WiseWheelz Driver Training

motorway confidence sessions available

What happens if a learner driver goes on the motorway?

You may be asking if learner drivers are allowed on the motorway as it isn’t the most common sight. The answer is yes, they are, but this has only been the case since 4 June 2018. This change in the law was made so that learner drivers could gain confidence when it comes to driving independently and at higher speeds.

By having practical experience of driving on the motorway with a qualified instructor’s support and guidance, a learner will gain understanding of how these fast-paced roads work and what motorway-specific signs actually mean. Driving on motorways can be intimidating and getting used to it and mastering how to ‘mirror-signal-manoeuvre’ before going out on your own will  provide the much needed experience required.

Let Paul help you build experience and confidence in motorway driving during an intensive 4 hour weekend session. We normally use the M5 motorway (although if you'd prefer the M54, M50 or M5/M6/M42 just let me know) to improve your skills. We will have a short theory session on our way to the motorway, then we'll use our new knowledge to improve how we join and leave the motorway, plus how to deal with driving at a higher speed. We will learn and practice overtaking and lane changes, plus what to do in the event of an emergency - how to get help etc. 


Get in touch with Paul on 07769009005, let's see how I  can help you ...



What do learner drivers need 

to know about driving on the motorway?

Some of the key aspects of motorway driving include Joining and leaving a fast-paced road
The importance of using lanes and how to overtake correctly
Getting used to driving at a faster speed
Knowing what to do in an emergency e.g. if the car breaks down

There are also some legal considerations when a learner driver takes to the motorway:

Although motorway driving is not assessed during the practical test and it’s not mandatory for approved driving instructors to take students, getting used to driving on these high-risk roads can improve a learner’s understanding and help settle their nerves.

Motorway driving advice 

for learner drivers

Here are some top tips for learner drivers who are just starting to drive on motorways


Prepare – Although motorway driving isn’t a compulsory part of your driving lessons, there are elements covered in the theory test. Use your learnings from preparing for this test and brush up on the motorway driving section of The Highway Code.
Stay patient – Everything is new with driving at this higher speed, so it’s important to keep as calm as possible. Becoming flustered could lead to some erratic driving at high speeds, which could be very dangerous.
Trust your instructor – A driving instructor will not take you out on the road unless they feel you’re ready. They have belief in you, so believe in yourself. Once you’re on the road and driving at these faster speeds, everything will soon become natural.


What to do if you see a new 

or learner driver on the motorway

If you’re an experienced driver, you should be considerate to learner and new motorway drivers (keep an eye out for L or P plates):


Be understanding – We were all learners once, so it’s important to understand how nervous anyone with L or P plates on the motorway must be. Avoid aggressive driving and exercise patience when you are nearby.
Give them space – Think back to when you were first driving and how easy it was to make a mistake when you were nervous and everything was so new. Give learners plenty of room and be ready to anticipate potential mistakes.
Be clear with indications – You should be using your indicators anyway, but if you see a learner or new driver, make sure you indicate in plenty of time to let them know you’re changing lanes.


Motorway driving advice for new drivers

After passing your test, driving for the first time on a motorway can be a nerve-racking experience. The following tips can help make things slightly easier:


Avoid driving alone – Once you’ve passed your test, there’s no restriction on driving with passengers. Ask some friends or family members to join you on your first few journeys to provide some moral support.
Match the speed of the other vehicles – But make sure you stay within the speed limit unless you want to potentially receive a fine!
Take plenty of breaks – Stop off at a service station if things are becoming overwhelming. Eat some food, have a drink and just let your nerves calm before getting back in the car.


Frequently Asked Questions

Are motorway lessons compulsory?

No, they are not. Approved driving instructors do not have to take learners on the motorway but there are many positives when it comes to getting practice driving on them. Learners can prepare for driving at higher speeds, recognise the signs that are specific to motorways and increase their confidence.

What are the best times for motorway driving lessons?

If it’s your first time driving on the motorway with an instructor, it will be best to avoid peak times and head out while there is plenty of daylight.

 

Sources

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/the-highway-code/motorways-253-to-273

https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/advice/learning-to-drive/learner-drivers-on-motorways

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