving safely but 'progressively'. The thing is, up until recently, I may have been one of those drivers.
I can't honestly think of any bad points so far, any negative parts of today's drive were my fault. Mistakes I made were using the wrong gear and once thinking I was in a NSL... I got to 45 before I was reminded it was a 40
I still stand by my opinion that everyone who is interested in driving should do this course, I have nothing but praise at this stage. (p.s. I'm not getting paid to say that!
)
Should be out next Saturday with any luck, no classroom session next week so it'll be a week before the next update.
Sunday 21st February - Out on the road #2, duration 1hr 30m, total so far 3hr 15m
Wasn't able to get out last Saturday as I'd hoped. My car's dash lit up like a Christmas tree which turned out to be a loose connection. Rescheduled with my observer.
In the last 2 weeks I've been practicing everything I've learned so far but also started trying to pick up some commentary. I bought Roadcraft (as a reference) but also got a copy of 'Ultimate Driving Craft' on DVD. I got this specifically for the commentary on it, it's very good and gives some great examples of a high level of commentary. It's not cheap though @ £19.99 but I managed to find a new copy on ebay for £14.
Commentary is a bit confusing at times, I'm probably trying to do too much too early, it'll come with practice of course. I can tell (even after 3 hours of observed driving) that I'm getting better. It's reassuring that my observer doesn't have many negative points after each drive as well .
One thing I did keep missing was when speed limits increased (always caught the decreases) but I think I was just having one of those days. For example, NSL changes from 60mph to 70mph (central armco barrier) were missed but pretty much because I was chatting to my observer!
The run out was great though, went through Bristol and around the ring road to get some roundabout practice in. Not so many NSL sprints as I got caught behind a 40mph dawdler that I couldn't SAFELY overtake . Oh well, I'm learning restraint as well as being able to overtake so it's all positive.
One event that springs to mind, I was giving commentary on a group of people on a narrow pavement. I commented that I'd spotted the hazard and that I'd give them a wide berth. On cue they stepped out into the road... two abreast! I was of course ready for it, maybe with a non-IAM head on the avoidance may have been more abrupt but I was easily able to deal with it.
Not really much more to tell at this stage, it was just another really positive drive. I'm still really enjoying it... my Wife on the other hand just glazes over when I talk about it .
Another outing in a week.
Saturday 6th March - Out on the road #3, duration 1hr 20m, total so far 4hr 35m
It's been too long since I last updated and I'll tell you why...
I've recently felt a bit demotivated about the course, so much so that I (unintentionally) missed the final classroom session where we meet the examiner. I actually wanted to go but it just wasn't on my radar when the day came around.
I've felt that when I was driving in 'IAM Mode' I wasn't enjoying driving like I used to, I was finding driving to the IAM standard a little clumsy and it started to feel more unnatural than before. I don't mind admitting that I actually resorted to my old habits, crossing my hands on the wheel and occasionally switching off. I still used a lot of the techniques that I'd learned as I've found they help how I drive. So it wasn't all lost...
In an attempt to kick myself up the arse (now that conjours up a strange image!) I first told myself that I've paid for the course so I might as well finish it... even if it's just to prove that I can do it.
And today I've finally decided to continue on with it (hooray!). A big thanks to Tony who's said that everyone goes through this downer at some point. He tells me that your driving feels worse before it gets better and all of a sudden it'll click into place and you'll regain your mojo (that was my word not his ). I suppose it's tough, but driving is a huge responsibility and it was never easy when you first learn to drive, we all have to start somewhere and really I'm dialling out all the old habits.
So here is the turning point, I'm going to get myself out on the road in 'IAM Mode' again, I'm going to continue commentary. Which reminds me, Mrs Magical and I went to a friends wedding and she was designated driver, despite my pissed up state I was giving her a basic commentary and critique of her driving on the way home LOL.
I thought I'd try and discuss certain topics here, to remind myself and also give you guys an idea of what sort of things I'm learning:
POWDER - this is an acronym used to help remind you of what needs doing as a regular check of your car. I've robbed this from the Bristol IAM Site http://www.iam-bristol.org.uk
I guess it's one of those procedures that makes common sense, you know it should get done but it's not something you do nearly often enough. This is definitely one thing that I need to start doing!
P - Petrol (or rather Fuel!)
Ensure that you have sufficient fuel (petrol or diesel) for your intended journey.
