A new initiative known as the ‘Pass Plus Xtra’ course is being run by Cheshire West and Chester Council and aims at making newly qualified drivers more aware of their cars.
Of course, it’s difficult not to be aware of your car when you’re sat in it, but this course focuses more on discussing the impact of dangerous driving, the consequences of not paying full attention to the road, and the risks that adverse weather can cause.
By completing the ‘Xtra’ session, new drivers are entitled to a discounted price off the cost of a Pass Plus course in the area, (an overview of the Pass Plus course can be found here). The Pass Plus Xtra course runs in conjunction with existing Pass Plus courses make finding a local Pass Plus course easier for new drivers.
It is a widely known fact that drivers are more likely to have an accident within the first two years of passing their test than at any other time in their lives, and it is this statistic that the council hope to lower. They hope that the extended Pass Plus Xtra course will help drive home the message that newly qualified drivers need to just as vigilant as if they were still learners.
The Pass Plus Xtra course combines a theory session where drivers discuss their experiences in a car and the possible dangers they will face as drivers. They then go on to complete the standard 6-hour Pass Plus course, which gives them hands-on experience of the 6 most varied driving situations: dual carriageways, night-time, motorway, country, town centre and adverse weather driving.
The Xtra course is run with the help of Cheshire Fire Brigade, with sessions being held at various fire stations in the area, and places are on a first come, first serve basis.
If you are interested in taking part, contact Luke Ellis on 01244 973602 or e-mail roadsafety@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk for more details.
