advance winter 2010
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The Official Magazine of the Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists and MotorcyclistsTRANSCRIPT
The official magazine of Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists and Motorcyclists
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© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists
ADVANCE Winter 2010 Contents
1 What’s On - See what events are planned2 The Chairman’s comments - Thoughts from Graeme McColm3 Your Group needs your help - A look at how we can be more cost
effective, as finances are squeezed, and how you might help.4 Motorcycle Chief Observer’s Diary - Find out a little of what’s going
on inside the chief’s helmet!4 Keeping members informed - How to make sure you are ‘kept in the
loop’.5 Watch out - deer about - A look at problems associated with deer on
our roads and some tips about what you can do about it.6 Motorcycle Group - Highlands and Islands 2010 - The adventures
continue. Phil Sayers takes a look at the highs and lows of this year’sM/c Section tour.
9 Race Night - It’s that time of the year again - find out how to get in onthe action.
10 Advanced Driving or Riding - why not join us? - What can advancedskills do for you? Details too of how to join in.
13 RAC report on motoring in Britain - A look at how drivers view theUK’s roads and other road users.
14 Do you slow down in road works? - Analysis of accidents in road-works and tips for staying safe.
16 Feedback from the car Examiner - Jim Loy focuses on areas wheresome car test candidates could achieve even higher success.
18 The Secretary Reports - Helen looks at events including the bowling v CarlisleGroup and records test passes.
19 My return to biking - Russell records his return to the saddle.
20 IAM 2010 Christmas gift vouchers - Lots of Christmas offers and evendiscounted Skill for Life - but you’ll have to be quick.
20 Nectar card scheme - How does this scheme help us?
21 Christmas Toy Run Saturday 4 December - Get involved in thisyear’s charity bike run.
24 Advertiser’s Wall - Summary of all those who have advertised in theedition with links to their respective adverts.
25 Tales of the unexpected * - Driving in reduced grip conditions
26 Checklists for winter driving * - What it says in the title!
WinterDrivingSkills
JOHN F. BLACKTel: 01387 267473
Servicing, Repairs, Welding,Recovery, MOT for cars,
motor-homes & commercials 6B Catherinefield Ind Est Heathhall Dumfries DG1 3PQ
© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists
Group Committee Members for 2010/11Group President: Tommy Jardine
To e-mail any member of the committee, please inthe first instance, use the group contact e-mail
address: [email protected]
Chair,Chief Obs
Graeme McColm 01387 720425
Vice Chair Jamie Wood 01683 300347Secretary Helen Cameron 07707 035518Treasurer Russell Wears 01387 263893M/c Coordntr Phil Sayers 01848 331994News Dist. Christine Donaldson 01576 202805Events Stewart Cameron 01387 264005Committee Anne Lind
Andy CampbellNeil MartyniukMaureen HewittAndrew BirdSheena TraillElaine Paterson
07727 91374207717 79810907725 94118007734 66252601387 25950001461 20468807870 820876
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This magazine was publishedby the Dumfries & Galloway
Group ofAdvanced Motorists &
Motorcyclists.For more details of our activities
see our web site at:
www.iamdumfries.org.uk
Contact theGroup Secretary:
Facebook: Dumfries & GallowayIAM (Motorcycles) Group
Magazine contributions to:[email protected]
Disclaimer: The views expressedin this magazine are those of thecontributors and not necessarilythose of the Editor, Group or theInstitute of Advanced Motorists, towhich the Group is affiliated. RegCharity No. SC 023511
About usThis magazine, distributed free to Members, is published three times a year inpaper and electronic formats.
Our Group’s aim is to help drivers and riders improve their skills on the roadand so help reduce collisions, injuries and deaths on the roads. We promoteIAM ‘Skill for Life’ courses throughout the year. The purpose of this publicationis to inform readers about the activities of the Group and to stimulate thoughtabout safe driving and riding issues.
What’s on? - check for details & late changes at www.iamdumfries.org.uk
13 December - Christmas Social Night (Fun & Games) - bring partners and friends. *10 January - Table top rally or Michelin Man TBA - check web site for details nearer the time26 January - Ten pin bowling v Carlisle Group *11 February - Race Night at ABERDOUR HOTEL (reservations required) - see p9 for details8 March - Garage visit, details to be confirmed - check web site nearer the time.* Please let Helen Cameron know if you wish to attend these events,see Secretary report p18Meetings at Edenbank Hotel, Laurieknowe, DG2 7AH 7:30pm unless otherwise stated.
© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists2
The Chairman’s comments - Graeme McColm
Welcome to the Winter edition of our Advance magazine.
Well, despite the awful weather recently, both sections of the Dumfries andGalloway Group have been kept busy. Many congratulations to everybodywho has passed their test since our last issue.
In September we held a Driving and The Law evening hosted by Bob Morri-son, Procurator Fiscal. It was a well attended and a very interesting eveningthat answered a lot of questions for us. This event focused on the youngdrivers in our region and methods of encouraging further training and skillsimprovement to help promote safer driving.
The visit to the Ambulance Station finally took place in November. There wasan excellent turn out with over 20 people attending. It was a very informativetalk and slide show, thanks go to Bob Sloan for his help and advice.
Don’t forget that Group meetings are open to all Associates, full Members andthose interested in finding out more about advanced skills. As events aresometimes changed please remember to check details on the Group web site.
