Learner Articles – Veygo

Insurance groups explained

Angharad Evans — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 11:10:44 +0000

Insurance is an essential aspect of owning a vehicle, providing a safety net for unexpected events on the road. One crucial factor that influences insurance costs is the insurance group to which a vehicle belongs. Understanding insurance groups can empower drivers to make informed decisions when selecting a car and seeking the most suitable insurance coverage. In this article, we will look at the concept of insurance groups, how they are determined, and the impact they have on insurance premiums.

What are Insurance Groups?

Insurance groups are a classification system that categorises vehicles based on various factors that influence the cost of insurance. Developed by the Group Rating Panel, these groups help insurance companies assess the risk associated with insuring a particular car model. The lower the insurance group, the less risky the vehicle is perceived, and consequently, the lower the insurance premium.

Factors Influencing Insurance Groups:

Repair Costs: Vehicles that are more expensive to repair or replace will generally fall into higher insurance groups. The availability and cost of spare parts, as well as the complexity of the vehicle’s construction, are taken into consideration.
Performance and Engine Size: High-performance cars with larger engines are often placed in higher insurance groups due to their increased risk of accidents and higher repair costs.
Security Features: Cars equipped with advanced security features such as alarms, immobilisers, and tracking devices are deemed less risky, resulting in lower insurance group ratings.
Safety Ratings: Vehicles with higher safety ratings, determined by crash tests and safety features, are more likely to fall into lower insurance groups.
Historical Claims Data: The Group Rating Panel analyses historical claims data to assess the frequency and severity of accidents involving specific car models.

How to Find Your Car’s Insurance Group:

To find out the insurance group of a particular vehicle, you can use online resources such as the Parkers Insurance Group Checker. Additionally, car manufacturers often provide insurance group information on their websites or in the vehicle’s documentation.

Impact on Insurance Premiums:

The insurance group of a vehicle significantly influences the cost of insurance premiums. While other factors such as the driver’s age, location, and driving history also play a role, the insurance group provides a baseline for assessing risk. Choosing a car in a lower insurance group can result in more affordable insurance premiums, making it a crucial consideration for budget-conscious drivers.

Tips for Lowering Insurance Costs:

Choose a Lower Insurance Group Vehicle: When shopping for a new car, consider the insurance group rating to anticipate insurance costs.
Enhance Security Measures: Installing additional security features can help reduce the perceived risk and lower insurance premiums.
Maintain a Clean Driving Record: Safe driving habits contribute to a positive driving history, which can result in lower insurance premiums.
Bundle Insurance Policies: Combining auto insurance with other policies, such as home or renters insurance, may lead to discounts.

Conclusion:

Understanding insurance groups is an essential aspect of responsible car ownership. By considering the factors that contribute to a vehicle’s insurance group rating, drivers can make informed decisions that not only align with their preferences but also with their budget. Navigating the road of insurance groups allows individuals to get the right cover for their vehicles while minimising the financial impact on their wallets.

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Veygo monthly rolling subscriptions

Angharad Evans — Wed, 10 May 2023 12:38:13 +0000

Our monthly rolling subscription is essentially like an annualised policy but with greater flexibility.

What is a monthly car insurance subscription?

For those of you unfamiliar with what a monthly car insurance subscription is, we’re not saying we’re reinventing car insurance, but we’re definitely here to change the game.

We’ve had a think about how we provide your car insurance. To get an idea of how a monthly car insurance subscription works, just think about any streaming services and how they work, like Netflix or Disney+. It’s basically that but for your car insurance.

One of the great features of a monthly car insurance subscription is that you’re not committed to an entire year or six months. It’s rolling insurance that allows you to cancel anytime you need, without penalty.

How much is a monthly car insurance subscription?

The cost will vary according to your personal circumstances. The price will change depending on a number of different factors such as your age, location, and car type.

However, the idea behind a monthly subscription to your car insurance is to make it more affordable for you. By taking out car insurance as a subscription we’ve removed some of the costs and made it more flexible so you can choose when you need insurance.

What are the benefits of a monthly rolling subscription?

As previously stated a monthly car insurance subscription gives you the ultimate freedom. Not only can you insure your car on a rolling subscription, but you also get the freedom to cancel when you need. There are no commitments to sign up for the next month if you no longer need it. Just cancel at any time, with no additional fees.

Can I cancel if I pay monthly?

Yes. That’s the beauty of a Veygo monthly rolling subscription – it means you only pay for cover when you need it and not when you don’t.

How do I sign up?

Get a quote for learner driver insurance, new driver insurance or temporary car insurance and make sure you choose the subscription option. Once you’ve subscribed your cover will start whenever you need it to and you can get on the road.

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A guide to rural driving

Michael Chapman — Tue, 31 Jan 2023 16:59:40 +0000

Rural driving can be a unique experience compared to driving in urban areas. The roads are often less crowded and the speed limits are higher, but there are also other challenges that you may not encounter in the city.

