The Learn Drive Survive™ Safer Drivers Course will teach learner drivers the importance of performing head checks when driving. Did you know that many crashes occur because drivers fail to turn their head and check their blind spots before turning or moving the position of their vehicle? In fact, failing to perform head checks is one of the most common reasons for failing a driving test. If you miss three (3) head checks during your NSW driving test, you will fail.
A head check is simply checking your blind spot (chin to shoulder 90°) before changing your path or position including when preparing to turn and during manoeuvres. All vehicles have blind spots and head checks are an essential observation driving skill. When doing a head check, you don’t have to turn your whole body around or an extreme turning of your head and/or neck. Simply turn your head 90° so that your chin aligns with your shoulder, a head check is deemed to be complete. Remember, it’s only a quick check because it’s the peripheral vision that is picking up light and movement.
If there’s something there, then your central vision will be pulled into it by your peripheral vision. There is no time requirement on the check and it can be performed in less than a second. During the Learn Drive Survive™ Safer Drivers Course, learners will be taught low-risk driving strategies that include effective scanning and observation checks. Although experienced drivers may not generally perform frequent head checks, you must do so to ensure everybody’s safety. So remember, always check your blind spot any time you intend on changing your path or position for anything travelling in the same direction on the side to which you are moving or turning.
To book a Learn Drive Survive™ Safer Drivers Course, call our friendly team on 1800 898 969 or visit learndrivesurvivesdc.com.au to book online.