ADI
34834
Steering
The correct grip on a steering wheel is to hold the wheel firmly, but not too tightly, with both hands so that you can move it ease and comfort. Gripping the wheel too tightly may cause jerky steering or over correction. The position for the hands on the wheel should correspond to ten minutes to two or quarter to three on a clock face. When turning the wheel you should feed the wheel through your hands in a smooth and controlled action, this is called Push-Pull steering. Your hands should not cross over each other as this could cause you to lose control of the car.
You should keep both hands on the wheel as much as possible. Only take your hand from the wheel to change gears, adjust lights, wipers or other controls. When turning the wheel you should always look in the direction in which you intend to turn. Check your mirrors and signal before turning.
When turning right move your right hand to the top of the wheel and pull it down to take the turn. When turning left move your left hand to the top of the wheel and pull it down to take the turn. This is called the 'push-pull' method
On your driving test you will be expected to hold the steering wheel at either the ten-to-two or quarter-to-three position, steer smoothly and in good time, do not cross your hands over one another when turning, remember the Push-Pull method, do not let the wheel spin back through your hands when straightening up and have maximum control of the steering wheel at all times.
Push-Pull steering takes a little practice to get used to but once mastered it is the safest and best way to control your car so it is worth taking the time to perfect to technique.
Gears
A skilled driver will instinctively know when
to change gears, but until you build up your experience you should follow the
rules below to help you in deciding which gear to use and when you should make
the change. The speeds given below are intended as a rough guide for a learner
driver during the early days of tuition.
The basic rules are
Always start in first gear
First gear is used for moving off,
second gear is used for building up speed.
When going up the gears remember
the following:
Change up from first to second at approximately 10-15 k.p.h.
Change from second to third at approximately 25-35 k.p.h.
Change from
third to fourth at approximately 40-50 k.p.h.
When you have built up
your speed to 40 k.p.h. in fourth gear and you wish to go down the gears
remember firstly to check your mirrors to make sure it is safe to proceed. You
should brake gently to allow the car to slow down slightly.
Going down the gears remember the following:
Change down from forth to third gear at approximately 30 k.p.h.
Check your mirrors and reapply the brake until you slow down to
approximately 15 k.p.h.
Change down from third into second
In second
gear and when slowing to a stop you should reduce speed by taking your foot off
the accelerator until the speed gets to the point where the car is about to
shudder. When you feel this happening press the clutch down to prevent the car
stalling
Press your brake (softly) until the car comes to a stop
Put the gear stick into neutral
Approved Driving Instructor registration Number ADI 34834