O - Oil
There are various oil reservoirs and (if applicable) they all need checking regularly. Note that not all vehicles have all the following. Check yours and if you are not sure about which is fitted to your vehicle you should consult the handbook. For instance; do you know if you have a cable controlled clutch - or is it hydraulic? This is important!
* Brakes
* Engine
* Clutch
* Gearbox
* Power steering
W - Water
There are various water reservoirs and (if applicable) they all need checking regularly. If you are not sure about which is fitted you should consult the vehicle handbook.
* Engine coolant. Depending on the age of the vehicle this will be either the expansion tank or radiator.
* Screen washer.
* Battery (if applicable).
D - Damage
If you have parked your vehicle in a road overnight or you have left it in a car park whilst shopping etc it might have suffered some damage from other vehicles or shopping trolleys without your knowledge. Therefore a quick visual check of the fundamentals is important.
* Wheels for damage. If you are in the habit of parking with your wheels pointing outwards they are at risk of being hit by careless drivers. Straighten your wheels next time you park!
* Tyres for slits and punctures.
* Reflector covers for breakage.
E - Electrics
* Exterior lamps working.
* Horn working.
R - Rubber
Make sure you have enough condoms for ... oh sorry that's another guide
* Tyre pressures and tyre tread depth including the spare. Tyres must have a tread depth of at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tread and around the entire circumference.
* Wind screen wiper blades (and carriers) both front and rear if applicable.
* Water hoses.
Oh, and I forgot to mention my last drive... it was pretty uneventful and to be honest (and sorry about this) I've forgotten what it was like... except for nearly running a red light! I saw the red light, I was intending to stop but couldn't see the line! Yes, I know I shouldn't pass the actual light but I was distracted. Just one of those simple mistakes I guess and a 'learning experience'!
LATEST UPDATE - Friday 13th August
Sorry I haven't updated this for a while... I suppose the drives became more and more uneventful. That sounds like a negative statement to make but it's not meant to be. I think that the drives since the last update have just been about me getting to the right standard. I've probably not noticed the level of improvement over the weeks and months... but it's been there.
Over the last 2 months I've started a new job requiring me to travel for nearly 70 miles a day on the motorway. Ok, not a huge journey but It's given me opportunity to practice my motorway driving skills. I've noticed that I'm much calmer on the motorway and can maintain speed much better than I previously could. The usual things like having a less experienced driver overtake you @ 80mph to have them then slow down to 65mph where I then overtake them whilst maintaining 70mph all the while.
But anyway, the main part of my update was that I took my mock-test with a Senior Observer and I managed an excellent drive, I was really pleased with my performance. Due to the good result I was recommended to take my test, which I booked and took on Friday 13th (yikes!).
I passed of course which I was very pleased about. But I'm afraid to say that this was the only positive part of the test experience...
Where to start without sounding too negative and not constructive?
I met my IAM examiner who seemed fine, I went through my POWDER checks and cockpit drill and we set off.
Firstly, he complained repeatedly about me driving over potholes... now maybe I could have avoided them but that would have meant swerving or crossing the white lines. I drive a BMW 120D M Sport, which has sport suspension and run-flat tyres. It's not a Rolls Royce, you WILL feel the bumps. Not only that but his way of communicating this to me was to repeatedly, sarcasticly complain about his back all the time. Sorry mate, nowt I can do about it.
Secondly, he complained about my gear changes. Looking back at it I admit that I was a little heavy handed on the day and this isn't 'normal', I put this down to exam nerves... certainly a learning point for me. HOWEVER, his way of dealing with it was to hold his neck and support his arm on the window sill of car! Not very constructive and very distracting when he's already pissed me off with the suspension complaints. We're not getting off to a good start here are we?!
At this point I'm thinking that he's going to fail me so I think to myself 'I can get more annoyed and let him beat me or just continue on a try and ignore him'... I chose the latter. I made no attempt to iron out the bumps (not that I could IMO)... maybe I should have offered to go round the route in a steamroller first!?
On the motorway leg of the route I was criticised for not leaving a 2 sec gap. Ok, a slap on the wrist that I accept! partly a bad habit, but also exam pressures. Now, unfortunately his way of letting my know that I wasn't leaving a big enough gap was to repeat (and I don't say that lightly) "Only a fool breaks the two second rule"... now bear in mind that I was already furious with this guy... he was very close to walking back! I fking now ... 'I'm slowing down and you really aren't helping'.
