Last Weeks AGM

Last week saw the groups AGM where members gathered to congratulate members who have given their all and contributed to the groups efforts.

Celebrated Awards went to:

The Stan Hawkins Award

The Stan Hawkins Certificate of Merit was present to Max Power - Congratulations.

Max Power receiving the Stan Hawkins award from Chairman Linda Davies

Chairmans Award

Two were issued this year, these went to John Mills and John Bowman. Congratulations to both gentleman. 

Chairman Linda Davies presenting the Chairmans Award to John Mills

John Bowman receiving his Chairmans award.

Certificates of Appreciation for 25 Years of Observing

Went to John Mills. Congratulations. 

John Mills proudly receives his award for 25 Years of Observing

After the celebrations the Chairman, Linda Davies delivered her report. Here are the main points.

• At a recent IAM Forum meeting we learned that of the 92,000 IAM members only 20,000 belong to any Group.  The Chairman was pleased to advise that Mid Kent continues to maintain a healthy membership.  At the moment the Mid-Kent group has 509 Members comprising 468 full members and 41 Associates. Thanks went out to Richard Thomas who has done an outstanding job as Membership Secretary.
• The work on DVD 1 was unfortunately delayed due to the appalling weather and a new driver needed to be recruited. The Chairman was pleased to confirm that this is now underway again and should be in use later this year
• The Chairman also explained that the Lecture Team also give up their free time to go out to other organisations as speakers helping to attract new associates. 
• A formal welcome was extended to the latest Lecture Team member Pam Medlock and on behalf of the Group thanks went out to the the entire Lecture Team for the Professional lectures that we now enjoy on Sunday mornings
• The Chairman explained that 22 new Associates took advantage of a discounted offer for Skill for Life course and expressed a wish to bring back the offer later in the year.
• Test results since the last AGM including the Alternative Course: 63 Associates have started, 3 dropped out, 28 are still in training,and 4 are awaiting their test. Of the 28 that have taken the test 24 have passed and 4 have failed.
• This gives us a pass rate of 86% which is a 4% improvement on last year and is now higher than the National average.
• The group also now have 4 F1rst's in the group - congratulations went out to those members.
• On April 6th we again hosted an Observer Training Day which was attended by The Regional Training Team. A special thanks as always to Christine for the all day refreshments served and really excellent lunch which was enjoyed by all.
• The Chairman continued with thanks on behalf of all associates the Senior Observer team, Training Officers and all Observer's for their outstanding efforts with Sunday runs and out of hours runs which in total exced 200 extra hours.
• Terry Nunn our Associate Co-ordinator was also thanked for the hard work he puts in 7 days a week organising the Associates. He is effectively the voice of the Group usually being the first point of contact. He ensures that associates remember to attend and reminds them not to come by train as they actually need to bring their cars.
• Thanks was also extended Neil Regan at the signing in desk and Tony Willson for conducting the eye sight tests. Both these gentlemen help to ensure the safety of our Observers on the road
• Our outside Events Team continue to promote Mid Kent at every opportunity and so far have attended:- Kaslers Highways to Hell Seminar, Kent County Show (despite the worst muddiest conditions ever) Maidstone Hospital Fete, Maidstone Mela Day, Sittingbourne Dog Track, Bearsted Green Classic Car Event, Gravesend Fire & Rescue Event and Heritage Cars at the Detling Showground
• Recruitment stands were also manned at both the Winter Driving and Defensive Driving evenings
• The Chairman expressed her thanks to Phil Mason, Alan Rowe and all the team who have struggled against the elements at many of those events - an excellent job well done.
• Vauxhall have been running a series of evening events for Ladies only so the group now has a team which attends these. Thanks Val and Margaret
• Since the last AGM 7 skid pan training sessions have taken place with another 3 already booked. Thanks was extended to Mick Cranfield for his boundless enthusiasm.
• Turning to the groups blog, Linda reported that the article on Neil Lakeland's training experience generated some 800 hits in one day, after Neil used Twitter to spread the word about his experience. Chiswick included a link in their monthly email newsletter after hearing of his experience. Thanks went out to Neil.
• February saw the biggest number of people taking a look at our Blog entries - just over 1800. In total, since the last AGM we've had 11075 hits. Thanks were extended to David Hill and Graham Aylard for keeping the group in the public eye online.
• Social Secretary Max Power has arranged some excellent speakers over the past year these include IAM examiner Lester Parsons,  Dr Diane Gyia senior lecturer at Loughborough University on Driving Ergonomic our very own David Cooper, Chief Constable of Kent Police Ian Learmonth, Sgt Miles Bishop from the Police Crash Investigation Unit and Supt Andrea Bishop as well as arranging Winter and Defensive Driving Evenings and our very own popular Christmas Quiz night and Christmas Dinner.
• Outside Social events includes Greyhound Racing in Sittingbourne. support a Charles Dickens Charity Event held at The Central Theatre in Chatham in aid of Great Ormond St Children'sHospital which raised in excess of £6000. and a visit to the Tower of London to see the Famous Ceremony of the Keys.
• Thanks was extended for the hard work and support the Committee gave with Linda adding "it has been a pleasure to work with you" and further thanks to Vice-Chairman Max Power and Secretary Val Power adding "you have been excellent Ambassadors for the Group thank you so much for all your help"
• A special thanks to Christine for the superb refreshments throughout the year on the Sunday runs and evening events, especial the quiz evening - the aroma of home made Mince Pies being freshly baked on the premises during the evening was just too much for many. The Chairman added " I succumbed to at least 3!"
• Last but not least thanks go to our dynamic Treasurer Daren Bubb for keeping a tight grip on our purse strings and ensuring that the Group maintained our Charitable aims.

