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W ELCOME S P R ING 2 0 2 5 HOW TO GET IN TOUCH IAM RoadSmart 1 Albany Place, Hyde Way, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire AL7 3BT Phone: 0300 303 1134 Email: roadsmart@iam.org.uk Web: www.iamroadsmart.com Patron HRH Prince Edward, Duke of Kent President Nigel Mansell Chief Executive Officer Antony Kildare Marketing, Communications and Membership Director Kat Hyde Head of Membership Karolina Brzeska Council of Trustees Shona Johnstone (Chair), Nick Stein (Vice Chair), Nick Lomas, Sarah Whiteside-Jones, Victoria Milford, Tom Kelman, Angela Bell, Mark Armitage, Rupert Newman, Mark Powell Registration England & Wales 562530 Registered Charity Number 249002 (England & Wales), SCO41201 (Scotland) PUBLISHED BY Our Media www.ourmedia.co.uk Editor Matt Rigby Art Editor Robin Coomber Production Editor Sarah Newman Senior Account Manager Katy Hewett Account Executive Leah Goldring TO ADVERTISE Director of Commercial Partner Engagement & Growth Jamie Bolton (0117 300 8518; jamie.bolton@ourmedia.co.uk) Senior Sales Executive Kirsty Hibbert (0117 300 8101; kirsty.hibbert@ourmedia.co.uk)

Our Media Limited is working to ensure that all of its paper comes from well-managed, FSC®-certified forests and other controlled sources. This magazine is printed on Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®)-certified paper. This magazine can be recycled for use in newspapers and packaging. Please remove any wrapping and dispose of it at your local collection point.

Change is in the air at IAM RoadSmart.

As you’ll see from our news story on page 64, we’re busy developing a brand-new website, designed to continue delivering everything you expect from us, but in a more approachable, smoothly run package.

And we’re planning to use our new platform to make what we do accessible to more people and new audiences – as well as easier for you to use every day.

One big step on that front is our move to digital member packs.

Now, going paperless offers an important environmental saving, but it also saves postal delays – giving you instant access to all your key membership documents, which are also stored securely online in one place.

Another change to the way we’re doing things includes our big fundraising push.

You can read all about the success of our first digital campaign – The Youth Empowerment Campaign – on page 11, and we hope you’ll join us on our journey to raise funds to campaign for multiple road safety issues.

We’re also welcoming a new Chair to the IAM RoadSmart fold: Shona Johnstone. You can read more about her appointment on page 8.

Rest assured, though – while much is changing, IAM RoadSmart remains committed to the cause of Advanced riding and driving, and to making better riders and drivers. And this magazine, too, is committed to continuing to bring you the sort of content that will both inform and entertain. Which is why in this issue we debate just how much effect a reduction in the drink-drive limit might have on deaths and serious injuries (page 20) and investigate the psychology behind Advanced (and not-so-advanced) driving and riding (page 41).

“WE’RE BUSY DEVELOPING A BRAND-NEW WEBSITE THAT’LL STILL DELIVER WHAT YOU EXPECT FROM US, BUT WILL ALSO MAKE WHAT WE DO REACH A DIVERSE AUDIENCE”

Antony Kildare Chief Executive, IAM RoadSmart

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CON T EN T S IN TA K E

ON T HE R O A D

07 NEWS Updates from around the home nations, plus news on our fundraising goals – and our new Chair

25 THE ROAD TO ADVENTURE If you have an outdoor activity planned, make getting there as enjoyable as the end destination with our scenic routes

13 TRANSPORT MINISTER INTERVIEW Advanced driver and rider Liam Kerr MSP is keen to advocate for learning road skills at a young age

15

15 INNOVATIONS New road designs that prioritise pedestrians and cyclists over vehicles are appearing in the UK, with mixed results

41

17 THE SCIENCE OF ALCOHOL INFLUENCE What goes on in the brain if we have a drink, and what are the outcomes if we then get behind the wheel?

20 THE GREAT DEBATE Is lowering the bloodalcohol limit the best place to start in reducing alcohol-related incidents?

F E AT UR E S 41 MIND OUT ON THE ROAD Your state of mind is vital to your success as an Advanced rider or driver.

We find out how and why by taking a look at the psychology of driving 50 ON-THE-JOB TRAINING IAM RoadSmart’s business arm reaches beyond those already passionate about road safety to engage drivers who need support

25

33 RICHARD GLADMAN What can be learnt from the poor behaviour I’ve seen on the road, reveals our Chief Examiner 37 SKILLS REFRESHER: LOOKING AHEAD Observation and planning are the basis of a safe and smooth journey

53

38 ASK THE EXPERTS Our team tackle all your road-based conundrums

IN S IDE R 53 GALLERY We celebrate our hardworking volunteers’ dedication to Advanced driving and riding at the 2024 IAM RoadSmart awards 57 ANTONY KILDARE Engaging the public with the spirit of Advanced motoring is our calling, says our CEO 58 LETTERS Members have their say 60 MEMBER PROFILE Without knowing it, Chris Rowell inspired son Jamie to follow him in the role of National Observer 64 IAM ROADSMART NEWS All the latest from the organisation, including news on our new digital Member Packs

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INTAKE News and views from the world of road safety

THE

Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coastal Route spans 115 miles, running between Belfast and Derry-Londonderry

SCIENCE

OF

TAKING RISKS We’re committed to working across the nations Plus: Liam Kerr, MSP and motoring fanatic, talks to us about his interest in young driver safety on p13 / SPRING 2025 / 7

IN TA K E

“I’m delighted to join IAM RoadSmart to play my part in continuing its mission to spread the road safety message, and to further the cause of Advanced driver and rider education” SHONA JOHNSTONE, OUR NEW CHAIR SHONA JOHNSTONE joins us as the new Chair of IAM RoadSmart this issue, and we’d like to warmly welcome her on board. She’s a highly experienced transport policy professional, and with a long and distinguished track record in the charitable sector.

Shona has worked extensively in the areas of road safety and sustainable transport. She was a county councillor in Cambridgeshire for many years, responsible for transport in the county.

This included the development of the Cambridgeshire Guided Busway, which contributed to the county twice being named National Transport Authority of the Year.

Shona has also been Vice Chair for the Local Government Authority Economy and Transport Board, and sat on the Commission for Integrated Transport as well as the National Cycling Strategy Board.

She’s also been a regular speaker at conferences and on broadcast media, including BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, BBC News and Sky TV. Shona says: “I’m delighted to be joining IAM RoadSmart to play my part in continuing its mission to spread the road safety message, and to further the cause of Advanced driver and rider education.”

THANK YOU AND FAREWELL TO STUART OF COURSE, with the arrival of a new Chair, we must say farewell to another – Stuart Donald QPM. Stuart has been a tireless and stalwart member of IAM RoadSmart for 34 years and joined Council as a trustee in 2020, becoming Chair in 2021.

Stuart has volunteered his time to be a force for good, helping to transform and modernise the charity as well as supporting

and offering guidance to the senior team and leading the Board of Trustees.

Last year, Stuart decided that he would retire as a trustee, and as a result work has been under way to find a suitable replacement, to oversee the charity and maintain governance.

We thank him for his service and wish him the very best in his future endeavours.

Read more road-safety news at www.iamroadsmart.com or follow us on our social channels:

8/

/ SPRING 2025

@IAMRoadSmart

IAMRoadSmart

IN TA K E N E WS

Nations round-up CALENDAR 13–15 MAY Future of the Car Summit, Sancroft at St. Paul’s, London

WITH IAM ROADSMART’S work spanning all four of the UK’s home nations – and some of our lobbying work directed at the government in Westminster – we feel it’s important that we’re also focused on and committed to working specifically with the devolved governments beyond England…

We’ve welcomed Stewart Mackie (left), our Road Safety Manager, who will be working closely with key stakeholders including Police Scotland and Transport Scotland, while Tony Green is working with us as an Area Service Delivery Manager. We’ve responded to the Scottish government’s consultation on speed limits, listening to our members by opposing the imposition of blanket speed-limit reductions on national roads.

As part of our ambition to reduce reoffending, we’ve also expanded the Drink-Drive Rehabilitation Scheme into Scotland.

20 MAY Car Skills (am and pm half day), Thruxton, Hampshire

STEVE SAYERS

21 MAY Motorbike Skills Day, Thruxton, Hampshire

11 JUNE Motorbike Skills Day, Mallory Park, Leicestershire 1 JULY Car Skills (am and pm half day), Croft Circuit, North Yorkshire 2 JULY Motorbike Skills Day, Croft Circuit, North Yorkshire 09–10 JULY Vehicle Electrification Expo, NEC Birmingham 7 AUGUST Motorbike Skills – Machine Handling and Control Day, Bicester Heritage, Oxfordshire

Scotland

Northern Ireland We held a meeting with the infrastructure minister to discuss road safety priorities, and subsequently contacted the newly appointed minister, Liz Kimmins, to continue with the dialogue. We also welcomed Bruce Steele (below), who will be working with us for a period as Road Safety Manager, overseeing new opportunities in Northern Ireland.

Wales We worked with the Welsh government on an agreed approach to allow councils to have more say in changing local speed limits – from 20mph to 30mph, where sensible.

Fruitful discussions also took place on the role of IAM RoadSmart in Wales around how we can support additional training and future priorities for road safety for the Welsh government. / SPRING 2025 / 9

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IN TA K E

JONNY FLEETWOOD

“THE CAMPAIGN AIMS FOR NO YOUNG DRIVER OR RIDER TO BE EXCLUDED FROM OUR SERVICES DUE TO COST”

F U ND RA I SI N G CAM PA I G N

Funding skills for life Driving change with the Youth Empowerment Campaign WE’RE THRILLED TO share the success of our first digital fundraising campaign, launched through the Big Give Christmas Challenge. Thanks to the generosity of IAM RoadSmart members, Groups and partners, we raised over £10,000 to support young drivers and riders in gaining essential road safety skills.

We’re grateful for the support from IAM Thames Valley Advanced Motorists, Worcester Advanced Motorists and Altrincham Advanced Motorists.

A special thank you also goes to HCC Solicitors, our pledge partner,

whose generous contribution of over £6,000 played a pivotal role in this achievement. Director Martin James comments: “Witnessing the devastating effects of road collisions first-hand, we’re immensely proud to support this campaign, knowing it plays a vital role in protecting young people on our roads.

We look forward to the year ahead and working together with IAM RoadSmart to make an even greater impact.”

Thanks to these donations, all funded places have now been filled. This means that young drivers and riders aged 17–26 have access to a life-changing

experience, upskilling and improving their confidence and abilities in a safe, controlled environment. Seeing the direct impact is a testament to the value of removing financial barriers to road safety education.

The Youth Empowerment Campaign is a key pillar of our fundraising strategy, ensuring that no young driver or rider is excluded from accessing IAM RoadSmart’s services due to cost.

We’re delighted to share that the Young Driver Foundation has partnered with us to help share this campaign, pledging to empower younger road users to ensure safer roads for all of us.

Fundraising is new for us, but this year we’ll have dedicated campaigns to raise money to support several avenues of our work. With a pool of amazing members and passionate volunteers, we can reach new audiences and help make a difference together. There will be prize draws for events and challenge activities for the adrenaline-fuelled followers, and we’ll also launch a free wills service to support IAM RoadSmart’s work in the long term.

Consider joining in and donating – your continued generosity is helping to create a safer, more confident generation of road users. Together, we’re making a real difference.

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IN TA K E T H E B IG IN T E R V IE W

“IN MY ADVANCED RIDER COURSE ASSESSMENT THEY SAID, ‘YOU’RE CORNERING BADLY; YOU’RE PUTTING YOURSELF IN DANGER.’ THAT WAS A REVELATION” A CERTIFIED MOTORING FANATIC, Liam Kerr MSP loves whizzing around his constituency on his Triumph 900 Speed Twin motorbike and his Fiat 124 Spyder sports car.

But with his love for the freedom two and four wheels can give came the desire to use both as safely as possible, following a serious family car accident as a child.

“It was nobody’s fault,” says Kerr. “It was just ice. So I think that rather coloured my view of driving. I love driving, always have. But I guess when I was 17 and went for my test, I needed to be doing it safely.”

