August 24, 2022
New strict rules may be forced upon Cyclists

Highway Code revised: Cyclists given priority in new rules as drivers ordered to keep 1.5-metres distance when overtaking | UK News | Sky NewsThe Mirror initiates this discussion, presenting the idea that Cyclists may need to employ number plates upon their bikes and may also be required to have insurance under new road laws currently being considered by Government. This would ensure a whole new dimension of cycling will be ushered in as a cyclist can no longer just sporadically decide to ride their bike, many factors must be considered, similar to the factors a driver must consider before using their vehicle.

Recent changes to the highway code emphasis the importance of making motorists more aware of cyclists and also increasing their safety. This highlights the attempt to alter the entire road and ensure the safety of all users including cyclists. In the same breath it must also be ensured that cyclists are safe as they can also reach dangerous speeds which could cause damage to others if negligence is presence. The transport secretary Grant Shapps is pushing for a death by Cycling law to be introduced which will ensure a gap in the law is closed which previously only allowed a Cyclist to be jailed for two years if they killed a pedestrian.

Throughout the country more cycling lanes have been introduced which coincides with the attempt to ensure the safety of all road users. Furthermore, with an increase in 20MPH zones there has been a shift to ensure all road users respect the speed limits including cyclists. The Daily mail highlights that cyclists may be given points or fines for speeding or jumping red lights. This will ensure a more transparent and equal road, ultimately promoting safety for all.

Charlie from Britannia purports that these possible changes could benefit the road overall and ensure that responsibility is present. For instance many cyclists may be reckless due to the fact many cyclists can escape liability due to lacking a number plates, and also due to the less strict rules. The only outcome of these changes is less accidents and a more safe road for all users, which is a huge goal for any transport system to strive for.

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August 15, 2022
Driving during a thunderstorm and heavy rain

 

Driving during thunderstorms here in the UK is not normally a threat for us here in the UK, but given the current extreme temperatures most of the UK have been experiencing the past couple of weeks it is a possibility we could now expect some thunderstorms or at least heavy downpours considering we have had such little rain during the summer months. July 22 is the second driest July since records began in 1836.

So what could be some tips to staying safe during storms and heavy rain?

  • If you are caught our during a storm or need to drive during one be prepared to pull over if it becomes hazardous and wait for it to become safe to continue
  • If you have to drive give yourself more time to get to your destination so you can drive slower and more carefully
  • Always keep both hands on the wheel to ensure you remain in full control of the vehicle winds and rain can be persistent and can cause your car to drift or veer without warning
  • Driving at a slower pace will make it easier to maintain a safe distance between yourself and the vehicle in front as you may lose full visibility
  • Always reduce your speed slowly and avoid breaking harshly
  • When breaking is essential keep it smooth and gentle
  • Being aware and anticipating up and coming roads is key

Currently there is a yellow weather warning for some of this week

While some places stay dry, areas of heavy rain and thunderstorms will continue during Monday, bringing possible disruption.

What to expect

  • There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds
  • Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services
  • Spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures
  • There is a slight chance that power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost

Before the thunderstorm

  • Lightning can cause power surges, unplug any non-essential appliances if not already using a surge protector.
  • Seek shelter if possible. When you hear thunder you are already within range of where the next ground flash may occur, lightning can strike as far as 10 miles away from the center of a storm.

During the thunderstorm

  • Telephone lines can conduct electricity so try to avoid using the landline, unless in an emergency
  • If outside avoid water and find a low-lying open place that is a safe distance from trees, poles or metal objects
  • Avoid activities such as golf, rod fishing or boating on a lake
  • Be aware of metal objects that can conduct or attract lightning, including golf clubs, golf buggies, fishing rods, umbrellas, motorbikes, bicycles, wheelchairs, mobility scooters, pushchairs, wire fencing and rails. If you are in a tent, try to stay away from the metal poles
  • If you find yourself in an exposed location it may be advisable to squat close to the ground, with hands on knees and with head tucked between them. Try to touch as little of the ground with your body as possible, do not lie down on the ground
  • If you feel your hair stand on end, drop to the above position immediately

After the thunderstorm

  • Avoid downed power lines or broken cables
  • If someone is struck by lightning, they often suffer severe burns. The strike also affects the heart, so check if they have a pulse.

