advance autumn 2011

NThe official magazine of Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists and Motorcyclists

D E

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© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists

1 Who’s Who & What’s On - See what events are planned2 The Chairman’s comments - Thoughts from Graeme McColm3 Clean Licence? & Treasurers report on Group Accounts ¼ million motor-

ists are banned every year & how healthy are our finances?4 OSCR Accounts for year 2010/2011 Last years approved accounts.5 Motorcycle Chief Observer’s Diary - Find out a little of what’s going

on inside the chief’s helmet!6 Jamie Wood’s Trials Day - Clint Smith reports on this years motorcy-

cle trials day.7 Potholes give councils a bumpy ride - One third of drivers have had

their cars damaged by a pothole!11 The Secretary Reports - Helen reviews the Group year and records test

passes.12 Your tyres and the Law - How you can fall foul of tyre regulations13 Road casualties continue to reduce - national and local accident

statistics14 Passing cyclists - Information and advice on passing cyclists

15 Roads that Cars can Read - EuroRAP and Euro NCAP comment onnew vehicle technology

19 New study proves worth of supporting road safety charities -Findings from IAM report on the value road safety charities

20 Fewer pedestrians killed as drivers stop speeding IAM news re-lease

20 About the IAM - facts and figures about the IAM organisation21 Car use down as fuel prices rise - results of an IAMopiniion poll22 How to improve your MPG and cut carbon emissions: - IAM tips23 Sending the right signals - IAM driving tip from IAM Chief Examiner,

Peter Rodger23 Don’t let corners drive you round the bend - Peter Rodger explains

the advanced driving technique, IPSGA.24 Are we nearly there yet? How to deal with distracting kids - IAM

tips for dealing with children in cars25 Sun, sea, sand, and safe driving - Holiday driving tips26 Advertiser’s Wall - Summary of all those who have advertised in the

edition with links to their respective adverts.

ADVANCE Autumn 2011 Contents













































JOHN F. BLACKTel: 01387 267473

Servicing, Repairs, Welding,Recovery, MOT for cars,

motor-homes & commercials 6B Catherinefield Ind Est Heathhall Dumfries DG1 3PQ

http://www.buccleucharmshotel.com


Group Committee Members for 2010/11Group President: Tommy Jardine

To e-mail any member of the committee, please inthe first instance, use the group contact e-mail

address: ([email protected])

1

Chair,Chief Obs

Graeme McColm 01387 720425

Vice Chair Jamie Wood 01683 300347Secretary Helen Cameron 07707 035518Treasurer Russell Wears 01387 263893M/c Coordntr Phil Sayers 01848 331994News Dist. Christine Donaldson 01576 202805Events Stewart Cameron 01387 264005Committee Anne Lind

Andy CampbellNeil MartyniukMaureen HewittAndrew BirdSheena TraillElaine PatersonClint Smith

07727 91374207717 79810907725 94118007734 66252601387 25950001461 20468807870 82087607952 751433

What’s on? - check for details & late changes at (www.iamdumfries.org.uk)

5 September - Andrew Bird – “Potholes their causes and repairs”10 October - Graham Abrines – Report on his Charity Bike Ride and “Holiday”14 November - Robert McLennan - Operations Manager M74 from Border to J12Meetings: Aberdour Hotel, 16 Newall Terr. DG1 1LW, 7:30pm unless otherwise stated

This magazine was publishedby the Dumfries & Galloway

Group ofAdvanced Motorists &

Motorcyclists.For more details of our activities

see our web site at:

(www.iamdumfries.org.uk)

Contact theGroup Secretary:

([email protected])

Facebook: Dumfries & GallowayIAM (Motorcycles) Group

Magazine contributions to:([email protected])

Disclaimer: The views expressedin this magazine are those of thecontributors and not necessarilythose of the Editor, Group or theInstitute of Advanced Motorists, towhich the Group is affiliated. RegCharity No. SC 023511

On-line version of magazine - Ed

In the last edition we let you know that you would receive this edition via a linkto the on-line version. If you are reading the printed version it may be that we donot have a valid e-mail address for you or you opted out of the on-line version.In either case please let Christine Donaldson ([email protected])know your preferred e-mail address so that you continue to receive our magazineonce the printed version is phased out.

The printed version is being issued in parallel with the online version for thetime being, special provision will be made in future for those without e-mail.Regrettably the printed version will have to be phased out, at some point, toreduce costs and let the group concentrate its resources on other key activities.

© Dumfries & Galloway Group of Advanced Motorists & Motorcyclists2

The Chairman’s comments - Graeme McColm

Welcome to the Autumn edition of our Advance magazine.