Let’s think about a few factors that may come into play before discussing rural driving. You have to think about whether you know the area or not, car size, changing speed limits and always be aware of different spots to pull over incase of oncoming traffic. So, here are some tips and tricks to help you navigate rural roads safely and confidently.

Animals

When rural driving animals are going to be there, it’s essential that you’re aware of wildlife. The smaller animals are typically the ones hardest to spot as they dart out quickly into roads and can cause you to potentially slam on the brakes, or swerve. Not only that but some animals like badgers can damage the car badly if they’re hit so it gives more incentive to avoid them!

Animals such as deer, cows, and horses can also wander onto the road unexpectedly. Keep your eyes peeled for any signs of wildlife and be prepared to slow down or stop if necessary. If you do see an animal, try to avoid hitting it by braking and sounding your horn

Other drivers

Watch for slow-moving vehicles. You may encounter tractors, trailers, and other slow-moving vehicles on rural roads. Be prepared to slow down and wait for a safe opportunity to pass. Always use your turn signals and make sure the road is clear before you pass.

Road conditions

Stay alert for curves and hills. Rural roads are often winding and hilly, which can make it difficult to see what lies ahead. Slow down and be prepared for unexpected turns or inclines.

Be mindful of weather conditions. Rural roads are often exposed to the elements, which can make them slippery or icy in the winter. Slow down and be extra cautious in bad weather. You should also take note that these kinds or roads are usually more shaded and get far less attention from local councils to get salt or grit down on them.

Keep your distance. Rural roads often have fewer cars on them than urban roads, so it can be tempting to drive too closely behind other vehicles. However, it is important to keep a safe distance to give yourself time to react if something unexpected happens.

Check your tires. Rural roads can be rough, with gravel and potholes, so it is crucial to make sure your tires are properly inflated and in good condition. This will help you maintain control of your vehicle and prevent a tire blowout.

Use your headlights. Even during the day, it’s a good idea to turn on your headlights when driving on rural roads. This will make you more visible to other drivers and help you see the road ahead.

Pay attention to road signs. Rural roads often have signs that warn of potential hazards, such as sharp turns, bridges, and steep grades. Be sure to pay attention to these signs and adjust your speed accordingly.

Be prepared for the unexpected. Rural roads can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for anything. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and always have a full tank of gas and a spare tire. Similarly, to bad weather conditions, rural roads usually get less attention from councils and are typically in a worse condition, so things like potholes may be more prevalent.

Stay calm and take it slow. Rural roads can be challenging, but they can also be beautiful and peaceful. Stay calm and take your time, and you’ll be able to enjoy the journey as well as arrive safely.

For a nice visual overview of rural driving why not check out our helpful learn video to give you an idea of what it’ll look and feel like driving down the back roads!

So, thinking about rural driving requires a different set of skills and mindset. Watch out for wildlife, slow-moving vehicles, curves and hills, weather conditions, and unexpected hazards. Keep a safe distance, check your tires, use your headlights, and pay attention to road signs. Stay calm and be prepared for the unexpected. Remember that rural driving can be a unique and enjoyable experience if you approach it with caution and patience.

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Reversing around a corner & into a side road

Michael Chapman — Wed, 25 Jan 2023 10:57:01 +0000

Reversing

When it comes to reversing, it’s considered an advanced driving technique that requires a certain level of skill and experience. It involves driving backwards and allows the driver to navigate through tight spaces and reach areas that would otherwise be inaccessible. Don’t worry, as daunting as it sounds it can be learned! So, in this article, we will cover the basics of reversing, reversing around a corner, and making a turn in the road while driving.

The basics

First, let’s discuss the basics of reversing. To begin, make sure you are in the clear and have good visibility. When you are ready, take your time and slowly begin to crawl backwards. When reading this we hope you’ve already learned to go forward, so it’ll be the same controls, but for those of you who haven’t started driving check out this guide on controlling the car.

Reversing around a corner

As you become more comfortable with reversing, you can begin to experiment with different speeds and techniques. For example, rather than reversing in just a straight line, you can move onto reversing around a corner.

Reversing around a corner is a bit more challenging. When reversing around a corner, it is important to maintain control of your speed and direction.

To make the turn signal to indicate that you will be reversing. Use your right indicator if you are reversing to the right, and your left indicator if you are reversing to the left. Check your mirrors and look over your shoulder to make sure the area behind you is clear. Slowly begin reversing, turning your steering wheel in the direction of the turn you want to make. Keep your eyes moving, looking back and forth between your mirrors and the corner. Adjust your speed and steering as needed to make the turn smoothly. Once you have completed the turn, check your mirrors and look over your shoulder again to make sure the area behind you is clear before moving forward. Remember to always give way to pedestrians and other vehicles.

Turn in the road

Making a turn in the road while reversing is similar to reversing around a corner. The key difference is that you will be making a turn while moving forward.

