Monday, 12 August 2013
Pedestrian Crossings
Learning to Drive
Zebra crossing
The most familiar type of pedestrian crossing is probably the zebra crossing. It is easily identifiable from the black and white stripes on the road and vertical poles topped by flashing amber beacons. Zig-zag lines mark the approach to the crossing, where it is illegal to park or overtake the leading motor vehicle.Vehicles should stop to pedestrians waiting to cross and MUST stop for pedestrians who are on the crossing.
Drivers or riders of vehicles on approach to the crossing should be aware of following traffic and should slow down if in any doubt about whether or not the crossing is in use e.g. if you cannot see both sides clearly.
Although rarely used, an arm signal can be given to pedestrians waiting to cross to inform them that you are slowing down.
Secure the vehicle after stopping by applying the handbrake and selecting neutral gear. Do not move off until:
- The crossing is completely clear
- You have checked both footpaths for pedestrians who may be rushing onto the crossing area
- You have checked you mirrors for overtaking vehicles
If the zebra crossing is split into two with a central island, the crossing should be treated as two independent crossings.
Pelican crossing
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| Figure 1 - Pelican Crossing Signal Control Box |
To operate the crossing a pedestrian presses a button on the signal box at which time the word WAIT is illuminated as shown in Figure 1. Shortly thereafter the far side signal (high up on the opposite side of the crossing) will change from an illuminated red silhouette to green, as shown in Figure 2.
This indicates to them that they can proceed to cross with caution.
From the driver’s point of view a pelican crossing can be identified by zig-zag lines on approach, by traffic signals and by metal studs on the road surface marking the crossing area.
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| Figure 2 - Pelican Crossing Far Side Signals |
Secure the vehicle after stopping. Don’t move off until:
- The crossing is completely clear
- You have checked both footpaths for pedestrians who may be rushing onto the crossing area
- A flashing amber or green traffic signal is showing
- You have checked you mirrors for overtaking vehicles
A split pelican crossing (i.e. with a central island) that runs straight across the road is to be be treated as a single crossing whereas if the two parts of the crossing are staggered, each part should be regarded as being independent.
Puffin crossing
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| Figure 3 - Puffin Crossing Signal Control Box |
This type of crossing is equipped with infrared sensors that monitor each side of the crossing as well as the crossing area itself.
The sensors are monitored by the crossing electronics so when the following happens the traffic signals are cancelled:
- A pedestrian walks away from the crossing instead of crossing the road
- A pedestrian sees a gap in the traffic and crosses before the pedestrian signals activate
In addition after the signals activate and pedestrians are crossing the sensors will hold the traffic on red until they have crossed the road. This is especially useful if the pedestrians need extra time to cross.
This type of crossing can be distinguished from other types by the control box as shown in Figure 3. Also note that this type of crossing does not have a flashing amber phase on its traffic light sequence.
Toucan crossing
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| Figure 4 - Toucan Crossing Signal Control Box |
Figure 4 shows the pedestrian control box for a Toucan crossing. Pedestrian signals are usually, although not always, on the far side.
Remember TWO CAN - two types of road user, can use this type of crossing.
Equestrian [Pegasus] crossing
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| Figure 5 - Equestrian Crossing Control Box |
Additional signal boxes are placed in a high position
where riders can easily use them.
Figure 5 shows the controls for this type of crossing.
Signals use the horse symbol. The crossing is similar in use to a Toucan crossing. Horses can be ridden across the crossing - it is not a requirement for riders to dismount.
Driving Schools in Chester and Ellesmere Port
Visit our main website if you want to know more about driving lessons Chester.© Steve Paddy - All Right Reserved
Sunday, 11 August 2013
Otis Passed First Time!
A little late but a big thank you to @spdschool for helping me with my driving test http://t.co/OM49VdKYOZ
— Otis Ox- Chamberlain (@Otis_chammie) August 11, 2013
Massive congratulations to Otis Chamberlain who passed his driving test with us.
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| Otis Chamberlain |
Friday, 9 August 2013
Starting Precautions
Learning to Drive
Handbrake (parking brake)
After completing the cockpit drill you should then check that the handbrake is firmly applied.If the handbrake is on it will be in a raised position. If you are parked on a hill give the handbrake a firm pull upwards to take up any slack in the mechanism.
You may hear a click or clicks from the handbrake when you pull it up. This tells you that the handbrake is now acting with more force on the back wheels than before.
If you intend to release the handbrake before re-applying it, always press and hold the footbrake while you do it.
Neutral Gear
You or any other drivers of the vehicle you are using may have left the car in gear (i.e. any gear other than neutral). This may have been done by accident or deliberately.A car that is left in first gear (when facing uphill) or reverse gear (when facing downhill) will hold the car stationary on the hill even without the use of the handbrake. If done with the handbrake the car is then doubly secure. It is a good idea to do this when parked on a hill, particularly if it is steep.