Supt Andrea Bishop of Kent Police presents a certificate to Sandra Wilson who recently passed her Advanced test 

The evening was followed by Supt Andrea Bishop, who gave us an interesting insight to her career in Kent Police. Before departing, Supt Andrea Bishop was given the pleasure to award Sandra Wilson her Pass Certificate. Congratulations.

Chairman Linda Davies presents flowers of thanks to Supt Andrea Bishop of Kent Police for her talk and insight to her career and some of the tasks and challenges Kent Police face.

Britons spend 14 weeks of their lives looking for parking

Ever thought it's taking longer to find a car parking space? Well you're right, it is – new research has found British motorists spend on average an alarming 2,500 hours of their lifetime looking for a space.

Research found as a nation, we spend on average 2,549 hours or 14 weeks looking for a space with London topping the list for hard-to-find spaces.

Drivers in the capital can spend up to 20 minutes and 30 seconds searching for a parking bay, while the typical Manchester motorist spends 15 minutes and 45 seconds.

The two cities are followed by Bristol at 13 minutes 15 seconds, Southampton at 12 minutes 15 seconds, while Wolverhampton rounds off the top five worst offending cities at 10 minutes and 35 seconds.

Parking is also the biggest pain for the UK's motorists. The survey found parking tops the list of frustrations with more than 45 per cent of respondents citing it as the main problem they face when on the road. Lack of manners recorded 22 per cent and middle lane hoggers 17 per cent.

A spokesman said: "It perhaps comes as no surprise that cities like London and Manchester have parking congestion problems.

"As if motorists haven't had enough to contend with as fuel and motor insurance costs have risen over recent years, they now spend precious time waiting to park when they reach their destination."

Half of all whiplash claims are faked

Around 50 per cent of all whiplash claims arising from car crashes are fraudulent, insurance industry experts have told MPs.

The figure could even be as high as 60 per cent, as whiplash injuries are difficult to diagnose and the symptoms too easy to fake.

With insurance claims for such injuries worth around £2,500 a time, and with additional fees being earned by lawyers and claims management firms, insurance companies have argued they are being exploited by a "claims manufacturing industry" that encourages drivers to make false claims.

If the estimations are correct, fraudulent claims make up half of the 550,000 whiplash cases paid out on each year, and cost the industry £1 billion annually.

It is often easier for insurance companies to settle cases rather than fight those that are suspected to be fraudulent, leading to a huge increase in the number of claims in the last five years.

This has not been witnessed in other European nations, where legal fees relating to whiplash cases are limited.

The situation has also seen the emergence of the so called 'crash for cash' scam, in which fraudsters stage accidents with unsuspecting motorists before submitting false claims for injury and vehicle damage.

Insurers have calculated that the rise in claims has added around £90 to the premium of an average policy.

Giving testimony to the Commons transport select committee, David Powell, of the Lloyd's insurance market association, said: "It's so easy to fake, it's so easy to exaggerate. There is a claims manufacturing industry which has developed over the last ten to 15 years. It has gone into overdrive.
"If you have a more stringent test, you will get more of the fraudulent claims challenged and more fraudsters put off."