Before making a 3-point turn, use your indicator to signal to other drivers that you intend to change direction. Position your vehicle on the left-hand side of the road, as close to the side as possible. Reverse your vehicle until the back of it is level with the front of the oncoming vehicle, or as close as possible. Check your mirrors and over your shoulder to make sure that it is safe to make the turn. Look out for pedestrians, bicycles, and other vehicles. Turn the steering wheel fully to the right, and move forward into the road that you wish to turn into. Position your vehicle on the left-hand side of the road, as close to the side as possible, ready to move forward. Check your mirrors and over your shoulder again to make sure it is safe to continue. Remember to cancel your signal after completing the turn.

Let’s think about it, reversing is something you’re going to pick up along your driving journey, it may not be instant, but with enough practice there’s nothing to worry about. By following the tips discussed in this article, you can learn how to safely and effectively reverse, reverse around a corner, and make a turn in the road while driving. Remember to always practice in a safe and controlled environment, and to work with a qualified instructor if you are unsure about any aspect of reversing.

As mentioned, getting in the practice is key, and here at Veygo we find the best way to practice outside your driving lessons is to grab some of our learner driver insurance and hope in a friend or family member’s car and get practising!

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Manual vs Automatic | Which to learn to drive in

Michael Chapman — Thu, 17 Nov 2022 14:17:03 +0000

When it comes to learning to drive you essentially have two options, you can either learn to drive in a car with an automatic gearbox, or a manual gearbox. Typically you’ll learn in a manual car as it’s more common for cars to have a manual gearbox and it’s kind of a special request to learn to drive in an automatic car.

So, what’s the difference ?

When learning to drive a car with a manual gearbox, you’ll notice that you have to be able to control the revs, clutch, gear stick, and just managing shifting gears. This is why it’s called manual. As much as it sounds once you get into the groove of learning to drive these things will become second nature, as you notice the sound of the revs and instinctively find the biting point on the clutch.

Automatics, as it may seem somewhat obvious as to why they’re called this, basically automates the process of shifting gears and having to control a clutch. In an automatic car you’ll notice the gear stick wont have as many numbers on it and may have some letters such as D, R, P, and N.

D – Drive, this will be the selected gear that allows you to drive forwards.

R – Reverse, this is the gear that will allow you to.. You guessed it, Reverse!

P – Park, this is the parking gear, so whenever you park the gear you’ll need to select this gear.

N – Neutral, this just chucks the gearbox into neutral so it can move either forwards or backwards if needed.

Different types of cars

When it comes to what cars are manual and which ones are automatic there isn’t a huge difference. If you can find a car in manual, you’ll typically be able to find it in automatic.

The only issue you’ll find is when looking for certain cars that are automatic, you may not be able to find it manual. This will usually be if you’re looking at electric cars as they don’t use a conventional engine so they don’t require gears.

Veygo short-term cover and learner driver insurance

Here at Veygo we offer two types of insurance, learner driver insurance and temporary car insurance. Both of our types of insurance policies offer cover for both manual and automatic cars, in 2022 we sold over 162,955 automatic policies and more than 696,037 manual policies.

Automatic cars

There are definitely pros and cons to driving automatic cars, these fall under a few different sub categories, learning to drive, driving, finding automatic cars, and buying automatic cars.. Not to mention future proofing them. So let’s look through some of the pros..

Pros

Easy to get the hang of when learning
No need to shift gears
Less chance of you ruining the clutch
An automatic gearbox is more reliable than a manual as it involves less human error.
It’s a way to future proof your driving habits

As mentioned it does seem like it would be worth signing up to drive an automatic car as there are some real pros worth considering for it, however, there are definitely drawbacks (whether convenient or not..)

So let’s quickly dive into what isn’t so great about automatic transition

Cons

The idea that it isn’t “real” driving.. Feels more like a game or go-karting.. (it’s definitely real so still be as careful as you would in a manual.)
If you’ve passed your test in an automatic car, then you’re limited in what cars you can drive.
Typically an automatic car is more expensive to buy (especially second hand)
Cost of repairs are usually more expensive, this is due to being more complex than a manual transmission gearbox.
Breakdown/recovery can sometimes be much more complicated.

Despite there definitely being pros and cons to what type of transmission your car has, they’re definitely worth considering when you look at what type of car you want to drive. But with that being said some of the views of driving an automatic mostly come down to stigma. Automatic gearboxes these days are super efficient and with the way the world of cars is going it’s looking like electric is the way forward, meaning nearly every car is going to be automatic transmission eventually.

Manual cars

Just by looking at the numbers it’s clear that manual cars are by far the more popular one! It would be far more popular as the manual transmission gearbox has been around for far longer.

As we just mentioned manual cars have the advantage of feeling like you’re really driving. This stems from being more difficult to learn in and not to mention professional motorsport, seeing and knowing your favourite drivers shifting gears is bound to give you the urge to want to feel like that (no matter your age!).

After thinking a little bit about manual cars let’s dive right into the pros and cons..

