12. OVERTAKING.
'A WISE PERSON DRIVES AS MUCH WITHIN HIS CAPABILITY AS WITHIN THE PERFORMANCE OF HIS CAR'.
On any journey it is obvious that, from time to time, an overtaking manoeuvre must take place, even passing a parked car might be fraught with not a little trouble.
Oft is the time of stories telling of people, of advanced age, being taught within a week via a concentrated, 'crash course'. No doubt the 'crash' course is aptly titled with an element of clairvoyance! There is a difference between making a car 'go and stop', this is not driving because any driver has to learn a detailed art, demanding considerable patience perhaps, initially, of at least twelve months. Then the skills can start to be absorbed.
It has been proved, time upon time, that the best results are achieved by commencing any discipline, training or coaching from an early age. It is not a divine right that people are capable of driving a car; it must be acquired by patient application and attitude. The correct attitude is important otherwise a driver will remain bad for ever. A driver's attitude towards judgement of both DISTANCE and SPEED is the key.
The safest overtaking manoeuvre is when you can see a car approaching.
Examining this statement in detail, it must be harnessed to firstly, positioning; secondly, being in the correct gear; thirdly anticipating the situation; fourthly, applying keen judgement of speed and distance and, lastly, driving a suitable car which complements all these skills. Add good eye sight and the equation is complete. Always wait until the picture is truly clear.
LOOK, POSITION, SPEED, MIRROR, MANOEUVRE, SIGNAL only when essential.
LOOK ACCESS DECIDE.
Never pre-decide your intentions, it is the best way of loosing your wicket when batting. Ask the expert! Always have the precise information of any vehicle behind, via the mirrors - followed by a glance over your right shoulder each and every time, prior to all and ever overtaking manoeuvres.
'Some mistakes on the road mean the happier it is rising to greater proficiency'.