Fast-food employee steals robbery getaway car

A Burger King employee has foiled a robbery at the fast-food restaurant by stealing the thieves' getaway car at a branch in Stockton, California.

Faced with two armed robbers storming through the front door demanding cash, the unidentified employee fled out the back and came across the car, which had been left running.

While the suspects were busy emptying the tills, the quick-thinking burger-flipper jumped inside the vehicle and parked it around the block, hiding it from sight.

The robbers, Jeremy Lovitt and Gabriel Gonzales, 23 and 19 years old respectively, were then forced to flee on foot, and were eventually caught in a nearby field by police officers.

Speaking to CBS Sacramento, Police officer Joe Silva praised the actions of the Burger King worker, and said: "The quick action from this employee did allow our officers to get on scene and arrest the suspects."

All of the money taken in the robbery was recovered at the scene and returned to the restaurant.

With some witnesses claiming the bungling duo should make an appearance on 'America's Dumbest Criminals', both Lovitt and Gonzales are refusing interview requests as they await trial in San Joaquin County Jail

DVLA makes £10m on selling driver info

 

 

DVLA made a handy £10m last year from selling private driver information to car parking and clamping operators. The Driving Vehicle and Licensing Agency passed on more than 2.4m separate driver details.

One company, Parking Eye, spent almost £900,000 on buying up driver info. Can you protect yourself from the practice?

The short answer is no, though many might want to given the reputation of some companies. For example, Parking Eye was taken to task by BBC's Watchdog program for fining drivers unfairly. Other companies have attempted to charge for releasing information made against drivers.

Watchdog's advice to dealing with alarming rise of Penalty Charge Notices (PCN) meted out by private parking companies to the public at the time was straightforward: fold the PCN up, carefully creasing all edges. Then direct your new paper plane across the room, preferably to a bin.

But since October 2012 the registered keeper of a vehicle is now responsible for how a vehicle is used, regardless of who was driving. If unpaid within the 28-day notice period, a registered keeper can be liable for the charge - unless he forwards the actual driver's details to the company.

Grey area

The AA's Paul Watters told AOL Money that enforcement though remains a grey area. The law has only changed for those who are approved operators of The British Parking Association.

"If unpaid, the keeper becomes liable. But the issue of the contact to park remains. If there were no signs and you could not reasonably have accepted the contract [to park], then only a court can enforce the PCN."

AOL Money contacted DVLA about whether British motorists could opt out of having their information handed onto these private car companies. "Vehicle keeper information," said DVLA, "is held on a separate database to driver licence records. Information cannot be released from a driving licence record without the drivers permission."

Reasonable cause?

"However, information to help contact the registered keepers of vehicles can be released to companies provided they demonstrate reasonable cause for requiring the information."

That "reasonable cause" before any information is released is not defined by the DVLA. On current evidence it appears any operator who has signed up to the British Parking Association's Approved Operator Scheme for managed parking on private land - and is willing to write a cheque, payable to the DVLA.

Police stop one in five Brit cars abroad

 

 

 

One in five British motorists abroad have been stopped by the police on foreign roads.

Their crimes include driving on the wrong side of the road, speeding, using a mobile phone or using Sat Navs that detect speed cameras – they are illegal across much of Europe and fines can be as high as €1,500 (£1,389) in France and €2,834 (£2,634) in Italy.

New research for Post Office Travel Money's annual Motoring on the Continent report has revealed that almost half of UK adults (47%) have driven in Europe and almost one in five (18.6%) of them have been stopped by the police.

Almost three-quarters (73.6%) of the UK motorists who had driven in Europe said that they had been stopped for a routine check – increasingly frequent in countries such as Spain, France and Italy where traffic crackdowns have been implemented.

However, 25% of those stopped were pulled over for speeding and 20% had their Sat Nav system checked by police to see whether it was detecting speed cameras.

UK drivers were most likely to be stopped in France (12.4%), followed by Italy (12.1%) and Spain and Germany (11.6%)

Percentage of UK adults who have driven in Europe (% stopped by police)

• France 55% (12.4%)
• Spain 42% (11.6%)
• Germany 28% (11.6%)
• Belgium 27% (8.6%)
• Italy 20% (12.1%)
• Netherlands 20% (9.7%)

The Post Office found that there was widespread uncertainty about European motoring regulations. At least one-third of survey respondents said they were unclear about speed limits, rising to around two-thirds when they were asked about the rules governing the use of speed camera alerts on GPS devices or Sat Navs and carrying a breathalyser kit in the car.