You will note on the next page that the Group, like many organisations, isfacing a squeeze on finances. Please let us know if you can identify any waysof decreasing costs or increasing our revenue say through additional sponsor-ship or the like. Even if you just consider taking up the electronic version of ourmagazine it can be a benefit to the Group - as they say, every little helps.
You will likely know that the Motorcycle Section has a successful presence onFacebook. It would be good to look at extending our social networking activity,in the future, to cover the Group as a whole (in addition to the M/C Section) soif there are any members who would like to set up and administer thesefunctions on Facebook and Twitter please get in touch.
I urge all our members to stay safe over the coming months, especially withthe winter chill taking a hold.
May I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a safe and enjoyable New Year.
Scotspeed offer IAM Members 10% discount at theirDumfries shop. This offer does not apply to sale items,special offers, workshop servicing or bike sales. See the advert - P21.
S C O T S P E E D
MOTOR CYCLES LIMITED
© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists3
Your Group needs your helpWith increasing costs of producing and distributingthis magazine and the prospect of tightening reve-nues, we need to look at ways of using our limitedresources more efficiently. To this end we are againlooking at distributing the magazine to memberselectronically via the Group’s web site and e-mail.
We recognise that the electronic version will not bea practical solution for everybody and there will stillbe a print run for the foreseeable future, however by reducing the size of theprint run a little we can gain a reduction in costs, so allowing us to spend ourbudget in a more cost effective way.
The magazine has always been available electronically and indeed back issuesare still available to download from our web site in pdf format. In future themagazine will be published online in a new format giving several advantages:
� the online version will be a full colour production as opposed to the currentprinted format which is part colour, part greyscale.� delivered straight to your computer in a ‘turn page by page’ format.� the magazine can be downloaded and even printed by you, if you wish.� there will be significant savings not only in print costs but also in postage.� reduced costs should help us to continue to market our activities through
distribution of printed copies to the media, companies, organisations andthe wider public as well as sending out copies to those unable to take themagazine in electronic format.
If you can help us, please sign up for the electronic version by sending ane-mail to Christine Donaldson at ‘ [email protected] ‘ letting herknow that you will accept the next magazine in electronic format. She will thenensure that you receive the electronic version instead of the printed magazine.It might help if you use ‘ electronic magazine ‘ as the message header.
To help you see what the format of group maga-zines will look like, simply go to the group website and look on the homepage for an icon likethe one shown here. Some of the older maga-zines are also available in this format on theGroup Magazine page.
Even with a reduction in printed copies we still face a financial squeeze, so if anymembers or readers are able to put us in touch with potential sponsors, oradvertisers for future editions of the magazine, then please don’t hesitate to do so.
© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists
Motorcycle Chief Observer’s Diary - Graeme McColm
A number of events have taken place since we last went to print.
The annual autumn run finally took place on the weekend of 17 to 19 Septem-ber. Everybody had a good time despite a few minor hitches on the way. Asusual Jake kept us entertained as I’m sure you have all seen on our Facebookpages. Phil Sayers has written about the event elsewhere in this magazine.
The Tag Hunt was a great success, with over 12 groups on the day. The Indianmeal that night included a slide show and prize giving. Thanks to everyone forthe stories and photos. I am sure we are all looking forward to the next one.
Our thoughts go to Crispin Bardsley who is in hospital recovering from amotorcycle accident. Keep your chin up, we are all thinking about you and Iam sure you will be inundated with visitors once back in Dumfries.
Take care when out on the roads over the next few months, the dark nightsand icy roads mean we need to keep our wits about us.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all for all their efforts over the pastyear and I look forward to seeing everybody at our next social night on the runup to Christmas.
Keeping members informedThe Group sends out news via e-mail to keep Members informed about events. If youwant this service ensure we have an up to date e-mail address for you; just contactChristine Donaldson ( [email protected]) so she can get you on the list.
Just how do I get my car out of here?
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© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists5
Watch out - deer aboutSix species of deer live wild in Britain witha combined population of over 1.5 million.Deer can be found just about everywherein the UK.
Increases in deer numbers and their dis-tribution, combined with a rise in the vol-ume of traffic, are resulting in a largenumber of collisions each year. Thesehave significant human costs and are amajor animal welfare problem.
It is estimated there are more than 10,000deer-related motor vehicle accidents ev-ery year in Scotland, causing about 70serious human injuries. Across the UK,it's estimated there are between 42,000and 74,000 deer-related motor vehicleaccidents a year, resulting in 400 to 700 human injuries and about 20 deaths.The cost of human injury is estimated to exceed £53 million per year. The costof damage to vehicles is estimated to be at least £17 million.
Many people think most accidents with deer occur on remote Highland roads,but actually 70% occur on trunk roads or motorways. When traffic volume istaken into consideration, the risk of a collision with a deer is about twice ashigh per vehicle-mile driven in Scotland compared to England.
Collisions happen throughout the year but there is a peak during May whenyoung deer are dispersing and another from October through to Januaryassociated with the increased movement of fallow, red and sika deer in thebreeding season.
What can you do?� Be deer aware, deer are highly unpredictable and can suddenly appear on theroad – particularly at dusk and dawn.
Group Members and Associates can get a free basic car wash, or two jet washtokens when you fill up. Just show your membership card, or for Associates your IAMconfirmation letter. Let the staff know you would like the free bike/car wash beforeyou pay for your fuel. This offer may be withdrawn at any time.
© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists6
� When you see deer warning signs, check your speed and stay alert.� If your headlights are on, use full-beam when you can; but dip them if yousee deer, as they may 'freeze'.� There may be more than one deer waiting to cross in your path.� Be prepared to stop. Try not to suddenly swerve to avoid a deer. Hittingoncoming traffic or another obstacle could be even worse.� If you have to stop, use your hazard warning lights.� Do not approach an injured deer - it could be dangerous.� If you collide with a deer (or witness a collision) and someone may beinjured, or the presence of vehicles/deer in the road are a risk to road safety,then you should treat this as an emergency and ring 999 for Police and/orAmbulance assistance immediately.� Report any deer injuries to the police, who will contact the local person who
can best help with an injured deer at the roadside.Sources: http://www.highways.gov.uk, Scottish Natural Heritage
Motorcycle Group - Highlands and Islands 2010 - Phil Sayers
Friday 17 September saw 16 bikes head north on our annual weekend trip. Ihad decided, this year, that we should head further north and have a two nighttrip, the usual suspects were all in agreement with this. Graham obliged withthe route planning and we had challenging routes planned for all three days.
The group left Dumfries at 9.00 am picking up me and Jake in Thornhill(surprisingly Jake had made it for the start this year!) then Jamie at the top ofthe Dalveen Pass.
We took the fastroute past Glas-gow and ontominor roads upto Aberfoyle.We headedover the beauti-ful Dukes Passand were greet-ed by a plethoraof Aston Martins, Jaguars and Louti (plural of Lotus?) all out on a summer’srun. It wouldn’t be the same if we didn’t lose Jake at some stage on our tripsand much to everyone’s amusement he’d disappeared before the DukesPass! It was then up to Callander, and onto Tyndrum via Lochearnhead.
© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists7
A hearty lunch at the Green Welly and we met up with our last group member,Bob Crawley, and Jake also re-appeared, he had apparently followed anothergroup of bikers up the Dukes Pass only to realise it wasn’t us when theystopped, took off their helmets and started talking in Dutch.
Glencoe was as beautiful as ever and so far so dry. Things were goingswimmingly until we hit Loch Ness and the weather started to change, drizzleand patchy roads did their worst to dampen spirits. A much needed stop atDrumnadrochit was followed by a second stop a few miles further on; Chris Bgot a puncture, in the middle of nowhere at 4:45pm on a Friday afternoon.
We had a tubeless repair kit but Chris was usinga tubed tyre! Quick thinking and local knowledgefrom Andy Bird saw him and me making a ratherprogressive run to Beauly to a known motorcycleshop, they didn’t have what we needed but calledanother tyre centre who stayed open until we gotthere. By the time we returned with the new tube,the others had got the wheel and tyre off the bike,the tube was fitted and we were on our way again.
As we were running late we took a shorter than planned route to Gairloch viaLoch Maree, by now it was raining hard and after many hundreds of miles inthe saddle we were all ready to stop.
Our destination for the night was the Gairloch Highland Lodge, (highly recom-mended if you’re ever up that way). We dined at the nearby Old Inn and hadan excellent meal, a few beers and an evening of live music with Jakeaccompanying on his mouthie. He became a local hero in the process and Idon’t think he bought a drink all night. The hotel was warm and comfortableand we all had a much needed night’s rest.
Saturday morning was wet wet wet, by this time Bob C gaineda new pillion rider in the shape of an inflatable sheep, whoobviously didn’t like his riding as she dismounted shortly aftersetting off (note to self: more cable ties next year!)
Two groups took differing routes to Skye, one lead by Grahamwent via Applecross, the other lead by me went via Kyleakinand a clockwise trip around Skye, once again we “lost” Jake200 yards from the hotel, it really wouldn’t be the same without him!
Skye, whatever the weather, is a magnificent place to be and the roads aroundthe Cullins are both lethal and very exciting; at one point going down a 1 in 3hill in the pouring rain I’m sure I remember some speed bumps!! Eventually
© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists8
the two wet groups pulled into Duntu-lum Castle Hotel an hour apart, tired,cold and fairly damp but the roaring firein the lounge, plenty of hot water forlong soaks and a wee dram helped uswind down. Jim provided the evening’sentertainment with a table-top rallywhich was won by Graham, Jamie andBob. Then followed a rather one sidedgame of Pool, seven against one if Iremember rightly, talk about no-onewanting to be on my team, I could start to get a complex !!
Sunday started with the same biblical rain, I checked everyone’s fuel statusJake informed me he had 25 miles available!! Unfortunately we were 45 milesfrom the nearest petrol station!! Fortunately the owner had some spare, so wesplashed some in the Firestorm and headed off. 55 miles later we crawled intoBroadford, everyone came in for fuel except the one who probably needed itmost, Jake, he carried on and we “lost” him again!
To much hilarity we “found” Jake 25 miles further down the road and continuedor way to Fort William. A stop for lunch then the group split, some going downGlencoe, Loch Lomond, Glasgow and home, the others heading down thewest coast to Hunters Quay ferry and back home via the Ayrshire coast.
A fantastic weekend was had by all, 900 miles in 3 days in very wet conditionsbut everyone had a great time. Will we ever have a trip without a puncture?Will we ever have a trip when Jake stays with us? I doubt it but a big thank youto all who came and the next question is where next year? Well I fancy theNurburgring!
