Advanced driver courses.(Class A driver)

**Craig1985** · 18th August 2008, 19:46

So has anyone taken one of these coarses? I think some of you Traffic officers have. Are the worth the money? I've read of up to 25% discounts from insurance companies?

Any recommendations on companies to use? I've found few on net like this one http://www.driverskills.com/

Your thoughts would be greatfull

Craig

**Guyver1** · 18th August 2008, 19:50

Im doing advanced now, but on my bike, insurance came down from £150 fully comp to £102, so its definately worth doing, cant use the Signum though cos its automatic

look at www.iam.org.uk

**Craig1985** · 18th August 2008, 19:56

will have a read. many thanks

**iain.condliffe** · 18th August 2008, 20:20

Have a read of Roadcraft. Heavy going but very, very good.

I'm doing my standard response at the minute and it has to be said, loving every minute of it...

**m8internet** · 18th August 2008, 20:29

I was a member of the IAM
I found there was no change in my insurance, as some insurance companies accept it (and give a discount) and other don't
As a result I am no longer a member of the IAM, there are just no benefits to it, although the driving courses are useful

**gtr1000** · 18th August 2008, 20:54

Took my IAM bike test in 1976 and the car test in 1978. At that time, any IAM membership costs meant insurance wasn't any cheaper. Haven't renewed IAM since the late 80's.

However, recently asked my current insurer, Direct Line, if they recognised IAM membership - "no" was the answer and there isn't even an option on most on-line insurance application forms to enter such details.

You'll probably get "cheaper" insurance just by shopping round.

Having said that, I passed both tests without attending any of the IAM regional groups (who I believe offer pre test drives). If you're a good average driver then you'll be OK.

Oh, IMO Roadcraft is definately worth a read as there's lots of good pointers in there - road position, awareness, control etc etc.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Roadcraft-Gr.../dp/0113408587

**John35** · 18th August 2008, 21:19

I would imagine that because you have no speed exemptions it would not be what you expect. It will be linked to identifying hazards and the like. The problem with roadcraft is that at slower speeds the system of car control is quite difficult. At higher speeds it comes more naturally.

My personal opinion - If you want to increase your hazard perception and positioning - get on a motorcycle. You will soon learn all about potential hazards

**John C S** · 18th August 2008, 21:25

Originally Posted by m8internet

I was a member of the IAM
I found there was no change in my insurance, as some insurance companies accept it (and give a discount) and other don't
As a result I am no longer a member of the IAM, there are just no benefits to it, although the driving courses are useful

I am still a member of the IAM, but my insurance has never been quoted cheaper by the IAM Insurance Schemes.

**Guyver1** · 18th August 2008, 23:21

Originally Posted by John35

My personal opinion - If you want to increase your hazard perception and positioning - get on a motorcycle. You will soon learn all about potential hazards

Im 100% with you on that

**NellyD** · 19th August 2008, 10:04

Originally Posted by m8internet

I was a member of the IAM
I found there was no change in my insurance, as some insurance companies accept it (and give a discount) and other don't
As a result I am no longer a member of the IAM, there are just no benefits to it, although the driving courses are useful

I agree with the above statment, my ex held his advance driving for over 20 years and it did not make any difference for his insurance...

If you have the money, then it is worth doing; as it gives you more awareness on the road....