Three-in-five were unclear about the ways in which speeding laws might be enforced and did not know that they might be liable to on-the-spot fines.

Who was unclear about what

• Carry breathalyser in car 67%
• Use of speed camera alerts on GPS devices/Sat Navs 66%
• Enforcement of speeding laws e.g. on-the-spot fines 59%
• Carry V5 registration and insurance 49%
• Adapting headlights for driving in Europe 48%
• Mobile phone use 47%
• Legal requirements for safety equipment 47%
• Drink/drive limits 46%
• Regulations on seatbelt use 35%
• Speed limits 33%

Andrew Brown of Post Office Travel Money said: "Our holiday motoring report revealed significant levels of uncertainty about the rules of the road in Europe. Since it also showed that large numbers of UK motorists have driven on the Continent – over half of the UK population in the case of France – it is really important to gen up on the current laws before setting out.

"There are heavy fines for breaking the law across Europe and signs too that the police are taking a firm line in enforcing the rules, which helps to explain the high number of UK motorists stopped while driving on the Continent.

"Holidaymakers who fall foul of these could find themselves with fines, which often have to be paid on the spot – and sometimes in cash. Holiday motorists should therefore make sure they take enough foreign currency with them to cover all eventualities."

The rural road to ruin

 

 

Country roads may be a more enjoyable drive than long straight ones, but they account for two-thirds of serious crashes. Bank and summer holidays see more drivers on rural roads that they are not familiar with. High speed limits, tight bends and unexpected hazards all add to the risk.

 

Expect something – a cyclist, horse, a tractor – around every blind bend, and watch out for clues to their presence, such as horse dung on the road. Be particularly careful when passing horses. Just like people, horses are individuals and will react differently. Always give them space when passing, and don't risk startling them by rushing up or making any sudden noises. Try to be understanding if there are two horses riding side by side. Horse riders often do this to protect less experienced and nervous riders and horses. 

 

Rural journeys often take longer than expected because of the slower road users, so allow extra time in your journey for obstacles, so you don't feel the need to rush.

 

In the spring, new vegetation growth may block your view around bends. Your speed should reflect the distance you can see to be clear – if you can only see three metres ahead, you should be able to stop within that distance. Vegetation can also obscure road signs. If you are looking for a particular sign, slow down until you see it and know where you're going.  If you spot a sign too late, it's best to carry on rather than try a sudden manoeuvre. 

 

On bright days, overgrowing trees can create dark shadowed areas which are difficult to see into. Slow down until you can see the road is clear.

 

Where there are farm vehicles moving around, there is likely to be mud spread on the road. This can get very slippery when wet, so be careful when passing entrances to fields. Loose gravel, leaves and potholes are also common so always keep an eye on the road surface.

 

Watch out for groups of bikers who can arrive unexpectedly and at speed. Listen out for clues of their approach and remember that the last rider in the group may be tempted to overtake dangerously to keep up with his friends.

 

On fast country roads, side turnings and gateways can present a real hazard. As you approach them question whether you could react in time if somebody was to appear from the entrance. If not, take your foot off the accelerator, and be prepared to brake. Try to spot side turnings early and take extra care when approaching buildings which may have entrances obscured from view.

 

Despite rural roads being the most dangerous, driving on them is not part of the driving test. If you're a learner, or are giving instruction to one, make sure you include rural roads in your practice. 

 

Finally remember the national speed limit is a maximum, not a target speed, and may often be too fast for the conditions.

Breaking snooze

Driving on motorways can be sleep-inducingly dull, especially when you add the hypnotic effect of miles of identical roads, pouring rain and windscreen wipers. 

 

It's tempting to set the cruise control to 70 and let the car get on with the rest – but that could have the same effect as hitting the snooze button. If you focus on keeping your speed right, you'll keep your concentration and be less likely to doze off.

 

At 70mph you travel 30 meters every second. You might not think you'll fall asleep at the wheel, but you might not even realise you have. Plan your journey so you include a break every two hours, and take the breaks whether or not you think they are necessary.