RACE NIGHTFriday 11 February 2011 - 7:30pm
SOCIAL NIGHT AND FUND RAISER FOR GROUP MEMBERSAND THEIR GUESTS AT:
ABERDOUR HOTEL16-20 NEWALL TERRACE, DUMFRIES, DG1 1LW
SIX RACES PLUS AN EXTRA AUCTION RACETicket price £10.00, includes buffet.
PROCEEDS FOR THE BENEFIT OF DGGAMM TO GOTOWARDS THE PURCHASE OF NEW EQUIPMENT.
Why not come along, bring some friends with you, have aflutter and support your group at the same time.
The event is restricted to a maximum of 100 people andtickets will be sold on a first come, first served basis.
Please contact Stewart Cameron to reserve your tickets.Tel: 01387 264005 Mobile: 07707 035518
Or email: [email protected](use ‘RACE NIGHT’ as the message header)
Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists and Motorcyclists
STEERING A COURSE FOR SAFER DRIVING AND RIDING
ADVANCED DRIVING OR RIDING - why not join us?
Dumfries and Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists and Motor-cyclists cater for both drivers and motorcyclists. Put yourself in anyof the ‘on-the-road’ scenarios shown here .... do you always makethe best decisions? We advocate using the ‘Planned System ofDriving or Riding’. Just because you don’t use our System doesn’tnecessarily make you unsafe.What our method gives you is a means of driving or riding in aconsistently safe and systematic way which leaves nothing tochance. Our method will not help you drive or ride through ahazard, say a bend, at the fastest possible physical speed, butwhen perfected it should help you progress through it at the fastestspeed consistent with maintaining stability and maximising safety.Advanced drivers and riders don’t travel at a snail’s pace waitingfor hazards to arrive. Instead they are often able to make muchbetter progress through use of polished observation skills, allowingthem to take advantage of overtaking opportunities and to antici-pate the actions of others, so steering away from potential trouble.It does not matter if you have recently passed your DSA test orhave years of experience, we can help you maximise your safetyand enjoyment on the road whether you have two or four wheels.We help people hone their road skills and become more confidentand decisive. If you’re interested in improving your skills we canhelp you - why not find out more? E-mail or call the Secretary(07707 035518), or visit our web site: www.iamdumfries.org.ukit’s a ‘S K I L L F O R L I F E’.
DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY GROUP OF ADVANCED MOTORISTS & MOTORCYCLISTSRegistered Charity in Scotland No. SC 023511
B R A I D W O O D SS O L I C I T O R S, E S T A T E A G E N T S &
I N D E P E N D E N T F I N A N C I A L A D V I S E R S
Property and Estate Agency
Wills and Estates
Independent FinancialAdvice
Commercial Practice
Family Law
www.braidwoods.com1 Char lot te Street, Dumfr ies DG1 2AG
Telephone: (01387) 257272E-mai l : in [email protected]
St. Michael’s ServicesSt. Michael ’s Street
DumfriesDG1 2QD
Tel: 01387 254304
~ BP ultimate fuels
~ BP Autogas
~ Car wash
~ Jet wash
~ MACE convenience store
~ Nectar Points
~ Special offers for Dumfries Group Members
more performance, less pollution
Wigtown Road ServicesWigtown Road
Newton StewartDG8 6JZ
Tel: 01671 403157
~ BP ultimate fuels & BP Autogas
~ Jet wash
~ Snack bar/ coffee machine
~ Large Mace convenience shop
~ Air/Screenwash/Vacuum/fragrance machine
~ Nectar Points
~ Special offers for Dumfries Group Members
© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists13
RAC report on motoring in BritainThere are over 30 million motorists in Britain today according to the Depart-ment of Transport. The RAC 2010 report on motoring provided a snapshot ofmotorists’ attitudes and behaviour with regard to their vehicles, the roadnetwork, Government transport policy, and other drivers. The key findings ofthis Report included:
The impression that motoristsare becoming more inward-looking, as they disengagefrom national and global issuesthat are beyond their reach andfocus on their local area issuesand behaviours which they cancontrol.
Despite increasing fuel costs, motorists have greater concern about thebehaviour of other drivers than the cost of motoring; 97% were concernedabout drunk or drugged drivers, 96% were concerned about mobile phoneusage when driving, 95% were concerned about lack of tax or insurance.
A big increase in motorists breaking the law when it comes to mobile phoneusage in their vehicles, with 28% using their mobile phone without a handsfree kit, (8% last year), and 31% texting when driving, up from 11% last year.
The environment slipping even further down motorists’ list of priorities, 35%believing nothing they do will make a difference. Incentivising behaviour iseffective, however, since the scrappage scheme the average age of carsdecreased to 51/5 years, a month younger than last year. 74% say they wouldbuy a more environmentally-friendly new car if the tax incentives were better.
The impact of the recession is being reflected in the cars motorists are driving,with fewer 4x4s, and luxury or sports cars on the road. There is a growinginterest in electric vehicles, with more education needed on cost and rangebefore they can become a viable mainstream option.
With the number of male drivers over 70 doubling and female drivers triplingover the next 20 years there is strong support for compulsory medical checksfor motorists aged 70 and beyond from 69% of motorists, but opposition tomeasures that restrict their driving.
