Dealing with meeting errors
The information below relates 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 meeting lesson. Remember that ideally the only thing you are watching for is a perfect drive... Anything else is a problem!
Failing to recognise meet situations
Perhaps the most basic cause is not scanning the road far enough ahead. Other reasons might include the inability to accurately judge the width of the road.
Was the briefing/explanation fully understood? Don't assume, ask questions to check. Pull up if necessary to gain time and space for questions and explanations.
If the situation persists after an explanation it is because you are not following up with 'guided practise' (talk through), are giving your instruction too late or are in a situation that is too complex/difficult for the current standard (health or mood) of the learner - this also applies to each problem below.
Excessive speed on approach
This could be linked to the problem above (failing to recognise), lack of judgment or general lack of control.
Does the learner drive too fast into other situations? If so, it will be necessary to explain the need to anticipate the dangers and reduce speed early.
If the speed problem only arises in meet situations it might be necessary to re-emphasise the 'don't know, don't go' rule.
Passing too close to obstructions
This assumes that there is sufficient space to pass safely. The most likely cause is that the learner is either paying too much attention to the approaching traffic or obstruction (and trying to avoid it) rather than focusing on the forward position of the car (the road space that they wish to drive into).
Reiterate the basic steering information of 'look well ahead and aim at the space that you want to hit'.
Waiting when it is correct to proceed
Offer more guidance and support until the problem is resolved. Step in with early, positive, instruction...
If you judge a meeting situation incorrectly yourself*, take control verbally (in an extreme situation, physically) and explain that situations can change quickly – use it as an opportunity to reinforce the 'anticipation' information.
*Occasionally a learner might not react in the way that you expect and so any input (for example "Keep moving through") could create a problem.
Next: Step 4 - Checklist...