 

If you start feeling tired take a break; don't worry about where you're going to, it's better late than never. A cup of coffee is great for giving you a boost. It will be about 20 minutes before it has an effect, so have your drink and settle down for a nap. If you sleep for any longer than 20 minutes, your sleep will be deeper and harder to wake from.

 

If you've got a long journey, get a good night's sleep the night before. If you decide to leave early to beat the rush, remember that the early hours are when you are at most risk of drifting off. You'll have another dip in energy after lunch too, especially if you have a heavy meal.

 

Carry a bottle of water to keep you hydrated on the journey, as well as snacks –especially if you're travelling with kids. But make sure you've pulled over in a safe place to have your food or drink.

 

If you've got the time – perhaps you're heading off for your family holiday – consider taking a different route to keep you alert. It might take longer but you'll see more of the countryside, and may even miss major motorway delays. Set your satnav to avoid motorways, but check that you know your route on a map too, in case the technology fails.

 

If there's more than one driver in the car, share the driving. This is especially important over longer distances, and does mean you can make better progress as one of you can rest or map read, while the driver concentrates on the road.

 

There's no getting away from it, motorway service areas are expensive. Planning your stops at them doesn't mean you have to shop there. Take your meals with you or try a little off-motorway driving. Hugh Cantlie's excellent book Near the Motorways lists great affordable alternatives to service stations all within five minutes of the motorway. You'll also break the motorway monotony.

SPECIAL TRAFFIC COURTS TO BE SET UP

Traffic-light jumpers and speeding motorists are to be dealt with in special traffic courts in a bid to free up time for more serious cases, the Government said today.

About half a million motoring cases are heard in magistrates' courts every year and can often take longer to progress than major offences, the Ministry of Justice said.

Ministers want to set up traffic courts to reduce delays as part of a wider plan to improve Britain's criminal justice system.

Justice Minister Damian Green said: "Enforcing traffic laws is hugely important for road safety and saving lives.

"However, these cases take nearly six months on average from offence to completion, despite the fact that over 90% of cases result in a guilty plea or are proved in absence - this is simply unacceptable.

"The justice system must respond more quickly and effectively to the needs of victims, witnesses and local communities, and these dedicated courts will enable magistrates to better organise their work and drive greater efficiency."

The Government is discussing with the judiciary, who are responsible for managing cases in the courts, how the traffic courts can be delivered across the country

Chief Constable Chris Eyre, the Association of Chief Police Officers (Acpo) lead on criminal justice, said: "We have implemented this new procedure to traffic cases with great success in nine police forces - radically simplifying and speeding up the process.

"This is only implemented when there is a guilty plea or where the case against a defendant is not contested.

"Effective first hearings have significantly reduced the amount of adjournments and a single court can deal with up to 160 cases a day."

The nine areas which have trialled the new traffic courts are Essex, Hampshire, Kent, Lincolnshire, Metropolitan Police, Nottinghamshire, Norfolk, Suffolk and West Yorkshire.

Shadow justice secretary Sadiq Khan said: "We welcome efforts to make our courts more efficient and specialised.

"It's important that we have swift justice, and I look forward to seeing results of how this works in practice.

"But this is the low-hanging fruit of problems in our criminal justice system.

"We have called for a root-and-branch review of our whole criminal justice system, and this should be the Government's priority as there are bigger savings to be found in the way our courts and prosecution services work.

"Real savings and efficiencies would avoid the need for the Government's increased use of cautions for serious offences and mean that their proposed cuts to criminal legal aid, that risk doing so much damage to the justice system, could be abandoned."

IAM director of policy and research Neil Greig said: "We welcome the focus on improving detection rates and investigation time for serious offences. Many families are rightly upset when the death or serious injury of a loved one appears to attract a short ban or fine.  Speeding and red light running are still serious ofences however and these new courts could also help end the scandal of drivers still being allowed on the road after they have amassed more than 12 points." 

Observer Training with Automatics

As someone who has only ever owned and driven manual cars, being introduced into the world of automatics for the first time was certainly eye-opening.  If, like me, you thought that automatics were by and large the same, then prepare to be educated!