Anyway, that's the ranty bit over with... there were some positives, I promise!
- I learnt to me more aware of the 2 second rule (not that I wasn't aware, just a bad habit).
- I found I was hovering my left foot over the clutch for too long (again, exam nerves). I'm making a concious effort to stop doing this.
- Smooth out my gear changes. I do this mostly, but I am more aware that my passengers can feel it.
I'm glad it's over... it's a real shame that the only real negative part of the entire 'SKill for Life' course was the final exam. It shouldn't have been of course, it should have been a culmination of all the skills learned. If I'm honest, it's made me reconsider my IAM membership... I joined to improve my driving (which it has) not for the nit-picking without constructive feedback. If a senior member can't be constructive about my mistakes without resorting to sarcasm then that's really not what I'm there for. It's a real shame that it was so negative... my intention is to not have any involvement with IAM for the next couple of months and then re-evaluate my feelings then. In the mean time, I think I will look to other organisations for my next step.
The start...
This journey started life by asking the good people of Pistonheads for advice about whether the IAM course really was the right course for me, my thread is here, this might be a good place to start if you, like me, want to know how the course works and whether it will suit you.
First step, for me, was to see how I'd get on with the driving style, technique and the way in which the lessons were taught. Even though it's part of the 'Skill for Life (SFL)' course, I decided to dip a toe in the water and do the DriveCheck before commiting to the full course.
I managed to find an Observer on here that was very helpful, we had a similar view about driving and felt that a run out with him would be positive. Having paid the bargain price of £25 which gets a 35-40min drive out on local roads where you get an evaluation of your driving and pick up a few helpful hints at the same time.
Saturday 6th December
Prior to the drive I'd thought about what score I'd give myself out of 5. 5 being an Excellent Driver (Traffic Cops) and 1 being a s
t driver (Somebody who really out to have their license removed).I figured that I'd like to think of myself as a 4... but in reality, like most, I'm probably a 3.5. Not good enough in my book, I want to be better!
It came to the day of the DriveCheck assessment, I'd previously spoken to the Observer and agreed to meet at his house which wasn't too far from me. I was actually quite excited about the drive and really looked forward to it. I was generally confident about my ability (see above) but I also realised that whilst most people think they are a good driver ... most people aren't!
I felt at ease during the entire drive, never felt the Observer was ever critical or negative with me. We chatted whilst driving and I was encouraged to make good progress but keeping it within the limits of the law (and of course the conditions).
I tried to drive exactly as I'd normally drive, i.e. not trying to be safer than normal or do anything like feeding the steering wheel (like you're supposed to!
). Half way round we stopped, briefly discussed positive and negative points (most of which I was aware of, thankfully). The second part I was under more detailed instruction, I was advised on certain techniques, what to look for on the road, hazard awareness, that sort of thing. This part in itself was brilliant, I learned a lot in such a short amount of time and, for the most part, it felt fairly natural.Negatives so far
- I'm not keen on feeding the wheel when turning, I find it unnatural at the moment, but I'm going to have to experiment more and try and get used to it. It'll come with time, I'm sure.
- The 'limit point' theory takes a bit of getting used to but I'm getting there
- My wife thinks I'm crazy when doing a very basic commentary whilst driving (I'm not even doing it properly as yet). I find it good to comment on my own driving and other people's to prove to myself that I'm paying attention.
Wednesday 27th January - Classroom Session #1
This was the official start to the course, this consisted of a 2 hour classroom session in a local club. The facilities were surprisingly good with proper conference facilities, projector, coffee and horrendously uncomfortable chairs!! Oh well, we can't have it all can we?
The session was split into two distinct parts. I'll try and revisit this bit with further details (as I've left the notes at home). The first part pretty much consisted of what IAM is all about, how it started and what the objectives of the course are.
It was great to hear about the evolution of the organisation.
We had a short break where I got chatting to one of the observers who was interested in why I chose the IAM course and generally what I wanted from the course. My first instinct is there is no preconceptions, no holier than thou attitude and everyone, so far, is extremely friendly and encouraging. Excellent, just what they need to encourage people to stay.
The second session got to the 'proper' stuff, the meat of the early technique. I'm not going to start regurgitating the course material here as it would detract from the learning experience.
