Typical moving off and stopping issues

The information in the 'issues' video and text relate to basic errors and their correction and assume that the errors are caused directly by the actions of the learner. However, you must always be certain that you are not contributing to the error by late or unclear instruction or direction or by not offering sufficient information or feedback.

Our suggested issues do not form an exhaustive list, however, if you can spot and sort out these problems you should be well on your way to delivering an effective moving off/stopping lesson. Remember that ideally the only thing you are watching for is a perfect drive... Anything else is a problem!

Typical moving off issues

Observation before moving off

Full and correct observation before moving off is essential for safety. Errors in this area are usually due to either a lack of understanding or being left to 'get on with it' before a habit pattern is fully established. Occasionally a learner will fail to make full proper checks because he/she is 'rushing' for a gap in traffic.

Make sure that your customers understand the importance of effective observation and then prompt for couple of times - you are in control, after you see it go wrong once, don't allow it to go wrong again!

Over-use of the 'six point check'

It is rarely necessary to keep repeating checks all around the car - doing so can lead to safe gaps to move off being missed.

Looking at the mirrors for too long

This usually comes about because of a lack of prompting where required or lack of understanding about 'all around awareness.'

As your learners are checking the mirrors, check yourself and discuss what you can see - ensure that learners understand that you can gain more information with two or three quick mirror checks rather than one long mirror check.

It is also worth checking the seating position and ensuring that the learner is sitting back in the seat - also watch for tension in the steering.

Omitting necessary signals when moving off

I encounter many driving instructors who are confused about signals when moving off - so it's not surprising that learners sometimes get this wrong!

A signal is necessary when it will help or warn another road user of your actions without misleading. A pedestrian 300 metres away will not be affected by your actions when moving off, whereas someone 50 metres away who may cross the road will. Signals are not necessary just because someone is present - the help or warn criteria must come into play.

To avoid the omission of signals simply teach the rule of: 'if you are unsure give a signal'. Or rather 'if you are unsure after full and correct observation all around'.

Moving off without proper control

In the early stages of learning lack of control can be caused by several factors.

Insufficient instruction when required or over instruction leading to confusion. Ensure that you are giving an appropriate level of help to your learners and that they fully understand what is required. Make sure that their technique for raising the clutch allows full control.

Many new drivers worry about the gas pedal. Demonstrate the fact that the clutch is controlling the speed in the initial phase of moving off and that even with a lot of gas the car will only move slowly with good clutch control.

Seating position: Make sure that the drivers seat is correctly adjusted and that the driver is fully supported by the seat.

Steering errors

It is common for new learners to over-steer when first attempting to move off. The most likely cause is that the degree of steering needed has either not been explained/demonstrated properly or the pupil has misunderstood.

This can be fixed with reminders. Ensure that your learners are relaxed - tension in the arms will make this problem worse.

Make sure that your learners understand that observation and steering are inextricably linked - 'Aim at what you want to hit!'

Moving off without regard for other road users

This is usually lack of judgment or anxiety.

If this happens near the start of the lesson offer more assistance. If it happens later on (when you have stopped helping), check understanding about what constitutes a safe gap.

Typical stopping issues

Using the left foot for the footbrake

This is a fairly uncommon error but does happen occasionally.

Make sure that you offer plenty of support and reassurance as this error will often lead to a very harsh stop.

Braking too harshly when stopping

Practise braking without stopping two or three times to enable the pupil to get a feel for the brakes. Alternatively practise slowing to an 'almost stop' and then changing down and pulling away. Do whatever is useful for the individual learner to gain a better feel for the brakes.

Make sure that any prompts are given early (well before braking). Example: "So this time remember that the brake only needs gentle pressure. Foot over the brake (or cover the brake) without pressing it... Press very gently..."

Not using the clutch when stopping

This is either a lack of necessary instruction or an overzealous approach to coasting (or both).

Mistakes such as this are usually coupled with excessive speed on the approach to the stopping situation. Work on braking control and reassure that it is OK to press the clutch down a couple of car lengths before stopping.

Incorrect use/omission of the MSM routine

This should not happen, simply because you are there to prompt if required. The most likely reason (assuming the learner has the requisite knowledge) is 'overload'.

Make sure that your learners fully understand the timing of the MSM routine and that they reduce speed sufficiently to complete each feature of the routine. Initially, you might need to 'slow everything down' in order to gain success

Stopping in a position which is inconvenient or unsafe

This should read 'attempting to stop...' simply because you will intervene to prevent dangerous parking.

This is the end of your study for this unit, before moving to the next unit, complete the 20 multiple choice questions, 6 foundation questions, your reflective notes and, if you are completing this course with practical training, make a note of any questions that you wish to ask your trainer.

Next: Questions & Reflection...