The first thing to note is that there are two very different types of automatic: 'geared' and 'continuously variable transmission' (CVT).  Whilst the first system has a fixed amount of gears and, in certain modes, can be driven in a similar style to a manual (for example in 'sport' mode where the automatic system can be overridden), the CVT selects the appropriate gear once the speed has been reached.  You can therefore expect a reasonable amount of engine noise during acceleration as the engine is held at the peak of its power.  On the flip side however, they can be extremely responsive and smooth since they do not 'hunt' for the appropriate gear in slow moving traffic or during hill climbs and descents.

Secondly, although you may correctly identify the type of automatic as 'geared', this is only the start.  It seems that every single manufacturer has a slightly different 'geared' system with various different modes, options and ratios.  Familiarity with one does not mean familiarity with all.  Here, the important thing to note is that if, as an Observer, you're unsure of anything (or even if you think you understand it but want to check that the Associate does) then ask the Associate for an explanation of how their particular system works.  This is good practise anyway and may identify some things to watch out for during the subsequent drive.

Thirdly, depending on whether you're in a CVT or 'geared' automatic, and depending on what the owner's manual says, there may also be differences in what the Associate does when stopped for long periods of time.  The typical sequence for a 'geared' automatic is 'Park', 'Reverse', 'Neutral' and 'Drive' which means, to get to Park you have to move through Reverse.  When stationary therefore, some drivers will select 'Neutral' rather than 'Park' to avoid the albeit brief flash of reversing lights which may confuse/panic the driver behind.  Owner's manuals may have recommendations here and it could be a useful question to ask the Associate what is suggested by the manufacturer (if only to check that they've read their manual!)

That said, regardless of whether you drive an automatic or manual transmission, the System of advanced driving still remains the same.  Information still needs to be gathered and given, the correct road position adopted and the hazard approached at the correct speed (which is regulated with acceleration sense and braking).  Whilst in a manual transmission the Observer would be looking at this point for an overlap between the brake pedal and gear change, in an automatic it is important to assess whether all of the braking has been completed before the hazard and a slight pressure re-applied to the accelerator so that the car selects the right gear.  A typical 'fault' which automatic drivers can display is braking in the hazard or whilst steering around a corner.  

Obviously the other aspects of advanced driving - limit points, driving plans and making progress - are all still relevant as well.  The final, important, point to note is that by understanding what the capabilities of their automatic transmission are, when to use the manual override feature (if present) and how to ensure that the car is in the right gear at the right time, the Associate will not only become a better driver but they should also have a more enjoyable driving experience.

Neil Lakeland - Trainee Observer.

Follow this link if you missed any of Neil's blog's on observer training. 

If your a member of the Mid-Kent Group of Advanced Motorist and wish to follow in the footsteps of Neil, please contact John Bowman. If your not a member, and wish to take on the challenge of advance motoring, why not join us? Contact us by email or apply now on the web 

Vulnerable road users need much more protection, says IAM

As UN Global Road Safety week puts worldwide pedestrian safety under the spotlight, the IAM is asking the UK government and car makers to make pedestrian-friendly car fronts a top priority.  The government should be taking the lead in lobbying the European Commission and car manufacturers to make radical changes so that vulnerable road users can get the same five star protection as those sitting in the vehicle.

The number of deaths and serious injuries to car occupants fell by 524 in 2011 but amongst vulnerable road users they increased:

• Pedestrians - 48 more killed, 254 more seriously injured
• Cyclists - four fewer killed, 425 more seriously injured

Since 2006, car occupants' deaths and serious injuries have fallen by 35% but for pedestrians the fall is just 16 per cent, while cyclist deaths and serious injuries have increased by 31 per cent. Car occupants benefit increasingly from the high standards of crash protection brought about by the Euro NCAP crash testing programme, ensuring more four and five-star cars than ever are on the market. Improvements to the front of cars that would benefit pedestrians and cyclists in a collision have simply not kept pace.

New research by IAM shows that the average Euro NCAP rating for car occupants in super minis in the last three years is eighty-two per cent while for pedestrians it is much lower, at 53 per cent. There needs to be a new focus on bringing pedestrian safety up to the level now enjoyed by car occupants.

IAM chief executive Simon Best said: "While the people in the car are much safer, in the case of a crash with a pedestrian or cyclist, the front of the car is not as forgiving. Much more can and should be done through car design to minimise the damage caused by hard metal on soft tissue."

West Midlands Police adds 30 electric Nissan Leafs to fleet

In an attempt to drive down the truly shocking rate of crime (sorry), West Midlands Police has taken delivery of 30 shiny new Nissan Leafs.