Kerr passed his Advanced Driver course at 18 and would drive thousands of miles in a sales job. He started riding motorbikes 15 years ago, spending two years on his CBT before graduating to a full licence, increasing the power of his bikes over time.

The MSP says: “A year back, I took and passed my Advanced Rider course as well. I was quite a good rider when they first assessed me, but they said, ‘Look, you’re cornering badly; you’re putting yourself in danger.’ And that was a revelation.

“It’s not actually always about how good or bad a driver or rider I am; it’s about predicting what other people will do on the road, starting from a position where they may well make a mistake.”

Kerr’s a busy man. As well as being an MSP and father, he’s an employment lawyer who uses the Open University

to study everything from French and German to history, meteorology and business admin. He’s also a keen cyclist, musician and sailor.

However, the day job puts him in a unique position to implement change, so if the Scottish First Minister or, indeed, Prime Minister job ever came up, what’s the first thing he’d introduce?

Young driver’s courses like those we featured in our summer 2024 issue, or those previously organised by IAM RoadSmart. Kerr had already tried and failed to get his daughter hooked on karting – “she hated it” – but the driving lessons were inspiring.

“I’m totally sold on the idea,” says Kerr. “Children know how to do safe driving from a young age so don’t go out onto the roads and start thrashing it about [when they eventually pass their test].”

Would he ever turn his hand to training a new generation of Advanced drivers and riders?

“If I’m going to say everyone should be a safer driver, then surely I have a responsibility to try and help them achieve that. So, yes, I think at some point in the not-too-distant future, you’ll see me at least starting the training so that I can become an Observer.”

“I’M TOTALLY SOLD ON THE IDEA OF YOUNG DRIVER COURSES – LEARNING SAFE DRIVING FROM AN EARLY AGE”

WORDS RUSSELL CAMPBELL IMAGE ALAMY

L I A M K ERR , MEMBER OF T HE SCO T T ISH PA RL I A MEN T ( MSP ), NOR T H-E A S T SCO T L A ND

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IN TA K E

INNOVATIONS

Going Dutch Councils claim that two new road layouts are safer for non-motorists. Paul Horrell investigates hile rural and trunk road design is mostly aimed at improving traffic flow and safety for traffic, urban and suburban roads are increasingly designed to slow down traffic, making things easier for vulnerable road users. Local authorities hope to encourage more pedestrians and cyclists, improving our health and reducing the number of cars to offset the fact traffic moves less freely.

Junctions are critical, because it’s here that cyclists, walkers and vehicles all meet and cross.

As a result, the ‘Dutch-style roundabout’ is being imported. The second to be installed in Britain has just opened in Sheffield; the first was in Cambridge.

Oddly, the stats for the Cambridge one show worse accident rates now than before. What’s going on?

There are actually two styles of these roundabouts in the Netherlands. Both have a ring for cyclists outside – but concentric with – the vehicle circle. Just outside the bicycle ring, pedestrian crossings go over each arm of the roundabout. One of the two styles gives priority to vehicles but has a road design that slows them down. The other gives priority to cyclists, but because the vehicles are slowed the cyclists can

ILLUSTRATION JAMES CAREY

W

OUR VIEW “Local authorities must communicate such radical design shifts.

Confusion doesn’t help to reduce road injuries.”

Nicholas Lyes, IAM RoadSmart Policy and Standards Director

usually merge. It seems the latter has a better safety record, but the former was chosen by Cambridge and Sheffield, perhaps because it uses less space.

Meanwhile, another controversial junction has opened at California Cross, a double roundabout in Berkshire. “The aim is to create a stronger sense of place by shifting priority away from vehicles,” says the council. The road has been painted with highcontrast leaf designs. Conventional markings have been removed and raised surface tables at crossings added to reduce speed.

Making the path through a junction less obvious to drivers is a common tactic for slowing them down, making accidents less common as drivers must be more alert and less reliant on habitual responses.

Or, at the very least, slower vehicles mean accidents would be less severe. The question is whether the confused drivers then have insufficient mental bandwidth to spot vulnerable road users.

It’s not all down to drivers. Many British cities have lots of delivery ecyclists, often too young to have driven a vehicle and unfamiliar with the Highway Code. They don’t know how hard it is to see them as they weave – unlit – through night-time traffic. / SPRING 2025 / 15

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IN TA K E

THE

SCIENCEE OF

ALCOHOL SHUT TERSTOCK

WORDS JHENI OSMAN

How does an alcoholic drink affect your body – and what technology exists to keep motorists and passengers safe on the road?

INFLUENCE utankhamun might’ve been killed as a result of a booze-induced, high-speed chariot crash. According to research by biomedical Egyptologist Sofia Aziz, the incident caused a leg wound to become infected and, along with a weakened immune system from malaria, might’ve led to the pharaoh’s death.

Today, drink-driving causes a high proportion of accidents. In 2023, drink or

T

drugs were blamed for 19.6% of fatal collisions in Great Britain and, in 2022, an estimated 6,800 people were killed or injured when at least one driver was over the drink-drive limit.

BOOZE AND THE BODY Alcohol affects two of the main brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) GABA and glutamate. Normally, when no alcohol has been drunk, GABA calms the body down, / SPRING 2025 / 17

AL AMY

IN TA K E

contain the same while glutamate amount of alcohol stimulates it. as 1ml of blood.

Drinking alcohol The bloodstream boosts GABA absorbs alcohol activity whereas it very quickly, but it inhibits glutamate takes an hour for one activity. The result unit to be filtered out of this increase in by the liver.

GABA and decrease Factors affecting how the in glutamate is why an body metabolises alcohol alcoholic drink can make you Above: An alcohol include age, sex, overall health feel ‘chilled out’ and sleepy. interlock system and body weight. Men tend “When you first start drinking, helps drinkdrivers commit to to have more of the enzymes you tend to become more sobriety behind required to process alcohol animated,” says Amanda the wheel than women.

Donald, a specialist in addiction “In my opinion, there’s overwhelmingly medicine at Northwestern Medicine in no safe limit for consumption of alcohol,” the US. “But that happens at small doses says Donald. “And it’s the same principle where the glutamate is only a little bit for drugs – any sort of mind-altering higher. The more you continue to drink, substance is a mind-altering substance.” the more GABA increases, the more tired Research on the effect of drugs on you get and your words slur.” driving is scarce, due to the difficulty Alcohol interfering with these in offenders being honest about taking neurotransmitters slows information drugs. However, the UK government does being processed by the brain, causing have guidelines for limits of ‘illegal’ and slower reaction times when driving. medicinal drugs (see box opposite).

Another neurotransmitter, dopamine, is also affected by alcohol. Even small amounts increase the release of dopamine BEHAVIOUR CHANGE in the area of the brain often referred to as Deterrence theory looks at how threats or rewards can change behaviour. Research the ‘reward centre’. That’s why you feel so has found that three factors change good after a couple of drinks and can feel driving behaviour: the certainty of being invincible behind the wheel. caught, the severity of the punishment In the stomach, alcohol is absorbed and how quickly the driver is penalised. into the bloodstream and, as the blood “Drivers must believe they’ll be caught moves through the lungs, some alcohol if they’re driving while intoxicated, and evaporates. About 2,100ml of breath will

Drink-driving ban – next steps Those convicted of drink-driving face a mandatory ban of at least 12 months.

The DVSA’s Drink-Drive Rehabilitation (DDR) scheme gives offenders the opportunity to reduce the length of their ban by 25%, provided they commit to participation in the three-day DDR course. The course explains the effects of alcohol and the seriousness of drinkdriving and provides strategies to avoid reoffending.

18 /

/ SPRING 2025

IAM RoadSmart has become one of the UK’s largest DDR scheme providers, having worked with more than 42,000 offenders. These courses are integral to our role as a road safety educator, enabling us to have an impact on a high-risk category of motorists.

The feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many participants recommending us to others in the same position.

If a drink-driver doesn’t think they will be caught, they may be more likely to drive intoxicated

RESEARCH IN NUMBERS Sobering statistics on drink-driving can help drivers and riders keep a clear head

19.6% of 2023’s fatal collisions in Great Britain were caused by drink or drugs

2,APPROX 100:1 2,100ml of breath will contain the same amount of alcohol as 1ml of blood

1

HOUR is the amount of time it takes for one unit of alcohol to be filtered out of the liver

80MG PER 100ML BLOOD

The legal limit in England, Northern Ireland and Wales. Scotland’s limit is 50mg/100ml

SHUT TERSTOCK

TOP TIPS TO STAY SAFE how much you’re 1 Know drinking when drinks aren’t measured, such as a friend’s house.

None for the road is the safest advice your ride home 2 Organise before going out bow to peer pressure 3 Don’t to drive

“IN MY OPINION, THERE’S OVERWHELMINGLY NO SAFE LIMIT FOR ALCOHOL. AND IT’S THE SAME PRINCIPLE FOR DRUGS” the severity of the punishment needs to reflect the seriousness of the offence,” says Jack Hitchings, behavioural sciences researcher at Transport Research Laboratory (TRL). “Drivers won’t believe they’ll be fined £10,000 for being a bit over the limit, because some prosecutors won’t give such an extreme fine.”

Australia, Germany, Ireland, Norway and Sweden have a graduated penalty points system for speeding. Recent research by TRL for Ireland’s Road Safety Authority provided insight on how their existing system could be improved.

“Fines could be based on income [though a custodial sentence is always a possibility],” says Hitchings. “A £500 fine might mean nothing to a wealthy driver, but it could have a massive impact on a less wealthy individual.”

TECH SOLUTIONS Since 2022, EU regulations mandate that all new cars must be able to be fitted with a breathalyser, which effectively means most UK cars will be engineered this way too. For older vehicles without this option,

smartphones could be used by measuring changes in walking patterns. In a small study by the University of Pittsburgh, by analysing phone data, researchers were able to measure speed, length of step and degree of swaying back and forth – accurately predicting 90% of the time whether someone was over the legal limit.

In the UK and many countries around the world, the vehicle of an offender can be fitted with an Alcohol Interlock System (AIS), which requires the driver to blow into an in-vehicle breathalyser before the ignition will start. AIS allows offenders the continued freedom of using their vehicle to maintain a job. A report by the Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety shows AIS to be very effective, reducing the likelihood of reoffending, even if not caught, and decreasing the number of alcohol-related collisions and casualties.

But there is a caveat, Hitchings says: “Research on individuals with serious drink or drug problems shows that, as soon as the AIS is removed, they often reoffend. They’re less prone to behaviour

careful ‘the morning after’ 4 Be that you’re not over the limit in an accurate and 5 Invest reliable in-car breathalyser the UK drug-driving 6 Check limits for any medication

www.gov.uk/government/ collections/drug-driving

change through fines and bans so a robust rehabilitation programme needs to accompany the penalty system.”

Driver monitoring systems observe the driver via in-car cameras. By tracking the driver when driving normally, the system can build up a baseline picture of driver behaviour. If a driver later makes uncharacteristic movements such as blinking a lot, the system will alert them.

Self-driving vehicles could be on British roads by 2026, according to the Automated Vehicles (AV) Act (2024).

A ride home in your own car after a night out might sound enticing, but autonomous vehicles may require your driving skills in an emergency.

While tech can aid in so many ways, it seems the car will never replace the human completely – and drink-driving will always be taboo. If you’re going to have a drink, then, as Dr Donald says: “Arrange a reliable ride home.”

Jheni Osman is a science journalist and broadcaster. Follow her on social media @jheniosman / SPRING 2025 / 19

3-0dr0iving

Increasing public awareness is one of the measures that alcohol-harm prevention groups believe will help change behaviours, such as this display

by Essex Safer Roads partnership

Drink in 2022 deaths

68%

1,600

of IAM RoadSmart members su pp lowering thort blood-alcoh e ol limit

Drug-driving collisions in 2021

YOUR VIEW Where do you stand on the subject?

Send a post to @IAMRoadSmart or visit facebook.com/iamroadsmart 20 /

/ SPRING 2025

LYNNE A I think the limit is fine (I’m in Scotland). Most drink-drive accidents that I’ve heard about are people way over the limit.

