Getting young people into the IAM

[markmullen]

I've been asked to go to an IAM conference on Saturday in Wakefield as a representative of my local group. The reason for this is that at 28 I am probably our group's youngest qualified observer and one of the aspects of the meeting is how to get more young people interested in the IAM and advanced driving.

My main suggestions will be based around making a discernible difference to insurance premiums like PassPlus does (even at 28 my insurance has only just come under a grand a year, for those starting off it is even more expensive). I reckon this would have a big impact on the uptake of the scheme.

I was just wondering if anyone had any other suggestions I should put to them?

[markmullen]

sultanbrown said:

markmullen said:

even at 28 my insurance has only just come under a grand a year, for those starting off it is even more expensive).

How long have you been driving? I'm your age and haven't had my licence that long but can get insured on a 740 for £500.

In fairness my 740 is only £413 f/c but my Porsche before that I struggled to get under a grand.

sultanbrown said:

I've personally never gone for IAM as I don't agree with all the methods taught.

Neither do I agree with everything the IAM teaches but at £85 if you only take away from the course a percentage of good ideas then you've got your moneys worth.

becca_viola said:

Medic-one said:

cj_eds said:

I can imagine a conversation with half the countries population:

Why don't you join IAM?
Whats IAM?

I hope you don't mind me asking (i guess i fall under "half the countries population" but where does IAM stand for ?

Institute of/for Advanced Motorists/Motoring...

I'm sure someone who knows which way round it is will be along shortly

Its the Institute of Advanced Motorists

[markmullen]

sultanbrown said:

waremark said:

The main benefits of an advanced course are to raise your concentration, awareness and planning, and to develop improved judgement of a suitable speed to arrive at different hazards.

To be honest, I'm quite good at that, especially as my missus is currently learning to drive so I have been trying to get across the greater need for concentration and forward planning and giving her lots of commentary (she can't do the same as I won't let her drive my car ).
The last time I gave a lift to a copper he actually asked me how long I had passed my IAM, and was most surprised when I told him I hadn't due to many of the similar techniques I use.
Maybe I should give it a go, but I really don't think it will teach me anything I don't already know, as I have studied many different driving techniques and constantly assess my own driving (my driving instructor was IAM and me far beyond the normal level required to pass the test. It was his level of observation that encouraged me to be the best driver I could).

Most people are proud of their driving, and very few take criticism well.

If you are interested in taking your driving further but are not sure the IAM will improve you have a word with your local group, many (mine included) will do an introductory run out without charge where you are given some pointers and assessed. It should also give you a chance to hear a commentary from an observer and hear what they are seeing to check your observational skills.