It has been a mixed summer weather-wise but still plenty going on.

The group has just attended several local shows this year. Thanks to every-body who helped set up, man and dismantle the stand and also thanks to allbehind the scenes who make the arrangements to get these events up andrunning.

As always we require new associates on the car side of our activities and alsofor the motorcycle section in order to keep our group fully active. If you knowanybody who would benefit from a “Skills for Life “ course and help to makeour roads safer, then please put their names forward. Young persons, as wellas being safer, can often achieve a significant insurance discount after pass-ing the test, which effectively makes the course self financing.

The syllabus as usual will be available in the magazine and on our web site; ifpossible we aim to send out on a card which can be kept in your wallet/purseor popped up on your notice board. Hopefully this will encourage members toattend functions in the future.

May I take this opportunity to thank everybody for all their hard work over thelast year. Thanks to all the observers, who give their time free of charge andtheir understanding partners who allow them their freedom to help out. I’mgrateful to all those who give time, effort andexpertise organising the monthly events, deal-ing with the day to day administration, workingwith third parties, liasing with associates etc.The work of these members is appreciated - thegroup could not perform without your efforts.

Enjoy what’s left of the good weather and I hopeto see you all at the next event. Safe driving.

Scotspeed offer IAM Members 10% discount on many items at their Dumfries shop.This offer does not apply to sale items, special offers, workshop servicing or bikesales. See the advert inside the back cover for more information.

G A N G W A R I L Y



Group Accounts 2010/2011 - Russell Wears

The group accounts for the period 1 April 2010 to 31 march 2011 are repro-duced on the next page.

The group finished the financial year with a balance of £15,285. This is madeup of ring fenced money for Skill for Life free places for associates who are 25years old and under, Procurator Fiscal drive check referrals, asset purchasesand donations for a specific purpose. The group’s working capital is thus £6348.

The group’s core business excluding one off fund raising events shows adeficit of some £850 meaning the group is relying on such events – it needs toadopt a more secure footing by balancing its core income to its expenditure.This means more members being attracted to the IAM and the group, andretaining them.

Key highlights are:� Newsletter profit of £215� Membership fees income of £880� Race night event raised £513 net profit� Arla Foods kindly donated another £250� Crossflags kindly donated their third and last £650 for young

associate Skill for Life programmes� Dumfries and Galloway Road Safety Partnership granted

£2400 to pay for communication equipment for rider coaching� £4500 was paid out on stamps, stationery, fees, purchases

and expenses.

In summary, the group needs to look carefully at attracting new members, justify-ing expenditure items and fund raising activities to ensure an operating surplus.

3

Clean Licence?Did you know that on average 250,000 motorists are banned from drivingevery year? Also about 300 licences are revoked every week under the NewDrivers Act?

According to the DVLA there are about 44 million people holding drivinglicences which allow them to drive but almost 4 million of these people havepenalty points.

3.2 million people have 3 points, 600,000 have 6 points, 91,000 have 9 pointsand 7,200 have 12 points. Interestingly about 4,000 people have more than 12points but they have not been disqualified nor have their licences been revoked.In fact last year 13 licence holders, shown in this category, had between 30and 36 penalty points.

Enter SC No.belowSC023511

Section A Statement of receipts and paymentsUnrestricted

fundsRestricted

funds

Expendableendowment

funds

Permanentendowment

funds

Total fundscurrentperiod

Total fundslast period

to nearest £ to nearest £ to nearest £ to nearest £ to nearest £ to nearest £

A1 ReceiptsDonations 3,542 650 4,192 8,186Legacies - -Grants - -Receipts from fundraising activities 804 804 741Gross trading receipts 1,824 1,824 1,310Income from investments other thanland and buildings 5 5 5Rents from land & buildings - -Gross receipts from other charitableactivities 1,695 1,695 1,564

- -A1 Sub total 7,870 650 - - 8,520 11,806

A2 Receipts from asset & investmentsalesProceeds from sale of fixed assets - -Proceeds from sale of investments - -

A2 Sub total - - - - - -

Total receipts 7,870 650 - - 8,520 11,806

A3 PaymentsExpenses for fundraising activities - - 56Gross trading payments 855 855 591Investment management costs - -Payments relating directly to charitableactivities 4,648 1,346 5,994 5,902Grants and donations 39 39 69Governance costs: - - 55

Audit / independent examination - -Preparation of annual accounts - -

Legal costs - -Other - -

- -A3 Sub total 5,542 1,346 - - 6,888 6,673

errorA4 Payments relating to asset andinvestment movementsPurchases of fixed assets 122 122 68Purchase of investments - -

A4 Sub total 122 - - - 122 68

Total payments 5,664 1,346 - - 7,010 6,741

Net receipts / (payments) 2,206 (696) - - 1,510 5,065

A5 Transfers to / (from) funds - -

Surplus / (deficit) for year2,206 (696) - - 1,510 5,065

Period end date

to

Receipts and payments accounts

Enter charity name below

Dumfries and Galloway Group of Advanced Motoristsand Motorcyclists

For the periodfrom

Period start date

1 April 2010Day Month Year Day Month Year

31 Mar 2011


Motorcycle Chief Observer’s Diary - Graeme McColm

Well that’s another summer over and surprise,surprise the weather has been pretty mixed.