I wouldn’t ride or drive after drinking any amount of alcohol. I also wouldn’t ride or drive the next morning after drinking heavily the night before. And I think that’s what catches some folk out.

JENNY FQ Reduce the price of soft drinks – fruit juice can be more expensive than a pint! Offer discounts for nominated drivers, and cheaper taxis. I live rurally and fear it makes people chance their luck, given we have one PCSO for 70sq miles.

AL AMY

IN TA K E

IN TA K E THE GREAT DEBATE

Is the first step to lower drink-driving offences to reduce the limit?

Would just reducing the blood-alcohol limit be enough to decrease the numbers of people injured or killed due to drink-driving? Paul Horrell investigates, and two experts share their views… ere’s a message that’s absurdly obvious: we need to reduce drink-driving. So, it’s no surprise that many road-safety bodies, led by IAM RoadSmart, have campaigned for a lower blood-alcohol limit. A recent poll of IAM RoadSmart members resulted in more than 1,000 responses, of which 68% supported a lowering of the limit and 27% were against.

In England, Wales and Northern Ireland it’s currently 80 micrograms per 100ml of blood, whereas in Scotland, it’s a stricter 50mg per 100ml. That Scottish limit has been in force since 2014 and is the same as most European countries. The limit in the rest of the UK is higher than any in Europe; Sweden’s is 20mg/100ml and others mandate no detectable alcohol at all.

But there’s a problem: there has been no decline in casualty or death rates attributable to the Scottish reduction. The best-studied similar reduction, in the US state of Utah, also failed to get a meaningful improvement in the numbers. Yet it isn’t disputed that driving with the higher level of blood alcohol is riskier than with the lower, and indeed both are far worse than with no alcohol.

Compared with zero, a driver with between 50 and 80mg/100ml is six times more likely to be involved in a fatal road incident. And at just 10mg/100ml, a driver is 46% more likely to be at fault in a collision versus a driver with none. This is based on accident statistics.

Looking more closely at the driver in isolation highlights the mechanism. Lab studies cited by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show that even at

MARTIN W Enforcing the current rules would be more effective. More worrying is the rise in drug-related driving.

AL AMY

H

A driver is still six times more likely to be involved in a fatal incident even if they’re within the legal limit for England, Wales and Northern Ireland

50mg/100ml versus zero alcohol, drivers are significantly impaired in their visual clarity, vigilance, precision, information processing and drowsiness. It’s even more stark with new young drivers. In the UK more than a quarter of drink-drive casualties are under 25. Australia’s Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education looked at the evidence and its chief executive, Michael Thorn, concluded: “Young people are disproportionately represented in road fatalities [...] Research both here [in Australia] and abroad also tells us that a zero BAC for all drivers under 25 years would save lives and reduce the road toll significantly.”

From the mid-1980s to the mid-1990s, the proportion of Britain’s road casualties involving a driver who was over the limit was falling, and the overall number of casualties

ERIC H Lowering the limit is fine, but the law relating to stopping and breathtesting drivers is retrospective of an incident occurring, such as a collision, offence or suspicion of drink-driving. Effectively the horse has bolted and we’re shutting the gate. Giving the police the resources and powers to do random breath-tests would probably be more beneficial, and include drug-testing.

MARK E The drink-drive limit in the UK should be brought in-line with Scotland’s lower one.

The bigger threat on the roads these days is drug- driving, which has overtaken drink-driving.

You may want to look at that more. / SPRING 2025 / 21

IN TA K E

was falling too. Since then, the proportion of killed or seriously injured casualties as a proportion of all collisions has pretty much flatlined. The absolute number has fallen only very slightly and the number of deaths, 300 in 2022, was the highest since 2009. “The number killed on our roads, where at least one driver was over the limit, has remained stubbornly high for over a decade,” says IAM RoadSmart’s Director of Policy and Standards, Nicholas Lyes.

Those trends are within a road and traffic system that – especially for vehicle occupants – allows better accident prevention and survivability. Roads have improved, vulnerable users are kept more separate, speed limits have fallen, cars are better for both crash-prevention and crashprotection. Finally, and this isn’t often

JAY DG It should be zero. Then it’s clear that if you’re driving you don’t drink at all, rather than thinking, ‘Oh well, I’m probably okay.’ And yes, better enforcement is needed.

22 /

/ SPRING 2025

mentioned, there have been great advances in emergency medicine. In other words, the ‘road safety industry’ has successfully suppressed some of the awful effects of drink-driving, but not reduced the occurrence of the offence itself.

The police haven’t been able to make a big contribution as their hands are tied by a lack of resources and they can’t make random checks. This also bears on another peril: driving under the influence of drugs, both illegal and prescription ones that impair driving skill.

IAM RoadSmart has been campaigning on the drugdriving issue, and if the police were able to stop more drink-drivers it’s likely some would’ve also taken illegal drugs.

There were 600 drug-driving collisions in 2010, but by 2021 it had shot up to 1,600.

Between 2022 and 2023 drug-drivers

killed increased from 96 to 144 – the highest for five years.

The British Medical Association has joined with more than 30 campaigning bodies on road safety and alcohol harm prevention to produce a ‘consensus statement’ on driving under the influence.

Its first point is lowering the limit, but it also demands a ‘holistic approach’ that recognises the wider harm of drinking in society, and that people from lower socio-economic backgrounds experience greater harm despite equal or lower levels of consumption. The statement calls for ‘accompanying measures’ to a lower limit including enforcement, public awareness campaigns, better testing facilities and awareness courses and rehabilitation.

As well as lowering the limit and increasing enforcement, Nicholas Lyes adds retraining to the list: “Evidence suggests that those who take a drink-drive rehabilitation course in the UK are twoand-a-half times less likely to reoffend.”

So, is lowering the limit the first step to reducing alcohol-related road incidents?

JONATHAN S The current limit is well understood and represents a fair balance.

The arguments for reducing the limit often point to other European countries, but these countries also have significantly lower penalties for being over the limit.

If we lower the limit and keep the standard one-year ban, the general public buy-in will diminish greatly.

CHRIS B Without sufficient enforcement and punishment, drink-drivers will keep chancing it. The culture among many is ‘it’s only wrong if I’m caught’.

ALAMY

AL AMY

If the police could carry out random checks it would allow more drink- and drug-drivers to be caught, preventing incidents

IN TA K E

Trustee for the Campaign Against Drink Driving

England and Wales have the highest tolerance for drinkdriving in the developed world. The casualty figures are appalling, with unacceptable cost to the economy and the NHS. They could be relieved by a reduction in the drink-drive limit.

The figure of 35mg of alcohol in 100ml of breath was set back in the 1960s when the breathalyser was first introduced and was based upon the scientific conclusion that the driver was impaired beyond the safe limit to drive.

This has never been revisited. Drinks then were less strong, most drivers male and the limit equated to around two pints.

Unfortunately, this myth has continued – many drivers are unaware of their limit. It simply cannot be calculated by pints or units.

A reduction in the limit is the first step but must be accompanied by strong education of the limits, how quickly that limit can be reached and the consequences of exceeding it even if there is no collision or injuries.

A DR10 marker for drink- or drug-driving remains active for 10 years on a driver’s licence and is a criminal conviction.

Scotland introduced a lower limit in 2014. The stats since then must be considered alongside the reduction in the number of dedicated road traffic patrol units.

Police forces in the UK are now recreating such units as a result. In my own experience as a traffic cop, our department was slashed by half in the late 1990s.

Questions were then asked why the casualty figures had risen and the number of breath tests administered had dropped. It isn’t rocket science!

Many other countries have shown that a reduction in the limit, along with a strong educational programme, have reduced the instances of drink-driving and the number of related casualties.

A reduction in the alcohol limit is long overdue.

In the meantime, we can only suggest ignoring the legal limit – which you can’t calculate anyway – and sticking to the safe limit, which is, of course, zero.

“THE STATS FROM SCOTLAND’S LIMIT REDUCTION MUST BE CONSIDERED ALONGSIDE THE REDUCTION IN ROAD TRAFFIC PATROL UNITS”

Above: Public awareness campaigns can help to reinforce the law – this one from 1954 is quite bold

NO: Dr Jonathan James Dept of Economics, University of Bath, specialist in health economics

The reduction of drink-drive limits is often proposed as a measure to improve road safety. While lowering the limit is a positive step, evidence suggests that such reforms, when implemented in isolation, are unlikely to achieve significant reductions in road traffic collisions. Lowering the limit is not enough.

The Scottish experience provides an example.

Scotland lowered its drink-drive limit from 80mg to 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood, which our research has found had no measurable impact on road traffic collisions or fatalities. Studies of Utah’s more recent lower drink-drive limit report comparable findings.

Part of the limitation of such reforms is that the majority of serious accidents are caused by drivers well above the legal limit. These high-risk offenders are less likely to respond to changes in legal thresholds. Their behaviour often stems from heavy drinking and other risk-taking tendencies that are unlikely to be curtailed by a lower limit alone.

Furthermore, the effectiveness of lowering the drink-drive limit is heavily dependent on enforcement.

Countries that achieve reductions in drink-driving incidents tend to combine revised laws with rigorous enforcement, such as random breath-testing and highvisibility policing. Without these measures, the deterrent effect of a lower limit is weakened.

Lowering the drink-drive limit can play an important role in shifting cultural norms and reinforcing the message that even small amounts of alcohol can impair driving. However, to meaningfully reduce drinkdriving, policy efforts must go beyond changing laws.

This includes increased investment in enforcement, targeted interventions for high-risk offenders and public awareness campaigns.

A lower drink-drive limit – in isolation – represents a missed opportunity. A more comprehensive approach is essential to make sure the potential benefits of such changes are achieved.

“A LOWER DRINK-DRIVE LIMIT, IN ISOLATION, IS A MISSED OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE A MEANINGFUL IMPROVEMENT”

/ SPRING 2025 / 23

GET T Y

YES: John Scruby

BATH UNIVERSIT Y/DR JONATHAN JAMES

CHARTERED INSTITUTION OF HIGHWAYS & TRANSPORTATION/JOHN SCRUBY

THE GREAT DEBATE

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ON THE ROAD Taking your journey to the next level

“IT’S A JOURNEY THAT’LL LEAVE YOU BREATHLESS SO MAKE SURE YOU HAVE TIME TO RECOVER ” Swap a mountain of work for a mountain to climb with our invigorating range of road trips

ALAMY

You’ll cross the unspolit wilderness of the Great Moor of Rannoch on your way to Ben Nevis

/ SPRING 2025 / 25

TH ROAD THE TO AADVENTURE D WORDS NIK BERG /DETOUR-ROADTRIPS.COM

The terrain of Scafell Pike is uneven and the hiking hardgoing, but the reward is surely the view

Take outdoor adventure to the next level by choosing one of these activities with an exciting journey there to match ma atch

D

o you feel the call of the wild?

An urge to get outdoors for a shot of adrenaline? To gasp at breathtaking scenery while facing your fears? Then read on.

These three road trips all lead to adventures that will get your heart pounding on driving routes that invigorate and entertain, in Wales, England, Scotland and Italy.

Buckle up – you’re in for a thrilling ride (or drive)!

26 /

/ XXXXXXXXXX 2025

ON T HE R O A D Those not wanting to climb the three peaks in one day can instead nominate themselves as the drivers, taking on a different type of challenge

Enjoy the t twists and tu turns of the Llanberis Pass Llanbe

MOUNTAIN TRIO

T

he Three Peaks Challenge is one of the toughest trials hikers in the UK could ever face, with a walking distance of 23 miles and a total climb of 10,052 feet (3,064 metres) up the highest peaks of Wales, England and Scotland.

Added to that is the 470 miles of driving distance between Yr Wyddfa (previously known as Snowdon), Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis.

The hardest of hardcore hikers aim to complete the challenge within 24 hours, usually starting at sunrise. The official Three Peaks Challenge website reckons anyone attempting this feat should have two dedicated drivers who aren’t taking part, to take on the 10 hours behind the wheel, using the fastest route.

However, with a little more time on your hands, you can opt for a more enjoyable and less exhausting drive and a hike that hurts a little less.