Motorists are aggrieved with the state of roads. Some 88% of motorists thinktheir local roads are getting noticeably worse, and 86% of motorists aresceptical that enough of their motoring taxes are reinvested into local roads.Source: www.rac.co.uk/news-advice/car-knowledge/motoring-reports/
© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists14
O B S E R V E R’ S C O R N E R
This section is intended to help when considering the best course ofaction. It is up to every driver to actively assess each scenario.
Do you slow down in road works?Maintaining the roads is a difficult and dangerous job. Highway authoritiesresponsible for road maintenance (such as Transport Scotland and the High-ways Agency) work hard with their suppliers to deliver a safe working environ-ment for road workers. Unfortunately, their efforts are all too often overturnedby the public attitudes to road works and road workers.
Road workers frequently experience ver-bal abuse, have items thrown at them bypassing road users, and even in somecases are driven at deliberately. It is alsonot uncommon for road workers to beinvolved in accidents where they arestruck by vehicles driven by members ofthe public. Such accidents can and doresult in the road worker suffering serious or even fatal injuries.
Around 2,200 road accidents where people are injured occur every year at, orin, road works (source: TRL 2009). Analysis of accident data has identified anumber of common issues in road works accidents:� Around a quarter of all road works accidents occur on high-speed roads� Nearly 75% of the vehicles involved in road works accidents are cars� The main age groups of drivers involved in these accidents peaks in the
30 –39 years age group� Failing to look properly and travelling too fast or too closeare the most common causation factors in road works acci-dents� Drivers do not appear to associate road works with anincreased likelihood of personnel on the carriageway (andthus risk to themselves or others)� Drivers do not appear to realise that an impact protectionvehicle (IPV) (e.g. vehicle used when installing or removingtemporary traffic management equipment) is likely to beslow moving and/or fail to perceive that the IPV is a hazard.
© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists15
How do drivers perceive road works? Drivers do not perceive the personal riskof driving through road works as greater than driving on the normal carriage-way, as evidenced by their speed choice and tendency to leave lane changesto the last minute (“running the taper”).
There is no evidence that drivers modify their speed choice based on risk tothe road worker without the risk of enforcement and penalty.
Drivers often do not “see” the approach to road works and when the signs areseen they are often poorly understood.
There is no apparent consideration given to the safety of the road worker bydrivers approaching or driving through road works.
The behaviour of drivers toward road workers indicates that there is littlerespect for road works and road workers. At best the works and workers aretolerated, at worst the works are ignored (e.g. use of closed lanes) andworkers are abused either verbally or physically. Changing the attitude ofdrivers to road works is essential to improve the safety of both road workersand the drivers passing through road work sites.
The Highways Agency recommend the following tips at road works:
• Keep within the speed limit - it is there for your safety• Get into the correct lane in good time - don’t keep switching• Concentrate on the road ahead, not the road works• Be alert for works traffic leaving or entering road works• Keep a safe distance - there could be queues in front• Observe all signs - they are there to help you
If you go to www.transportscotland.gov.uk/road/road-works you can viewvideos about driving in road works.Sources: Transport Research Laboratory, Institution of Highways and Transportation,Transport Scotland, Highways Term Maintenance Association, Highways Authority
© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists16
Feedback from the car ExaminerCar Examiner, Jim Loy met with our Observer team recently to give feedbacknow that he has conducted a significant number of tests. He also introducedMartin Grassom who may become a second Examiner in our area.
Jim started by confirming that on the whole standards during tests were prettygood. He went on to highlight some on the areas where there may be room forimprovement. Of course there was no suggestion that all the elements set outbelow require improvement by every candidate.
System: There have been quite a lot of issues with phases out of sequencee.g. brake/ gear/ steering/ hazard overlap, as well as a significant number ofinstances where unnecessary double braking was employed on approach toa hazard. The Examiner would like to hear candidates use commentary to talkthrough the System on approach to most hazards. Improved preparation forthis should help Associates to reinforce to themselves the correct approach tohazards (and it lets the Examiner knows the process employed - Ed).
Observation: This should include far/middle and near distance (in front,behind and to the sides). Sometimes far distance observation could beimproved. At those times when a driver is looking in the far distance peripheralvision still allows what is near to be picked up.
Planning/anticipation: The Examiner would often like to see more evidenceof anticipation and planning e.g. Why is that car ahead braking? What actiondo I need to take as a consequence?
Positioning: There have not been many problems with this element but sometimes more could be done by way of safety positioning i.e. moving away fromdanger say towards white line to avoid puddles at the side of the road.
Eco driving: A balance between eco driving and progress should be madeduring a test. For instance gear 6 or 5 may be appropriate on the A75 atKinmount (in the right traffic circumstance) - it probably will not be anywhereon the lower Annan Road.
Gear changing: Sometimes the grip on the gear-stick is a little loose. A firmgrip on the stick should always be used.
Steering: Steering control can be compromised by the thumb position whichshould be on the rim .... not through the wheel.
Use of gears: Sometimes gear choice is inappropriate e.g. downhill on theA709 towards Lochmaben in gear 5/6! A lower gear should be taken to ensuregood control of the vehicle. Sustained Rev gear changes would be good too!
© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists17
Braking: This is usually OK when properly planned but see ‘System’ above.