We learned about 'the system' that advanced drivers apply to driving. This was very interesting and presented in a very natural and friendly way. It wasn't too daunting despite there being a lot of learn... it's quite clear that we'll learn quickly when we get on the road
.I'm very keen to get started properly now... I've been allocated an observer who I have yet to meet. I suppose I'd hoped to get a certain member from here but that's maybe a bit selfish. Every observer meets the same standards and I'm sure my observer will be as good (maybe better
) than the rest.Nothing that negative this week:
- Uncomfortable seats (maybe I need to eat more pies)
Wednesday 3rd February - Classroom Session #2
The next lesson got into much more detail, I really enjoyed the lesson it provided many opportunities for discussion (which I like).
One significant point is the use of the 'pull/push' steering method... I still don't really get why (please feel free to educate me on this thread!), I just don't seem to be able to do it fast enough without looking like a complete t
t. This could take some getting used to!!We also learned about the 'Limit Point' which I think I've got my head round, unlike the 'pull/push' steering I like this technique (why wouldn't you) it makes perfect sense to me and an excellent gauge of 'am I heading into this corner too fast'. It's bound to stop those trouser browning moments.
Something that people might be surprised about is the IAMs attitude to acceleration/overtaking and braking. The whole 'making progress', within the confines of the law and safety, is encouraging. We are being encouraged to use the revs of the engine and accelerate up to the speed limit (not a target of course
)There is not very much I can really discuss here about the actual content, as I've said before, I don't want this to be something to teach you techniques as that's not fair on IAM and I would never be able to do a good enough job.
Things should start to get interesting though as, after a mix up with phone numbers, I will be getting in touch with my observer and I'll be out on the road where the fun/real learning begins, at that point the updates here should get more interesting and more frequent
.Of course, feel free to ask me any questions about my experience.
Saturday 6th February - Out on the road #1, duration 1hr 45m
Had my first session out on the road this morning, and I'm very pleased
. This is turning out to be everything that I'd hoped for.The drive was reasonably informal and was really to let the Observer determine what I was like (and vice versa of course). It was suggested that I just drive as I normally would, however I'll tell the truth... I didn't. You see, ever since my DriveCheck drive with Mr Gonzalez I have tried to listen to what I've been taught and put it into practice, so out with the cross arm steering, no more changing down through the gears, etc. It's been alien so far but, with practice, I'm getting better at it
We intended to go out for 1hr ish but things were going well so we stayed out for a bit longer. I was quite pleased that my observer commented that I was doing the push/pull (or should that be pull/push as you pull first?
) steering correctly, my speed was appropriate and overall I was ok/good. Well that's good enough for me after the first session, there is a huge mountain to climb and I feel more confident than ever about being able to climb it.The next stage is to start doing the commentary more and more, I try and do it in my head but I need to start doing it out loud. Again, it's alien but I think it will help a lot with hazard perception.
In way it's funny to see what speeds the traffic around you travels when you are trying to drive correctly. I don't mean this to sound 'holier than thou' but you drive through, say, a 40mph zone and people travel faster than this but then you get to a NSL zone and you quickly catch them up, and all the while driving safely but 'progressively'. The thing is, up until recently, I may have been one of those drivers.
I can't honestly think of any bad points so far, any negative parts of today's drive were my fault. Mistakes I made were using the wrong gear and once thinking I was in a NSL... I got to 45 before I was reminded it was a 40
I still stand by my opinion that everyone who is interested in driving should do this course, I have nothing but praise at this stage. (p.s. I'm not getting paid to say that!
)Should be out next Saturday with any luck, no classroom session next week so it'll be a week before the next update.
Sunday 21st February - Out on the road #2, duration 1hr 30m, total so far 3hr 15m
Wasn't able to get out last Saturday as I'd hoped. My car's dash lit up like a Christmas tree which turned out to be a loose connection. Rescheduled with my observer.
In the last 2 weeks I've been practicing everything I've learned so far but also started trying to pick up some commentary. I bought Roadcraft (as a reference) but also got a copy of 'Ultimate Driving Craft' on DVD. I got this specifically for the commentary on it, it's very good and gives some great examples of a high level of commentary. It's not cheap though @ £19.99 but I managed to find a new copy on ebay for £14.
Commentary is a bit confusing at times, I'm probably trying to do too much too early, it'll come with practice of course. I can tell (even after 3 hours of observed driving) that I'm getting better. It's reassuring that my observer doesn't have many negative points after each drive as well
.One thing I did keep missing was when speed limits increased (always caught the decreases) but I think I was just having one of those days. For example, NSL changes from 60mph to 70mph (central armco barrier) were missed but pretty much because I was chatting to my observer!
