SAFE DRIVING
Page 10
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I was very surprised about your Any Questions column (CM6-12 Dec 2001) regarding the letter headed "Give-way Dilemma" from a professional driver. It would seem he has not read the Driving Manual from the Driving Standards Agency (DSA). This says that a good driver needs responsibility, concentration, anticipation, patience and confidence.
It is very doubtful that there is a perfect driver (though I think a lot of drivers think they are!). We all make mistakes.
The DSA states that driving an HGV requires skill combined with knowledge and the right attitude and driving techniques.
To become a professional driver you need: • The demanding driving skills required; • A knowledge of all the regulations that apply to your work; • A comprehensive knowledge of the Highway Code, including the meaning of traffic signs and road markings.
The manual states: "Show skill, courtesy and tolerance to other road users."
Your HGV licence is a privilege which requires effort to gain and even more effort to keep. Losing your temper or having a bad attitude towards other road users won't make your working life pleasant; therefore you should always steer clear of impatience or the temptation to retaliate.
Always drive:
MI Courteously;
• With anticipation; • Calmly, allowing for other road users' mistakes with full control of your vehicle.
There is a lot more good reading in these DSA manuals and the Highway Code (which all professional drivers shoul carry a copy of). I am an HGV Driving instructor and take a of interest in my occupation. B Evans, Yardley, Birmingham.