This year again we held a slow manoeuvrabilityevening, which took place at Bookers Cash & Car-ry, Dumfries. Can I take this opportunity to thankthem for allowing us the use of their car park. As aresult of the evening being a complete success wewill be looking to repeat the event fairly soon, sokeep an eye on your emails for details.

As usual on the first Sunday of the month we have continued to hold ourOrganised Motorcycle ride-outs. This year they have been organised and runby several different observers and I would like to thank them for all their effortand expertise. Remember the group ride-outs are open to all IAM motorcy-clists whether associate or full member.

Some associates have also decided to start weekly trips and have taken thison themselves by arranging to meet early on Sundays and going off for theday. Well done to everybody who has taken part.

Jamie Wood held a Trials and Barbecue day on his property up at Moffat. Theweather, although windy, managed to stay dry for most of the day andeverybody had a fantastic time. A donation for club funds was taken on theday but Jamie supplied the pork roast, rolls, coffee, tea and juice. Thanks fora great day Jamie. I’m looking forward to the next one.

We have had a number of passes over the summer but we now need morenew associates to sign up for our courses. If any reader knows of someonewho could benefit from attending a “skills for life” course (bike or car) pleasesuggest they get in touch or put their names forward so we can let them knowhow they could benefit from the course. If every member helped sign up justone person we could double the size of the motorcycle section, improveindividuals skills and make the roads in Dumfries & Galloway safer for all.

Please enjoy what’s left of the summer and fingers crossed we have a goodautumn.

Stay safe.

Finished reading? Please pass it onPersonal recommendations from members are an important way of recruiting newmembers, please pass on this magazine to anyone you think may be interested.


Jamie Wood’s Trials Day - Clint Smith

Arriving at Jamie’s place and parking the bike up by the house I was left withno doubt where to go from there. The aromas of Barbeque pork out in the fieldprovided a more accurate guide than any Garmin or TomTom.

A steamy cup of coffee, a warm welcome, a little bit of housekeeping and afew disclaimers later, we were all clambering on board these wee bikes thathave the ability to reduce 1200cc warriors into timid mice.

Concentration, furrowed brow’s, balance and a light hand soon started tocombine to the extent of tangibly witnessing the pleasure being enjoyed ateven the smallest accomplishments.

Liam Wood gave a few of us a personal mind boggling display of ridingcomfortably over the wet grass with his hand fully on the front brake while hisfront wheel was on full lock. The mind just will not compute.

Not to be outdone, Philip Jones proceeded to show us how to jump the logslike a pro and park Jamie’s bike upside down in one swift movement. Some-thing I have never seen before and don’t believe I will ever be able to masterin such style. He could win The Panache Award.

At this stage we were all scattered and doing our thing within nose distance ofthe pork until the ranks broke and the bravest started to tuck in. Bikes weredumped and two of the most memorable barbied pork butties were consumed.Tall stories, war stories, simple embellishments of the truth along with a gooddeal of humility and humour engendered the wonderful spirit of camaraderiethat exists within the motorcycle fraternity.

Anyone wanting to develop riding skillsin a very different way should do a dayor two of trials riding. You cannot helpbut feel absolutely useless at the startbut the moment the confidence startskicking in you will surprise yourself as towhat you are actually capable of achiev-ing. You will then be able to relate thoseskills which will make your everydayriding more enjoyable.

A fantastic day and a fantastic experi-ence for everyone who made it andlastly a very big Thank You to Jamie Wood for pulling this event together, youdid everyone proud – so you can count me in for the next one.

Good to go


Potholes give councils a bumpy rideOne third of drivers have had their cars damaged by a pothole, according tothe IAM. A further 16 per cent have been involved in, or have seen an accidentcaused by a road user hitting a pothole. Of 2600 polled respondents, 88 percent voted pothole repair the top priority for local council maintenance.

Only 14 per cent of people think that their council’s current performancemaintaining local roads is good or very good, with more than half rating it asbad or very bad. When asked what areas of road maintenance were beingdone well, 50 per cent responded ‘none’, and half also think that the roads intheir area are getting worse.

