There are many different types of driver training available today, including simulated and online courses. But if you are looking for effective driver training, there’s only one option to consider, in-vehicle (or behind the wheel) driver training.

Keep reading as we explain why In-vehicle driver training is more effective than online or classroom courses.

Driver training that really works

Most motor vehicle crashes are preventable. The right driver training programme can equip drivers with the skills they need to prevent crashes, which not only reduces injuries and saves lives  but protects companies from liability.

In-vehicle driver training is effective as the driver learns what to do in real-world scenarios. They are learning in real driving conditions with instructors who are able to observe and correct their driving habits and behaviours in real time.

Well trained drivers react better in traffic, which also results in fewer aggressive stops and starts, and therefore less wear and tear on company vehicles.

Driver training should be simple, straightforward and based on concepts that are easy to apply and remember. It should teach drivers how to:

• Look ahead and assess a situation
• Maintain a safe distance between vehicles
• Create escape routes from others and their poor driving
• Position themselves in traffic so they can safely react to changes in conditions.

Choosing the right driver training

Choosing the right driver training partner is essential to building a safety culture within your organisation. Many commercial drivers, or drivers in general, feel they already know how to drive safely and may feel like they don’t need additional training. They may also feel like attending driver training is a punishment or a slight on their driving skills.

To avoid these feelings among your drivers you should choose a partner or training provider who has experience working with commercial drivers and fleets. Ensure they are able to provide fleet qualified ADI trainers.

In order to make the right impression, driving instructors have to be able to prove that they know what they are doing and more importantly, that their teaching really works.

Our in-vehicle training course

Cardinus provides in-vehicle driver training that combines the physical realities of traffic and dynamic uncertainty, with constant reinforcements from an experienced ADI qualified instructor.

An instructor in the vehicle can identify strengths and weaknesses in real time and provide practical advice that can be applied in the moment. Our driver training uses the principles of COAST (Concentration, Observation, Anticipation, Space = Time) principles, derived from the UK police roadcraft approach.

The instruction we provide as part of our in-vehicle training allows drivers to learn in the traffic and road conditions they face every day and not just from hypothetical scenarios.

Programme of driver training

From years of experience, we know in-vehicle training is the best form of training for commercial drivers but e-learning and classroom driver training should not be dismissed. They can play an important role in a programme of driver training and ‘refreshing’ knowledge. The right combination of in person, classroom and online training will help to improve behaviours and mindsets to stop poor habits developed from years of driving.

We can help

To learn more how we can support your driver training program, please get in touch.