Pass Plus
PASS PLUS
PASS PLUS
What is Pass Plus?
Once you have passed your Test you are safe to drive unaccompanied- but still with very limited experience.
Statistics show that new drivers are around 10 times more likely to be involved in an accident and, regrettably, two drivers under the age of 25 die every day in crashes in the UK.
Approx. 20% of new drivers will be involved in an accident during their first year of driving, which is why insurance is so expensive.
The Pass Plus scheme helps new drivers gain valuable experience to help develop existing skills, learn new skills and techniques, improve anticipation and awareness, learn how to reduce the risk of accidents and maintain a courteous and considerate attitude on the road.
How does Pass Plus work?
The course consists of 6 modules over a minimum of 6 hours, supposedly of 1 hour each. However, like most other instructors, I endeavour to merge different modules into sessions of 2 - 3 hours.
1) Introduction and Town Driving & 2) Extended Dual Carriageways
Most likely will drive to towns further away than normal and use appropriate sections of dual carriageway i.e. 5-15 miles and speeds up to 70mph. Will also expect pupils to identify and follow new routes with minimal guidance, thus promoting safer driving.
3) Out of Town Driving and Rural Roads & 4) Motorways
If possible close to 3 hours allows for using a few different sections of motorway(s) and exploring 'interesting', narrower country lanes combined with other major A roads. Quite a contrast to the motorway sections but again will highlight the risk of accidents if not concentrating or thinking about safer driving.
5) Night Driving
If done separately will be a 1 hour session (in summer might start after 9pm) and will try to include road with no street lighting. Speeds may need to be slower than in daylight. If between November & March this module can be merged with one or both of the above sessions.
6) All Weather Driving
Mostly theoretical because it is impossible to get the full range of rain, fog, high winds, snow and icy roads to happen within 1 hour, despite the British weather(!) and even less likely in the middle of summer. At the very least I provide a handout with all the information that can be retained and read when the weather changes - plus I also provide separate handouts about motorways and breakdowns.
How else is Pass Plus useful?
Apart from helping new drivers adopt a positive approach to safer driving and an appreciation of the risk of accidents, the other significant benefit may be the reduction in the cost of insurance premiums. Typically, the majority of insurance companies who endorse Pass Plus can offer a reduction of up to 35% (equivalent to one years no claim bonus), which can make the cost of Pass Plus very worthwhile.