Hawkwell driving schools: Southend on Sea, Westcliff, Leigh, and surrounding areas.
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The following sections are all
written by Alan:
essentials
new pupil's page
best driving tips
driving test secrets
independent driving
driving on snow and ice
show me tell me
technique
general
control basics
safety drills
using the mirrors
left & right turns
one way streets
junctions
give way priority
giving warnings
zebra crossings
dual carriageways
roundabouts
mini-roundabouts
country lanes
overtaking parked cars
manoeuvres
general
reversing
parallel parking
bay parking
turn in the road
emergency stop
Hawkwell Driving School
Southend
Westcliff
Shoebury
Leigh
© 2011
Safety drill ; pre-start; and start-up:
Safety drill on entering the car :
- Handbrake - pull it up, to make sure the car is secure
- Seat position - clutch fully down with knee slightly bent
- Seat position - be able to reach the top of the steering wheel with
arms slightly bent. - Seatbelt - no twists, and lock securely
- Headrest (whiplash protectors are what they really are) up with the top
above your eye level. - Adjust mirrors (as described on basics page)
Before you start the engine:
- Footbrake pressed and held - to check that your brakes are working.
- Clutch down - to disconnect the engine in case it is in gear - some cars won't start unless you push the clutch down.
- Re-check handrake by lifting it, to ensure that its is on and working.
- gear lever into neutral - feel the spring to be sure (it can still wobble in gear)
Once the engine is started:
- Check fuel contents on fuel gauge
- Check that all dashboard warning lights are off.
- Check that windscreen demisters are set, and that you can see out OK.
- Check that radio, or CD, is set / off
- Check that you know how to work the lights and windscreen wipers, and switch them on if necessary.
If a warning light comes on when you are driving. Stop and check what it means. it's generally expensive.