Two driving instructors have hit the headlines recently by bringing new innovations to the market to help learner drivers better prepare for their tests. One, an app, helps illustrate different skills and techniques with 3D graphics.
The second innovation, showcased in the 2012 series of Dragons Den, aims to teach underage drivers the basic skills of operating a car before they take their first lesson on open roads.
A new dimension for driving
Driving in 3D, developed by Harrogate instructor Phil Hirst, provides an innovative app which illustrates 35 different skills. They include spotting dangers, using dual carriageways and reversing. An accompanying book, written together with another instructor, Richard Rawden, is also available.
The book provides an overview of the complete syllabus and goes into detail about how examiners conduct driving tests.
Both Phil and Richard have been providing lessons in their local areas for a number of years, with adequate driving instructor insurance. Both have stressed that the app and book are to be used in conjunction with professional lessons
Falling pass rates
Since the turn of the century, the Department of Transport reports that driving pass rates have been below 50 per cent. Analysts suggest that a lack of experience is the main factor.
Helping to address this issue, and create safer roads, Craig Ramshaw from Seaburn has created a school specifically providing lessons to those under the age of 17.
Though not successful in his bid on the popular BBC2 programme, the experienced driving instructor is happy with the success of his business so far.
What is most important for anyone looking to offer lessons to learner drivers is not necessarily innovation though.
Innovation, however, isn’t necessarily the most important thing to driving instructors. This, instead, lies in the ability to offer a professional service; protecting the customer, the instructor and other road users. As well as being ADI approved, having adequate ADI insurance is also vital.