Overall, Welsh respondents are the happiest with council road maintenance,with 27 per cent rating performance as good. Respondents from the SouthEast are the least happy with local road maintenance, with only ten per centrating it as good, although Londoners were an exception to this – 18 per centrated their council as good. Many comments suggested that local governmentspending cuts are the cause of these problems – respondents weren’t justnegative about the authorities them-selves.

Keeping foliage and grass cut back topreserve visibility, and annual surfacedressing of worn out roads, were thesecond and third most important mainte-nance factors, at 64 and 58 per cent re-spectively.

7

Phil still the right way up! Jumping logs looks kinda easy!Trevor ready for the off

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We advocate using the ‘Planned System of Driving or Riding’. Just because you don’tuse our System doesn’t necessarily make you an unsafe driver or rider.

What our method gives you is a means of driving or riding in a consistently safe andsystematic way which leaves nothing to chance. Our method will not help you drive orride through a hazard, say a bend, at the fastest possible physical speed but whenperfected it should help you progress through it at the fastest speed consistentwith maintaining stability and maximising safety ..... it really is a ‘skill for life’.

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The Secretary Reports - Helen Cameron

We start the 2011/2012 programme with a new home venue, the AberdourHotel, Newall Terrace, Dumfries.

Over the summer we have participated in a few events with attendance at theDumfries, Lockerbie and Moffat shows. This raises the profile of our localgroup as well as the IAM nationally. As usual we have a few volunteers whocome along but it would be great if more members could give a couple of hoursto help in our promotion events. Any future events planned will be on the website or a reminder via email will be sent.

Since the last magazine we have had several passes for both car andmotorcycles, congratulations to: David Wardrope (Obs: David Booth), CaroleReed (Obs: Peter Dodds), Geoffrey Neat (Obs: Stewart Cameron), BryonyWatson (Obs: Sheena Traill), Richard Smith (Obs: David Booth), Ian Waude(Obs: Peter Dodds). Congratulations also go to Susan Peat, Philip Rodgers,Dawn Carson, Keiran McIvor, Jacqueline Card, Campbell McWilliams whowere observed by the Motorcycle Team. Certificates will be presented, tothose who have not yet received them, at the first meeting on 5 September.

All our observers workvery hard to help othersachieve their IAM certifi-cate and we now have 2new trainee car observ-ers: Russell Wears andChristopher McWhinnie.

If you are an IAM mem-ber and would like tokeep up your skills bybeing an active observ-er then get in touch witha committee member.

Free access to the Rules of the Road!Concerned that you might not have a good knowledge of the latest HighwayCode? Don’t want to spend money buying the latest edition? Did you know itis available to view on line, or in the case of Know Your Traffic Signs you candownload it free of charge?

You can find the Highway Code at http://direct.gov.uk/highwaycode.

Or Know Your Traffic Signs at http://direct.gov.uk/trafficsigns

Group President, Tommy Jardine presentedpass certificates at the AGM (May 2011)


Your tyres and the LawChecking your tyres regularly is all too easily forgotten on a modern vehicle.Tyres in good condition, inflated to the right pressure, and wearing evenly willhelp you maintain good traction and also help you minimise your fuel con-sumption. Signs of uneven wear, if spotted early, may enable you to deal witha problem before it gets too costly but ignoring your tyres can cost you dearly,in the pocket, both through the need to replace tyres early and may be throughthe costs of dealing with penalties which will result from illegal tyres. Not onlymight you get fined but points on your licence can increase insurance premi-ums or even prevent payment of an insurance claim.

There are various regulations relating the choice and use of passenger cartyres in the UK and you should be aware of the following:

Tyre load index and speed ratings: Tyres fitted to a vehicle must be capableof supporting the maximum permitted load on each axle - and at the vehicle'smaximum speed.

To keep within the law you must always fit tyres that have a speed capabilityand load index at least equal to or higher than those originally specified by thevehicle manufacturer.

Tyre structure: There are three types of tyre structure; diagonal ply (Crossply), bias-belted and radial. Cross ply tyres are very rare now having beenreplaced by radial ply tyres. No vehicle shall be fitted with tyres of differingstructure on the same axle.

Condition and maintenance of tyres: A tyre should not be used on the roadwhen it is not suitable for the use to which the vehicle is being put. Neithershould it be used if in poor condition - this could include a tyre significantlyunder or over pressure, one with cuts, bulges or other tyre damage.