Cornering / limit point: Generally candidates could make significant improve-ments. There often appears to be a lack of knowledge displayed in regard tolimit points - these could be used to assist with reading and setting up forcorners. The System should be used for corners especially where precededby a warning triangle. The commentary should be used to set up for and drivethrough corners (& to demonstrate that the candidate knows what he is doing- Ed). Position advantage should be used where it is appropriate but careneeds to be exercised if moving towards the nearside, on many roads this isnot suitable and possibly only a move towards the centre can be safely made.
Overtaking: There may not be many opportunities for overtaking on a testroute but if, for instance, a vehicle was being followed at say 40/45 mph thenat the least a candidate should be looking for an overtaking opportunity. Thecandidate should use the commentary to tell the Examiner that a suitableovertake is being sought and also to let him know why it may not be possible.
Progress: It has been noted that some candidates have been a little fast forthe conditions whilst others have been a little slow. It may not be a demonstra-tion of advanced driving abilities to say “Bends up ahead so I will stick to50mph”. Instead each bend should be read separately and the System usedto ‘find the balance’. Generally candidates are expected to drive at, or close to,the speed limit unless unsafe to do so. Then the commentary should be usedto highlight why speed is reduced.
Commentary: This should concentrate on the far, middle and near distancein that order. Picking up the far distance when the view opens up. Add inanticipation and planning. All warning signs and direction signs should befocused on and the commentary should centre around the System at junctionsand as a minimum at each major hazard. This includes most corners exceptperhaps shallower ones where a full System commentary could be shortened.
Cockpit drill: This is not mandatory on the test however its use is appreciatedand should be carried out in the correct order.
Manoeuvres: The Examiner does not ordinarily expect a candidate to adjustthe LH mirror when reversing. There may be circumstances in certain vehicleswhere this is beneficial, but not as a matter of course - it’s a judgement call.
General: Infrequently there may be some unusual circumstances where theExaminer will give a candidate advice as to the preferred course of action, forexample if temporary traffic lights cease to function, but ordinarily the candi-date will be expected to demonstrate the ability to make good decisions forhim/herself.
© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists18
Associates should be advised that the Examiner will ask some questionsduring the test and will also ask candidates to stop commentating at somepoint and ask them to continue in silence for a period.
Help and explanation on the topics raised here can be found in the IAM’s ‘Howto be a better driver’ and HMSO’s ‘Roadcraft’ but also in back issues of ourmagazine which are available from the group web site. In particular articles onspecific subjects can be found in the back issues listed below:
TOPIC [find on issuu.com - search for: ‘ADVANCE + edition date’] EDITIONObservation Winter05
Observation, Driving errors, When to use top gear, Limit points Spring06
Use of the System, BGOL Winter06
Making progress, Observation, When seeing isn’t believing! Spring07
BGOL, Gearchanges, Are you stable and well balanced? Stay sharp onbends, Making sense of acceleration
Autumn07
Observation, Anticipation and planning Spring09Observation Autumn09
The Secretary Reports - Helen Cameron
The new social season is well under way now and we have had two verysuccessful meetings: firstly with Bob Morrison, Procurator Fiscal, and second-ly a visit to the new ambulance station hosted by Bob Sloan. It is great thatboth guys are IAM Members and also very interesting to hear about theirdaytime roles. The attendances have been good at both meetings but I wouldlike to say, as a car member, the bikes are easily outnumbering us at socialevents. It would be good to see even more Members attending.
If any Member feels they would like to talk to the group about their job, hobbyor something they are passionate about please let a member of the Committeeknow so we can consider it for future meetings.
I am organising the annual 10 pin bowling challenge against Carlisle Groupand have set the date for 26 January 2010, starting 8pm, at AMP Bowling,Carlisle. As usual we will meet at the Broom’s Road end of the Broom’s RoadCar Park, Dumfries at 7pm. so that we can arrange to share transport. If youare interested in coming along please let me know by phone or email so that Ican get sufficient lanes booked. It is always a good night so I hope to see lotsof new faces, no experience is necessary.
We try hard to keep you informed of events etc but I would be grateful if youchange any contact details to keep me informed so that you don’t miss out.
© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists19
My return to biking - Russell Wears
About three years ago I made the “mistake” of going pillion on a Sunday ride-out; an unrequited desire was awakened! I used to ride bikes years ago andalways fancied another now that finances, family circumstances were comingtogether to make this possible. One problem though; my wife was seriouslyunconvinced and the next three years were spent persuading her. The IAMadvanced riding course was a big element of providing reassurance, andhaving done the advanced driving back in 1992, I was well aware of what Iwould consider, in today’s riding conditions, the necessity of completing anadvanced riding course.
Putting together hi-viz riding gear and protection as best as I could afford, Ienrolled on, first, a refresher course arranged through Scotspeed Motorcycles.If you think you can simply get back on a bike again after several years just tryout a refresher course and you’ll scare yourself with what you’ve forgotten.The course is really a lifesaver. Then it was on to the IAM advanced riding.
After just the first observed runthe phrase “out of sight out ofmind” made me think about thethings I hadn’t been seeing orlooking for and how out of yourmind you must be not to getadvanced training. You reallydon’t realise what you’re miss-ing, literally.
The dedication of the observ-ers and their skills are some-
thing you just immerse yourself in, coming out the other side with an IAMAdvanced Riding Certificate ............. and an understanding that this is just thebeginning - so get begun!
Me trying to manoeuvre my bike, Manoeuvringevents are just one of several extras that help you
hone your skills.
Graham aims to keep the web site up to date so it’s always worth checkingwhat’s on there.