First off, you’re not limited to what kind of car you can drive.
finding /purchasing a manual car is far easier in the UK.
“Proper” driving, more of a feel of actually driving, or more interesting to drive.
Repairs are far more common in a manual car, meaning it would probably lower the cost.
Unlike an automatic car, recovery is consistently simple. (or as simple as a breakdown and recovery can be)

As fun and convenient driving a manual can be, let’s not forget about the cons..

Can be considered slightly more difficult to learn to drive in.
Potential to burn out the clutch
May not be the way forward as it seems most cars are going in the direction of electric motors.
Having to change gears while driving..

Which is best ?

It’s very easy to look at the pros and cons when considering what type of car to drive, and again it’s very easy just to think “I’ll learn to drive in an automatic, it’ll be quicker and easier”, but it’s not always as simple as that.

It may be a bit easier to drive an automatic when you first start driving but there are definitely other factors to think about. For example when learning to drive there are far fewer driving instructors that teach in automatics, purely because of availability. This then leads to longer wait times which in turn results in a longer wait to get on the roads.

On the other side of that coin you may be thinking about learning in a manual, but you may take ages to get the hang of driving a manual car, this will then result in more time in driving lessons, and more money spent paying an instructor for extra lessons.

However, you could get around paying your instructor to take you out driving by purchasing some of Veygo’s learner driver insurance, buying this will allow you to get out on the roads, and you can pay for as little as one hour so you don’t have to over spend on an extra driving lesson or buy a whole learner policy.

Speaking of insurance, don’t forget to think about how much you’ll have to pay after your test. Typically a manual car is cheaper on insurance than an automatic, but this isn’t the deciding factor on what makes a car cheap to insure!

If you’re unaware of what you want to drive or when you’ll be looking to purchase your full policy, then here at Veygo we offer temporary car insurance, you’re eligible to purchase this after you pass your driving test and can just roll around in your parents car while you decide which car you’ll be driving.

Just a final reminder, if you’re learning to drive and need to get more time in to practise on that pesky clutch then our learner driver insurance is a great option for you to get the hours in without breaking the bank!

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Driving test manoeuvres | Parking and reversing tips

Michael Chapman — Thu, 10 Nov 2022 11:24:22 +0000

The practical driving test will feature an exercise involving reversing, and these exercises are commonly referred to as driving test manoeuvres.

The exercises are:

Parallel parking at the side of the road.
Parking in a parking bay – where you’ll either reverse in or reverse out.
Pulling over on the right-hand side of the road, reversing two car lengths, then rejoining traffic.

You won’t know which you’ll have to do until asked. There’s a one-in-three chance it’ll be any of the manoeuvres above, so it’s worth knowing how to ace them all.

How do I parallel park?

Parallel parking involves parking at the side of the road, usually in a line of parked vehicles. The goal is to get as tight to the kerb as you can, and in line with it (in other words, parallel to it).

We’ve got a handy guide to parallel parking here, which tells you everything you need to know.

How do I park in a parking bay?

There’s a one-in-three chance you’ll be asked to park in a parking bay, usually in a spot such as a supermarket car park. It’s fifty-fifty as to whether you’ll be asked to reverse in and drive out, or drive in forwards and reverse out. For our money, it’s a bit easier to reverse in, because your vision is likely to be obscured when you’re reversing out.

Check out our guide to reverse bay parking here.

How do I pull over on the right and reverse?

This is a three-step manoeuvre, and your examiner will be looking to see you’ve checked all the right boxes. Most importantly, you’ll have to perform the exercise safely, with good all-round observations at each stage.

Step one: Pulling over on the right

First of all, you’ll have to choose a suitable spot. When your examiner asks you to perform the exercise, you’re in no rush, so take your time to pick a decent spot. You’re looking for a space which is nice and safe, with loads of space.

Make sure you avoid pulling over anywhere where there’s parking restrictions. It should be somewhere where it’s legal to park, so steer clear of double yellow lines, bus stops, driveways or access routes.

It’s also best to avoid junctions or bends. Try not to pick a space where you might reduce other road users’ visibility.

When you’ve chosen a spot with plenty of space, go through your MSPSL routine, and signal right. Give way to oncoming traffic, and check your mirrors and blind spot before pulling over. Approach the opposite side of the road at a shallow angle, and straighten up as close to the kerb as you can. Try to get within 30cm of the curb.

When you’ve stopped, pull up the handbrake, and put the car in neutral.

Step two: Reverse two car lengths

After you’ve stopped, the examiner will ask you to reverse roughly two car lengths. If you’ve stopped parallel to the curb, this will make your life a lot easier.

Put the car into reverse gear, and wait for any oncoming traffic to pass. When it’s clear, make observations all around the car. When you’re sure it’s safe, start to reverse slowly. You’ll mainly be looking through the back window, keeping an eye out for pedestrians or other road users. If you need to stop to let someone pass, make sure you do your all-around observation again before you carry on.

