Driving Instructors and Vision Zero

The full team is back as Terry is joined by Olly Tayler, Kate Monk, Tom Stenson and Dr Liz Box for another wide-ranging discussion on driver training and road safety. The panel explores the HOT CAR model and how instructors can develop thinking drivers with stronger decision-making, risk awareness and self-regulation. They also look at new young-driver casualty data, the role and responsibility of instructors beyond the driving test, and what good driver education should really look like. Finally, the conversation turns to social media: from its potential as a useful learning tool to the risks of poor driving being normalised for views, likes and engagement. Plus, the team discusses new IAM RoadSmart findings, post-test training, rural roads, parents, credible sources and how instructors can use their influence more effectively.

Hazard prediction takes centre stage in this lively discussion among Terry Cook, Tom Stenson, Kate Monk, and Olly Tayler, as they explore the vital role of anticipating potential dangers on the road. They delve into the importance of training both new and experienced drivers to recognise hazards before they escalate, emphasising that proactive awareness can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. The quartet highlight the necessity for instructors to foster a culture of vigilance, ensuring that learners build an "experience bank" to draw from. Through engaging commentary, driving demonstrations, and candid conversations, they aim to shift the focus from merely passing the driving test to mastering safe driving habits. Tune in for a fun yet informative journey that underscores the vital connection between hazard awareness and road safety!

What can the UK learn from Norway about learning to drive? Norwegian-born driving instructor Emma Fonnaland joins Terry to compare the two countries’ approaches to instructor training, road safety and preparing new drivers. They explore Norway’s two-year qualification process, mandatory theory education, private practice and practical safety experiences—including loss-of-traction training and a surprisingly painful 7mph crash demonstration. Emma also explains why her social media focuses on the reasons behind safe driving, how learners and instructors respond differently to her content, and why passing the test should never become more important than protecting people. A conversation about raising standards, challenging established thinking and helping learners understand not only what to do, but why it matters. Follow Emma on Facebook here

If you had a magic wand and could change one thing to improve road safety, what would you change? That's the challenge Terry Cook, Olly Tayler, Kate Monk, Tom Stenson, and Dr Liz Box tackle in this latest edition of Driving Instructors and Vision Zero. Check out the IAM Roadsmart resources

Olly takes the reins as the temporary host, filling in for Terry, who is busy completing his 5k runs for charity. As they dive into the episode, the discussion quickly shifts to a pressing concern: the alarming rise in drug driving incidents, particularly among younger drivers. The speakers explore the societal shifts that have led to a decrease in alcohol consumption among youth, yet a simultaneous increase in drug use, raising questions about the perception of danger associated with drug driving versus drink driving. With insights from regular guests; Tom Stenson and Dr Liz Box, as well as special guest, Neale Kinnear, the conversation flows into the nuances of how driving instructors can engage with their students to address these issues effectively. They emphasise the importance of understanding the cultural context and the need for open dialogues surrounding these topics, as driving instructors stand at a unique intersection where they can impact young people's attitudes toward road safety. The Honest Truth ANDNJC Liz Box Neale Kinnear