Whether Pass Plus is worth it depends on various factors such as your individual circumstances, driving experience, and insurance costs. Here are some points to consider:
Insurance Discounts: Some insurance companies offer discounts to new drivers who have completed Pass Plus. This discount can help offset the cost of the course.
Additional Skills: Pass Plus provides additional training beyond what you learn in your initial driving lessons and test. It covers topics like driving in different weather conditions, on rural roads, at night, on dual carriageways, and on motorways. Gaining experience in these areas can improve your confidence and safety on the road.
Potential Cost Savings: While there is a cost associated with taking the Pass Plus course, the skills and confidence gained could help you avoid accidents or fines, potentially saving you money in the long run.
Individual Circumstances: Consider your own driving experience and confidence level. If you already feel comfortable driving in various conditions and on different types of roads, you may not benefit as much from Pass Plus.
Alternative Options: If Pass Plus isn't appealing to you or isn't available in your area, consider other advanced driving courses or simply continuing to gain experience through practice.
Ultimately, it's a personal decision based on your priorities and circumstances. If you're unsure, it might be worth speaking to an instructor or insurance provider to get their advice based on your specific situation.
The Pass Plus course typically covers the following modules:
Town Driving: This module focuses on driving in urban areas, dealing with heavy traffic, pedestrian crossings, and complex road layouts.
All-Weather Driving: Techniques for driving safely in adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, fog, and ice are covered in this module.
Driving Out of Town: This module deals with driving on rural roads, including single-lane roads, bends, and uneven surfaces. It also covers hazards such as farm vehicles and animals.
Night Driving: Tips and techniques for driving safely at night, including dealing with reduced visibility, glare from oncoming headlights, and judging distances.
Dual Carriageways: This module covers driving on roads with two or more lanes in each direction, including merging, overtaking, and exiting safely.
Motorway Driving: Techniques for safe and confident driving on high-speed roads, including joining and leaving motorways, lane discipline, and dealing with breakdowns or emergencies.
Throughout the course, emphasis is placed on developing advanced driving skills, hazard awareness, and defensive driving techniques. The aim is to enhance the confidence and competence of new drivers beyond the basic skills required to pass the standard driving test.
The cost of Pass Plus can vary depending on where you take the course and the instructor or driving school you choose. However, as of my last update, the typical cost of Pass Plus in the UK ranged from £150 to £300. This fee usually covers the training sessions and any materials provided during the course.
It's worth noting that some local authorities or insurance companies may offer discounts or subsidies to help reduce the cost of Pass Plus for new drivers, so it's worth exploring these options before booking the course. Additionally, the potential insurance savings resulting from completing Pass Plus may offset the initial cost over time.
Here are some tips for safe and confident motorway driving:
Plan Your Journey: Before you set off, plan your route and ensure you know which motorways you'll be using. Check for any traffic updates or roadworks that may affect your journey.
Joining the Motorway: When joining a motorway, use the slip road to match your speed to the flow of traffic. Signal early, check your mirrors and blind spots, and merge smoothly into the appropriate lane.
Lane Discipline: Keep to the left-hand lane when not overtaking. Use the middle and right-hand lanes for overtaking slower-moving vehicles. Return to the left-hand lane as soon as it's safe to do so.
Maintain a Safe Following Distance: Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front, allowing at least a two-second gap in good conditions. Increase this gap in adverse weather or poor visibility.
Use Mirrors and Signals: Regularly check your mirrors and use your indicators to signal your intentions to other road users. This helps maintain awareness and communicate your actions.
Overtaking: Only overtake when it's safe to do so. Check your mirrors, signal, and move into the middle or right-hand lane. Accelerate smoothly past the vehicle in front, then signal again and return to the left-hand lane.
Anticipate Lane Changes: Be aware of other drivers merging or changing lanes and adjust your speed or position accordingly. Avoid sudden lane changes or erratic movements.
Speed Management: Observe and adhere to speed limits on the motorway. Adjust your speed according to traffic, weather conditions, and road signs.
Be Aware of Blind Spots: Large vehicles, such as lorries and buses, have larger blind spots. Avoid lingering in these areas and ensure you can see the driver's mirrors before overtaking.
Take Regular Breaks: Long journeys on the motorway can be tiring. Take regular breaks to rest, stretch your legs, and stay alert.
By following these tips and maintaining a calm and attentive mindset, you can drive safely and confidently on the motorway.
Driving in adverse weather conditions requires extra caution and preparation. Here are some tips for driving safely in various weather conditions:
Check Weather Forecasts: Before you start your journey, check the weather forecast to anticipate any adverse conditions you might encounter along your route.
Slow Down: Reduce your speed in poor weather conditions, especially in rain, snow, ice, or fog. Decreasing your speed allows for better control and reaction time.
Increase Following Distance: Leave extra space between your vehicle and the one in front of you. In wet or icy conditions, it takes longer to stop, so maintaining a greater following distance helps prevent rear-end collisions.
Use Headlights: Turn on your headlights to increase visibility to other drivers. In fog, rain, or snow, use dipped headlights (not full beam) to avoid glare.
Be Gentle on Controls: In slippery conditions, avoid sudden movements with the steering wheel, brakes, or accelerator. Smooth, gradual inputs help maintain traction and control.
Watch for Surface Water: Be cautious of standing water on the road, especially during heavy rain. Reduce your speed and avoid driving through large puddles, which can cause aquaplaning.
Beware of Ice: Be particularly careful on icy roads. Drive slowly, avoid sudden braking or acceleration, and use gentle steering movements. Bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas are prone to ice formation.
Clear Windows and Mirrors: Ensure all windows, mirrors, and lights are clear of snow, ice, and condensation before setting off. Use windshield wipers and demisters as needed.
Plan Your Route: Choose main roads and highways that are more likely to be gritted or plowed during snowy or icy conditions. Avoid steep hills if possible.
Be Prepared: Keep essential supplies in your vehicle, such as a fully charged phone, a flashlight, blankets, water, snacks, and a basic toolkit. Consider carrying winter-specific items like a shovel, ice scraper, and traction aids.
Stay Informed: Pay attention to road signs, traffic updates, and any warnings from authorities regarding hazardous conditions. Be prepared to adjust your route or delay your journey if conditions deteriorate.
Remember, if conditions become too hazardous, it's safer to pull over and wait until conditions improve rather than risk an accident. Your safety and the safety of others on the road should always be the top priority.