This is why you should always check that the handbrake is firmly applied before checking or putting the gear lever into neutral.
If you put the gear lever into neutral before checking the handbrake is firmly applied the car may roll away as it was the gear that was holding the car still.
If you are still not sure about these ideas ask for a demonstration from your driving instructor.
Summary
After you have carried out the cockpit drill:Check the handbrake is firmly applied
Select neutral (if it isn’t already)
It is easy to tell when the gear lever is in neutral as it will move a long way from side-to-side.
Turn the key to the ignition position and then to the starter position for about one second to start the engine. If the engine fails to start first time wait a few seconds before trying again.
Sunday, 4 August 2013
Bay Parking
Learning to Reverse
This is one way to reverse into a parking bay. There are other ways, too.Step 1
Safely pull up along your chosen bay, as shown below.Step 2
When safe, use clutch control to slowly move forwards. Stop when you are looking straight down the third white line.Step 3
When safe, slowly reverse a half-space back to the position shown and after checking that it is safe briskly apply full right steering and slowly reverse into the bay. Straighten up and secure the car to finish! |
| Reversing into a bay |
Driving Lessons in Chester
We use simple systems for all the reversing manoeuvres that we teach. You can book lessons online at our website - Steve Paddy Driving School.Major Controls
Learning to Drive
Major Controls
The major controls are those used to actually drive the vehicle.Accelerator (gas)
The accelerator as shown below is the pedal on the right. It is usually referred to as the gas pedal by the majority of driving instructors. Operated by the right foot, it is used to control the flow of fuel into the engine and therefore the speed of the engine. When the engine is connected to the wheels (more on this later) the gas will control the speed of the car. |
| Pedals in a Manual Car |
Brake (footbrake)
The brake pedal is the middle pedal as shown here. Operated again by the right foot, it is used to apply force to all the wheels of the car to slow it down or stop it completely.The brakes should normally be applied progressively, which means gently at first, gradually increasing the pressure as the vehicle slows. Brake pressure should be relaxed as the vehicle comes to a stop for smoothness and passenger comfort.
Even a gentle pressure on the brake pedal will bring on the vehicle brake lights to warn those behind (known as following traffic) that you are slowing and may stop. Brake lights are red and are located on the rear light clusters. There is usually another, known as the high level brake lamp, at the top of the rear windscreen or boot lid.
Clutch
The clutch is the pedal on the left and is operated by the left foot only. It should not be used as a foot rest when not in use.You can think of the clutch as a connection between the engine and the driven wheels of the vehicle. The connection is made when the clutch is up and broken when the clutch is down.
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| Model of a Clutch |
Bringing up the clutch when in gear will reduce the gap, called the free-play, between the clutch plate and flywheel until they start to make contact, This is called the bite point, or biting point of the clutch.
The bite point region of the clutch travel is very sensitive. When at the bite point a small amount of engine power is being delivered to the wheels, but even very small upward movements of the clutch pedal will increase the power transmitted through to the wheels very rapidly.
A spring mechanism inside the clutch is always trying to pull the clutch plates strongly together. This means that the driver can push the clutch down fairly quickly, but must bring up the clutch slowly. Otherwise the the spring mechanism would slam the flywheel and clutch plates together.
When manoeuvring the car at very low speeds a technique called clutch control is used. This involves carefully operating the clutch around the bite point region to finely control power to the wheels.
Handbrake (parking brake)
The handbrake, also sometimes known as the parking brake, is used to keep the car secure when it is stationary. You must always firmly apply it before getting out of the vehicle.*It is most commonly a lever operated system which via a cable applies friction to the rear wheels. It is off when the lever is fully down and on when up. The higher the position of the lever the higher the force applied. It does not activate the brake lights.
More major controls
The steering and gears will be explained in forthcoming posts.References
*Highway Code (HC) Rule 239.Driving Lessons
If you are interested in taking driving lessons in Chester please visit our website at:www.stevepaddydrivingschool.co.uk.
