Lifesaver prevented an off today:

[release_the_bees]

Sorry to bore you with another stupid driver thread but I need to vent:

Was heading up Carlton Gore Road from Newmarket today, when the car in front of me indicated to turn right. Luckily I did a lifesaver before moving left to pass the car in front of me, as some idiot had decided that overtaking me on the left hand side was a good idea! I am pretty sure they would have attempted this overtaking move even if the car in front wasn't turning, based on where they were at the time I did the lifesaver and the speed they were going (at least 70 in a 50 I'd say).

How I didn't scream abuse at them when I pulled up beside them at the traffic lights I will never know.

[Hitcher]

What is a *lifesaver*?

[Usarka]

Looking over your shoulder before changing position on the road.

Taught to everyone who gets a licence in the uK.

[nodrog:Me]

What is a *lifesaver*?

havnt you got one in your toolkit?

[Hitcher]

havnt you got one in your toolkit?

So that's what they look like when they're inflated. Huff, huff, huff, huff, huff...

[Ewan Oozarmy]

What is a *lifesaver*?

Would your question imply that it's not part of your basic bike training here?

[Badjelly]

Would your question imply that it's not part of your basic bike training here?

I wouldn't know, having never undergone basic bike training, but I should think the question implies that it isn't called a lifesaver here.

[Pwalo]

Would your question imply that it's not part of your basic bike training here?

No, it just means we think of lifesavers as well, lifesavers. The ones that work on the beach. But I do like to check behind me by turning my head rather than trusting the mirrors.

It's a damned good idea in a car as well. It's amazing what the various pillars can hide.

[Ragingrob]

Isn't that just the usual "check your blind spot" that you are taught to do in the road code and all lol? Checking over your shoulder to see where your mirrors can't.

[Usarka]

Has the basic skills test in NZ changed then? 15 years ago all it entailed was riding around a few cones in a carpark and a classroom session...... Do they actually teach and test you on this stuff now?

the UK basic skills involves/d the same, plus a group ride with instructor(s) providing practical road skills tuition and testing....

Isn't that just the usual "check your blind spot" that you are taught to do in the road code and all lol? Checking over your shoulder to see where your mirrors can't.

bahahahaaa how many car drivers do this then?

[Ragingrob]

Has the basic skills test in NZ changed then? 15 years ago all it entailed was riding around a few cones in a carpark and a classroom session...... Do they actually teach and test you on this stuff now?

the UK basic skills involves/d the same, plus a group ride with instructor(s) providing practical road skills tuition and testing....


bahahahaaa how many car drivers do this then?

Well, me for one, my girlfriend, my parents, all my mates, almost everyone I've been in a car with... We all check our blindspots as you're meant to. It's pretty strongly stated in the road code.

[Badjelly]

Has the basic skills test in NZ changed then? 15 years ago all it entailed was riding around a few cones in a carpark and a classroom session

Yes, it has changed, because 35 years ago it involved a traffic cop saying "Ride up to that corner and back" and then going inside to write out the licence.

[Usarka]

Yes, it has changed, because 35 years ago it involved a traffic cop saying "Ride up to that corner and back" and then going inside to write out the licence.

they didnt have learner licences 35 years ago....they did have 15 tho.

what is involved in the basic skills/ learners licence these days then?

[Ragingrob]

Basic skills is riding around cones and learning how to control a bike, 1st and 2nd gears. Learners test is the written theory test on the road code and motorcycle specialist questions, in which is stated clearly to check your blindspot when changing lanes or turning etc.

[Usarka]

Right, so no actual practical roadcraft is actually taught. thats the difference, many people need classroom learning backed up with practicle application.