Week One

I contacted the Harrogate Advanced Motorists becuase I'd heard about how improving my driving skills would reduce my chance of crashing. David came round to my house to explain about the IAM and I was surprised to learn that my fuel bills would reduce and I could save on insurance.

Week Two

I met my Observer, James, he explained about the System of Car Control. It sounded difficult at first but James explained that it is basically a matter of seperating your braking, gear changing and steering to keep the car in balance and under control.

James took me for a demonstration drive, I was surprised how fast he drove. I thought it would all cloth caps and driving slowly. James' driving was very smooth and he was always in control. His corners were amazing. Despite driving quickly there was no squealing on the corners. I asked why not and he explained that car tyres only do one thing well at a time, so no acceleration or braking while cornering and the car is more stable.

Week Three

I've been practicing the system of car control, it takes some time getting used to driving properly. I used to brake and change down through the gears. Apparantly that is bad as it wears my gearbox and clutch and could even cause skidding in wet or icy conditions!

I've started observing hazards a long way ahead of them, as a result my driving has become smoother, plus I'm sure my last tank of fuel lasted much longer than usual. I now plan in advance how to deal with an obstacle. I started to commentate on my driving. I felt self concious when I started but it is getting easier with practise.

Week Four

Wow, my friends are commenting how my driving is smoother and they feel safer with me driving than Jo!

I met James my observer again, he explained limit points and how they allow you to calculate the correct speed for any corner. Basically you must be able to stop in the distance you can see to be clear; there could be a fallen tree or broken down car just round the next corner.

Week Five

I've been practicing my driving a lot this week. James commented how much better it was. I'm getting the hang of most of the major concepts now. James, my observer, is giving little pointers about what the examiner looks for, and how to make my driving smoother.

My gear changing is a lot better as I've been practicing matching the revs to my next gear. My passengers' heads no longer bob around when I change gear!

Week Six

Nearly there now! I'm going to have a drive with a Senior Observer who will decide if I am ready for my test. I'm so excited.

Week Six and a half

I had my Final Assessment Drive with David, it is a practise for the test. It is amazing how much detail he noted about my driving. I reverted to my old ways while I was in test conditions. Its the nerves apparantly. Everyone does it. Once I'd been reminded about crossing my hands and changing gear while braking, my driving was back on track.

After a great debrief and a few concepts being re-explained I booked my test.

The Big Day

The examiner phoned last week and arranged to meet in a supermarket car park. I arrived plenty in advance to make sure I was calm and had a final look at the Roadcraft book.

I showed the examiner to my car, on the way he was asking about the car; what engine its got, how long I've had it. He said he had one of these once, I think we're going to get on well. I explained my pre-driving checks and what I'd checked under the bonnet before I drove there.

We set off and drove for about an hour, covering town driving, manoeuvres, country and motorway. I was surprised how quickly I relaxed and was proud to show off my driving skill.

We returned to the car park where I received a detailed debrief again. I'd made some silly mistakes but hadn't put the vehicle or others in danger. I couldn't tell if I'd passed or not, but was over the moon to hear that I had passed!

The examiner reminded me that passing the test is just stage one, and that I should continue to improve my driving skill and consider reassessment drives with my group in the future.

I'm thinking of becoming an observer so I can help other people with their test just as I was helped.

It's great being an Advanced Driver. I received my insurance quote the following week and rang up to ask if they give discount to IAM members. They did and I saved a few quid. My best mate is considering joining the group too!

Please note, the blog is fictitious but is based upon real comments and experiences. Names are changed too!