The Law does allow the use of run flat tyres, when deflated provided the tyreand wheel are so constructed to be fit for the use to which the vehicle is beingput and it is being driven within the specified maximum speed when in such acondition. It also allows the use of a temporary spare tyre on a car provided itis not driven at a speed exceeding 50 mph.

The Law also specifies that the grooves of the tread pattern of every tyre fittedto cars and light vans shall be of a depth of at least 1.6 mm throughout acontinuous band comprising the central three quarters of the breadth of treadround the entire circumference of the tyre.

Drivers with tyres that fail to comply with the above regulations face a fine ofup to £2,500 and three penalty points for each and every illegal tyre.


Road casualties continue to reduceThe number of people killed in road accidents reported to the police (in GreatBritain) fell by 16 per cent from 2,222 in 2009 to 1,857 in 2010. This is thelowest recorded figure since national records began in 1926.

A total of 24,517 people were reported killed or seriously injured in 2010, 9 percent less than in 2009.

There were 208,655 casualties (slight injuries, serious injuries and fatalities)in road accidents reported to the police in Great Britain in 2010, 6 per cent lessthan in 2009.

Motor vehicle traffic levels fell by 2 per cent compared to 2009. The overallcasualty rate for accidents reported to the police per billion vehicle milestherefore fell to 677 per billion vehicle miles, compared to 709 casualties perbillion vehicle miles in 2009.

There is no single identified reason for the reduction in casualties however a20% reduction in deaths of car occupants must be, at least, partly attributableto improved car design. The statistics no doubt also demonstrate the impor-tance of increased road user education including the value of improved driverand rider ‘on-the-road’ skills with which our charity is actively involved.

The largest number of accidents (of all types) occur in 30 mph built up zoneswhich also account for around 30% of all deaths on our roads. Although thereis about a 20% greater chance of suffering a fatal accident on non built uproads where a 60 mph limit applies.

Statistics for Dumfries & Galloway also showed improving figures:

Sources: DfT, The Scottish Government

Year Killed Killed or seri-ously injured

All casualties

2009 10 130 5332010 5 72 459

Group Members and Associates can get a free basic car wash, or two jet washtokens when you fill up. Just show your membership card, or for Associates your IAMconfirmation letter. Let the staff know you would like the free bike/car wash beforeyou pay for your fuel. This offer may be withdrawn at any time.


Passing cyclistsAs a cyclist you often feel very vulnerable when being overtaken. As a driverjust how much room should you leave between the cyclist and your vehicle?

Reference to the Highway Code should be the first port of call although in thecase of overtaking cyclists there is a degree of ambiguity as the words of Rule163 say that you should leave as muchroom as you would when overtaking acar. The driver of the Suzuki overtakingon the Kinmount straight (see adjacentphoto) may have a different take on howmuch room to leave when overtaking!

The full wording of Rule 163 is:‘Overtake only when it is safe and legalto do so. You should - give motorcyclists, cyclists and horse riders at least asmuch room as you would when overtaking a car’.

Rule 212 also sets out further information on the subject: ‘When passingmotorcyclists and cyclists, give them plenty of room. If they look over theirshoulder it could mean that they intend to pull out, turn right or changedirection. Give them time and space to do so’

So if you are looking for a definitive distance to leave between your vehicleand a cyclist you won’t find it in the Highway Code. Although the photographincluded in the current edition of the Highway Code (shown here) gives a goodclue as to how to interpret the intentionof Rule 163.

It may not help that those of you whohave driven in France might have seensigns reminding drivers that the Law isto pass cyclists leaving a gap of 1.5 m inrural areas and 1 m in towns. Similarrules apply in some other EU countriesas well as some US states, e.g. the Rule 163 includes this photo

O B S E R V E R’ S C O R N E R

This section is intended to help when considering the best course ofaction. It is up to every driver to actively assess each scenario.


Roads that Cars can ReadEuroRAP and Euro NCAP have joined forces to call on the motor industry andthe highways sector to work together to ensure that new vehicle technologiesnow available in the showroom reach their potential of saving thousands of lives.

They have issued a consultation document ‘Roads that Cars can Read’,where they raise the issue of poor road signs and markings which could be ahurdle in reaping the benefits of new in-car safety technology. Increasinglycameras and sensors on new vehicles are used to read the road ahead andhelp the vehicle react early if drivers are heading into danger. Though,obscured signs or faded road markings are hard to read whether using thenaked eye or an in-car camera.

‘Roads that Cars can Read’ recommends that the roads and motor industriesshould learn to work on new designs together by focusing on helping driverswith two early technologies now offered in newcars, "Lane Support" and "Speed Alert".

