Whether facing a chaotic city intersection during load shedding or on a poorly lit road full of potholes and other common road hazards, South Africans often need sharp reflexes and advanced skills to navigate these unique situations. This is where advanced driving courses can come in useful. But are they worth it?
Let’s explore who advanced driving courses are intended for, how they prepare you for common dangers, and even lower your insurance premiums.
What Are Advanced Driving Courses?
Advanced driving courses go beyond the basics of learning to drive. These courses are designed for anyone looking to improve their driving skills, focusing on high-performance driving and defensive driving techniques. They aim to increase your skill level, helping you handle unexpected situations with confidence and precision.
Defensive Driving
Defensive driving teaches you how to spot risky situations early to avoid accidents. You’ll learn to watch your surroundings closely, keep a safe distance from other cars, and always have a backup plan to escape danger.
High-Performance Driving
During high-performance driving training, you’ll learn how to better control your car at higher speeds and in tough situations. The course teaches you skills like smooth braking, steady acceleration, and safe cornering at high speeds.
Driving Techniques
In this part of the course, you’ll practise driving on wet, slippery surfaces, gravel, and dirt roads. You’ll also learn emergency manoeuvres like swerving safely and controlling skids. These skills are especially useful in South Africa, where road conditions change quickly.
Skill Level Assessment
During a skill level assessment, instructors will look at your abilities, point out areas where you can improve, and tailor the training to fit your needs. This personalised approach will make sure you get the most out of the course.
Why Are They Important for South African Drivers?
South Africa’s roads are diverse and often unpredictable. From navigating through heavy traffic in Johannesburg to driving along the winding routes of the Garden Route, advanced driving courses equip you with techniques that help you handle difficult situations safely.
Become a Safer Driving
Advanced driving courses make you a safer driver. You’ll gain useful knowledge and skills for
handling emergencies, such as sudden stops, slippery surfaces, and unexpected obstacles.
Lower Insurance Premiums
Many car insurance companies offer lower premiums to drivers who have taken advanced driving courses, recognising that they are less likely to get into accidents.
Confidence on the Road
One of the biggest benefits of these courses is the boost in confidence you get. You’ll feel more assured behind the wheel and prepared for any situation. This will make driving more enjoyable.
Less Wear and Tear on Your Car
Driving more smoothly can reduce the strain on your car’s mechanical parts. The techniques you’ll learn will help you minimise wear and tear, extend the lifespan of your car and lower maintenance costs.
Improved Fuel Consumption
Economical driving habits, such as smooth acceleration and maintaining a steady speed, can help you save on fuel. Advanced driving courses teach you these techniques, helping to lower your driving costs.
Less Stress and Pressure
By learning to avoid dangerous situations, you’ll find that driving becomes more relaxed and enjoyable. Advanced driving courses give you the skills and confidence to easily navigate the roads, reducing stress and making driving more pleasant.
Skid Control Training
Learning to manage loss of control in a safe environment is a valuable part of advanced driving courses. Facilities like the Zwartkops skidpan, the largest in Africa, let you practise handling skids and slides under controlled conditions.
Practical Experience
Advanced driving courses offer hands-on experience and confidence to deal with potential dangers, from avoiding collisions to responding optimally in a hijack situation. The courses include theory and practical sessions, so you’ll get comprehensive training.
Is It Worth It?
South African drivers often face a range of hazards, from unpredictable weather to wildlife crossings. Advanced driving courses prepare you for these real-world dangers, teaching you how to maintain control and make split-second decisions that could save lives.
Investing in an advanced driving course equips you with knowledge and skills to lower your chances of getting into an accident. The benefits far outweigh the costs for South African drivers facing unique and hazardous driving conditions every day.
Take the Next Step
Taking an advanced driving course is a worthwhile investment if you want to drive more confidently. Look at advanced driving courses near you to take your first step to becoming an advanced driver.
Disclaimer
The article aims to provide South African motorists with information on advanced driving courses. However, it’s not a complete list and you should always do your own research.
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