System of Car Control

What is it?

Advanced driving centres on using a 'System of Car Control' which is a systematic way of approaching and negotiating hazards. Hazards are anything encountered when driving which may present a risk such as junctions, bends, other road users or even variations in road surface or weather conditions. Anything that causes you to change direction, position or speed is such a hazard. Using the System of Car Control when negotiating hazards ensures that you pass through the hazard in a controlled way, without leaving anything to chance.

As you gain experience in applying the System of Car Control you will find that your driving becomes smoother and much safer. You will start to look further ahead on the roads and notice more too! During your drives with an Observer from the Cambridge Group you will practice using the system and it will soon become second nature!

The System of Car Control consists of five phases that are considered in sequence on the approach to a hazard, but not all the phases may be applied; it will depend on the hazard and your 'driving plan'. The five phases of the system are:

1. Information

Giving and receiving information is one of the most important phases, and it is considered throughout the system. What can be seen both in front and behind you? Do you need to give signals to other road users?

The "Information" aspect overlays the whole process and should be applied throughout each phase

2. Position

Having seen the hazard ahead, which is the best way to negotiate it? Where is the safest position for your vehicle?

3. Speed

Once the correct position is obtained, the appropriate speed to negotiate the hazard is selected. Usually this is achieved by braking smoothly and progressively.

4. Gear

When the speed is correct, the required gear is selected. Note that this means that you reduce speed and then change gear. You do not normally brake and change gear at the same time, nor do you work your way down through the gearbox.

5. Acceleration

The correct degree of acceleration is used to leave the hazard safely.

This is just a brief outline of the System! For further information contact the group, or see some of the books below. Happy Motoring!

Further Reading

• 'Roadcraft. The Essential Police Driver's Handbook'
• 'How To Be An Advanced Driver' (You get this book when you join the Skills for Life programme)