After completing your ascent – and descent – of Yr Wyddfa, at over 3,000 feet above sea level (see directions to get there in the following trip), you’re off to Scafell Pike in the Lake District. The best part of 200 miles, start the route by heading north beyond Llanberis to reach the A55 and follow this gently winding coast road towards the English border. Then join the A494 north, picking up the A50 and A41 across the Mersey into Liverpool. Your next waypoint is Ormskirk on the A59, followed by Preston where you join the A6 up through Lancashire. If you are up for a detour then the Forest of Bowland is worth a visit, but otherwise you’ll carry on to Kendal where you can / SPRING 2025 / 27

Xxxx Scafell GreatPike, Gable, overlooking Lingmell and Scafell Wast Water.

Pike from England’s Wast highest water in mountain the Lakeisdistrict, part of Cumbria an extinct xxxxxvolcano xxxxxx

Cairngorms National Park

Ben Nevis

North Pennines National Landscape Scafell Pike

Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) 28 /

/ SPRING 2025

stock up on some of the eponymous mint cake for sustenance.

Next, it’s the twisty A590 which whisks you past the southern tip of Windermere and then a switch to the A5092 to Beanthwaite. Just past the Greyhound Inn you’ll switch on to the A595 to Dudden Bridge and then the undulating and twisty Smithy Lane to Ulpha. Keep heading north to Eskdale, Santon Bridge and you’ll eventually reach Wast Water.

At Wasdale is a car park where you can begin your climb to the top of Scafell Pike, some 978m above sea level.

When you’re safely back down you’ll backtrack to the water’s edge again and follow Lane Side into Gosforth. The A596 will take you out to the west coast at Whitehaven before driving back inland

The varied landscape of Lochaber, home to Ben Nevis, is recognised as a site of geological importance

to Cockermouth and the border town of Carlisle. If you really, really want to avoid motorways then take the A7 to Edinburgh and then go cross-country but a short stretch of M6, A74(M) and M74 will get you Glasgow much quicker.

Now comes the most spectacular part of the whole trip, as the A82 leads up past the Bridge of Orchy, to the tip of Loch Linhe and on to Fort William.

It’s a journey that really will leave you breathless so make sure you have time to recover before you get to the Ben Nevis Visitor Centre. From here you’re on foot again, for the 10.5-mile Pony Track to the summit.

Whether it takes you 24 hours, a week or more it’s a challenge that you can be rightly proud of completing.

ON T HE R O A D Pen-Y-Pass Xxxx xxxx xxx is axxxx popular xxxx xxxplace xxx xxtoxxxxxx embark xxxon xxx a xx xxxxxx walk xxxx upxx Yr xxxxx Wyddfa xx xxxxxxx xxx xxxxx xxxxx xxxx

ACTION IN ERYRI F

or those who prefer adventures in one location, the mountains of Eryri (formerly known as Snowdonia) are the centre of outdoor activities in Wales. Within easy reach you’ll find exhilarating experiences on water, steep climbs and sharp descents – as well as on the roads, of course.

Bala marks the entry to Eryri proper, but the A4212 skirts to the south of the mountains, passing Llyn Trawsfynydd lake. Pick up the A470 and A487 to Minffordd and on towards Black Rock Sands. It’s a gentle warm-up drive, both in the severity of the bends and the distraction of the scenery. Black Rock Sands offers a decent surfing spot with waves breaking both left and right and some evil rip curls to be wary of.

Next is a lengthy loop to the east of Eryri on the A487 which will take you up to the Menai Strait and,

Zip World Penrhyn Quarry

Covering over 800 square miles, Eryri provides hours of impressive scenery to drive or ride through

Pen-y-Pass

Traeth y Greigddu Black Rock Sands

Above The karts at Zip World have hydraulic, independent disc brakes to slide and drift round corners

consequently, almost to the Isle of Anglesey.

Then there’s a short stretch of the A55 North Wales Expressway to dispatch before heading south on the A5. Pass through Bethesda and follow the signs to Zip World in the disused slate quarry of Penrhyn. Here you can fly down the world’s fastest zip line, reaching speeds approaching 100mph on the mile-long descent.

There’s also an Aero Explorer flight experience and crazy quarry karts. Powered only by gravity these fun four-wheelers hurtle down three kilometres of gravel track at up to 25mph, through tunnels, chicanes and banked turns. It’s motor racing without the motor.

Head south again on the A5 past the Snowdonia Mountain Lodge, swoop round to Capel Craig to join the A4086 and you’ll find yourself on the Peny-Pass towards Llanberis. At the halfway point is the main visitor centre and car park. It’s here that most mountaineers will start their ascent to Yr Wyddfa, the most popular hike in the National Park – every year some 600,000 people climb the summit.

Bala

/ XXXXXX 2025 / 29

Time to hit the road Make 2025 the year of adventures – but don’t forget to pack your breakdown cover!

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ON T HE R O A D Across the Dolomites you’ll find scores of climbing routes, allowing for fabulous views over the region

ITALY’S

IRON AWE V

isit Italy to reach dizzying heights in the Dolomites, thanks to a military method used to create a route through the mountains. Via Ferrata (literally ‘the iron road’) employs a network of cables, ladders and pegs fixed into rock faces ranging in length, from just a few kilometres to over 30km and reaching heights of up to 4,000 metres. If you’re feeling brave enough you could spend a few hours or several days clipped to a cliff face, exploring the region.

Above The climbing system was developed in the 19th century and became a crucial way to move troops during World War I

Bolzano Airport

Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage

Carezza

Bolzano is known as ‘the door to the Dolomites’ and its airport, along with a car or motorbike hire, is the starting point for international adventurers (the more intrepid traveller could drive or ride from the UK). To get to the heart of the central Dolomites it’s a relatively short drive east on the SS241, a scenic road that cuts between the mountains.

That’ll take you to Carezza where you’ll take the Via Nigra, winding up through the forest to the Via Ferrata Roda de Vaèl. The climbing route up to Rifugio Fronza alle Coronelle mountain lodge is a relatively easy introduction into the art of Via Ferrata and offers 360-degree views of the Dolomites as you ascend to 765 metres. Despite its isolation the lodge is comfortable and serves local produce. After an overnight stay you can clip on again or explore the mesmerising mountain roads of the region, including the Passo di Costalunga, Pordoi and Falzarego, all the way to Cortina.

Find more adventures in Nik’s new book, Detour 101: 101 of the World’s Best Road Trips, available from Amazon at £15.99. / SPRING 2025 / 31

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ON T HE R O A D VIEWPOINT

Richard Gladman Lessons can be learned from sharing examples of poor road behaviour, says our Chief Examiner eading our feature on the psychology of driving (see page 41) has given me cause to reflect on my driving career – and I must admit there are parts of it which I recall with pride. But it is fair to say that my outlook from when I was a 17-year-old, newly qualified (keen to be behind the wheel as often as possible), has changed somewhat. And there have been other parts of it which I would not be proud of, but with each came a learning opportunity. It’s this ownership of our mistakes that sets us – as Advanced drivers and riders – apart. We endeavour to learn from our errors and take every opportunity to learn from others.

In a previous life, I witnessed some terrible acts on the road and was often in a position to offer advice (albeit sometimes accompanied with the expense of a fixed-penalty ticket).

I remember a driver negotiating a one-way system towards the oncoming traffic because his three-dayold car had sat nav and that’s what it was telling him to do. How unlucky was it that the day before, the priorities had been reversed? Fortunately, after a quick chat and a turnaround there was no harm done.

The rider who felt he was being ‘picked on’ for his tiny number plate got less sympathy. It was the size of a keyring, and his loud exhaust (baffles removed for perceived ‘safety’ – not at all recommended), plus a black visor at dusk impressed even less. He couldn’t even understand why he’d been stopped for doing 70mph in a 40mph limit. The biker was sent on his way with a speeding ticket, an instruction to get the

ILLUSTRATION DAVID MAHONEY

R

FREE TO LEARN If you do have friends or family that could benefit from developing their driving or riding skills, tell them about our free taster sessions.

They’re an introduction to our Advanced Driving and Advanced Riding courses, and can help people decide if a full course is right for them. www.iamroadsmart. com/free-tasters

“IN A PREVIOUS LIFE, I WITNESSED SOME TERRIBLE ACTS ON THE ROAD AND WAS OFTEN IN A POSITION TO OFFER ADVICE (SOMETIMES ACCOMPANIED BY A FIXED-PENALTY TICKET)”

exhaust rectified at an MOT centre and a warning to have the plate replaced with one more suitably sized.

The dark visor was swapped at the roadside.

The BMW driver who raced the dark BMW that passed him at speed also made a bad decision. He failed to notice the second one – also travelling at speed as part of a pursuit training exercise. He was sent away with a prospective summons for tailgating the police car at well in excess of 100mph.

Then there was the motorcyclist who decided to wheelie past his riding group on the M25, failing to notice the marked police car in lane one. The riding skill displayed was admittedly excellent but common sense was lacking – it would’ve been a difficult one to explain in court when the video was produced.

All of these motorists have one thing in common: they were not IAM members who take pride in their riding or driving. They probably didn’t understand that awareness of other road users is important when you’re on the road. They definitely didn’t take enough notice of their surroundings to see a police officer driving a brightly coloured car, hiding in plain sight.

But this gets me thinking: are these people now reformed? Have they learned their lesson? The 17-year-old me certainly has. From go-kart driving enthusiast to Chief Examiner of IAM RoadSmart, via a lifetime of reflecting on my own driving and riding performance. Oh and not forgetting the many weeks of training that may have helped on the way…

If you identify any of this sort of miscreant behaviour in your friends or acquaintances’ driving or riding, then perhaps it’s time for them to sign up with IAM RoadSmart and learn their good behaviour from our collective mistakes. / SPRING 2025 / 33

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ON T HE R O A D SKILLS REFRESHER

Look and learn Observing the road ahead, whatever the circumstances, helps you make a plan in good time, explains Richard Gladman

2. ANTICIPATE

Advanced driving is underpinned by good observation. Look as far down the road as you can, then scan back towards the front of your car or bike. Allow your vision to take in the road sides, pavements or joining roads. If the road bends, glance over what can you see. A streetlamp cluster may be a roundabout; a single streetlamp a junction; a church steeple possibly a village. And don’t forget rear observations.

Now work out how that information could affect you. At a roundabout you may have to stop, at the junction a car could be turning in (or out), while the steeple will likely mean a change in speed limit – probably to 30mph. Green traffic lights may change; an unseen car or bike could overtake a large vehicle right where don’t you want to meet it. Everything you observe could mean taking any number of actions…

ILLUSTRATIONS ROUGHCOLLIE

1. OBSERVE

3. PLAN

4. PRIORITISE

5. ACT

… so plan for them. At the roundabout, you plan to stop but are gathering information to go. Can you slow safely if the junction is active? If you’re doing 60mph make sure you can safely slow for a 30mph limit or stop if traffic lights change to red. Plan to meet large vehicles at the widest point of the road and be aware of any lurking motorists.

Your plans are ready to implement, but you’ll need to work out what’s most likely to come first. Is the roundabout clear so you can enter and exit safely?

Is the junction clear so you can continue at speed?

That 30mph limit is coming up so you’ll need to slow, and slowing early will help with the large vehicle.

Prioritising each plan is vital on the road.

Having planned for the worst you can implement the right plan for the situation. Combining plans helps the drive flow; slowing early for the 30mph limit might let the large vehicle pass at a better spot. This is helped by knowing what’s going on behind, and sharing details early with indicators and brake lights – and there you have a snapshot of a quiet country drive. / SPRING 2025 / 37

Ten-to-two or quarter-to-three are still the best positions for your hands on the wheel

ASKT HEEXPERTS

on the position that your hands should be on the steering wheel? I was told that they should be at a ten-to-two position, and I find this, or a quarter-to-three position, to be the most comfortable for driving.

Increasingly it appears that the steering wheel is being held at a twelve o’clock position with both hands together, especially with younger drivers. Is this a safe position and what’s now being taught?

DVSA still A The advocates, and driving instructors still teach, positioning the hands at tento-two or quarter-to-three.

And it’s still recommended 38 /

/ SPRING 2025

to avoid crossing your hands.

The important thing about the steering is the ability to place the vehicle in the correct position on every occasion.

