Learners

We regard the teaching of Learner Drivers as the most important part of our business, simply because they are the most at risk on our roads. This is due largely to their overall inexperience and their tendency towards risk taking. It is crucial that we don’t understate the immense responsibility that driving a motor vehicle entails. The major causes of accidents involving inexperienced drivers are…..

Impatience, which often leads to…

Risk Taking.
Understanding the degree of risk involved in different situations and the possible consequences of making a rash decision, can have a sobering effect on a young driver. Unfortunately, young drivers are often egged on by their peers to do foolish things on the road. They need to understand that they, as drivers, must accept all responsibility for all outcomes.

Driver Attitute or Personality.
This is a major concern, especially with young males, who carry that tag of invincibility and “it will never happen to me.” Unfortunately, it happens with monotonous regularity. “Don’t tempt fate,” springs immediately to mind. Boys love to show off, especially when girls are around. Fast cars are to them, a sign of manhood. It’s a pity that so many young drivers have an inflated belief in their own ability to handle fast cars. They exude confidence, especially after having a stint at advanced driving on the racetrack. The problem here is that the racetrack can’t be compared with suburbia, with its trees, pedestrians and oncoming traffic….and what about stopping distances?

Distractions.
These are many and varied and can range from excessive preoccupation with the radio or mobile ‘phone, staring at some external object or person, or simply having some loud friends in the car with them. Any of these incidents could be to the detriment of overall vision and perception and could easily result in an accident.

Poor grasp of Safety Principles.
Poor vision, insufficient space, late decisions and poor visibility, all lead to a heightened risk of having an accident.

Poor Vehicle Handling Skills.
A high degree of skill in vehicle control is not necessary in order to pass a driving test. In an emergency, however,
the opposite is true. When control is lacking, the novice is likely to panic, resulting in disaster.

Fatigue.
A major cause of death on the roads between midnight and dawn. Alcohol will accelerate fatigue. “Stop, revive, survive.”

Alcohol and Drug use.
This goes without saying. Obviously alcohol/ drugs combined with inexperience are a lethal mix.


There is a vast amount of information that needs to be “drummed into” the novice driver. The amount of information retained, will of course depend on the individual’s personality, listening skills and willingness to learn. It will also depend on the teacher’s enthusiasm, ability and knowledge.

At CDT, we have both the patience and expertise to deliver large amounts of information in the shortest possible timeframe, continually reinforcing data until it becomes “second nature.” All this we do in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, which greatly reduces the stress factor. Our structured program delivers quality tuition, enabling rapid progress. Parents generally take part in the teaching process and their contribution cannot be overstated. However, it is important that novice drivers are not placed in situations, well beyond their knowledge or capabilities. A young learner will pick up the “vibes” of a stressed parent and the resulting confusion will place both of them at risk. We are quite happy to consult with parents and work as a team.