Driving Tips
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When driving down a hill use the same gear as you would use when driving up the same hill. 'Pulling power' up a hill can be seen as the opposite of 'engine braking' down a hill.
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If you see SLOW written on the road before a bend then it is likely that you will need 3rd gear for the bend.
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If you see chevrons on a bend then it is likely that you will need second gear for the bend.
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When approaching 'green' traffic lights in 4th gear, change to third gear before the lights and drive through them in 3rd gear (assuming you are going straight ahead). A reduction in speed may be required before the gear change (e.g. if you are on a dual carriageway).
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On approach to a roundabout when a lower gear is required, only change gear when it is possible to get on to the roundabout, ' if it's clear - change the gear'.
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Ignore a headlamp flash to indicate right of way. Judge right of way by road markings and the position and/or movement of vehicles.
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Give right of way to other vehicles only by the speed and position of your vehicle (no 'flashing', no hand waving).
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Remember to use the handbrake before selecting the reverse gear.
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When stopping behind stationary traffic in front, leave sufficient space so that the bottom of the rear tyres of the vehicle in front are easily visible.
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When moving from a speed restricted to a speed de-restricted area, only start to increase speed when the sign has been reached.
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If the vehicle in front is turning left then 'hold back' allowing it to make its turn. Continue forward in a straight line when the road ahead is clear. Do not steer around a left turning vehicle.
15 Tips to become an EcoSafe Driver
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Make sure you fully tighten your fuel cap – fuel evaporation costs money
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Find a competitive fuel price in a forecourt – avoid motorway service stations
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Plan your journeys – can you do one trip rather than three?
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Avoid areas of congestion – check traffic news before you start your journey
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Avoid being tired when driving. Tiredness kills! It also causes erratic driving / heavy braking which cost money.
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Get rid of excess weight – roof rack, clutter on back seats and in boot.
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Switch off air conditioning at low speeds – open windows for ventilation.
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Ensure tyres are correctly inflated – saves wear and money.
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Keep engine clean – where possible use energy conserving oils and fuels
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Use accelerator and brakes smoothly
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Try and keep moving. An engine has to work hard to move a stationary vehicle.
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Avoid excessive revving when starting the engine and moving off.
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Don’t exceed speed limits. The higher the speed the higher the fuel consumption.
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Use engine braking when possible e.g. when going downhill.
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Where possible, use the highest possible gear without making the engine struggle
Disclaimer: Driving is never a black and white activity, but full of grey areas, therefore neither I nor my fellow Observers in the St Helens Group of Advanced Motorists are liable for any consequences you may experience as a result of reading our advice. You are the driver. You should be in control of your vehicle at all times.