Driving in a thunderstorm

If you are caught out in thunder and lightning it is advised that you wind up the windows and stay inside your car. This is because in the vast majority of cars with a metal roof and frame, the frame will act as a conductive Faraday cage, passing the current around the passengers inside and on to the ground.

  • Soft-top convertibles, with their fabric roofs, are the most at risk and could catch fire if struck by lightning
  • Be aware that current can travel through other parts of many modern cars, including GPS and radio systems. Cars with metal interior handles, foot pedals and steering wheels can also carry current
  • Cars can be damaged both internally and externally by lightning strikes

Thunderstorms can also bring a risk of sudden gusty winds, those most at risk would include cyclists, motorcyclists and high sided vehicles.

  • Remember to give vulnerable road users including cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians more room than usual. They are more likely to be blown around by side winds – always keep a safe distance.
  • Keep your speed down, lowering your speed will lower the distance you travel when buffeted around by the wind.

Hail storms can be extremely dangerous to drive in reducing your ability to see and be seen, as well as causing damage to your vehicle. If hail is severe, stop and pull over to a safe place and remain inside the vehicle

From all of us here at Britannia drive safe and cautiously.

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August 12, 2022
Heatwave and driving

We are all currently experiencing the effects of the recent heatwave throughout the UK. With highs of 35 degrees and a longer duration than the prior heatwave. It is important to ensure drivers are as cool and hydrated as possible to ensure that any possibles dangers to drivers are mitigated. However, it is important to highlight that a few standard practices must be maintained even throughout this heatwave. For instance, the Express declares that drivers can receive on the spot £100 fines for improper footwear while driving or any other clothes that may restrict driving ability. This is important to bear in mind when deciding the outfit to wear before driving.How to stay safe while driving in the hot weather as temperatures soar - Independent.ie

Rod Dennis from the RAC suggests that it is important to ‘check the engine coolant and oil levels and to ensure the car is kept in optimum conditions.’ This highlights the importance of looking after you car during a heatwave, a possible overheating car can cause multiple implications which result in a danger for all drivers on the road. If you possibly suspect your car may be overheating ensure you pull over at the next possible place to stop and thoroughly check your vehicle.

Charlie from Britannia suggests a few ways for drivers to cope during this heatwave. He states ‘ it is important to ensure all drivers are hydrated and have eaten enough throughout the day to ensure energy levels are maintained and provide a safer roads for all the users.’ And he also states ‘ if a driver feels unwell it is not worth risking and they should not attempt to drive throughout this weather.’ This highlights the importance in ensuring that all measures are taken to provide safer roads throughout the heatwave we are all experiencing.

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August 4, 2022
Fraudulent driver takes over 100 driving tests for others !

According to the Evening Standard a woman who sat the driving tests of 100 different people has been jailed. It is estimated she performed driving tests throughout England and Wales from cities such as Swansea and Birmingham. The Defendant was offering her services to Learners who experience difficulties with the English language.Indian-Origin Woman Jailed For Driving Test Fraud in United Kingdom - Indiaahead News

Detective chief inspector Steven Maloney stated that ‘safety on our roads has always been a priority and arresting those that flaunt the law ensures that we can keep unqualified drivers off the road.’ This highlights the danger in allowing others to drive without legitimately passing a practical driving tests, and portrays that the Defendant may be doing more harm then she initially realized

The Daily Mail reported that the Defendant pleaded guilty and was sentenced for 8-Months. Furthermore, drivers who secured their license fraudulently are also expected to have them revoked. The sentencing in this case portrays the seriousness of the act the Defendant performed and highlights that there is no tolerance for fraudulence when obtaining a driving license.

Charlie from Britannia suggests that it is important to go through the typical procedure to obtain a driving license as this is the most just and vital part of becoming a driver. It is significant to ensure that a driver can pass the standards set in a UK practical test to ensure a particular standard of driving is maintained throughout the UK’s roads. Even though, our practical tests are held to a high standard this serves a particular purpose in upholding the values mentioned prior. Here at Britannia none of our pupils will ever need someone else to sit their driving test, as we ensure all of our pupils are thoroughly prepared and test standard before taking their practical test.

