“In this lesson, you will learn about moving away and stopping. The key points are:
– Preparing the car to move
– Observation and signalling
– Moving off
– Stopping safely
After completing your pre-start checks and starting the engine, select first gear. Then, either keep the clutch pedal pressed down or hold it at the biting point.
Check all around to make sure that it’s 100% safe to move to off. Take special care to check the blind spots around your car. Look out for anyone who will be affected when you move off, including:
– Drivers – In front and behind
– Cyclists
– People using the footpath or crossing the road
– Anything else that may prevent you from moving
Use your mirrors and turn your head to look all around, including to the front. If any other road user will benefit, give a signal. If there is no one to benefit, you won’t need to signal.
Immediately before moving off, glance over your right shoulder for a final blind spot check. Move off smoothly, looking well ahead to steer to a normal driving position. This will often be about 1 meter from the kerb, but will be determined by road width and available space.
As you move into position, check your mirrors for an update on the situation behind.
When stopping, use the Mirrors, Singal, Manoeuvre routine. Look ahead to choose a safe place to stop. Check your mirrors to make sure it is safe and signal left if road users will benefit. If there is no one to benefit, you don’t need to signal.
After checking your mirrors and signalling if necessary, manouevre
– Braking gently (This also gives a brake light signal)
– Steering gradually to the left
– Look well ahead for accurate positioning
– Gently ease the brake pressure and press the clutch pedal down as the car stops
After you have stopped, cancel the signal if given and secure the car by applying the parking brake and selecting neutral. If you’re parking or remaining stationary for some time, switch off the engine.”