The run out was great though, went through Bristol and around the ring road to get some roundabout practice in. Not so many NSL sprints as I got caught behind a 40mph dawdler that I couldn't SAFELY overtake
. Oh well, I'm learning restraint as well as being able to overtake so it's all positive.One event that springs to mind, I was giving commentary on a group of people on a narrow pavement. I commented that I'd spotted the hazard and that I'd give them a wide berth. On cue they stepped out into the road... two abreast! I was of course ready for it, maybe with a non-IAM head on the avoidance may have been more abrupt but I was easily able to deal with it.
Not really much more to tell at this stage, it was just another really positive drive. I'm still really enjoying it... my Wife on the other hand just glazes over when I talk about it
.Another outing in a week.
Saturday 6th March - Out on the road #3, duration 1hr 20m, total so far 4hr 35m
It's been too long since I last updated and I'll tell you why...
I've recently felt a bit demotivated about the course, so much so that I (unintentionally) missed the final classroom session where we meet the examiner. I actually wanted to go but it just wasn't on my radar when the day came around.
I've felt that when I was driving in 'IAM Mode' I wasn't enjoying driving like I used to, I was finding driving to the IAM standard a little clumsy and it started to feel more unnatural than before. I don't mind admitting that I actually resorted to my old habits, crossing my hands on the wheel and occasionally switching off. I still used a lot of the techniques that I'd learned as I've found they help how I drive. So it wasn't all lost...
In an attempt to kick myself up the arse (now that conjours up a strange image!) I first told myself that I've paid for the course so I might as well finish it... even if it's just to prove that I can do it.
And today I've finally decided to continue on with it (hooray!). A big thanks to Tony who's said that everyone goes through this downer at some point. He tells me that your driving feels worse before it gets better and all of a sudden it'll click into place and you'll regain your mojo (that was my word not his
). I suppose it's tough, but driving is a huge responsibility and it was never easy when you first learn to drive, we all have to start somewhere and really I'm dialling out all the old habits.So here is the turning point, I'm going to get myself out on the road in 'IAM Mode' again, I'm going to continue commentary. Which reminds me, Mrs Magical and I went to a friends wedding and she was designated driver, despite my pissed up state I was giving her a basic commentary and critique of her driving on the way home LOL.
I thought I'd try and discuss certain topics here, to remind myself and also give you guys an idea of what sort of things I'm learning:
POWDER - this is an acronym used to help remind you of what needs doing as a regular check of your car. I've robbed this from the Bristol IAM Site http://www.iam-bristol.org.uk
I guess it's one of those procedures that makes common sense, you know it should get done but it's not something you do nearly often enough. This is definitely one thing that I need to start doing!
P - Petrol (or rather Fuel!)
Ensure that you have sufficient fuel (petrol or diesel) for your intended journey.
O - Oil
There are various oil reservoirs and (if applicable) they all need checking regularly. Note that not all vehicles have all the following. Check yours and if you are not sure about which is fitted to your vehicle you should consult the handbook. For instance; do you know if you have a cable controlled clutch - or is it hydraulic? This is important!
* Brakes
* Engine
* Clutch
* Gearbox
* Power steering
W - Water
There are various water reservoirs and (if applicable) they all need checking regularly. If you are not sure about which is fitted you should consult the vehicle handbook.
* Engine coolant. Depending on the age of the vehicle this will be either the expansion tank or radiator.
* Screen washer.
* Battery (if applicable).
D - Damage
If you have parked your vehicle in a road overnight or you have left it in a car park whilst shopping etc it might have suffered some damage from other vehicles or shopping trolleys without your knowledge. Therefore a quick visual check of the fundamentals is important.
* Wheels for damage. If you are in the habit of parking with your wheels pointing outwards they are at risk of being hit by careless drivers. Straighten your wheels next time you park!
* Tyres for slits and punctures.
* Reflector covers for breakage.
E - Electrics
* Exterior lamps working.
* Horn working.
R - Rubber
Make sure you have enough condoms for ... oh sorry that's another guide
* Tyre pressures and tyre tread depth including the spare. Tyres must have a tread depth of at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tread and around the entire circumference.
* Wind screen wiper blades (and carriers) both front and rear if applicable.
* Water hoses.