Reverse slowly and steadily, keeping the car straight to the curb. The examiner will be looking to see that you’re in control of the vehicle, so be careful but confident. Once you’ve reversed roughly two car lengths, stop, apply the handbrake and pop the car in neutral.

Step three: Rejoin traffic

After you’ve stopped, the examiner will ask you to move off, rejoining traffic on the left-hand side of the road. Again, all-around observations are crucial here, so apply your MSPSL routine. Check all your mirrors, and don’t forget your blind spot.

When you’re sure it’s safe, and there’s no oncoming traffic, indicate left. Then move off into the left-hand lane, and continue to drive as you normally would.

Throughout this manoeuvre, you need to demonstrate awareness of your surroundings, control of the vehicle, and accuracy in your positioning. As long as you’re aware and courteous to other road users, and perform the exercise safely, you’ll be fine.

Will I have to reverse around a corner?

Reversing around a corner is no longer in the driving test and hasn’t been since December 2017. So, we can say with some confidence that you won’t be asked to do this on your practical test.

That said, your driving instructor may well teach you how to do it. It’s a useful skill to master and pops up occasionally in day-to-day driving. You may find it useful when changing course, for example, or reversing into a driveway.

Will I have to do a three-point turn?

Again, the turn in the road manoeuvre (or three-point turn to its friends) hasn’t featured in the driving test since 2017. So, you definitely won’t be asked to do it.

But it’s quite a common manoeuvre in everyday driving and is often the easiest way to turn the car round to face in the opposite direction. For this reason, it’s well worth asking your driving instructor how to do it, or they may suggest it anyway.

What other driving test manoeuvres are there?

Not a manoeuvre exactly, but there’s also a one-in-three chance you’ll be asked to perform an emergency stop on your test. This forms part of the general driving ability section of the test[1], so you may be asked to do it in addition to a reversing exercise – not instead of.

You can find out what to expect on your driving test day here, including how to prepare, and what to bring.

If you aren’t super confident doing these manoeuvres then it would be worth purchasing some of Veygo’s learner driver insurance. Purchasing this can give you all the time you need to get out there and practice!

Get a quote

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Good driving is for life, not just for test day

Michael Chapman — Wed, 02 Nov 2022 17:40:23 +0000

A lot of time, effort and money is spent learning to pass your driving test. But often, the skills you went to so much effort to learn are quickly forgotten once you’ve passed.

Since I became a driving instructor, the test has become progressively harder. I’m sure this has been done to improve driving conditions and make the roads safer for everyone. However, standards of driving seem to be getting worse. I’ve observed, particularly since lockdown, people being more impatient, less observant and generally more aggressive in their driving. So, it’s important to keep the skills learned during lessons in mind and apply these to everyday driving.

The basics

Checking mirrors is a safety fundamental. If you don’t know what is going on around the car, it’s more difficult to make good decisions. How many times have you had somebody drift into your lane because they haven’t checked if anyone is there?

On any change of speed or direction, you should be aware of what’s behind and alongside you. At some point in your driving career, you’ll be about to turn left and suddenly realise there’s a cyclist shooting through on the inside. Just the sort of surprise you don’t need. If you’re coming into a junction with someone tailgating you, you may want to slow down a little sooner than normal.

To be able to make good decisions, you need to check your mirrors for information.

Blind spots and reversing

You cannot pass your test without adequate observations and yet, worryingly, so many people forget once they’ve passed.

Whenever I see a car with a post-shaped dent in the back, I always make sure to point it out to my learners. What really worries me though is that could have been a child.

Blind spots should be checked when changing lanes, merging, reversing and pulling away from a standstill.

People wouldn’t dream of driving forwards whilst looking behind them. But I often see experienced drivers reversing without looking over their shoulders at all.

Signalling

There’s nothing more annoying than pulling up to a roundabout, slowing down and waiting for someone who then turns left without a signal. More importantly than that, it can be dangerous.

If you’re going all the way around a roundabout without a signal, people won’t know to stop for you. Using appropriate signals is important — it lets other road users know where you’re going, which gives you a greater chance of completing the manoeuvre safely. Sadly, there seems to be a culture of not bothering to signal and it’s getting worse.

Pedestrians are especially vulnerable to a lack of signals. I’ve lost count of the number of stories I’ve heard of people nearly getting hit by a car that suddenly turned into a road without signalling. Imagine that was a member of your family.

Other issues

People are in such a rush. A light turns red, and two or three cars jump through. People pull out into gaps that aren’t sufficient. Cars overtake on roads they have no business overtaking on. These are just a few examples of driving behaviours I observe on a daily basis.

We can’t prevent other drivers from behaving badly. What we can do is minimise the risks to ourselves by:

Being observant
using mirrors
checking blind spots
giving appropriate, timely signals
generally adhering to the rules of of the road!

This of course includes speed limits. Good drivers will always consider road, weather and traffic conditions, so remember it’s a limit not a target. Good driving does not mean fast driving.

So, what can we do? Look after your licence!