Lane Support reads lane markings to work outthe position of the vehicle within the lane andsteers drifting vehicles back on path, a commonorigin of crashes. "Speed Alert" allows driversto choose warnings when exceeding postedroadside speed limits.

The Secretary of the Euro NCAP says: "theroadsides of Europe are littered with flowersand shrines. More than a quarter of road Lane Support

California Driver’s Handbook states that a minimum of 3 feet of space shouldbe allowed when overtaking cyclists.

The IAM has some advice for car drivers regarding overtaking cyclists whichis included within some of the points listed below:

� Don’t cut up a cyclist passing on the nearside when turning left.� Never overtake then turn left across their front wheel.� Overtake gently. Passing a cyclist quickly might feel safe to you, but

it doesn’t to the cyclist.� Leave cyclists enough room when you pass them – they’ll often have

to move out to negotiate drains and potholes.� Check for bikes before opening the driver’s door when you’ve

parked.� Check mirrors both sides as you emerge from a junction, cyclists

could be coming up on you from either side.


deaths involve running off the road. 'Lane Support' gives the driver a warningthat's as physical as hitting a rumble strip on the road. It is estimated morethan 2,000 European deaths annually can be prevented with this technology.

"The consequences of missing a change of speed limit have become moreserious as more nations have adopted a points sys-tem and enforce limits rigorously. The 'Speed Alert'system protects the drivers from missing a speedsign, not least when limits chop and change."

‘Roads that Cars can Read’ recommends that boththe roads and motor industries this decade shouldtarget improved signing and marking on the ten percent of Europe's roads where the majority of traveland the majority of deaths are concentrated involvinghigher speed crashes.

"The majority of European deaths are on national roads and busy regionalroads outside towns. The single carriageways are Europe's killing fields. Weshould focus this decade on ensuring the quality of the signing and markingon these busy open roads whether or not the technology needs it," said JohnDawson, Chairman of Eu-roRAP.

Sources: www.eurorap.org;www.euroncap.com

You can find details ofelectronic vehicle sys-tems, including the othersshown here by browsingthe EuroNCAP web site -www.euroncap.com

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New study proves worth of supporting road safety charitiesInvesting in the work of road safety charities pays high dividends, according toa new report by accountants Baker Tilly. Their study on the social return oninvestment of road safety charity the IAM reveals that for every £1 invested inits work, the IAM returns £21 to society. A summary of the report is availablein this month’s copy of the IAM member magazine Advanced Driving.

The study has enabled the IAM to understand the social and economic valueof its contribution to society — estimated to be £128 million every year. Thefigure was calculated by examining the effects of the IAM’s work in reducingthe number and severity of road traffic accidents — plus a reduction in thecosts of motoring.

The benefit to society of people taking the IAM advanced driving and ridingprogrammes is £39 million.

The fatality rate in crashes for advanced drivers is 0.9 per cent compared to1.1 per cent for the wider motoring population. The serious injury rate is 10.75per cent compared to 11.5 per cent for the wider population. The savingsattributed to reducing the number and severity of accidents for IAM advanceddrivers and riders is £37.5 million.

Advanced drivers and motorcyclists also achieve greater savings in motoringcosts because advanced driving techniques reduce vehicle wear and fuelconsumption. Many IAM members also benefit from cheaper insurance.

By training those who drive as part of their work, the IAM’s corporate drivertraining company, IAM Drive & Survive, makes an economic contribution of anestimated £35 million. This is the outcome of training and assessing nearly 20,000professional drivers. Training includes risk assessments, e-learning and on roadtraining. Corporate training typically raises drivers’ skills above those of theaverage motorist — but not to the same level as the advanced test.

Finally, by campaigning and by directly influencing the government and otherdecision makers on road safety issues, the IAM’s policy, research and commu-nications services provide an estimated £54 million in savings to the economy.

IAM chief executive Simon Best said: “This report demonstrates how independentcharities contribute to society. Contributing £128 million to road safety is some-thing to be proud of, especially as so much of our work is carried out by volunteers.”

“And we never forget the side of our work that cannot be measured financially:the reduction in anguish for families and friends of loved ones who suffer inaccidents because of better standards of road safety.”

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Fewer pedestrians killed as drivers stop speedingLatest road safety figures from the DfT show that compliance with 30mphurban speed limits continues to improve while pedestrian fatality levels arefalling.

In 1998, 69 per cent of cars were driven faster than the limit in 30mph zonesin free-flow conditions – by 2010 this had dropped to 46 per cent. Thoseexceeding 40 mph in a 30mph limit has halved since 2003, now down to 16per cent. At the same time, traffic levels are declining on all types of road – atrend observed from 2006 onwards.

