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[newburydrivingschool]

The whole country has been gripped today (2nd February 2009) by some pretty impressive weather with some of the deepest snow we've had in years. This morning after a quick snowball fight with the family I set about sending texts to pupils reminding them that lessons would still be going ahead as normal. I was trying to pre-empt the normal messages from pupils either saying they don't want their lesson because it's snowing or asking if the lesson was still going ahead? As far as I'm concerned I see these driving lessons in the snow as some of the best that pupils could possibly have.

I did however receive one text from a pupil saying he didn't want to do the lesson as he felt it was too "dangerous". I phoned the home number and spoke to his mother. It turned out to be her decision that her son shouldn't take the lesson. I set about explaining that it was far better that her son experiences these snowy conditions on a driving lesson with an experienced driving instructor with dual controls, than to experience them for the first time on his own after he had passed. With much persuading and coaxing from me she agreed.

I have to say today was one of the best days I have had in a long time. All the main roads were clear, although wet, not icy or covered in snow. Many side streets were covered in ice and snow. We did venture down these roads and experienced some interesting behaviour from the car

So firstly does anyone else share the same view as me or am I alone on this one? Secondly should driving tests still be conducted in these conditions? The DSA loves to provide us with facts and figures about the number of pupils who have never driven in bad or dark conditions whilst learning and yet discourages the taking of tests in those same conditions!!!!

[musosmiffy]

It's a difficult one this. Yes it is good experience for the pupil but you are putting yourself and your training vehicle (not the car so much but the hassles that go with a shunt) at a far greater risk. The question is, do you need the days takings comparative to the risk? Your risk is heightened of course by the other fools on the road. Life is full of necessary risks and would be boring without them but they should be managed.

[Ray Finkle]

I didn't work Monday as I only had half a day and all were either newbies or one lesson in, yesterday was fine as all were at a decent standard. Agree with musosmiffy, you have to make a judgement call, it's gerat experience for the ones at a good level but there was no way I was taking a complete novice out on those frozen side roads.

[sarah_9]

Hello,

It shows your sincerity and dedication for your profession, your students are lucky that they have a instructor like you.



Regards,
sarah_9

[johncena]

My rule of thumb for snow is if I would drive in it, then i can teach in it! The ease at which all my pupils adapted to the bad conditions, simply emphasized how easy it is to adapt your driving style to the conditions around you. None of my driving lessons were cancelled even though we had pretty heavy snow as well as lots of snow on the ground.

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[benfranklin8]

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[Jonnmathew]

In winter check the local weather forecast for warnings of icy or snowy weather. DO NOT drive in these conditions unless your journey is essential. If it is, take great care and allow more time for your journey. Take an emergency kit of de-icer and ice scraper, torch, warm clothing and boots, first aid kit, jump leads and a shovel, together with a warm drink and emergency food in case you get stuck or your vehicle breaks down.