General highway code basic driving rules, do you know them? 23/06/16


Anyone who has been driving for a while may have forgotten the basics they were taught during their driving lessons. The Highway code of course covers all the rules of the road, but did you know that it even covers the most basic of driving techniques?

Following these rules can help you become a better driver and even reduce the likelyhood of you having an accident.

Check whether you are using the correct driving technique or if you have picked up any bad habits by looking at the Highway codes 'General rules' shown below.


Before you move off you should

  • Use all mirrors to check the road is clear

  • Look round to check the blind spots (the areas you are unable to see in the mirrors)

  • Signal if necessary before moving out

  • Look round for a final check

  • Check your blind spot before moving off

  • Move off only when it is safe to do so


Once you are moving you should

  • Keep to the left, unless road signs or markings indicate otherwise. The exceptions are when you want to overtake, turn right or pass parked vehicles or pedestrians in the road

  • Keep well to the left on right-hand bends. This will improve your view of the road and help avoid the risk of colliding with traffic approaching from the opposite direction

  • Drive with both hands on the wheel where possible. This will help you to remain in full control of the vehicle at all times

  • Be aware of other road users, especially cycles and motorcycles who may be filtering through the traffic. These are more difficult to see than larger vehicles and their riders are particularly vulnerable. Give them plenty of room, especially if you are driving a long vehicle or towing a trailer

  • Select a lower gear before you reach a long downhill slope. This will help to control your speed

  • When towing, remember the extra length will affect overtaking and manoeuvring. The extra weight will also affect the braking and acceleration


Mirrors

All mirrors should be used effectively throughout your journey.

  • use your mirrors frequently so that you always know what is behind and to each side of you

  • use them in good time before you signal or change direction or speed

  • be aware that mirrors do not cover all areas and there will be blind spots so you should always look round and check


Remember: Mirror - Signal - Manoeuvre


No need to claim on your insurance

Anyone who has been involved in a road accident has the right to choose who repairs their vehicle. If you were responsible for the accident you were involved in, the company that insures your vehicle would normally deal with your accident claim.

However if you were not at-fault for the accident, you can choose to either claim on your own insurance policy or make a claim independently of your insurer. To find out more call 02392 484 244 and we will be happy to help.

We and our partners help thousands of people make independent accident claims. Our service enables motorists to get the help and assistance they need to resolve their accident related issues, with the costs being recovered directly from the at-fault driver on your behalf.

No excess to pay

Unfortunately even if an accident was not your fault, your insurer will almost certainly require you to pay your excess before any repair is started on your car.

This money should of course be recovered by an insurer at a later date, but with our service - you do not have to pay it at all.

By using our independent claims service, you are not making a claim on your insurance policy and so you will have no excess to pay.

Receive a comparable replacement hire vehicle

Not all insurance policies will include a replacement hire-car for you to use if yours is damaged and unroadworthy. In fact it is typically an 'optional extra' on your policy.

Other policies may offer a 'courtesy car' but this is often just a 'basic' saloon or hatchback which may not be suitable for your needs.

Car Call and its partners will provide a comparable replacement vehicle as part of our service. This means we will endeavour to supply a hire-vehicle that similar to your own in terms of its type, make and engine size.

So whether you drive a small hatchback or a prestige sports car, we will look to provide a similar hire-vehicle that suits your needs.

Manufacturer approved vehicle repairs

If you have been involved in a car accident, the last thing you want to have to worry about is the quality of the repairs to your car. We have a UK wide network of partner approved Accident Repair Centres available to all of our customers.

Many of our accident repair centres are have manufacturer approvals for specific brands, so if you require a manufacturer approved repair centre, simply tell your personal claim handler and they will ensure your vehicle goes to an approved repairer.

Want you vehicle repaired by a specific garage? No problem, we can alternatively use a repairer that you specify.

Legal Assistance

Our partner solicitors provide legal assistance as part of our service. They specialise in motor claims related issues, so you can be assured of the best possible advice and assistance.

They issues they can assist you with include:

  • Recovery of the cost of the replacement hire-vehicle
  • Recovery of the cost of uplifting your damaged vehicle
  • Recovery of all repair costs
  • Recovery of the cost of damaged of personal items
  • Seeking financial compensation for an injury