There’s a fair amount of uncertainty regarding whether it’s against the law to drive barefoot, in flip flops or stiletto heels.
The Highway Code states that motorists must not wear footwear that compromises their ability to use the vehicle foot controls properly. Specifically, Rule 97 of the Highway Code states that before setting off on a journey, you should ensure that ‘clothing and footwear do not prevent you using the controls in the correct manner’.
Always bear in mind when stepping into your vehicle while wearing impractical footwear that you might well be putting yourself, your passengers and other road users at risk by not being able to drive the car safely. So while it is not illegal to wear improper footwear while driving, it is however against the law to drive unsafely.
According to the Driving Standards Agency, “suitable shoes are particularly important when behind the wheel. We would not recommend driving barefoot because you don’t have the same braking force with bare feet as you do with shoes on.”

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According to the news, learner drivers in England, Scotland and Wales will be allowed to have lessons on the motorway by 2018.
The Department for Transport stated that lessons would take place in cars with dual control pedals and must be given by an approved driving instructor, and not by friends or family members, however qualified or experienced.
At present only drivers who have passed their test are permitted to drive on the motorway, but in 2015 the Department for Transport had said it would consider a change in the law in the not too distant future.
One transport secretary stated that allowing learners to drive on motorways in a supportive environment will help them develop a practical understanding of how to use motorways safely before driving independently, while some people believe it could be potentially hazardous.
What are your thoughts on learners being permitted to have lessons on the motorways?

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Whether it’s for transportation of produce or relocating heavy agricultural equipment from one field to another, farmers will unavoidably need to make use of public roads. However, because tractors are so hefty and not the fastest of vehicles, it can be frustrating for other road users who just want to get to where they’re going, and sometimes potentially hazardous if tempers are lost.

The important thing is to be patient, respectful and to not to get exasperated when stuck behind a tractor. If you are able to overtake then do so, but only if it is safe. Do not attempt to overtake on any kind of bend or dip in the road, or especially if other motorists are coming towards you. Do not tailgate the tractor, flash your lights or honk your horn – put yourself in the farmer’s position and remember that he is just trying to get where he wants to go, just like you.

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While there is no legal age at which you must stop driving, it is advisable that you stop and think about whether or not it is actually safe for you to continue to do so. Sad as it is, our general health and fitness will begin to deteriorate as we get older, and age-related conditions begin to set in. It might be time to consider giving up driving if your reactions are notably slower than they used to be, or if your eyesight is getting worse. If you have a medical condition that could affect your ability to drive safely, you should ask your GP for advice on whether or not you should still be driving.

Since we all age differently, there is no specific age at which all drivers become unable to drive safely. However, you will need to renew your driving licence every three years after you turn 70.

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It’s one of the main causes of thousands of road accidents every year. Being a safe driver means being alert – and if you’re not, you are consequently putting your safety and the safety of others at risk. If you have trouble focusing, have poor judgement and slower reaction time, how do you think you are going to cope behind the wheel of your car on a busy road?

Perhaps you’re not getting enough sleep, on specific medication or choosing to drive at times of day or night when you would normally be sleeping. Whatever the reason, always ensure that you’re firing on all cylinders before deciding to take a drive, whether it’s for work or pleasure. Make sure you get a good night’s sleep, and don’t travel for more than eight to ten hours a day. Take regular breaks when necessary, and by absolutely no means drink any amount of alcohol before driving if you are feeling drowsy.

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We’ve all encountered at least one aggressive driver in our time – but how best should you deal with them? The best course of action is to make every attempt to safely get out of their way, avoiding eye contact and ignoring any rude gestures, flashing lights and/or honking horn. Most importantly DO NOT challenge them by speeding up or attempting to hold your own in the lane you are driving in, as it will only encourage further road rage. If they want to overtake, let them do so as quickly as possible. Don’t let aggressive drivers put your safety and the safety of others at risk.

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As a learner driver, you’re likely looking for tips to improve your skills all the time. Whether that’s advice on clutch control or even briefing on the theory or driving tests from more experienced learners, a little knowledge never hurt.

Always keep developing your knowledge – This might be revising possible questions you could be faced with during the Theory, taking mock tests, or even just asking questions to people who have passed their tests for a first-hand perspective… You will likely be glad you did.

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If you’re keen on improving your driving skills or want to practise for your driving test more, then one of the best ways for you to learn will be to step outside your comfort zone. Try driving in new or unfamiliar areas, tackling different test routes – Or even driving at nighttime.

Driving at nighttime is a different ball-game to its daytime counterpart – The dark forces you to focus on your visibility more and to adjust your driving style to account for lower visibility, as well as reminding you to drive with your lights on – Try it, and let us know if you think it is harder or easier than day driving?

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If your brakes fail while you’re driving at any speed, it’s difficult not to panic – but the reason could be a lot less drastic than you realise. For instance, it could be that the brake pads are worn and/or your brake fluid is out, in which case you could try tapping on your brakes; this might eventually kick them back into gear.

If this fails, shift your car into neutral then attempt to manoeuvre into the right-hand lane, where you can eventually slow down. If you don’t have sufficient room to come to a stop, you should pull on the handbrake in one motion (as opposed to pumping it as this could lead to losing control of the car).

Worst case scenario, drive steadily into a stationary object – which yes, will do some damage to the exterior of your car – but at least you will reduce the chances of serious injury, colliding with pedestrians or other vehicles, or causing further damage to your engine. Always listen out for squeaky brakes and ideally have them replaced after every 50,000 miles.

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When it comes to driving, it all comes down to confidence. There’s nothing that can make you lose concentration as much as someone berating your driving ability, whereas positive feedback of your skills behind the wheel will have a profound impact on your skills.

Make sure to always offer constructive criticism of other drivers – Whether it’s a partner, friend or family member, or even if you’re an instructor coaching a pupil to success. Offer tips for improvement, and focus on the positives, and you’ll see a major difference.

Safe driving from Britannia!