December is a social event with the region’s two motorcycle Police Officerscoming along to join us. Please also let me or a committee member know ifyou are coming along so that we can plan the event. This event is open to yourpartners as well.
Congratulations to those who have passed their IAM test since our last edition.Alexa Pike, John Bell (Obs:M/C Team), Stuart Eckersley (Car Obs: GraemeMcColm), Callum Stannett (Car Obs: Neil Whitelaw), Gregg Reid (Car Obs:Nick Riley), David Finnie (Car Obs: Stewart Cameron).
© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists20
IAM 2010 Christmas gift vouchersThis year there are eight IAM products available as gift vouchers for Christmas:�Skill For Life (car or bike) – only £125 (until Christmas) Cycle membership – IAM cycle membership, book & insurance & more £15 Momentum – New young driver assessment. Online & on-road modules £40 RidecheckPlus – Non member ride-out/ assessment with an IAM Examiner £40 Drivecheck55 – Confidence boosting session for older drivers £35 RoadRiderPlus – ½ day for scooter, moped & sub-125, post CBT & pre-test £75 Skills day - A track based skills day for cars or bikes £150
IAM gift vouchers can be purchased by phone, by calling membership servic-es on 020 8996 9600, or via 'www.iam.org.uk/gift’. They remain on sale untilthe 17 December , and are guaranteed to arrive before Christmas too.
Nectar card schemeBig thanks goes to all of you who have chosen to put nectar points onto theGroup’s nectar card when making purchases at St Michael’s Services. So farin this way the Group have received a significant number of points which havehelped us with our promotional activities by enabling us to get items such asa gazebo, table and chairs.
We currently have about £200 worth of points, this will help us to more costeffectively manage our finances since it allows us to make some of our neces-sary purchases using nectar points rather than having to dip into our budget.
Anyone can help the Group when making purchases at St Michael’s Services,just ask the staff for the points to be added to the Group’s nectar card whenpaying - it’s a simple as that - and it really does help us.
Breaking news: the scheme is to be extended - Jamie Wood expects to shortlyhave the scheme up and running at Wigton Road Services, Newton Stewart(see his advert on page 12) - thanks Jamie.
There’s further news on the Wigton Road Servicesfront too which is that the new sign advertising theGroup’s activities has been erected. Erection of the
sign, seen here with exuberantmembers of the MotorcycleSection, was assisted by theSafety Camera Partnership.
Assisted by:
© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists
Christmas Toy Run Saturday 4 DecemberCome and join us on this Annual Motorcycle Charity Christmas Toy Run. Butplease do not gift wrap any of the Toys.
Organised by the Dumfries & Galloway IAM Motorcycle group. With a newformat for 2010. Four meeting points for a pre-run in to Dumfries, combiningtogether at the Interfloor car park on the A701 at Locharbriggs.
For further info e-mail: [email protected] Tel 01387-259500 after 6pm or Fax 01387-259500 anytime.
All Toys donated to the Toy Run are given to Social Servic-es for distribution to children across our region.
12:30
The meeting points are:The Ram statue in MoffatGretna Gateway centre car parkThornhill town centre near the crossThe Tourist information centre in the Car Park offKing Street in Castle Douglas.
13:00 prompt Each group sets off led by an IAM Observer head-ing for the Interfloor car park
13:30
Motorbikes to combine at the Interfloor car park(formerly Gates) on the A701 in Locharbriggs. Thereshould be Catering facilities available onsite for thepurchase of hot drinks and snacks. Eggs collectedfrom everyone.
14:15 Depart from Interfloor Car Park on a short run in toDumfries town centre.
14:30 Arrive in Dumfries Town Centre where all the bikeswill park up.
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For the full range of new on-road Suzuki motorcycles visitScotspeed, your local Suzuki Solus dealer.
New and used salesLarge range of parts, clothing, helmets and accessories
(We stock: SIDI, Silkolene, BKS Leathers, Spada, Scorpion,Yoshimura, LeoVinci, Buff, Givi, Motografix, Nitro, Shoei, Shark, R&G Racing and more)
MOT's, servicing and repairs for all makes of motorcycle and scooterAccident Repairs, Local Recovery
Hospitality area, 50” plasma screen, refreshments and cloakroom
S C O T S P E E D
MOTOR CYCLES LIMITED
2/6 Nith Place, DumfriesTelephone: 01387 265050, Fax 01387 263889
www.scotspeed.co.uk/
Official Peugeot Scooter supplier forSouth West Scotland and Cumbria Dealer for SYM Scooters
Right Rider Motorcycle TrainingCBT, DAS & refresher training, call in for details
New services available now:
FREE bike safety check.
Leathers - cleaning & conditioning
from just £20 Textiles - cleaning & re-proofing,
from just £20� Bike valeting - cleaning, polishing
from £15. Deep clean & FST365
available. [ collection & delivery available too]
Call in or phone for more info/ book
We also offer IAM Members 10%
discount on many items - just ask
CrossflagsAt Crossflags we strive to create the best customer experience in the area.Please come and see us when you are considering your next vehiclepurchase.