Oh, and I forgot to mention my last drive... it was pretty uneventful and to be honest (and sorry about this) I've forgotten what it was like... except for nearly running a red light! I saw the red light, I was intending to stop but couldn't see the line! Yes, I know I shouldn't pass the actual light but I was distracted. Just one of those simple mistakes I guess and a 'learning experience'!
LATEST UPDATE - Friday 13th August
Sorry I haven't updated this for a while... I suppose the drives became more and more uneventful. That sounds like a negative statement to make but it's not meant to be. I think that the drives since the last update have just been about me getting to the right standard. I've probably not noticed the level of improvement over the weeks and months... but it's been there.
Over the last 2 months I've started a new job requiring me to travel for nearly 70 miles a day on the motorway. Ok, not a huge journey but It's given me opportunity to practice my motorway driving skills. I've noticed that I'm much calmer on the motorway and can maintain speed much better than I previously could. The usual things like having a less experienced driver overtake you @ 80mph to have them then slow down to 65mph where I then overtake them whilst maintaining 70mph all the while.
But anyway, the main part of my update was that I took my mock-test with a Senior Observer and I managed an excellent drive, I was really pleased with my performance. Due to the good result I was recommended to take my test, which I booked and took on Friday 13th (yikes!).
I passed of course
which I was very pleased about. But I'm afraid to say that this was the only positive part of the test experience...Where to start without sounding too negative and not constructive?
I met my IAM examiner who seemed fine, I went through my POWDER checks and cockpit drill and we set off.
Firstly, he complained repeatedly about me driving over potholes... now maybe I could have avoided them but that would have meant swerving or crossing the white lines. I drive a BMW 120D M Sport, which has sport suspension and run-flat tyres. It's not a Rolls Royce, you WILL feel the bumps. Not only that but his way of communicating this to me was to repeatedly, sarcasticly complain about his back all the time. Sorry mate, nowt I can do about it.
Secondly, he complained about my gear changes. Looking back at it I admit that I was a little heavy handed on the day and this isn't 'normal', I put this down to exam nerves... certainly a learning point for me. HOWEVER, his way of dealing with it was to hold his neck and support his arm on the window sill of car! Not very constructive and very distracting when he's already pissed me off with the suspension complaints. We're not getting off to a good start here are we?!
At this point I'm thinking that he's going to fail me so I think to myself 'I can get more annoyed and let him beat me or just continue on a try and ignore him'... I chose the latter. I made no attempt to iron out the bumps (not that I could IMO)... maybe I should have offered to go round the route in a steamroller first!?
On the motorway leg of the route I was criticised for not leaving a 2 sec gap. Ok, a slap on the wrist that I accept! partly a bad habit, but also exam pressures. Now, unfortunately his way of letting my know that I wasn't leaving a big enough gap was to repeat (and I don't say that lightly) "Only a fool breaks the two second rule"... now bear in mind that I was already furious with this guy... he was very close to walking back! I f
king now ... 'I'm slowing down and you really aren't helping'.Anyway, that's the ranty bit over with... there were some positives, I promise!
- I learnt to me more aware of the 2 second rule (not that I wasn't aware, just a bad habit).
- I found I was hovering my left foot over the clutch for too long (again, exam nerves). I'm making a concious effort to stop doing this.
- Smooth out my gear changes. I do this mostly, but I am more aware that my passengers can feel it.
I'm glad it's over... it's a real shame that the only real negative part of the entire 'SKill for Life' course was the final exam. It shouldn't have been of course, it should have been a culmination of all the skills learned. If I'm honest, it's made me reconsider my IAM membership... I joined to improve my driving (which it has) not for the nit-picking without constructive feedback. If a senior member can't be constructive about my mistakes without resorting to sarcasm then that's really not what I'm there for. It's a real shame that it was so negative... my intention is to not have any involvement with IAM for the next couple of months and then re-evaluate my feelings then. In the mean time, I think I will look to other organisations for my next step.
Edited by Mag1calTrev0r on Thursday 18th March 15:28
Edited by Mag1calTrev0r on Thursday 18th March 15:31
Edited by Mag1calTrev0r on Monday 16th August 09:43
Cool, thanks for that!
A quick update, I'm not sure if it'll be useful but I've bought a micro video camera (£16 off eBay!) that I can mount to the inside of the windscreen to record drives. I'm hoping to get an example of my commentary with some driving examples. I'll post on YouTube and embed here (if that's technically possible).
