4.2.08

Justice for Karl Campaign objectives

The justice4karl campaign was started by Family and Friends of Karl Bond who was tragically killed whilst crossing a road with friend in Skelmersdale, Lancashire.

The aim of the campaign is to :-

1. Reduce the speed limit throughout the built-up areas of Skelmersdale to 30 MPH from 40 MPH.

2. Introduce more speed cameras in areas known as speeding hot-spots

3. Introduction of proper crossings on busy roads.

4. Caution signs to make drivers aware of designated crossing areas.

5. Raise concerns over the injustice of the road traffic accident investigations

You can show your support for the justice for Carl campaign by signing this online petition.

3.2.08

Top tips for Women Driving Alone

Many Women often drive alone and it is an unfortunate fact that they are more likely to draw unwelcome attention than a man alone. This need not be a problem providing you take precautions to avoid unpleasant situations and know how to deal with them if they should arise.

Lets consider four situations, Journeys, Being followed, Parking, and Breaking down.

Journeys: -

Always plan your route and carry a map. Try and ensure you have enough fuel for the journey, if not try to fill up early.

Being followed: -

Hopefully you will never be followed but if you are this is what you should do. Slow down, but DO- NOT stop. DO-NOT drive home, but drive to a well-lit place and sound your horn and flash your lights. This should get rid of the pest, but if not, drive on to a police station or find a police officer. A Service Station is always a good place to go. Many have phones so you can ring the police for help, or ask the attendant to do it for you.
If you are forced to stop. Lock all doors and close all windows. DO-NOT get out of the car. DO-NOT try and ram the other car, this may prevent your escape. Stop with the wheels turned outwards ready to drive off. Try and remain calm and confident and drive away as soon as you can.

Breakdowns: -

If you breakdown, walk to the phone. DO-NOT accept a lift. Tell the operator you are a woman alone. When you return to your car either, wait outside the car with the door unlocked and slightly open or sit in the passenger seat, you will look as if you're accompanied. If you are approached when on the phone, tell the operator, describe the person, or give the registration number of the vehicle. A genuine helper will understand your fears and will not be offended. When help arrives, always check their identification before you leave the car. If you are unsure, stay in the car and say you are waiting for the police.

Parking: -

When parking don't leave items on view. Always park in a well lit busy area. If parking in a car park, park close to the exits or near to the attendant. Reverse into the parking space so you can get away quickly. Always lock your doors and find a landmark so you can find your car when you come back. If possible return to your car with others. Approach your car with your keys ready in your hand. Check your car for intruders. Once in your car lock the doors before you drive away.
Just take a few simple precautions and your driving should be trouble free and enjoyable.

These great tips are brought to you by 2pass.

If you would feel more comfortable learning to drive with a female driving instructor, don't worry! 1st Call Driving Schools have lots of high quality Lady Approved Driving Instructors. Just give us a call 08456 431 679 or visit www.1st-call.co.uk.

Road Safety Campaign Justice4Karl on Facebook


The justice4Karl campaign was established my Karl Bond's family following his tragic death in Skelmersdale, Lancashire. Karl was hit by a car whilst crossing a road near to his home. The road in question is a notorious accident black spot and one of the campaign's main goals is to force the local authorities to take the necessary steps to make the road safer for all users.

1st Call Driving School is proud to be involved in the Justice4Karl campaign and will do whatever it can to promote the campaign and build awareness. A facebook group, called justice for Carl has been created and already over 250 people have joined to show their support. You can join the Justice4Karl facebook group anytime by clicking here http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=23112722272.

Once you have joined please spend just a couple of minutes signing the online petition.

Thank you for your support.

Top ways to improve your fuel ecomony and save you money.

Compared to other European countries, UK petrol prices are high and rising. With recent political and economical unrest the trend is unfortunately likely to continue. But don't despair, help is at hand in the shape of a few simple tips from 1st Call Driving Schools to help cut those fuel costs.

Slow down
Keeping your speed down can reduce the fuel consumption of the engine. It goes without saying that we should all stick to the speed limit, but your car's handbook will tell you what the most fuel-efficient in-town and out-of-town speed is for your particular model.

Lose weight
Avoid carrying any unnecessary weight in the car as heavy loads put more strain on the vehicle, leading to higher fuel consumption.

Find the shortest route
Taking the trouble to find the shortest route to your destination can make the journey more economical.

Cut the air con
Running the air conditioning increases the car's fuel consumption so if you want to economise keep it to a minimum.

Close the windows
Open windows and sun-roofs create drag which means that you won't travel as far per litre of fuel.

Share journeys
By sharing journeys with friends and colleagues the overall fuel consumption can be reduced.

Multi-tasking saves money
One long multi-purpose trip is more fuel efficient than several short ones, as a cold engine uses more fuel than a warmed up one.

Shop around
Check out the difference in prices charged by garages in your local area. Prices can vary, and if you are a high mileage driver who fills up regularly even one pence off a litre can make significant savings. Avoid filling up at motorway service stations as their prices tend to be higher.

Check your pressure
Checking tyre pressure regularly not only improves the safety and performance of the tyres, it also keeps the car running at the optimum fuel efficiency.

Smoothly does it
Try to drive as smoothly as possible and maintain a steady speed. Braking and then accelerating regularly will reduce the number of miles per litre the car can clock up. It's easier to drive smoothly (and also much safer) if you keep a gap of at least two seconds from the car in front of you.

Give the car a break
When queuing in heavy traffic or waiting for passengers, turn off the engine to avoid wasting fuel.

Stay tuned
Have your car's engine tuned at a reputable local garage to ensure it is running at the optimum fuel usage level.

Check the oil
As well as maintaining the correct levels of oil, motorists who want to save money on fuel should check the type of oil used, as some energy-efficient types can increase the number of miles per litre.

It pays to be green
Improving your car's fuel efficiency can minimise the damage it causes to the environment, by reducing the amount of fossil fuels burnt. Burning fossil fuels releases greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere and contributes to global warming. By following our tips you can save money and protect the environment at the same time.

'eco driving' Has become an integral part of the 1st Call Driving Schools driver training syllabus with all 1st Call Instructors undergoing the necessary training to ensure standards are kept high. Whilst 'eco driving' is not part of today's driving test 1st Call belive it will soon become part of the practical exam. By teaching 'eco driving' now 1st Call Learner Drivers will have a head start, not just for the Driving Test, but for the rest of their drivng career.

If you would like further information about driving lessons or learning to drive please visit www.1st-call.co.uk.

If you are a driving instructor interested in learning more about 'eco driving' please drop us an email adi@1st-call.co.uk