If this is achieved, and if the driver can operate all ancillary controls effectively, there can be slight variations on hand positioning. However, hands together anywhere on the wheel is unlikely to be effective for steering as it reduces available movement and grip. It’s likely to cause unwanted small movements of the wheel as well, due to the driver’s shoulders moving whilst in motion.

A safe, stable grip, with the ability to place the vehicle effectively in position on the road and operate the controls, is the aim. RG

don’t think prosecution is the way to deal Q Iwith pavement-parking. In my experience, most people don’t realise how awkward this can be for vulnerable pedestrians and a polite word is usually the solution. But isn’t there already legislation? Section three of the Road Traffic Act 1988 states that you must “drive your vehicle with reasonable consideration for other road users”. Blocking the pavement is hardly reasonable consideration for the disabled. national ban on pavement parking has been widely A Adebated and we expect England to follow Scotland and Greater London at some point during this parliament. From our perspective, a blanket ban could cause as many problems as it solves. Where there are older, more narrow roads, a blanket ban could cause vehicle displacement. Worse, it may block access for fire engines and other services. While councils could have powers to grant exceptions, this would be time-consuming and costly. A better solution may be to update national guidance which states that a two-metre gap must always be present on a footway. Tickets could be issued where there’s brazen disregard. NL

GET T Y

learning to Q When drive, what’s taught

GET T Y

HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT LIFE ON THE ROAD ? OUR TE AM ARE H ERE TO HEL P

ON T HE R O A D

in my opinion, it’s not the brightness but the design producing a beam that’s sent in all directions. My older car’s lights, when on dipped, have a shape to them. If I beam my lights against a garage door, it has a flat, horizontal shape which rises to the left at about 40 degrees, which allows road signs to be seen even when on dip. The full beam is like the modern light with no shape. Maybe modern LED lights are made because they’re cheaper than a bulb with a shaped beam. Could this be the reason?

According to our

A survey, around a third of members have reduced their night-time driving as a result of glare. Opinions are mixed: some believe modern bulbs are the issue, while others say it’s the lamp aim. A minority say that it’s the increase of SUVs, with their higher positioning of lights, that’s making the problem worse.

We’ve fed our findings into the TRL-led research project which aims to figure out the cause. We hope to see the report later in 2025. NL

OUR EXPERTS QUICK FIXES

If you have a question to put to our team, please get in touch.

We’re all ears! membership@iam.org.uk @IAMRoadSmart

Richard Gladman Chief Examiner

Nick Lyes Policy and Standards Director

The heavier weight of a commercial vehicle means its tyres push more water away than a car’s tyres can

GET T Y

dazzled by Q Being headlights at night:

I’ve got a new job working as an engineer, travelling all over the country in a new transit van (LGV).

There are conflicting views at work among my colleagues regarding what speed us engineers can travel at on motorways and dual and single carriageways in the UK. Please can you confirm what the maximum speeds are.

A transit van can travel at 70mph on a motorway (60mph if towing), 60mph on a dual carriageway and 50mph on a national speed limit single carriageway. Of course, there are also the 20mph limits that all drivers and riders need to adhere to.

recently purchased a van-based Q Having secondhand motorhome, I’ve been looking into tread-depth requirements on tyres.

One thing I’ve discovered is that commercial vehicles, with a maximum gross weight of 3,500kg, have a lower legal tread depth (1mm) compared with other vehicles (1.6mm). Any idea why this might be? tread on a car tyre is there specifically to displace A The water and has, along with the grooves, a system of sipes, which are little cuts in the tread to assist in moving the water away. This, combined with the weight of the vehicle, pushes the water away, allowing the tyre to grip the road. A heavier vehicle has a greater weight component, which allows it to dispel more water. As HGVs are significantly heavier than cars, and the grooves in the tyres tend to be wider, they can dispel significantly more water and continue to do so, even at the 1mm tread depth limit. That’s why sipes are not normally present in an HGV tyre. None of this alters the fact that as the tread wears down the wet-weather performance of a tyre will deteriorate. We would therefore recommend changing tyres before you get close to the legal limit, in any type of vehicle. RG

Note that the transit isn’t a car-derived van, therefore conforms to the speed limit of a goods vehicle under 7,500kg.

My source is Highway Code rule 124, which covers all vehicle speed limits (and the differences between Scotland and the rest of the UK). Find the Highway Code online to share with your colleagues at www.gov. uk/guidance/ the-highway-code RG / SPRING 2025 / 39

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The Psychology of Advanced Driving

ALL INN THE MIND As IAM RoadSmart members will know, physical skill iis s only part of what’s needed to master the road. The right thought processes need to be taught too. But how to best approach it? We explore the psychology of developing an Advanced motoring mindset

ILLUSTRATION ALEX WILLIAMSON WORDS PHILL TROMANS PHOTOGRAPHS JONNY FLEET WOOD

/ SPRING 2025 / 41

Xxxxxxx xxxxxx

F

or decades, Advanced driver training has focused on technical skills: road positioning, observation and vehicle control. But, as with other fields, there’s growing recognition that psychological and learning methodologies that underpin driver development are as important as the skills themselves.

Understanding how people learn, and embedding those lessons effectively, could transform driver education, so it’s vital that the Advanced driver training industry fully embraces these ideas.

COGNITIVE SCHEMA Dr Katie Plant, associate professor of human factors engineering at the University of Southampton, explains how expertise in driving develops through a mental framework, called schema: “The idea is that we have mental templates, which ultimately creates expertise.”

The progression starts with skill-based behaviour – deliberate actions that require conscious thought while learning to drive, and then progress to rule-based behaviour, where drivers follow steps and rely on structured learning. After time, driving becomes automatic – knowledge-based behaviour – with experienced drivers using schemas to make conscious effort.

However, while schemas allow people to drive efficiently, they can lead to complacency. “You may experience it when you get somewhere and can’t remember the journey,” Katie says. This automation can be dangerous when it stops drivers from responding to unexpected hazards.

TAILORING THE APPROACH Colin Hoad is the founder and chief instructor at CAT Driver Training, based 42 /

/ SPRING 2025

Road surface is damp but speed is good and we can be flexible with the gears, throttle and steering – there’s vision all the way up to the next bend

Vision up to a bend right, staying nearside to improve view, speed is good and stopping is possible if required

at Millbrook Proving Ground, and has spent more than 30 years in the industry, coaching both Advanced road drivers and racing drivers. He believes that psychology, learning styles and structured practise are critical to creating effective and lasting improvements in driving skill.

“The key to effective coaching is understanding how someone learns,” Colin says, pointing out that people typically absorb information in a variety of ways, including through visual, auditory and kinaesthetic cues. A visual learner, for example, thrives on multiple cues, from trackside markers on a race circuit to changes in scenery on the road, in order to determine braking points.

An auditory learner benefits more from verbal instructions and feedback, while

kinaesthetic learners need hands-on experience to embed new techniques.

However, many drivers, and instructors, are unaware of their preferred styles.

“At the beginning of every course, we ask ‘Do you have a preferred way of learning?’

Most people haven’t thought about it before,” Colin says. This simple question can unlock insights that allow training to be tailored to each individual, making sessions more effective and engaging.

But as Katie points out, even wellstructured training can fail if it isn’t reinforced over time. “Repeated training is the most effective, rather than a one-off session,” she explains. “You can have the best-designed training programme, but unless it is reinforced, habits from previous experience will persist.”

The Psychology of Advanced Driving

As the road straightens out we can accelerate to 60mph, but are still mindful of the motorcycle

Motorcyclist appearing in mirrors; they are likely to overtake

Richard Gladman, Chief Examiner at IAM RoadSmart, adds: “The most effective form of coaching is to get the individual to coach themselves – ask questions and get them to apply the system.” Encouraging drivers to verbalise their thought process ensures deeper engagement and retention of ideas, he says.

Recognising and adapting to individual differences ensures that each driver receives instructions in a way that resonates with them. This approach fosters not just better skill acquisition but also a more rewarding learning experience, as the learner is more connected with the method.

“WE USE MENTAL TEMPLATES TO CREATE EXPERTISE, BUT THESE CAN LEAD TO COMPLACENCY – SUCH AS WHEN YOU DRIVE SOMEWHERE AND CAN’T REMEMBER THE JOURNEY” DR KATIE PLANT, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR, SOUTHAMPTON TO UNIVERSITY

A FAMILIAR PATH Like any skill, driving is controlled by neurological pathways in the brain. / SPRING 2025 / 43

We see the car in the distance – is an overtake going to be safe and legal?

Ride your own ride, positioning for safety, stability and view and a positive throttle into the bend

“HUMANS LEARN AT 80%, NOT 100%. SLOWING DOWN ALLOWS THE BRAIN TO PROCESS NEW TECHNIQUES WITHOUT REVERTING TO OLD HABITS” Colin explains this with an evocative metaphor: “Imagine walking through a wheat field. The first time, the grass stands tall behind you but walk the same path 1,000 times and you create a clear trail.”

Moving from the wheat field to the road, this repetition of processes embeds them into the brain, and over time they become automatic.

But this requires deliberate effort.

Drivers often rely on instinctive habits, but effective coaching asks them to slow down and practise deliberately. Psychological studies have revealed that cognitive load – the mental effort required to process and 44 /

/ SPRING 2025

respond to something – has a significant impact on driving performance, and increased cognitive demands reduce a driver’s ability.

“Humans learn at 80%, not 100%,” Colin says. “Slowing down allows the brain to process new techniques without reverting to old habits.” This is crucial for embedding safer, more efficient driving behaviours. Drivers that train systematically to automate core processes, such as scanning mirrors or anticipating hazards, free up cognitive resources to handle unexpected challenges.

However, Katie warns that once a

schema is ingrained, it can be incredibly difficult to change. “Schemas are really enduring,” she says. “We see this in highprofile accidents across domains like aviation – previous experiences override new training. It takes significant time and reinforcement to undo habits and replace them with safer alternatives.”

To combat this, repeated and structured practise is crucial – research supports that training spaced over a period of time is significantly more effective than a single intensive session. “Ideally, training should be repeated up to six months later,” Katie says.

LEARNING LESSONS Structured practise, an integral part of a driver’s development in motorsport, offers valuable lessons for road drivers. Drivers on the track often perfect techniques like braking-point detection and refining steering inputs through targeted drills,

The Psychology of Advanced Driving

Damp road surface is accounted for, no standing water and grip levels are good

repeated until the actions become second nature. While road and track conditions have many differences, Colin believes this approach has clear parallels for road drivers. “Each drive should have clear objectives,” he says. “Even two structured sessions a week can lead to significant improvements.”

Richard points out that the earliest Advanced driver training system came at the behest of the Metropolitan Police commissioner from the Earl of Cottenham, a racing driver, in the early 1930s. The foundations of the police system of car control underpins IAM RoadSmart’s training today. Known as IPSGA (Information, Position, Speed, Gear, Accelerate), it’s a systematic approach that ensures drivers can logically assess hazards and make decisions.

Practise must be deliberate and errorfree to be effective. “Perfect practise makes permanent,” Colin emphasises. Repeating

Car driver is making good progress but staying lane-disciplined – we have a good view beyond them

Waiting for hi-res hi i-res vversion ersion

“STRUCTURED PRACTISE, AS USED IN MOTORSPORT, CAN ALSO BENEFIT ROAD DRIVERS. EVEN TWO STRUCTURED SESSIONS A WEEK CAN LEAD TO BIG IMPROVEMENTS” COLIN HOAD, CHIEF INSTRUCTOR, CAT DRIVER CA VE TRAINING

/ SPRING 2025 / 45

Good lateral view available, possibility of the overtake after the right-hand bend, keeping our position for the road, it will open up our view on exit

Car: the bike has closed us down, they are likely to overtake on the exit to this bend so we make sure we give them space Motorcycle: needs to see both sides of the road but it may be safe to overtake as the view opens up

poor habits only entrenches them, so both drivers and instructors must ensure that practise is focused on correct techniques.

REFLECT AND SELF-COACH Reflection is also a critical tool for improvement. Advanced drivers benefit from reviewing their journey, identifying what went well and where to improve.