A quick update, I'm not sure if it'll be useful but I've bought a micro video camera (£16 off eBay!) that I can mount to the inside of the windscreen to record drives. I'm hoping to get an example of my commentary with some driving examples. I'll post on YouTube and embed here (if that's technically possible).
Vaux said:
Was the DriveCheck grading score what you thought? What areas were highlighted for most development?
Pretty much, I will see if I can scan the report and post it here with a view to seeing how I improve . I'll try and explain where I thought I did well and also where I know/think I can improve.
I did the DriveCheck, but it'll be someone else doing the Observing - their details are given out at the first classroom session.
Well it doesn't take too long to write a few notes after the drive and of it helps somebody else going through the same process then it's worked.
I don't really know what else to add each time as I can't really take pictures. In time I will record a drive and stick it on YouTube... But only when I can give a good example! Maybe i'll do it for an early commentary drive so people can see how I get better with time and practice. Might be a bit embarrasing for me though as there'll be mistakes.
I don't really know what else to add each time as I can't really take pictures. In time I will record a drive and stick it on YouTube... But only when I can give a good example! Maybe i'll do it for an early commentary drive so people can see how I get better with time and practice. Might be a bit embarrasing for me though as there'll be mistakes.
Mr Grayson said:
It's beginning to sound as if you're hooked. Now nip over to AD-UK and look for a driving day to sign yourself up for. Once you get out with some other enthusiasts on the road, there's no way back
I had a look on their, what do you mean by a 'Driving day'? what does that involve?Edited by Mr Grayson on Saturday 6th February 19:55
I have to admit, I am little bit hooked
I went out for another drive round on my own in the afternoon for 2 hours just to practice everything... is that really sad?
Oops, I've neglected this diary.
I've not actually been out much recently due to both my observer and I having other commitments/holidays, etc. I'm pretty much getting geared up for the final push towards taking the 'test' (if that's it's correct name). My observer tells me I'm pretty much ready but I have my own doubts. I guess with the whole IAM course you only notice when you seemingly regress in your ability and don't notice the improvements you're really making. I notice how much I've improved when I go out as a passenger with friends/family.
I recently went out with my Dad, he was driving his new Audi S3 with 300bhp. It's fair to say that he wasn't hanging around, however I did notice that I was noticing the hazards before he was reacting to them. He's not a bad driver of course, maybe he doesn't have the same level of hazard awareness?
A friend I went out with was frequently pulling up at traffic lights without leaving any sort of gap, not even for people to roll back (as they do). I did comment on this (we respect each other enough to do this ) and he commented that I leave too big a gap (tyres on tarmac and all that). Once I explained the reasons why an advanced driver does this and he accepted this.
Anyway, I went out at the weekend for an observed drive and I was really chuffed to get a really good overtake in
I'd travelled along this road heading South and couldn't get a safe overtake along this part
so continued on and had another opportunity here
As you can see, there is an opening on the right hand side but it's just a access track and not a proper road. Care was given to pass this before I moved out to overtake.
It was around this point that I started my overtake
I've not actually been out much recently due to both my observer and I having other commitments/holidays, etc. I'm pretty much getting geared up for the final push towards taking the 'test' (if that's it's correct name). My observer tells me I'm pretty much ready but I have my own doubts. I guess with the whole IAM course you only notice when you seemingly regress in your ability and don't notice the improvements you're really making. I notice how much I've improved when I go out as a passenger with friends/family.
I recently went out with my Dad, he was driving his new Audi S3 with 300bhp. It's fair to say that he wasn't hanging around, however I did notice that I was noticing the hazards before he was reacting to them. He's not a bad driver of course, maybe he doesn't have the same level of hazard awareness?
A friend I went out with was frequently pulling up at traffic lights without leaving any sort of gap, not even for people to roll back (as they do). I did comment on this (we respect each other enough to do this
) and he commented that I leave too big a gap (tyres on tarmac and all that). Once I explained the reasons why an advanced driver does this and he accepted this.Anyway, I went out at the weekend for an observed drive and I was really chuffed to get a really good overtake in
I'd travelled along this road heading South and couldn't get a safe overtake along this part
so continued on and had another opportunity here
As you can see, there is an opening on the right hand side but it's just a access track and not a proper road. Care was given to pass this before I moved out to overtake.
It was around this point that I started my overtake
Edited by Mag1calTrev0r on Wednesday 19th May 16:24
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