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July 26, 2022
Should Well-built areas lower their speed limit to 20 mph?

Currently well-built areas are operating a speed-limit of 30 throughout most London towns and this Major roads across the UK to have speed limits slashed to just 20mph – warning | Express.co.ukhas been a forefront for topical debate. Many have highlighted that London’s well-built areas are vastly busy and 30 MPH is just too much permissible speed for an already condensed and busy city.

The Welsh Parliament have recently passed a bill which introduces a set speed limit of 20 MPH in well-built areas which will come into force September 2023. Lee Walters the deputy minister for climate change states ‘reducing speeds not only reduces accidents, but helps improves peoples quality of lives.’ As the evening standard highlights The Welsh Government cities safety research suggests that if you are hit by a car going 30 MPH 45% of civilians are killed, compared to 5% if going 20 MPH or less, which seems a sensible piece of evidence to support the overarching topic.

However, many have disliked the new implementations to the speed limit viewing them as unnecessary and inefficient. For instance, many well-built up areas contain main roads which it may seem counter productive to change to a 20 MPH zone. The new proposed changes would ensure this is indisputable and ensures there is no debate on the matter. A possible suggestion may be to take each area as a case by case basis to ensure no areas are unnecessarily changed to a 20MPH zone when nonsensical.

Moreover, All star present a fascinating view on the matter that the proposed changes may actually be causing more harm. For instance, a study showed that minor incidents increased in 20 MPH zones by 17%, and this could be due to the difficulty in maintaining such a speed while others refuse to, which ensures that the drivers focus in distracted by the speedometer ensuring that the focus is not completely on the road.

Overall, Charlie from Britannia portrays the viewpoint that the changed may be welcome by some especially in more densely populated areas which may contain a large younger demographic. However, he also suggests the changes should be reviewed on a case by case basis, as opposed to just ensuring all well-built up areas are forced to adhere to the new 20MPH zone rule, this will ensure areas which may be considered as needing a 30MPH zone can maintain their current speed zone.

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July 15, 2022
Showing gratitude may lead to £1000 fine ..

Throughout recent times it is clear the highway code’s reformation is an attempt to limit prior habits  some may suggest as being signs of gratitude and ‘harmless’. The new stipulations ensure that even a simple wave or thumbs up to another driver potentially could lead to a fine of up to £1000, according to rule 160 of the code this is evidence of a lack of control of the vehicle and this suggests why the fine has been introduced.

Furthermore, flashing headlights as a sign of gratitude can also lead to a similar fine according to rule 110 of the highway code.The rationale presented is that the headlights should only be flashed as a warning to other drivers to highlight that your vehicle is there. It can be portrayed that these new features of the highway code are nonsensical and counterproductive.

The same new procedures also stretch to the use of hazard lights for anything other than informing drivers of a hazard or danger.

A recent study showed that 63 percent of motorists wave to thank other drivers, while 42 percent flash headlights, and 35 percent put their hazards on. It is clear that something as harmless as this small sign of thankfulness should not be the sole focus, and more emphasis should be placed on ensuring topical and actually productive changes occur. These changes could involve a focus on more pressing issues and ensure the reputation of the highway code is improved.

Rule 116 of the highway code states: These may be used when your vehicle is stationary, to warn that it is temporarily obstructing traffic. Never use them as an excuse for dangerous or illegal parking. You MUST NOT use hazard warning lights while driving or being towed unless you are on a motorway or unrestricted dual carriageway and you need to warn drivers behind you of a hazard or obstruction ahead. Only use them for long enough to ensure that your warning has been observed.

Rule 160 of the Highway Code states:drive or ride with both hands on the wheel or handlebars where possible. This will help you to remain in full control of the vehicle at all times. You may use driver assistance systems while you are driving. Make sure you use any system according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Being in breach of having proper control of their vehicle can land drivers with a £1,000 fine, discretionary disqualification, and three penalty points on their licence.