For those keen to further their skills, Colin recommended recording a drive to compare perception with reality after the fact. “You might perceive you’ve done something correctly, but the reality might be very different,” he says.

Richard concurs. “When you switch off the engine, ask yourself, ‘What went well?

What could I have done better? What do I need to change?’”

These reflective practices encourage self-awareness in Advanced drivers and riders – as well as a process of continual progress – and can address the concept 46 /

/ SPRING 2025

of a shifting normality, where risky behaviours become ingrained because they’ve gone unpunished.

“If you take a chance at a junction every day and nothing happens, that becomes normal,” Richard says. Effective Advanced training encourages drivers to consider the potential consequences of such habits, even if they’ve never resulted in an incident. “Our driving plans should take in the worst-case scenario,” Richard says.

Reflection helps drivers reconnect with the potential consequences of their actions and reinforce the importance of cautious, thoughtful driving.

MINDSET OVER MECHANICS Former IAM RoadSmart Chief Examiner Peter Rodger, in his article ‘The Thinking Driver’ (Advanced Driving member magazine, Summer 2014), stresses that driving is context-dependent, and that Advanced drivers must be adaptable,

able to make their decisions based on observation and judgement rather than following rigid rules. “Advanced driving and riding is not about being black and white, and having things laid out in simple rules. It is about being mature, sensible and applying principles to the circumstances,” he writes.

Of course, this philosophy relies on a willing participant. “The people who come and do our Advanced Driver course tend to be there because they want to be,” says Richard Gladman. “But commercial driver training is rather different – if you’re a lead salesperson, then driver training is not high on your list of priorities. They often don’t want to be there.” This represents an all-new challenge and one that Richard is keen to embrace, continuing IAM RoadSmart’s recent advances in training refinement (read more on page 50).

But the onus is not just on the recipient of the training – the instructors must also

The Psychology of Advanced Driving

Big thanks to Yvonne Moors of Bournemouth and Wessex Advanced Motorists for lending us her time and her Kawasaki Ninja, and to Volkswagen UK for the featured car, the 333hp, four-wheel-drive Golf R. Find out more at volkswagen.co.uk/en/new/golf-r.html

continue to refine their approaches to maximise impact. One trainer, who asked not to be named, said: “People say it’s like old footballers teaching old footballers, just passing on what they’ve learned from older coaches. It’s my belief that within the motor training industry there isn’t enough interest in the psychological and learning aspects, that allow instructors to optimise their coaching to give customers the optimum learning. It’s something that absolutely needs to be pushed.”

As Advanced driver training evolves, it’s important that we are able to look beyond simply teaching and refining the mechanical and technological aspects of driving and embrace psychological principles. By understanding learning styles, practising deliberately and methodically, and reflecting on one’s performance, both instructors and drivers can achieve lasting improvements, shaping safer roads for all.

“IF YOU TAKE A CHANCE AT A JUNCTION AND NOTHING BAD HAPPENS, THAT BECOMES NORMAL. CONSIDER WHAT COULD BE THE RESULT OF SUCH HABITS” RICHARD GLADMAN, CHIEF EXAMINER, IAM ROADSMART R

/ SPRING 2025 / 47

What to look for when buying Motorbike Insurance:

A Guide for Riders When it comes to insuring your motorbike in the UK, there’s more to consider than just the cheapest quote. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to the world of motorbiking, getting the right motorbike insurance is essential for both peace of mind and legal protection. A number of our insurance sales advisers here at Cornmarket, who are also motorcyclists have pulled together this handy guide for the things that you should what to look for when buying motorbike insurance as well so some of the pitfalls to avoid.

1. Types of Motorbike Insurance Cover The first step in buying motorbike insurance is to understand the different types of cover available. In the UK, there are three main levels of motorbike insurance: a) Third-Party Only (TPO): This is the most basic and cheapest level of insurance. It covers damage to other people’s property or injuries you cause to others in an accident, but it does not cover any damage to your own bike or injuries to yourself. This is suitable if you have an older motorbike that’s not worth much. b) Third-Party, Fire and Theft (TPFT): This level includes everything covered under third-party insurance, plus protection if your bike is stolen or damaged by fire. It’s a good option if you want more cover without going for full comprehensive insurance. c) Comprehensive: This is the highest level of cover offering protection for your bike as well as third-party liabilities. It covers damage to your own motorbike, even if you were at fault for the accident, as well as injuries to other parties. This is recommended if your bike is new or has a high value.

2. Consider Your Bike’s Value and Usage Your motorbike’s value, age, and how you use it will influence the cost of your insurance. If you only ride occasionally,

you might consider a policy that reflects this, such as a limited-mileage policy. Likewise, if your bike is highperformance or a classic model, you may need specialist cover that factors in these variables.

Think about how often you use your motorbike, whether it’s for commuting, touring, or simply leisure riding. Highmileage riders or those who use their bike every day may have different needs compared to someone who only rides on weekends.

3. Check for Additional Benefits Some insurance policies come with added benefits, like breakdown cover, legal assistance, or cover for riding gear.

These perks can be valuable, so make sure to check what’s included in the policy before you sign up.

Look out for: • Free breakdown cover: It could save you time and money if your bike breaks down on the road. But also check the level of cover. Does it include homestart? Is it limited to roadside assistance only? Are there geographical limits e.g. UK only cover as opposed to full European cover?

• Helmet and leathers cover: Some policies offer protection for your helmet, gloves, and other protective gear in case of damage as a result of an accident.

• Advanced motorcyclist discount: Be sure to tell your insurer if you have taken an advanced motorbike course.

• Skill Days Cover: Ask your broker or insurer if they cover skills days and if there is an additional charge for this benefit.

• Blood biking and marshalling: Some policies class Blood biking activities as voluntary work and not an occupation.

Be sure to ask how this activity is classified on your policy if you participate in this valiant effort.

• Observing Cover: If you monitor and observe the skills of other motorcyclists you may need to add cover for this activity.

4. The Benefits of Using a Broker While many riders go straight to an insurer for their motorbike cover, using a broker can be extremely beneficial.

Here’s why: a) Access to Multiple Insurance Providers: Brokers work with a range of insurers, so they can compare multiple quotes to help you find the best deal. This is particularly useful if you’re unsure about the type of insurance you need or if you’re looking for a policy that suits specific circumstances, like custom modifications to your bike or high-performance models. b) Expertise and Advice: Brokers are experts in the field of motorbike

21072 IAM RoadSmart Motorbike Editorial 03-25

insurance. They can advise you on the best cover for your bike and riding habits, ensuring you’re not underinsured. If you’re unsure about the details of the policy, a broker can explain everything in simpler terms. c) Tailored Policies: Some brokers specialise in motorbike insurance and can offer tailored policies that suit your specific needs, whether it’s classic bikes, sports bikes, or touring models. They can also help with bespoke cover for accessories, modifications, or additional riders. d) Claims Support: In the unfortunate event of an accident, brokers can help you navigate the claims process. They have strong relationships with insurers and can often expedite the process to make it less stressful for you.

5. Pitfalls to Avoid When Buying Motorbike Insurance While motorbike insurance is essential, there are a few common pitfalls riders should be aware of when shopping for their policy: a) Not Checking the Excess: The excess is the amount you’ll need to pay towards a claim, and it can vary widely between policies. Make sure you’re comfortable with the excess amount, as a higher excess can lower your premium but might leave

you with a hefty bill if you need to make a claim. b) Failing to Disclose Modifications: If you’ve made any modifications to your motorbike, such as adding custom parts or performance upgrades, it’s essential to disclose this to your insurer. Failing to do so could result in your claim being denied. Make sure the insurer knows exactly what modifications your bike has before you purchase the policy. c) Overlooking Excess Mileage Charges: If you exceed the annual mileage limit set on your policy, it could result in higher premiums or a reduced payout in the event of a claim. Make sure your policy reflects your typical use, especially if you plan to ride long distances. d) Not Reviewing Policy Terms and Conditions: It’s tempting to accept the cheapest quote without reading the terms and conditions, but this can lead to unpleasant surprises down the road. Make sure you understand what’s covered, what’s excluded, and any limitations on your policy. e) Ignoring No-Claims Bonuses: If you have a no-claims bonus, make sure it’s factored into your new policy.

This can significantly reduce your premium. On the flip side, don’t forget that making a claim could

result in the loss of your no-claims discount, so consider the impact before claiming.

Conclusion When purchasing motorbike insurance in the UK, it’s important to assess the type of cover you need based on your bike’s value, your riding habits, and any additional benefits you may want.

Working with a broker can provide expert guidance, access to multiple insurers, and tailored policies to fit your specific needs.

However, make sure you avoid common pitfalls like failing to disclose bike modifications or neglecting the terms of your policy. By taking the time to shop around and read the fine print, you can secure the best protection for your motorbike and enjoy the open road with peace of mind.

Cornmarket Insurance have been supporting the biking community for over 25 years through our Adelaide Motorbike brand and were proud sponsor of the Irish Motorbike Awards again this year in Belfast. We have been the official Motorbike Insurance Partner for almost 20 years and a number of our expert insurance agents are also keen motorcyclists as well as IAM RoadSmart members.

Cornmarket Insurance have been supporting the biking community for over 25 years through our Adelaide Motorbike brand and were proud sponsor of the Irish Motorbike Awards again this year in Belfast. We have been the official Motorbike Insurance Partner for almost 20 years and a number of our expert insurance agents are also keen motorcyclists as well as IAM RoadSmart members.

Call 0289 044 5066 or go online anytime to get a quote at a time that suits you www.cornmarket.co.uk Acceptance criteria, terms and conditions apply.

Cornmarket Insurance Services Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of Cornmarket Group Financial Services Ltd. Cornmarket Group Financial Services Ltd is a member of the Irish Life Group Ltd. which is part of the Great-West Lifeco Group of companies. Cornmarket Insurance Services Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) registration number 308099. You may check this on the Financial Services Register by visiting the FCA’s website or by contacting the FCA on 0800 111 6768. Cornmarket Insurance Services, registered in Northern Ireland, company number NI030039. Registered Office: First Floor, Boucher Plaza, 4-6 Boucher Road, Belfast, BT12 6HR.

IAM RoadSmart Commercial education

MAKEE

WORDS MAT T RIGBY

DRIVING VINN WORK IAM RoadSmart’s business driving courses help businesses increase their efficiency and put safer and more confident drivers back on the road

B BETTER

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hose reading this are highly likely to be engaged, motivated drivers or riders, with some form of Advanced qualification from IAM RoadSmart.

But most drivers aren’t like us. And millions of drivers have to drive for work – whether that’s delivery drivers, tradespeople, sales reps or office workers.

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/ SPRING 2025

Above Employees can refresh skills that are relevant to their jobs

That’s why IAM RoadSmart offers a range of courses aimed at making those who drive for work better at it. What does that actually look like?

“Well, it can take multiple forms,” says Jason Kaye, national account manager for IAM RoadSmart. “There are group workshops – online or in-person – where employers and employees can engage with and learn about relevant road safety topics.

But as well as driver training, we offer vehicle familiarisation courses, ideal for new employees or those changing roles. So, it’s more than purely skills or driver education. It’s about being familiar with vehicles you’re driving, too.”

In fact, as well as vehicle familiarisation, IAM RoadSmart also has courses on becoming accustomed to electric vehicles, or those aimed specifically at the particular features of British driving regulations and conventions.

Course testimonials More mindful “The acronym COAST – Concentration, Observation, Anticipation, Space, Time – will help me be a more mindful driver.”

Understanding hazards “I’ve improved my road safety awareness, such as understanding hazards and safe distances. I’ve also learned advanced skills for driving round bends, including limit points, which help anticipate the road ahead.”

“Of course, while safety on the road is always a paramount consideration for us,” says Julian, head of customer experience for the charity, “businesses also want to be running as efficiently as possible, so we also have an eco-driving scheme, which can reduce fuel costs for business drivers by up to 15p per litre.

Although, as many members will know, the IAM RoadSmart Advanced driving system ends up saving fuel anyway: safe driving is therefore also efficient driving.”

Jason adds, “Consider the employer in this, as well: if their drivers are more aware of the vehicles they’re using and are more capable drivers, then there’s less likelihood of damage – major or minor – that could cause disruption to the running of that business.”