Pedestrian fatalities have also reduced significantly, down 40 per cent since2005 from 671 to 405. Ninety-six per cent of pedestrian accidents happen onurban roads.

Reducing traffic speeds and risk in towns has been high on the road safetyagenda, but rural roads, on which drivers are still most likely to be killed, nowrequire even greater priority to reduce casualties further.

IAM director of policy and research Neil Greig said: “The good news is thatdrivers are not driving faster on the less crowded roads – and more peopleare sticking to the limit in urban areas where there are many hazards. Acombination of consistent road safety messages, new road layouts and policeenforcement appears to be paying road safety dividends for city people.

“However despite this positive effect in urban areas, road safety on ruralroads, where the majority of serious accidents and fatalities occur, needsmuch more attention. In the UK, between two-thirds and three-quarters offatalities occur on rural roads, yet driving on rural roads still isn’t a mandatorypart of the basic driving test. Most young drivers get plenty of exposure tourban hazards but often their first experience of a rural road comes after thetest when they are on their own. This is unacceptable.”

About the IAM1. The IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) directly influences the driving andriding of around 100,000 full members in the UK and Ireland. Established in1956, the IAM is today best known for the advanced driving test and theadvanced driving course, which is available to car, motorcycle and commer-cial licence holders. The IAM has grown to become the UK’s largest indepen-dent road safety charity, dedicated to raising driving standards, engaging withthe road-using public and influencing road safety policy. The commercialdivision of the IAM operates through its occupational driver training companyIAM Drive & Survive.

http://www.iam.org.uk


2. The IAM is supported by over 200 affiliated volunteer groups around thecountry, that help to provide valuable advanced driver and rider coaching inpreparation for the Advanced Test. They also provide a strong local voice topromote road safety.

3. A 2010 report from Nottingham University found that IAM trained motorcy-clists adopted safer road positions, but still maintained faster progress throughbends than non-IAM trained riders.

4. A 2006 report by Brunel University, following an 18-month study, concludedthat “advanced driver training produces safer drivers and lower accidentinvolvement”, with measurable improvements in knowledge, skills and attitude.

5. The IAM now embrace cyclists and has a cycling membership categoryalongside those of motorists and motorcyclists. In 2010, the IAM introduced acycle training programme including a new guide “How to be a Better Cyclist”.

Car use down as fuel prices rise

Eighty per cent of drivers have changed their driving behaviour to save fuel,according to the IAM’s latest opinion poll. Of the 2,500 people polled, half saidthey had changed to a more eco-friendly driving style.

Other changes in behaviour include:

· Making fewer journeys (38.10%).

· Walking shorter journeys they previously would have driven (34.54%).

· Using public transport more (21.48%).

· Cycling shorter journeys they would previously have driven (19.19%).

· Buying a more fuel-efficient car (18.08%).

Drivers are not keen to give up their cars completely – 74 per cent wereagainst this idea – but more than half said they stick to the speed limit to keepfuel consumption down, and more than 70 per cent check their tyres regularly.Turning off the air-con and emptying the car of unnecessary clutter were alsopopular methods.

IAM director of policy and research Neil Greig said: “The days of cruising themotorway at eighty, regardless of the cost, are over. With rocketing fuel pricesit is clear that drivers are changing their behaviour, which is good for their


22

health and the environment. You don’t need a new car to become a greenerdriver. You just need to change your driving style.

“For millions of motorists driving is a necessity, not a luxury. Rural driversespecially need their cars for work, socialising and family life. If drivers canreduce their car usage that’s great, but for those who can’t, driving as econom-ically as possible is the answer.”

How to improve your MPG and cut carbon emissions:

· Keep your vehicle moving rather than stopping and starting. Look furtherahead and slow down earlier to avoid stopping. Driving at a constant speed isfar more fuel efficient than heavy accelerating and braking.

· Check your tyres. Under-inflated tyres have a big impact on fuel economy.

· Put your car on a diet. Remove unnecessary weight, including roof racks,car clutter and heavy items in the boot.

· Try to avoid using air conditioning and climate control at low speeds asthey increase fuel consumption. Open a window. But at high speeds, closeyour windows to maintain the aerodynamics of the car. Use air-con to get thecar to a comfortable temperature, and then turn it off to save fuel.

· Clean screens rarely mist up - so you’ll use the heater and air-conditioning less.

· Try changing up your gears earlier; for petrol engines at 2,500 rpm (revsper minute), and diesel engines 2,000 rpm

· Reverse into parking bays: manoeuvring with a cold engine uses morefuel, so make the most of having a hot engine.

· It will take most cars at least a couple of miles to warm up and runefficiently. Could you walk or cycle?