Distractions

Avoid distractions in the car; turn your phone off and tell your passengers that when you are driving, they need to keep the noise to a minimum.

If you are caught holding and using a phone, sat nav or tablet whilst driving, you are liable for a £200 fine and six points on your license.

Remember: for the first two years after passing your test, six points will lose you your licence.

Tiredness

The Highway Code tells us we shouldn’t drive when tired or ill. However, real life doesn’t always work like that. If you are tired or feeling under the weather there is all the more reason to be on top of your observations, mirror and blind spot checks. These tend to be the first things that go when you’re tired. Be aware of any bad habits that appear when you’re not at your best.

Planning a journey

One of the ways to ensure you safely arrive at your destination is to plan your journey and leave yourself plenty of time. Even when I know where I’m going, I’ll use a sat nav to check traffic conditions along the route. It really does help to prevent rushing and taking driving shortcuts because you’re running late.

A speeding ticket will not only cost you money but three points on your licence. If you get caught twice, they will take your licence off you.

Car maintenance

It’s important to keep your car well maintained. Aside from ensuring it’s taxed and MOT’d, ongoing checks and maintenance are very important.

If your tyres are bald, you can receive three points and up to a £2,500 fine per tyre. Remember the show me tell me questions from your test and perform regular checks on your car. Most good garages are happy to do tyre and brake checks if you are unsure. Check out our checklist that will help you perform regular checks.

Black boxes

One thing that could help you focus on good driving practises is to have a black box installed. There are various options available, so talk to your insurance provider. Basically, you will need to adhere to speed limits and drive smoothly without sudden breaking or acceleration to achieve good results, which will then feed back to your insurance company and reduce the cost of your insurance over time.

Remember to keep your insurance up to date, as not having valid insurance will cost you six points. Put a reminder on your phone for the month before your insurance is due for renewal so that you don’t forget.

Be the best driver you can

All those skills that your instructor helped you develop whilst preparing for your driving test are there to keep you and those around you safe. It may also be worth considering further development through taking Pass Plus courses or working towards your advanced driving.

Most important of all, be the best driver you can; be observant, stick to the rules and be considerate of other drivers and road users.

Most importantly, don’t forget to get some of Veygo’s learner driver insurance. Buying some will enable you to get the extra hours practice in and help you to become the best possible driver you can be. Happy driving!

Get a quote

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Making the most of your driving lessons

Michael Chapman — Wed, 26 Oct 2022 13:29:28 +0000

How to make the most of your driving lessons.. (to pass first time)

Developing a good working relationship with your driving instructor is important. You should feel comfortable and confident during your lessons and be able to ask questions and request feedback.

Your instructor should also set clear goals at the beginning of each lesson and an evaluation at the end so that you know how well you are progressing and what you need to continue working on between lessons.

Making the most of your lessons

As a driving instructor for over a decade, I’m sharing some tips to help you get the most out of your lessons and pass your test first time.

1.Set clear learning objectives – At the beginning of every lesson, go over the lesson objectives with your instructor. Bear in mind the lesson objectives may change as the lessons go on, for instance your instructor may notice that you’ve dropped your mirrors because you’re so focused on roundabouts. Then they might pause the lesson briefly to remind you of good practice. Then, once you are back in a rhythm, they’ll resume with the original objective.

TOP TIP: If you are simultaneously studying for your theory test whilst taking practical lessons, you could use the lesson objective as a focus for your theory study. This means you’re mentally prepared for next week’s lesson and understand the theory behind what you’re going to be learning in the car. If you’ve already passed your theory, use the opportunity to brush up on your knowledge and apply it to your practical learning.

2.Request feedback – At the end of each lesson, ask your instructor to provide feedback to give you clarity on the progress you’ve made. Be sure to ask if you’re unclear on what needs to be done to improve further. They will also tell you what your next steps are and give you objectives for the next lesson.

TOP TIP: Many instructors will take notes throughout or at the end of your lesson. Be prepared to ask if there is anything on there that you need to be aware of or ask for a copy of the notes.

3.Arrive prepared – Before hopping in the car with your instructor, consider what materials you may need to bring along to be prepared, which may include a pen and notebook for taking notes. Some learners prefer taking their own notes at the end of the lesson, so they have something to review before the next lesson. This is a good way of keeping track of the things you’ve learnt, particularly if you’ve achieved a number of goals in one session. It also helps you to remember advice your instructor gives you and sequences of things that you’re finding hard to recall while on the move. Make the most of your time with your instructor by reviewing the notes from previous lessons before you get behind the wheel. It’s always easier to go over information while you’re stationary.

TOP TIP: In my experience, the best learners are proactive with their learning; asking questions and doing some revision or research between lessons. These people progress faster and have a more secure understanding of what is going on during the practical sessions. Think of your instructor more as a coach than a teacher. Doing some homework between lessons could save you time and money.