 

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June 30, 2022

 

 

Drivers who kill while using a mobile phone will now face life in prison under tough new laws that came into effect this week, maximum laws will be imposed on those who take a life while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Its always best to not drink any alcohol when you are going to be driving but the legal limit is:

Level of alcoholEngland, Wales and Northern IrelandScotland
Micrograms per 100 millilitres of breath3522
Milligrammes per 100 millilitres of blood8050
Milligrammes per 100 millilitres of urine10767

UK Drink driving statistics:

2020Total drink driving convictions28,171
2020Drivers admitting to driving when believing they were over the limit140,000
2020Road traffic accidents involving a drink driver4,640
2019People injured or killed in a road traffic accident involving a drunk driver7,800

 

Regarding using a mobile phone: The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act will be creating a new offence of causing serious injury by careless driving came into force on June 28, 2022. Judges have been given the power to impose maximum sentences to drivers who break the new laws.

The law still applies to you if you’re:

  • stopped at traffic lights
  • queuing in traffic
  • supervising a learner driver
  • driving a car that turns off the engine when you stop moving
  • holding and using a device that’s offline or in flight mode

You can use a device held in your hand if:

  • you need to call 999 or 112 in an emergency and it’s unsafe or impractical to stop
  • you’re safely parked
  • you’re making a contactless payment in a vehicle that is not moving, for example at a drive-through restaurant
  • you’re using the device to park your vehicle remotely

You can use devices with hands-free access, as long as you do not hold them at any time during usage. Hands-free access means using, for example:

  • a Bluetooth headset
  • voice command
  • a dashboard holder or mat
  • a windscreen mount
  • a built-in sat nav

The device must not block your view of the road and traffic ahead.

You can get 6 penalty points and a £200 fine if you hold and use a phone, sat nav, tablet, or any device that can send and receive data while driving or riding a motorcycle.

You’ll also lose your licence if you passed your driving test in the last 2 years.

You can get 3 penalty points if you do not have a full view of the road and traffic ahead or proper control of the vehicle.

You can also be taken to court where you can:

Rebecca from Britannia says:

” Driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs often ends in terrible accidents resulting in death, when you are out enjoying yourself and driving its always best to not have any alcohol and certainly no recreational drugs. Even some prescription medication is not advisable to drive whilst taking (always read the label and consult with your doctor if you are unsure). Using a device whilst driving can be equally as dangerous as it dramatically impairs your concentration lowering your ability to asses risks ”

 

 

 

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June 21, 2022
Driving safe during hot weather

Driving during the hot weather can be some what uncomfortable, especially with British summer the weather can be unpredictable and temperatures can soar up to the mid 30s during heatwaves. There are a few ways you can make it cooler for yourself whilst driving during hot weather spells such as:

  • Keeping clothing light and airy – To avoid overheating
  • Suitable footwear – Driving in flip flops the rule states you must have footwear and clothing which “does not prevent you using the controls in the correct manner”. If you’re in an accident and the police see that you have flip flops on, or no shoes at all, you may be found to be “driving without due care and attention”.
  • Taking a cold bottle of water with you – To help cool you down internally
  • Avoiding long journeys – To avoid becoming hot and tired
  • Using air con when available appose to opening windows – As air coming in from the windows will be hot
  • Using a heat shield when the car is not in use – To block the sun from heating up the car when not in use
  • Using a sun shade for kids – To help keep them cool and keep the direct sun off them
  • Using cooling sprays – To mist over yourself if you feel yourself becoming too hot
  • Wear sun glasses – To avoid becoming dazed particularly by the low morning and evening sun
  • Never leave pets or children in a hot car unattended
  • Apply sun cream before setting off on a long journey – The sun’s rays can penetrate the windows of your car
  • Choose cooler times to travel – Not between the hottest hours 12-3pm
  • Try and choose routes that may have less traffic – To reduce unnecessary time spent in your vehicle

Also you must remember to also keep your vehicle safe as well by making sure your car is well serviced,the hot weather basically exacerbates any faults already present in the vehicle. Keep your vehicle topped up with fluids, including screen wash and clearing those summer pests from the window screen. Keeping a bottle of water for your car could also be a valuable asset should you need it to cool your car down in extreme heat or long journeys. Also something to bare in mind after a heatwave is Highway Code rule 237 also states: ‘If it rains after a dry spell [the road surface] may become slippery. These conditions could affect your steering and braking’. After all this is the Great British Summer time and it can be quite lets say unpredictable .. So summer showers are to be expected so remember the roads will be more slippery than in typical wet conditions.