“Equally,” says Julian, “if an employee is driving a branded vehicle, then they’re effectively a billboard for the company,

so how they behave on the road reflects directly on the employer.”

But beyond the advantages of smootherrunning businesses and better reputations, there’s one key advantage – for everyone – of business courses: we’re not just preaching to the converted.

Jason Kaye again: “Unlike the individual candidates for Advanced driving – who are, by definition, keen to improve their skills – there will be people on driver education courses who aren’t willing participants. We always get a handful who are keen but, ironically, they’re perhaps the least important ones to reach.

Much more crucial are those drivers who are over-confident in their abilities, and equally those who lack confidence. That’s the key group we’re aiming to help regain their confidence and make safer drivers as a result.”

“IF AN EMPLOYEE DRIVES A BRANDED VEHICLE, HOW THEY BEHAVE REFLECTS DIRECTLY ON THEIR EMPLOYER”

Professional feedback “I’ve been driving on country roads for 32 years, and it was a pleasure to have someone with a professional background say that I’ve being doing it correctly.”

Road awareness refresher “A good refresher on driving standards and road awareness.

Excellent Assessor who made me feel comfortable and had extensive knowledge when I asked questions.”

Lower my emissions “I was given tips and techniques that have helped me to be a more efficient and frugal driver. This will allow me to increase the mile per gallon I’m getting from my vehicle and subsequently lower my emissions and fuel costs.

“The increased forward-view teaching has also helped me be a safer driver, as I know to plan further ahead and be proactive about my safety bubble, rather than reactive to emerging situations.”

/ SPRING 2025 / 51

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The very latest from IAM RoadSmart

Annual Awards 2024 We celebrated some of our road safety champions at the IAM RoadSmart Awards / SPRING 2025 / 53

IN S IDE R IN 2023, WE resurrected our annual awards as a way to celebrate the people who make IAM RoadSmart what it is. And I’m thrilled they were back again for 2024.

It’s a sign of the vibrancy, energy and commitment of members and Groups that we received 346 nominations for the 2024 awards, more than double that of 2023.

And it almost goes without saying that everyone who’s actively involved in furthering the cause of road safety in our Groups around all four nations of the United Kingdom rightly deserves to be celebrated.

Antony Kildare, Chief Executive, March 2025 1. & 2. NATIONAL CHAIR AWARD Tina Underwood and Beth Sutton In his last year as Trustee Chair, Stuart Donald wanted to award two people he thought had gone above and beyond to support the charity.

Tina Underwood (picture 1) has shown her commitment by running Kent Advanced Motorcyclists Group for 34 years. She’s heavily involved in training and events and has done a considerable amount of filming for the wider IAM RoadSmart cause.

Beth Sutton (picture 2) is a tireless advocate of both Advanced driving and riding and road safety, working with no fewer than three separate groups.

She was recently promoted to National Observer Assessor and is a newly appointed Car Masters Mentor.

1. VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR – RIDER Colin Underwood Colin has been a stalwart of the Kent Advanced Motorcyclists Group for over 15 years. Thanks to his efforts, over 10% of members are Masters.

He continues to challenge himself, achieving Masters with distinction in both car and bike. As a key force behind the successful Peterborough training weekends, he exemplifies dedication to Advanced motorcycling and road safety.

Runner-up: Tony Mulhall 54 /

/ SPRING 2025

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3. GROUP VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR – RIDER Scott Walker At just 36 years old, Scott is one of the youngest Chief Observers in the country and is a role model who fosters collaboration and support within his Congleton and Macclesfield Advanced Drivers and Riders. He has built one of the most successful bike sections we have, known for its quality training and innovation, doubling the number of bike Associates annually.

Runner-up: Gavin Caddick 4. GROUP VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR – DRIVER Jim Bowles Working tirelessly to promote IAM RoadSmart in Scotland, Jim collaborates closely with the local police force and fire and rescue service. This has resulted in car and motorcycle open days in Helensburgh, Inverary and Dumbarton.

He negotiated three-year funding from a local insurer for more open days and road safety events. He’s made a huge impact on road safety in his area.

Runner-up: Des McDermott

6. RUNNERS-UP (LEFT TO RIGHT) Gavin Caddick (Group Volunteer of the Year – Rider), Ian Dickenson from Oxford Advanced Motorcyclists (Group Partnership of the Year), CEO Antony Kildare, Des McDermott (Group Volunteer of the Year – Driver), Tony Mulhall (Volunteer of the Year – Rider)

5. GROUP PARTNERSHIP OF THE YEAR Northampton Advanced Motorists (Accepted by Steve Groves) We had many strong entries, but chose NAM as it has significantly supported our vision, mission and strategy. Key achievements include securing a grant for a Young Driver Scheme, leading to 18 young drivers passing their Advanced test since 2019. Its partnership with the Northamptonshire Safer Roads Alliance helped them design and run road safety campaigns for various driver groups.

Runner-up: Oxford Advanced Motorcyclists / SPRING 2025 / 55

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IN S IDE R VIEWPOINT

Antony Kildare

here’s one in-car technology system that’s vastly more sophisticated than any other. I’m talking, of course, about the brain. Because no matter how high-tech the car or bike you’re driving or riding is, what ultimately controls it is a human.

Which is why in this issue our cover feature takes an in-depth look into the psychology of driving – both good and bad.

What that article shows is how important the grey matter behind our eyes is. In short, the best way to improve safety on the road is education. And IAM RoadSmart is uniquely positioned to make a real difference when it comes to driver and rider training.

It is, after all, fundamental to what our Advanced driving and riding courses are all about. It’s even in our logo – ‘we make better drivers and riders’.

Crucially, though, it’s worth remembering that we can’t make everyone into Advanced motorists. I feel certain that everybody reading this will understand the utility and value of an Advanced driving or riding qualification, but as members of IAM RoadSmart we instinctively take pride in our motoring skills, so we are rather a self-selecting bunch.

Our Observers, Assessors, Mentors and Examiners are already preaching to the converted, in many ways. And while efforts to improve your own skills as a motorist will undoubtedly make every one of you a better and safer driver, you’re almost certainly all naturally inclined to drive in a safe and attentive manner – why else would you have voluntarily become Advanced motorists, after all?

We are, sadly, in the minority. For the vast majority of drivers out there on UK roads – that’s

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DID YOU KNOW? The fastest-growing category of vehicle in Great Britain is vans, with van traffic clocking up 57.5 billion miles in 2022. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the past 25 years have seen the number of licensed vans double – from 2.3 million in 1998 to 4.6 million in 2023.

“OUR COMMERCIAL COURSES AREN’T NECCESSARILY AIMED AT MAKING ADVANCED DRIVERS WITH F1RSTS, BUT MORE ABOUT PASSING ON THE SPIRIT OF OUR APPROACH TO DRIVING”

more than 40 million and counting – driving is a chore to be endured rather than enjoyed, and many people don’t have the time or care to be the best they can be at it.

So how do we ‘make better riders and drivers’ out of these ‘low-engagement’ road users?

How do we extend the mindset and the ethos of IAM RoadSmart? A key to this is the business and professional driving sector, which is why we offer a range of courses for commercial drivers, not necessarily aimed at making them all into Advanced drivers with F1rsts, but passing on at least part of the spirit of our approach to driving.

We know from our E-Learning app for business drivers that education is a serious issue, which is why we offer online and in-person driver training courses for employees who have to drive as part of their work or who are professional drivers. Not everybody cares as passionately about driving or riding as we do, so we offer on-road training, vehicle familiarisation and even EV familiarisation, as well as group workshops.

These courses are all aimed at making drivers safer and smoother for employers – as well as for general on-road safety. And you can read more about exactly what that entails on page 50.

As for what you can do as an individual? Well, one thing is that by being an Advanced rider or driver you’ll naturally make the on-road experience of those around you safer. But why not do what we do with our business courses? Maybe you know someone in your life who would be open to some driver education – perhaps they could come along to a Group meeting and sign up to an Advanced course… / SPRING 2025 / 57

ILLUSTRATION DAVID MAHONEY

Sharing the spirit of Advanced driving and riding is our calling, says IAM RoadSmart’s CEO

HAVEYOURSAY S H A R E YOU R TH OUG H TS ON TH E D RI VING AND R IDING ISSUES THAT MAT TER

Should you trust your vehicle technology to keep you within the speed limit?

STAR LETTER

AL AMY

I was talking to a new, young driver friend who had just got a puncture. They said that at least they’d not be delayed getting home, as their get-you-home tyre was good for 80 and they never went that fast!

Checking the tyre, there’s a big yellow label saying 80, but the km/h units were much smaller and easily missed. Given that in the UK speeds are defined in mph, could the IAM RoadSmart request manufacturers include a 50mph label on tyres sold in the UK? Ideally the reduced speed capability on a space-saver tyre should be included in the Highway Code and driver training, but simply putting an extra label on would be a good start.

Kevin Hyman

As a member for over 50 years I thought it about time I submitted an article that may be of interest for the magazine. We constantly hear the praises of modern technology, but it isn’t always what it’s cracked up to be. I’m about to be prosecuted for exceeding the 20mph limit whilst driving through a village in South Wales.

I drive a modern Volvo and my speed limiter was set to – you’ve guessed it – 20mph. Imagine my horror when I received a fine for doing 26mph. At the time, I saw the police camera van and thought to myself how lucky I was to be shielded by modern technology.

Clearly, it was no match for police equipment, as despite pleading my ‘innocence’ the fine remains. It also raises the question that if car tech doesn’t equate to the police tech, what will happen when driverless cars ‘exceed’ the speed limit.

Colin Jeavons

Consideration to others

WIN £100 58 /

Our Star Letter wins a £100 voucher to spend on IAM RoadSmart merchandise

/ SPRING 2025

I was interested and pleased to read Roger Shufflebottom’s letter in the Autumn/ Winter 2024 issue of RoadSmart, regarding the use of the handbrake whilst waiting at traffic lights.

When on my security chauffeuring course some years ago, if I had to stop I’d engage the handbrake and put the automatic car in neutral. The instructor

ALAMY

Limited accuracy

ALAMY

Views expressed on the Have Your Say pages are those of individual correspondents and not IAM RoadSmart. IAM RoadSmart reserves the right to edit letters for length and clarity.

Measurement mix-up

IN S IDE R

GET IN TOUCH

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told me to leave the car in gear and keep my foot on the footbrake, as it made for much smoother acceleration when pulling away from the stationary position.

For the rest of the course I did as the instructor wished, although I did make my point that the following driver may be dazzled by bright lights.

When I passed the course and returned home I reverted to my way again. I do hope that readers will do the same and think of the vehicle behind, particularly if it’s a motorcycle on a wet night.

Maurice West

AL AMY

New drivers can ensure a lifetime of safe driving with a graduated licence

Insuring against tragedy After reading about graduated driving licences in the Great Debate, Autumn/ Winter 2024 issue, the benefits of the GDL structure is quite clear. However, I believe someone is missing the point.

Many of these young drivers modify their cars but fail to inform their insurer, knowing they wouldn’t be given insurance. Why not ask the driver to include details via the MOT? If it’s modified, it’s noted with insurer and challenged accordingly.

There was a case inolving a 17-yearold whose parents bought him a Porsche 911. He went on to lose control at speed, killing a pensioner. The judge criticised the parents, and questioned how it was possible to insure a teenager in that car.

The youngster’s life was ruined, serving a lengthy prison sentence. So the answer to the debate is yes, it will save lives.

Paul Creed

Mind the gap Recently, I’ve noticed that many drivers stop well before the line at traffic lights and junctions. At lights it doesn’t really matter from a safety viewpoint, but at junctions it restricts the view along the major road. I’ve also noted that drivers are leaving an excessive gap between themselves and the vehicle in front, when stopped in traffic. Sometimes the gap seems as much as a car’s length!

Are learner drivers no longer taught

IAMRoadSmart

IN BRIEF Glossing over safety I disagree with Stuart Beniston’s letter in the Summer 2024 issue that BMW’s “optimal set-up for the safe control of a modern car” is safe.

The control switches of my BMW 3 Series require me to take my eyes off the road to adjust air flow and fan speed.