Cockpit Drill
Learning to Drive
Cockpit Drill
The cockpit drill is the name given to the series of checks and adjustments made before driving. Do this each time you take your seat behind the wheel.*D =Doors
All doors must before properly closed before moving off. This is the the responsibility of the driver.S=Seat
Set the distance of the base of the seat for comfortable operation of the clutch pedal. The angle of the back of the seat should be set to give lower back support and so that both hands can reach the 12 o’clock position on the steering wheel, with some bend in the elbows. Adjust the head restraint so that its top is level with the top of your head, or alternatively, so that your eyes are level with its centre.S=Steering
Many vehicles now have adjustable steering columns. Adjust up/down and in/out for comfort and to obtain a full view of the instrument display. Ensure that the release mechanism is fully locked back into position.S=Seat Belt
The seat belt should run across the hips and chest. If possible adjust the height of the seat belt so that it makes contact with your shoulder rather than your neck. It is the responsibility of the driver to ensure that all passengers under 14 years of age wear the correct type of safety seat and/or seat belt.** |
| Setting the Nearside Mirror |
M=Mirrors
Adjust the centre mirror, without touching the glass, so that it frames the rear windscreen of the vehicle. Check it is correct by placing both hands on the steering wheel and turning your head slightly, readjust the mirror as required. Adjust the exterior side mirrors so that a little of the car is visible and so that they allow you to see straight back rather than up at the sky or down at the road surface.Remember DSSSM
References
*Highway Code (HC) Rule 97. **HC Rules 99 - 102.Driving Lessons
For more information learning to drive with us please visit the Steve Paddy Driving School website.Eyesight and Driving Licence
Learning to Drive
Eyesight
To be able to drive on the road with a provisional or full driving licence your eyesight must meet certain minimum standards. You can try this yourself by attempting to read a modern style number plate at a distance of 20 metres in good daylight. If you struggle to do this you should visit an optician before starting to drive.
Eyesight correction
If you need to wear glasses or contact lenses in order to pass the eyesight test then that’s ok. However, it then becomes a legal requirement for you to always do so, whenever you drive.* Regular eyesight checks from a qualified optometrist are essential for all drivers.Your driving instructor will ask you to take an eyesight test on your first lesson. In addition, you will be required to pass an eyesight test at the start of your practical driving test.
Driving licence
You must have, in your possession, a valid driving licence before you can legally drive. You can apply for a provisional licence 3 months before your 17th birthday (or 16th birthday if you are receiving disability living allowance at the highest rate).DVLA
Driving licences are issued by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). If you have a UK passport you can apply online at www.direct.gov.uk.Alternatively, ask at a Post Office for application form D1. You will need to include an up-to-date passport style photograph with your application.
You should normally receive your licence within three weeks. Take care of both the photocard and paper counterpart of your driving licence as you must show both parts at your theory and practical driving tests.
You are required by law to inform the DVLA of any change to your health that is likely to affect your ability or fitness to drive a motor vehicle.** You must also inform the DVLA of any change of address, which can be done online at www.direct.gov.uk.
Your first driving lesson
Bring both parts of your driving licence along with you to your first driving lesson so your instructor can check it.Your provisional driving licence is valid for 10 years from the date of issue and includes the cost of upgrading to a full licence when you pass your practical driving test.
References
*Highway Code (HC) Rule 92. **HC Rule 90.More information
For more information about learning to drive or if you would like to book driving lessons with us please visit us at Steve Paddy Driving School.Thursday, 1 August 2013
Quan Dao Passed!
Driving Lessons Chester
Big congratulations to Quan Dao who passed his test with Steve Paddy Driving School. |
| Quan Dao |
Review of Refresher Driving Lessons
Refresher Driving Lessons Chester
Many thanks to Helen Shaw who recently took a course of refresher driving lessons with us for taking the time and effort to publish this review of Steve Paddy Driving School."Steve was an excellent instructor - he was very patient and really helped improve my driving skills. I had passed my test a long time ago and needed some lessons to improve my skills after not driving for a long time. In my first lesson I could barely remember how to start the car, but I am now confident enough to drive on my own again and Steve even taught me how to drive on the motorway. He was great at finding alternative ways to teach things when I was struggling, and made driving a totally stress-free experience. Fully recommended!"
Review of Steve Paddy Driving School from Jess Wiles
Driving Lessons Chester
Many thanks to Jess Wiles from Hawarden, near Chester for taking the time to send us this review of Steve Paddy Driving School |
| Jess Wiles |
"A great instructor! He was patient, very friendly, well structured, and really explained clearly what I needed to do to pass and to be a better driver. He was very supportive and I passed first time. Would highly recommend him. Thank you so much!"
Jake Passed First Time!
Driving Lessons Chester
Congratulations to Jake Channell who passed his test with us. Drive safely and enjoy your new licence.Best wishes from
www.stevepaddydrivingschool.co.uk
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| Jake Channell |
Iwona Passed First Time!
Driving Lessons Chester
Congratulations to Iwona Zawiasa who passed who passed her driving test with us. Take care and make full use of your driving licence!Best wishes from
www.stevepaddydrivingschool.co.uk
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| Iwona Zawiasa |
"Very patient instructor. I will recommend Steve Paddy Driving School to my friends! Thank you, Steve. Iwona :)"
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