York House, Annan Road, Dumfries DG1 3AW01387 253473 Fax: 01387 253472www.crossflags.co.uk
B R A I D W O O D SS O L I C I T O R S, E S T A T E A G E N T S &
I N D E P E N D E N T F I N A N C I A L A D V I S E R S
Property and Estate Agency
Wills and Estates
Independent FinancialAdvice
Commercial Practice
Family Law
www.braidwoods.com1 Char lot te Street, Dumfr ies DG1 2AG
Telephone: (01387) 257272E-mai l : [email protected]
Wigtown Road ServicesWigtown Road, Newton
Stewart, DG8 6JZTel: 01671 403157
St. Michael’s ServicesSt. Michael’s StreetDumfries DG1 2QDTel: 01387 254304
m o r e p e r f o r m a n c el e s s p o l l u t i o n
BP ultimate fuels& BP Autogas
MACE convenience storesJet washes, Nectar points
JOHN F. BLACKTel: 01387 267473
Servicing, Re-pairs, Welding,Recovery, MOT
6B Catherine-field Ind Est HeathhallDumfries
CrossflagsYork House, Annan Road, Dumfries01387 253473
Back to cover
S C O T S P E E D
MOTOR CYCLES LIMITED
2/6 Nith Place, DumfriesTel: 01387 265050
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© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists
Tales of the unexpected [first published Winter 2009]
Now that the winter is here you may do well to consider how to use advancedskills to minimise your risks on the road. It goes without saying you shouldmake sure your vehicle is properly prepared with a clear windscreen etc but ifyou need basic winter tips look elsewhere such as at the IAM’s winter drivingtips available from its web site.
Here we are going to look atthe subject of grip or ratherreduced grip and how wemight deal with it.
The amount of grip availablevaries with the quality of theroad surface and reduces sig-nificantly if the surface be-comes wet or is affected byfreezing conditions (or any-thing else on the surface suchas oil or grit).
Typically a heavy frost results in the road surface having about half the grip ofa dry tarmac road, snowy roads have less grip still whilst ice affected roadsmay only have around one third of the grip available!
In conditions of reduced grip the likely affects are:
~ Wheel-spin when accelerating, leading to possible loss of control i.e. skid-ding. This can occur on the move at speed not just when pulling away fromstandstill.
~ Loss of adhesive friction(traction) on corners - this can result in under-steer(front of car runs wide) or over-steer (rear of car tends to break away) or anuncorrectable complete loss of control.
~ Loss of traction under braking, resulting in extended stopping distances, lossof steering control and maybe leading to a consequent impact.
Armed with this knowledge how can you apply it to difficult conditions?
~ Create extra space around you, position away from danger. Not only will thisgive you more room for braking but may also help you avoid getting caught upin someone else's accident.
~ Drive to the System, anticipate and plan. Brake before the bend.
25
© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists
~ Use the brakes very gently, plan to apply pressure and come off the brakes,progressively.
~ Monitor the feel of your brakes, changes in sound and feel when brakingcould signify there are slippery conditions. If you have ABS it probably won’tstop you any more quickly but it will allow you to steer. Keep pressure on thebrake pedal and steer to try to avoid other road users and obstacles.
~ Use all vehicle controls with a light touch - you can maximise the availablegrip by being very smooth. Change gear, steer, accelerate and brake assmoothly and gently as you can.
~ Use the highest practical gear in very slippery conditions, it reduces theamount of torque at the wheels and so will thus reduce the chance of wheelspin. Remember heavy use of the accelerator can cause you to spin out ofcontrol in slippery conditions, not just when getting underway but when, forinstance, you are travelling at speed say on a wet motorway at 60 mph,especially if combined with steering input such as when lane changing.
Checklists for winter driving [first published Winter 2007]
Service your vehicle - cold weather will cause failure of an unreliable battery.Check tyres, lights and wipers. Winter additive in your washers is a good ideato stop it freezing.
Check the forecast - if poor is your journey necessary or essential? If you mustdrive take a few basic items with you: warm clothes, a torch, ice scraper, stoutfootwear, first aid kit, blanket, shovel, food and a hot drink.
Change the way you drive to suit the conditions. Allow extra time beforesetting off. Clear ALL your windows and mirrors of ice and snow before youmove, make sure too your lights and number plates are clear.
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© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists
On the road if you see a gritter with flashing amber beacons it is likely to bespreading salt and will be travelling at less than 40mph even on a motorway.It is best not to overtake a gritter when it is spreading as you can damage yourscreen or paintwork and you will likely be increasing your speed and movingonto untreated surfaces which might be more slippery. Stay well back as yourstopping distance will be affected when travelling on freshly laid salt.
If you are following a snowplough it should be showingflashing amber beacons, don’tovertake unless the lane you’llneed to use has been cleared(dual carriageways/ motor-ways) even then will you beable to make safe progress onthe road ahead of the plough?Watch out ploughs can throw up large amounts of snow.
Keep your speed down, it can take ten times as long to stop on slippery roads.Be ultra smooth, remember that coarse or sudden steering, braking, acceler-ation or gear changing can all promote a skid. Be cautious on treated roadstoo, there could easily be patches where the salt has not dealt with all the ice.
If your vehicle does start to skid know what to do - remove the cause, don’taccelerate or brake suddenly. Most often it will be best to dip the clutch andrefrain from braking, steer into the direction of the skid to straighten up - butyou might not have room to do this so it is best to be observant and vigilantand work hard to avoid getting into potential skidding situations. When movingoff in slippery conditions it may be best to use a higher gear e.g. 2nd not 1st.
Listen for road noise, tyres make very little noise when travelling on ice, ifsuspect you could test your traction on the surface by braking very gently.