Ten local policing units will run three "diary car" Leafs each, with the vehicles being used to attend pre-arranged meetings with victims of crime and locals who have contacted the police force.

Despite not actually undertaking high-speed pursuits, these "diary cars" play an important role in linking the police force with the general public.

Most diary cars average 40 to 45 miles per day making the 124-mile range of the Leafs perfectly suited for WMP's day-to-day needs. Every local policing unit will have a dedicated charging point installed to ensure the Leafs remain topped up and ready to go.

The fact the bill for a full recharge is a mere £1.75 is an added bonus.

Bob Jones, Police and Crime Commissioner for West Midlands Police said: "We welcome the new LEAFs, which fit in perfectly with the operational requirements of diary cars and will significantly cut our fuel costs while also reducing our carbon footprint."

Barry Beeston, Nissan corporate sales director said: "The Leaf is becoming ever more popular as fleet managers see the benefits of 100% electric vehicles and massively reduced running costs. We're delighted to hear the police are already enjoying driving the Leafs and we hope they're enjoying going after a new type of lead!"

£90 fine for drivers caught texting at the wheel

Transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin has indicated that fines for drivers caught texting, Tweeting or using smart phones at the wheel could increase by 50 per cent.

Ministers plan to increase the fixed penalty for using a hand-held device at the wheel – whether to text or make calls - from £60 to £90.

 

The financial penalty may be on the rise but the number of points offenders will receive will remain at just three despite cries for the 150,000 or more drivers a year convicted of offences involving mobile phones to incur a six-point penalty.

Twitter addicts, obsessive texters and Facebook fanatics won't be the only ones penalised under the proposed law as careless motorists who cut up other drivers, tailgate, hog lanes and even eat at the wheel could face the £90 fine.

Mr McLoughlin said: "We want to send a clear message to dangerous drivers: If you continue to show complete disregard for the safety of other road users, we will catch you – and we will punish you."

More than a million motorists have been convicted of using a hand-held mobile phone behind the wheel since 2003 - when the act was officially outlawed - with a peak of 161,096 convictions in 2010.

But many campaigners are calling for even stricter rules as studies have proved that drivers who text or use mobile phones behind the wheel can be more distracted than those over the drink-drive limit

Lust of the summer wine

Road safety charity the IAM is offering weekly motoring tips from Britain's top advanced driver, Peter Rodger. This week, he offers tips on how to avoid the drink drive temptation this summer.

• If you've had a couple at a summer celebration, don't try to calculate whether or not you are over the limit.  It's always best to make it none for the road.
• Remember that home measures are often larger that what you'd get in a pub.
• Many crashes involve pedestrians who have been drinking and drivers who haven't. When walking home after a drink or two, take care and pay attention to your surroundings. When you're driving, be aware that pedestrians may be the worse for wear and unpredictable, especially late at night, and be prepared for them to step out without looking for you.
• If you drive to a party and drink when you didn't expect to, don't risk it. Get a taxi or arrange for a friend or family member to pick you up.
• A drinking session the night before might put you over the legal limit the following day. Keep this in mind and organise alternative travel plans for the next morning.
• If you are involved in a road accident you will be breathalysed. Don't risk it, or somebody else's mistake could become your problem – being hit from behind while sitting at a red traffic light could get you banned.
• Ignore peer pressure. It may seem like a better option to others – for you to risk driving rather than paying for a taxi – but it is your licence and your liberty that is at stake.

IAM chief examiner Peter Rodger said: "The summer is a time of BBQs, jam packed beer gardens and festivals. But the summer sees a rise in drink-drive casualties too. Enjoy yourself and leave the car at home if you plan to celebrate with a drink."

M6 toll road branded cash-losing flop

 

 

Central England's most important artery, the M6, has shown itself to be a money-losing disaster. Just one in 10 trucks are using the new £900m toll road road - and only 34,000 vehicles on a daily basis, compared to an original estimate of 72,000.

There are now calls for the road to be returned to the taxpayer, with toll fees slashed.

 

Public ownership?

Owned by Midland Expressway via parent company Macquarie Atlas Roads, Britain's first pay-as-you-go highway - the toll costs £5.50 for private cars and £11 for trucks - could even be renationalised, some are urging.