When the weather’s nice and warm, your car’s fuel levels drop a lot quicker than usual. This means you can’t rely on your normal estimations of how much time you have left before needing to fill up, so keeping your car fuel levels good insures you the security that you wont be left stranded somewhere you aren’t familiar with in the boiling heat.

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June 9, 2022
Driving Tests being sold in the UK for an astonishing £200!

 

 

 

Driving tests in the UK have reached an at all time high in cost, due to the DVSA backlog. An ever increasing number of hopefuls are being fear led into paying this astronomical price in the hope of being fast tracked into priority booking. This service is being provided by online operators taking advantage of the growing number of learner drivers willing to pay over double to try and book a test date before the end of the year.

According to a BBC investigation, companies are using automated computer software to monitor part of the DVSA system meant for driving schools, and grabbing test slots as soon as new dates are added or existing bookings are cancelled.

The DVSA announced last month that learners could be waiting until 2023 to get a test date booked in, which has only fueled more learners into seeking this alternative extortionately high price option. The DVSA have stated that the covid-19 pandemic is to blame for these long delays and shortage of test dates. The delays have a knock on effect with many hopeful drivers’ theory tests will either have expired or be close to the expiry date, adding extra costs due to many aspiring drivers will now have to re take there theory test which could have a domino effect on the theory test waiting time.

The DVSA state on there website :

“We are also exploring options temporarily to contract in experienced driving assessors to qualify as driving examiners.

The Royal Society of the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) have offered to support us as we explore the feasibility of this opportunity.

We’ll keep you up to date on this area of work as it develops.”

 

Learner drivers are being urged not to book with these operating services and to only book through the DVSA website, the prices for test are:

£62 for a week day

£75 for a weekend or bank holiday

Unofficial operators and resellers are taking advantage of hopefuls by charging the extortionate prices, some may even be scams so be warned to not take up these offers no matter how appealing they may seem at the time as they may only lead to further disappointment and ultimately could be a pricey mistake to make.

Rebecca at Britannia said:

“We are getting an increasing amount of calls daily from learner drivers who have managed to get a booking through these companies usually a cancellation that the unofficial operators have obtained, but we are unable to accommodate these last minute bookings, as they are usually unaware that an instructor needs to take me them out on a few lessons to check they are test ready and road safe before committing to taking them to test.”

On our website we have a range of different resources to help you with preparing for the theory test and driving test.

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May 19, 2022
Will the last person to pass a manual driving test be born in the next 5 years?

Predictions have been made that the last person who will pass a manual driving test will likely be born in 2027 as Britain makes the switch to electric cars. This comes after research showed half of the new cars sold in 2021 were automatics, totaling 30% of cars on the road. The number of automatic tests being taken rose to 41% in 2021. It looks as though the UK is heading towards the new age of automatic cars, which has been spurred on by the petrol and diesel new vehicles ban being implemented in 2030.

 

Currently manual cars account for a whooping 70% of the 3.7 million cars on Britain’s roads, but new research showed over half of new cars sold were automatic compared to only 20% a decade ago. Half of the 2.2 million people who learnt to drive in an automatic car are under 35, providing evidence that younger drivers are the main driving force towards a more eco-friendly drive.Young people are also making the biggest waves in the move away from manual petrol or diesel cars, as currently half of all electric vehicles on the road are owned by people aged under 35.

Power supply connect to electric vehicle for charge to the battery. Charging technology industry transport which are the futuristic of the Automobile. EV fuel Plug in hybrid car.

Ian Exworth, director of emerging markets at Direct Line, said:

‘The idea of switching from a manual car may be daunting, and nearly three fifths of motorists do not feel entirely confident about switching to automatic.

‘But with eight years to go until the ban comes into effect; we’d encourage motorists to keep an open mind and explore their options when choosing a new car.

‘The change from manual to automatic, and then on to electric, may not be as drastic as people think.’

 

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