· Drive at an even pace over speed humps. Slowing down and speedingup drinks more fuel.

· Stick to the speed limit.


Sending the right signals - IAM driving tip

IAM chief examiner Peter Rodger gives advice on how to use your indicators:

Always give clear signals when they are required. Not signalling when youneed to – approaching a junction or changing lane – is annoying at best andat worst dangerous.

Signal early. There is no point indicating as you make the manoeuvre. This isa particular problem with changing lanes on motorways where late signals area major threat to motorcyclists who might be taking advantage of their size topass a queue of traffic.

Don’t give signals if nobody else is around to see them. This encourages youto check properly if anybody is there.

Give signals to pedestrians. There might be no traffic around, but if you’replanning to turn and there are pedestrians on the pavement, they need toknow your intentions.

Check your lights regularly to make sure they are all working. You can’t giveclear signals if you have a dead bulb, and driving with one is illegal, so test allyour lights at least weekly.Never underestimate the power of body language. Other drivers won’t alwaysgive appropriate signals, but you can tell a lot by their positioning and speed.If they start to slow down for no apparent reason, the chances are they areabout to do something.

Rodger said: “Giving signals is a way of talking to other road users so they canplan their actions. Make sure these signals are clear, timely and necessary, togive other people as much notice as possible when you plan to change speedor direction.”

23

Don’t let corners drive you round the bendPeter Rodger explains an advanced driving technique, IPSGA, which coversdriving as smoothly as possible through bends:

� Information. What’s going on around you? Check your mirrors to workout the movements of other road users and signal before changingcourse. If there is a lot of traffic or someone is following close behind,do this as early as possible.

� Position. After confirming it’s safe, take the best position for dealingwith the bend. On a left-hand bend move closer to the centre line and


on a right-hand bend closer to the kerb. This will improve your viewaround the corner.

� Speed. Adjust your speed to prepare for the corner.

� Gears. Once you’re at the right speed, select the right gear. Adjustyour speed early so that you have time to separate changing speedfrom changing gear.

� Accelerate. Once you can see through the bend, accelerate smoothlyif it is safe, bearing in mind the road conditions. Gently acceleratingthrough a corner balances the car.

Rodger said: “Bends catch a lot of people out, and are especially prevalent onrural roads – the worst for accidents. But by following the straightforwardIPSGA routine, you’ll get through corners safely, comfortably and more quick-ly.”

Are we nearly there yet? How to deal with distracting kidsKids can be noisy, disruptive and distracting, especially if they get bored. IAMchief examiner Peter Rodger offers advice to motorists on keeping theiryounger passengers occupied, and their own attention on the road.

� Always leave a gap of at least two seconds between you and the carin front. Following too close cuts the time you’ll have to react shouldsomething happen. You’ll be more able to spot hazards and keep yourkids safe.

� Keep them occupied by inventing games that promote and rewardquiet behaviour without needing the driver’s direct involvement.

� Portable games consoles or in-car DVD players will keep kids occu-pied for hours. But add some headphones – the soundtrack on themonitors can be just as distracting as the kids.

� If you are planning a long journey, make sure you’re organised,remembering to pack plenty of food and drink.

� Allow extra stops. Find somewhere for them to let off steam such asa playground.

� Have a plastic bag (without any holes) at hand for travel sickness.

� A second adult to look after the children makes a massive difference,leaving the driver to drive.


Sun, sea, sand, and safe driving

� Driving abroad this summer? This week IAM chief examiner PeterRodger advises drivers on the major pitfalls of driving on the continent.

� Get used to driving on the right when you arrive by using the motor-way, where signs and traffic flow will help you take the right position.

� Overtaking will be more difficult in a right-hand-drive car as your viewwill be blocked. Pull back from the vehicle in front to improve your fieldof vision.

� In some European countries drivers approaching from the right havepriority. A yellow diamond sign shows that you are on a road whichhas right of way over roads joining it. You’ll see them on many mainEuropean roads. If the yellow diamond sign is crossed out, you nolonger have right of way, so be cautious.

� European countries have lower drink drive limits – in France, Spainand Italy the limit is 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood, compared to80mg in the UK. It’s easier not to drink. If you do drink, remember youmight still be over the limit the next morning.

� Many countries on the continent require you to carry equipment suchas warning triangles, reflective jackets and spare bulbs. Check theregulations before you travel and make sure you have the right kit.

� Slap on the sun cream. The breeze from an open window or theair-con makes it hard to tell if you’re burning.

Rodger said: “Whether you’re hiring a car, or driving to your destination is partof the holiday, do your homework before you go for a safe and enjoyablejourney.”

26

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