The switches are flush on a glossy panel and well-nigh impossible to tell apart by touch alone.

Clearly designed for looks, not for safe use.

David Soye Caught in the act If you witness dangerous driving on a daily basis, consider buying a dashcam and download any footage of risky tailgating, overtaking, speeding etc. Then forward a report to the police online. Even if action doesn’t appear to be taken, your evidence will still be ‘on the record’ should the perpetrator be brought to court at a later date and try to claim they’re a first offender.

Andrew Royle

“MANY DRIVERS ARE LEAVING AN OVERLY LARGE GAP BETWEEN THEMSELVES AND THE CAR IN FRONT WHEN STOPPED IN TRAFFIC” to judge where the front wheels are when they stop at traffic lights, junctions or in traffic? I’ve noted the recommendation in Roadcraft to “stop so that you can see the rear tyres of the vehicle in front”. My car, a Mitsubishi ASX crossover hatchback, has a high bonnet; this rule means I stop about three metres behind a vehicle, which seems excessive. A more practical distance is my bonnet just obscuring the top of the vehicle in front’s bumper.

Robin Trow The purpose of the gap is to allow movement around the vehicle in front in case of problems – tyres on tarmac is a starting point which can be adjusted for your particular vehicle. RG

Experience undervalued In the Summer issue I read the article about the very high insurance rates young drivers are being charged. I’ve also faced high rates; I passed my driving test in 1956 and have never been involved in a traffic incident, but last time I had an insurance quote it was £1,800. I found another insurer who charged me £1,200 (including a discount for 9+ years of no claims). I think credit should be given for experience and claims history.

I’ve been a member of IAM RoadSmart for 39 years and when I turned 80 I had my diving checked. I was marked excellent in some areas and the rest were all acceptable. I’m now 89 years old and ask two friends (who are IAM RoadSmart members) to give me their honest opinions of my driving – they confirm it’s still very good. If my friends tell me I’m a danger to other road users I shall give up driving immediately.

(Mrs) Valerie Soame / SPRING 2025 / 59

MEMBER PROFILE

“NOW THAT I’M A NATIONAL OBSERVER, I SEE THERE’S A VERY CLEAR DIFFERENCE BETWEEN EVERYDAY DRIVING AND THE ADVANCED COURSE” Like father, like son: Chris and Jamie Rodwell have both taken their Advanced driving abilities to the next level by gaining Observer status WORDS RUSSELL CAMPBELL PHOTOGRAPHY JONNY FLEETWOOD

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kills learnt by Advanced motorists don’t just help them; they also rub off on the people around them.

That’s certainly the case for 52-yearold Chris, a transport manager from Essex, and his 19-year-old undergraduate son, Jamie, both members of North East London and Essex Advanced Motorists Group.

A Ford Fiesta XR2-owning scout leader taught Chris to drive. He says: “One of the scout leaders was going to be made redundant. And he decided that he wanted to teach people to drive.

“I was at the right age and had my provisional. He [the scout leader] started with friends as guinea pigs to see if being a driving instructor is what he wanted to do… He charged £10 a lesson. My 13th lesson was my test. And I passed.”

Passing at 17, Chris would go on to do Advanced Driver training with help from the same scout leader, with his final test conducted by an irate 6ft 6in former police officer.

Chris says: “A lorry cut straight in front of me and cut me up [during 60 /

/ SPRING 2025

the test]. My instructor wasn’t very impressed, so he said to me, ‘Can this car go any faster?’; I had a Morris Marina.

We were bundling down the M11 when he started climbing out of the window.

And I’m thinking, ‘pinch myself, is this my driving test or what?’

“My instructor started shouting a load of abuse and waving his fist at the lorry driver. He got back in the car, and I pulled in front. And he said, ‘That told him’, or whatever.”

Unfortunately, it was a left-hand-drive truck, so the driver likely had heard little of the former lawman’s protestations.

As well as an Observer, Chris is also a Class 1 HGV driver and a transport manager, giving him a different perspective on driver training when considering areas like blind spots and stopping distances – knowledge his son Jamie has capitalised on to become an Advanced driver himself.

“I didn’t actually know if Jamie had done it [his IAM RoadSmart training] or was doing it. I said to him one day, ‘What are you doing next week?’

IN S IDE R

/ AUTUMN/WINTER / SPRING 2025 2024 / 61

IN S IDE R

Chris’ experience working in the transport industry has benefited Jamie’s driving

He said, ‘I’m doing my training for IAM on Monday,’ and I went: ‘Really?’

“So, he kept that quiet, which was a really nice surprise and made me feel proud, because it’s not something that I forced him to do; it was something he wanted to do.”

Like his dad, and at the tender age of 19, Jamie Rodwell is also a National Observer, and he thanks his father for getting him driving in the first place.

He says: “I have to credit my dad because he was a huge factor in helping with that. He’d get home from night work and supervise me driving to college.

Then he’d drive the car home, sleep, wake up again and drive to college so I could drive home. And around that, we’d be out all day, every day. It was really, really helpful.

“But when I did the Advanced test, it was a whole stage up. And now that I’m a National Observer, I can see there’s a very clear difference between everyday driving and the Advanced course.

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/ SPRING 2025

“IT WAS A SURPRISE WHEN JAMIE STARTED HIS ADVANCED TRAINING. I FELT PROUD, BECAUSE IT’S NOT SOMETHING I FORCED HIM TO; IT WAS WHAT HE WANTED TO DO”

Jamie is grateful for all the support his dad gave him when he was learning to drive

It really does make a difference, in terms of observation and safety.

“My own perception is that other drivers can be one of the most severe hazards, as bad as that sounds. I tend to be watching other drivers more than I’m watching a bend or other things.”

What would Jamie say to anyone thinking about joining IAM RoadSmart?

“If it’s knowing more about handling your vehicle, driving safer or just getting better knowledge of driving in general, there’s a benefit for everyone to join.

No matter what skills you’re looking for, if you communicate that to your Observer, they’ll work with you to try and achieve that goal.”

IN S IDE R

I A M ROA DSM A R T NE W S The latest updates, initiatives and information from IAM RoadSmart

You’ll still find all the information that you need on our new website, just more easily

Members at the heart of new website AS YOU READ these words we’ll be putting the finishing touches to our all-new website design, which brings with it an opportunity to help deliver a charity that’s fit and healthy, and ready for the future. With digital access being an increasingly significant part of all our lives, we felt the time had come to fully revamp IAM RoadSmart’s online presence. With our redesign, we’re planning to bring you all the same great services, but in a more modern package that’s easier to navigate and that puts you, and the wider road safety community, right at the heart of it.

We’ll also be looking at ways to use our website to target new and more diverse 64 /

/ SPRING 2025

audiences into the IAM RoadSmart community and to ensure that our website is accessible and relatable for all.

Part of that will come from our new focus on fundraising (see page 11 for more), as well as bringing our business services much more to the forefront of what we do, in order to grow the charity’s revenue and therefore our ability to reach new members and new audiences.

“WE’LL BE USING OUR WEBSITE TO GROW OUR COMMUNITY”

New digital member packs IN A MOVE towards a greener and more accessible future, our member packs have now gone digital. Members can now gain instant access to their materials, eliminating postal delays.

The online portal provides 24/7 availability, ensuring information is always at your fingertips. Crucially, this change also supports environmental sustainability by reducing paper waste. The digital format, meanwhile, offers convenient and secure storage, keeping all important documents in one safe location.

The digital transformation includes key features such as membership renewal notifications, downloadable membership cards that are compatible with digital wallets and welcome packs complete with certificates for Full and Fellow Members. Members can also showcase their skills with digital badges designed for platforms like LinkedIn and other social media channels.

was £945

£709pp

ʼ"Ѓ"˜˧˘ ¯˘˥˔"˗˔ was £1,021

£849pp

Ocean View

Spa

was £1,261

ʷ˘ˣ˔˥˧˨˥˘ ˗˔˧˘

AUG 21

£899pp

Prices include gratuities. Single supplement applies.

2025

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YOUR ITINERARY WITH CELEBRITY APEX ʷ˔+ ʤ- ˆ.˨˧˛˔ˠˣ˧."2 ʸ"˚4˔"˗ Southampton is a historic port city on England’s southern coast, offering rich WWII history, vibrant shopping, and exquisite dining options, all while serving as a gateway to nearby attractions like London, the Isle of Wight, and Windsor Castle. ʷ˔+ ʥ- ʴ˧ ˆ˘˔ ʠ ʶ˥˨˜˦˜"˚ While at sea, take the time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the ˣ""#$ ˕˘ ˦ˣ"˜#˘˗ ˔˧ ˧˛˘ ˦ˣ˔$ ˧˔˦˧˘ ˧˛˘ Ѓ,˘ gourmet delicacies or explore the venues on-board until we arrive at the next amazing destination. ʷ˔+ ʦ- ˅.˧˧˘˥˗˔ˠ2 ˁ˘˧˛˘˥4˔"˗˦ ˂,˖˘ ˔ ˛˨ˠ˕#˘ ʤʦ˧˛ʠ˖˘,˧˨˥5 Ѓ˦˛˜,˚ ˩˜##˔˚˘$ Europe’s largest port city is now a buzzing multicultural metropolis, known for its stunning views from the Euromast tower,

striking architecture, and world-class museums including the Boijmans and the Kunsthal. ʷ˔+ ʧ- ʵ˥˨˚˘˦2 ʵ˘4˚˜˨ˠ Bruges seamlessly blends medieval charm with exciting culture. Here you can wander through the cobblestone streets, historic churches, art history, and enjoy culinary delights like Belgian 7˔˙Є˘˦ ˔,˗ ˖˛"˖"#˔˧˘ʡ ʴ#˦" ˗˜˦˖"˩˘˥ nearby Ghent which boasts scenic canals and fascinating landmarks. ʷ˔+ ʨ- ˆ.˨˧˛˔ˠˣ˧."2 ʸ"˚4˔"˗ On day 5, your voyage comes to an end and you will return to Southampton with truly unforgettable memories.

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IN S IDE R STR ATEGY UPDATE

Our mission: We aim to be a force for good, says IAM RoadSmart’s CEO FAR TOO MANY people believe that after passing their standard driving or riding test they can handle any situation on the road. But it isn’t just yourself that you must account for – it’s also when a situation you’re not prepared for presents itself. This is where our Advanced driving and riding courses are particularly helpful and it’s our core mission to make more people aware of their benefits.

Our ambition is to expand so that we’re not only better connected with our own members and community, but that we reach beyond to a wider audience.

That will come through our new website and digital communication, which will be a more significant part of our output.

We’re working to create a future-fit charity, but that also means we will be providing improved communications to our existing members – and future ones – with digital content and interactivity at

the core. A key part of this is looking at how the content we create for RoadSmart magazine can help drive growth and awareness of the charity and the causes we fight for.

And this year, more progress will be made with evolving our digital content

“WE WANT TO SHARE OUR KNOWLEDGE FOR THE BENEFIT OF ALL ROAD USERS” that will give you, and people beyond our community, access to even more motoring features, stories and articles.

We also continue to work with commercial providers so that people who drive or ride for a living are safer and more skilled, maintain our position as a

significant influencer and deliverer of drink rehabilitation programmes, and focus even more on work with younger drivers and riders. We have our young ambassadors, for example, as well as a significant demand from younger people for skills days where they are fine-tuning some of their skills and behaviours.

We’ll keep nurturing our membership community, but we want to open up our education base for the benefit of all road users – a huge group indeed, so we need to do more to keep that going.

Ultimately, our mission is to be a force for good, with education and skills development at our core.

Meet Carlota, our new Business Development & Operations Director WE ARE DELIGHTED to announce the appointment of Carlota Da Veiga Pestana to the position of Business Development and Operations Director at IAM RoadSmart, completing our senior leadership team.

Carlota has joined us from Smart Cities World – a leading global platform dedicated to exploring and accelerating the development

66 /

/ SPRING 2025

of smart cities worldwide – where she was Chief Commercial Officer.

Carlota’s focus is on increasing and diversifying our products and revenue streams, and leading change within our Groups and Field Service Delivery. She brings great experience and knowledge to help with our transformation and growth.

Welcome, Carlota!

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