4.Ask questions – One of the best ways to make the most of your lessons is by asking questions! If you are unsure about any instructions or coaching points, be sure to ask. Good instructors appreciate the feedback and the teaching opportunities that arise from a pupil asking plenty of questions. Make a note of any questions that come up in between lessons, to ask during your next session.

TOP TIP: If you’re able to practise driving outside of your lessons, ask your instructor what you need to be working on during your private practice. Your instructor should be able to give you some clear goals for you to work towards. Make sure you communicate with your accompanying driver, so they can keep an eye on your technique and help you meet those goals.

Getting test ready

Once your instructor feels that you are close to being ready to drive independently, they may run some mock tests with you in preparation for test day.

To begin with, these may be slightly more informal as you learn the structure of the test. But as you gain confidence, your instructor should make them more realistic to allow you to practise your driving skills under test conditions.

Don’t be discouraged if you don’t pass your mock tests; instead take it as an opportunity to improve your driving and set new goals for the coming weeks. Learners who make serious mistakes on their mock tests tend not to repeat them on test day, as they go away and practise the areas that need work.

Be guided by your instructor as to whether you are ready for your test and treat the mocks as a learning opportunity. It is also worth looking online to get as much information as you can about how the practical test is structured and how you will be marked so that you are well prepared. Note down any questions you have to discuss with your instructor at your next lesson.

Booking your test

When you’re ready to sit the test, your instructor might book the theory and practical tests for you, as this enables them to swap or move the test if you aren’t quite ready or if you are ready earlier than expected.

If you choose to book the test yourself, then your instructor won’t have access to it and you will have to make any changes yourself.

TOP TIP: Consult your instructor before you book the test, as you will need their car to sit the practical driving test. Confirming the preferred date and time with your instructor before booking means you can avoid the disappointing situation of your instructor being unavailable at the time of your test and unable to facilitate your lesson.

If you get closer to test day and your instructor feels you aren’t ready, they will have that difficult conversation with you to let you know. Trust me, none of us enjoy that, but we want you to succeed on test day. Especially now there is an extensive backlog of learners waiting to sit their tests following the pandemic, should you fail and need to retake the test, you may have to wait weeks to months, depending on where you live. If your instructor tells you that you’re not ready for the test it is because they genuinely believe that you won’t pass or you are not yet safe to be driving independently.

The big day

On test day, your instructor will pick you up an hour or so before your allocated test time. This allows plenty of time for you to get to the test centre, practise manoeuvres, and go over your ‘show me, tell me’ questions.

Be assured, we all have our own driving kryptonite, be it roundabouts or parallel parking. On the day of your test, if you’re feeling anxious, remember that your instructor is there to help, should you need to go over it one last time to set your mind at ease.

The money you pay for your driving test goes directly to the DVSA. You will also need to pay your instructor for the use of their car during the test.

Of course, you can choose to take the test in your own car. Ensure your vehicle meets the requirements outlined by the DVSA because if you turn up in a car with no passenger mirror or a vehicle that is not MOT worthy, your examiner can refuse to take you out. If you would like your instructor to accompany you in your own car, you will still need to pay for their time.

Here a helpful video we’ve put together to help you visualise what it’s like getting in some extra practice when you’re driving instructor isn’t in the car with you!

Driving without an instructor

In between practising with your brilliant instructors there’s a great way to get some extra practice in, Veygo offer learner driver insurance which allows you to get on the road with a friend or family member. What a better way to practice, with someone you’re comfortable with!

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Driving my parents car, do I need insurance?

Michael Chapman — Thu, 20 Oct 2022 13:08:02 +0000

So, you’ve decided to learn to drive for whatever reason. You’ve got your provisional licence sorted and now you’re looking to book an instructor. You’ve realised that it’ll cost a fortune to get all the lessons that your heart desires.

You start thinking “can I drive my parent’s car using my provisional?” or “Can I drive my parent’s car without insurance?” Well, luckily for you Veygo learner driver insurance answers these questions!

Yes, you can drive your parents’ car with a provisional licence, and unfortunately you can’t learn to drive without insurance, but as mentioned Veygo learner driver insurance is a cheap solution to get behind the wheel of your parents car.

You’re now stuck thinking “how on earth do I convince them to let me have a spin in their car”. Well don’t worry, we can help to hook you up with a solution. Check out our guide that gives you the information you need to help you convince your parents to let you drive!

Why would you learn to drive without your instructor?

Cost

As previously mentioned, learning to drive comes at a cost, and the majority of you who are learning to drive are only 17 or 18, being this age usually means full time education or only just broke into the working world. So, it’s not super likely that you’ll have cash burning a hole in your pocket waiting to be spent on driving lessons.

So, first of all, cost. By hopping into the car with your parents you can save the cost of having to pay your instructor for the lesson, perhaps just having to front your parents some money for fuel.. Simple enough.

I know your next thought; you’re thinking about the cost of insurance to learn to drive legally on the roads. Funny you’re thinking that, because here at Veygo we have learner driver insurance that can be bought from as little as 1 hour! A great way to get the hour or hours in!

