STEP 2: Moving Off Safely and Smoothly

THIS SECTION COVERS THE FOLLOWING​​
Using Your Mirrors: Always check your mirrors before moving off to ensure it's safe.
MSM Routine: Follow the Mirror-Signal-Manoeuvre routine to ensure safe driving.
Using the Gears and Brakes: Learn to use the gears and brakes smoothly to maintain control of the vehicle.​

How to put the car into gear, signalling and what blind spots to check before you disengage the handbrake, the clutch and start to accelerate an move out of you parking space​

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Moving Off Safely and Smoothly in South London Traffic

Mastering the art of moving off safely is crucial, especially in South London's busy streets.
Here's how to do it right:

ESSENTIAL SAFETY CHECKS
Before moving off:

• Use your mirrors to assess the traffic situation.
• Check your blind spots by looking over your shoulders:
  • Right shoulder when moving off from the left side of the road
  • Both shoulders when moving off from the right side

Remember: While modern vehicles may have sensors to detect approaching vehicles, these should never replace your own visual checks.

THE MSM ROUTINE
Always use the Mirrors – Signal – Manoeuvre (MSM) routine:
1. Mirrors: Check all mirrors to ensure it's safe to move.
2. Signal: Indicate your intention to move off if necessary.
3. Manoeuvre: Execute your move safely and smoothly.

DEALING WITH DIFFERENT TRANSMISSIONS
For Automatic Vehicles:

• Apply the footbrake before selecting 'Drive' or 'Reverse'.
• With the car in 'Drive', move off slowly after final safety checks.

For Manual Vehicles:

• Find the clutch's biting point – where the car begins to move as you release the clutch.
• Practice finding the biting point in new or differnet vehicles.
• Familiarise yourself with the parking brake release mechanism.

AVOIDING DRY STEERING
Never turn the steering wheel when the car is stationary. This 'dry steering' can damage tyres and wear out the steering mechanism.

TIPS FOR SOUTH LONDON
Be extra vigilant for cyclists and pedestrians, common in London's streets.

• Watch for bus lanes and taxis when moving off from the curb.
• In heavy traffic, be prepared to move off quickly but safely when gaps appear.

USING TECHNOLOGY WISELY
​While many cars have parking assistance and collision detection:

• Don't rely solely on these features.
• Always use your mirrors and visual checks.
• Stay as focused as you would without these technologies.

By mastering these techniques, you'll be well-prepared to handle the unique challenges of driving in South London's diverse road conditions.

For personalised instruction on moving off safely in South London traffic, contact us.

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NEXT SECTION: Stopping, Parking and Reversing

CLICK TO READ NEXT

• Slowing Down and Stopping: Apply brakes gradually to slow down and stop safely.
• Parking: Master different parking techniques, including parallel and bay parking.
• Reverse Parking: Practice reverse parking to ensure you can park in tight spaces.

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MOVING AWAY & STOPPING

Learn about:

• MSM and PSL
• Observation and blind spots
• Control and co-ordination
• On level and on gradient
• At angle and straight ahead

Underpinning knowledge
• Co-ordination of accelerator, clutch and footbrake
• Handbrake and steering
• Where and when to look and what to look for
• Suitable stopping places
• Signals when necessary

Driving School NEWS AND BLOG

Follow Driving Schools in South London latest news blog where we share helpful driving tips and advice.
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Practice Makes Perfect
New drivers are encouraged to practice frequently to build confidence and improve their skills. The DVSA recommends at least 22 hours of private practice before taking the driving test.
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Stay Calm and Focused
Anxiety can lead to mistakes during the driving test. New drivers are advised to practice techniques to manage nerves, such as deep breathing and staying composed at junctions and roundabouts.
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Highway Code Changes
An article detailing key updates to the Highway Code that took effect in 2022. It covers changes aimed at improving safety for vulnerable road users and how these updates may impact driving tests. 

Be Prepared for Traffic
​ It's important for new drivers to familiarise themselves with driving in heavy traffic, especially during rush hours. This includes learning to navigate busy intersections and roundabouts.
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Road Signs and Rules
Familiarity with the Highway Code and understanding road signs is crucial for safe driving and passing the driving test specifically the Theory test element of the driving test. See our traffic sign guide

Car Insurance for Learners
This article explains the importance of learner driver insurance and how it allows for practice with an accompanying driver. It provides insights into the benefits of such insurance and how it works.

Master Observation Techniques
New drivers should focus on observation skills, particularly when changing lanes or joining traffic. Proper observation is key to driving and can prevent major faults during the driving test.
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Utilise Mock Driving Tests
Conducting a mock driving test with an unfamiliar instructor can help new drivers pass their test by making them more comfortable and familiar with the driving test process.
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How To Master Roundabouts
This page looks at roundabouts and how to become a roundabout master. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about roundabout layouts and how to approach them

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These tips aim to equip new drivers with the necessary skills and confidence to navigate the roads safely and successfully. For more detailed information, you can explore the latest news and blog posts directly on the Driving Schools in South London website.