"If the M6 Toll cannot be made to work in terms of attracting more vehicles off the M6 then one solution is to take it into public ownership," Geoff Inskip, boss of Centro, the West Midlands transport authority said

 

"This would give us the option of setting a level of charge that does encourage through traffic," he adds. Macquarie Atlas is lumbered with the M6 Tollway concession until 2054. Most toll roads in the UK are constructed to deal with open stretches of water and bridges - but not the M6.

"Bad choice for motorists"

And why would anyone pay to use the M6 when traffic congestion is okay, helped in part by better up-to-date information from a satnav or other device? The Campaign for Better Transport claims traffic on the M6 has returned to pre-toll levels and most journeys are only marginally quicker than in 2003.

"When the M6 Toll opened, drivers were promised faster, more reliable journeys if they paid the £2 [2003] charge. However, with journeys on the toll road not being significantly faster than on the M6, and with sizeable price increases every January, paying the toll remains a bad choice for motorists."

Recent Test Passes

Congratulations go to Stuart Giles, Jill Collins, Julie Hardy, Ken Shortall and Clive Leewarden (pictured) who recently passed their Advanced Motoring test and picked up their certificates from Chairman Linda Davies last Sunday.

Congratulations to them all.

If you wish to take up the challenge to become an Advanced Motorist and live in the Kent / Mid-Kent area, why not visit our webpage or contact Associate Co-Ordinator Terry Nunn.

Don't risk a BBQ booze drive ban

We're all well-aware of the risks of drink-driving at Christmas, but drink-drive casualties actually peak in the summer. When enjoying a leisurely lunchtime or evening barbeque with friends and family, the measures are likely to be larger and the drinks stronger than those served in a pub, and it's easy to get carried away.

Beware the quick drink after work. One pint with your colleagues in the sun might seem harmless but it can quickly turn into two, then three. Get a taxi, train or walk – it'll cost much less than a drink-drive charge or accident. And ignore peer pressure. Your companions might think it's a good idea for you to drive them home, but if you've been drinking just say no. It's your licence at stake.

 

Driving with good intentions to a party, to a pub or to a restaurant and then just having a drink or two, puts more pressure on you to risk driving home, even if you're not sure whether you are below the limit. You are likely to be breathalysed if you are involved in a collision, even if it is not your fault. Whether or not you think you're fit to drive, don't take the chance or somebody else's mistake might become your problem.

 

How much did you drink last night? A drinking session the night before could put you over the legal limit the next day.

 

Figures from the Department for Transport indicate that while the overall number of accidents involving drink driving has fallen over the past 20 years, the proportion of morning-after accidents has risen from 7 per cent in 1990 to 18 per cent in 2010. Bear this in mind and make alternative transport plans for the next day – don't just risk it.

 

Many accidents also involve drunk pedestrians. Watch out for them when you're driving.

Summer or winter, if you drink, don't drive and if you drive, don't drink. And always refuse a lift from someone you know has been drinking.

DRINK-DRIVERS FACE TOUGHER RULES

Drink-drive rules involving the most serious offenders are to be
tightened up.

Under new regulations the most dangerous offenders will have to prove
they are no longer dependent on alcohol before they are allowed to get
back behind the wheel.

The new measures will also see those drink-drivers who obstruct the
police by refusing to allow their blood samples to be analysed being
treated the same as other high risk offenders.

Currently, all high risk offenders must pass a medical examination
before they can be issued with a driving licence following their
disqualification. However, drivers can start driving as soon as they
have applied for their licence and before they have taken and passed the
necessary medical.

But from June 1 the most dangerous drink-drivers will have to pass a
medical confirming they are no longer alcohol dependent at the end of
their disqualification and BEFORE they start driving.

Also, those offenders who refuse to allow their blood samples to be
analysed will also, from June 1,  only get their licence back following
disqualification if they pass the required medical.

Under the  High Risk Offender (HRO) scheme, drivers convicted of certain
serious drink/driving offences must have a medical investigation to
confirm that there are no on-going problems with the misuse of alcohol
before they can be issued with a licence.

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA is notified of such
offenders by the courts. Last year the DVLA was notified by the courts
of just over 50,000 drink-driving convictions.

Nearly 22,000 of those were classed as high risk offenders. Of those,
around 5,000 drivers either failed, or failed to attend, their medical.

Road Safety Minister Stephen Hammond said: "Drink-drivers are a menace
and it is right that we do everything we can to keep the most high risk
offenders off the road."