Acquired Skills

Knowledge:
Advanced drivers are those who have taken the time to find out more information about their own vehicle, have recently read and understand what is written in the Highway Code and other books about driving. This knowledge enhances their driving because it gives them confidence and a greater understanding of the skill required for everyday driving.

Awareness:
Advanced drivers are those who are more aware of road and weather conditions and the effect these may have on their vehicle and on other road users. They are more familiar with and aware of road signs and road markings and they are more aware of other road users. This helps them organise their driving plan. It also helps them anticipate the likely actions of other road users and the effect of different types of hazards.

Attitude:
Advanced drivers respect all speed limits; they are more calm and able to concentrate. They are considerate to other road users, and more courteous. Advanced drivers are more tolerant of other road users, because of their increased knowledge, awareness, and anticipation.

Anticipation:
Advanced drivers have been trained to look and see the things that can be seen, to anticipate the things that can't be seen, to analyze what has been seen and anticipated, They are then more aware of what may happen based on probability, (see the cat run into the road, expect to see the dog chasing it). Advanced drivers are expecting the unexpected.

Skill: 
Advanced drivers have the skill to make informed judgments on situations; they have the confidence to know when 30 mph in a 30 mph speed limit is too fast, with an attitude that makes them reduce their speed. They have the skill to recognise when it is safe to drive at 60 mph on roads with national speed limits. Advanced drivers have the knowledge to recognise the dangers inherent in driving on an unfamiliar road, the skill to read that road, the confidence to negotiate the hazards on that road safely and smoothly, with the finesse that would make their passengers think they had driven on that road many times before.

Finally: 
Advanced drivers have the awareness to see the child playing with a ball on the pavement, the anticipation to expect the child to drop the ball and chase it in to the road, the skill to manipulate their vehicle smoothly, safely and early enough to avoid the child, the attitude of knowing it's all part of everyday driving hazards. Advanced drivers know that increased awareness, anticipation, skill and a better driving attitude, saves lives!