Freedom

When learning to drive with an instructor you’re very limited to what they tell you, “Go here”, “go there”, “that’s enough practice doing that”, “I think you need more time behind the wheel”. So, being able to practise with your parents gives you that ability to explore and rehearse the things you don’t feel too confident with.

Where to go

When learning to drive, typically you’ll be cruising around the areas where your test centre is.. And in all honesty that makes sense.. to basically learn the test centre (as they say you really learn to drive after you pass your test). There may be some routes you know you’ll be regularly driving after you pass, and by getting behind your parents’ wheel this gives you ample opportunity to do so!

Practice

When driving with your instructor you’ll be practising manoeuvres, clutch control, and emergency stopping (among other things). So, you’ll be repeating certain manoeuvres multiple times.

When practising you may nail the move a few times and the instructor will tell you you’re fine doing them, however, being able to do them and being confident doing them are different. With your parents you can rinse and repeat the move until you’re super confident doing each one!

Post test

Having passed your test, you’ll want to get on the roads as soon as possible! But if you haven’t found the perfect car you’re struggling to find the perfect car, there are plenty of ways to go about buying a car. Try looking for the cheapest way to buy a car as a good place to start.

So, let’s pretend you haven’t found the perfect car but you’re keen to get on the roads, that leaves you with one option! Your parent’s car!

It’s often said that you don’t actually learn to drive until after you pass your test, so you really don’t want to put off getting on the roads for very long. So let’s discuss getting insured on your parent’s car!

First of all, make sure you have their permission and you’ve discussed it with them!
Secondly, consider the amount of time you’re going to be without your own car. It’s highly recommended that you don’t spend much longer than a month or two borrowing a car as it can become very frustrating very quickly.

So, considering this, a great solution to make sure you kick it up a gear and only spend a couple of months driving your parent’s car, look into getting Veygo’s temporary insurance. It’ll keep your parent’s car safe and give you the chance to get on the roads practising.

It’s not just the practice while driving your parents’ car temporarily that is necessary, you may have passed your test close to starting uni or college where you may not need a car, but could want your own way to get about. Another reason why getting insured on your parent’s car could be essential!

Whatever reason you have for getting insured on your parents’ car always remember:

Yes, you can drive your parent’s car with a provisional licence.
And, no, you can’t drive your parent’s car without insurance.

But always remember if you have a provisional and looking to practise or passed your test and need your parents’ car for any reason then look at purchasing some of Veygo’s temporary car insurance or the learner driver insurance by hitting the button below!

Get a quote

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Driving lessons… Where to begin

Michael Chapman — Wed, 12 Oct 2022 13:15:34 +0000

As a driving instructor, I am often asked two questions when first contacted by someone looking to take driving lessons. The first is always: “What are your rates?“, and the second: “When are you available?”

I am very rarely asked, “How many lessons will I need?” or “What other costs are involved?”

So, with that in mind, it seems a ‘preparing to drive checklist’ may be useful to learner drivers.

Budgeting

When learning to drive, there are one-off costs involved as well as ongoing weekly costs.

You must have a current provisional license. This costs £34 to buy online and £43 by post, at the time of writing. You can apply for a provisional when you are 15 years and 9 months old, however you cannot drive on the roads until you are 17. Young people who claim PIP (Personal Independence Payment) may be eligible to drive at 16. If you want to find out more information about applying for your provisional licence, or a quick guide, check out Veygo’s guide!

The theory test currently costs £23, however some people need more than one attempt at this to pass. You may wish to buy an app or learning materials to help you achieve your theory test. It’s worth putting the effort in as passing the test isn’t something you can do without revision.

Booking your theory test can be as easy as visiting ‘Book your theory test’ – GOV.UK

Most instructors charge an hourly rate. Some also offer block rates, so for instance a block of 10 hours may cost a little less than buying them individually. Lesson prices vary throughout the UK; however, you’re likely to spend around £35 an hour.

Your driving instructor will advise you on the frequency of your lessons, depending on your needs.

Should you choose to go down the intensive route, this cost will be increased. You’ll be paying at least £40 an hour, plus the cost of booking early tests and getting lessons very quickly. If you need to pass your test urgently, this could be an option for you.

Budgeting:
1.     Provisional licence: £34 – £43
2.     Theory test revision material: £5 – £15
3.     Theory tests, per attempt: £23
4.     Lessons: estimated £35 per hour for 45 hours
5.     Provisional Insurance: Check with insurance provider (Veygo offer a great option)
6.     Practical tests: £62 per attempt
7.     Instructor cost for test: 2 – 3 hours at their rate
8.     Cancellation apps (if required): £5 – £20

How many hours of lessons will I need?

Most learners need between 35 and 55 hours of formal tuition. It will help if you can do some private practice. So, before you start thinking about how many lessons you need to buy, consider whether you have a family member or close friend who has held their full UK license for at least three years and can commit to taking you out a couple of times a week to practise.

If not, you’re looking at the higher end of the range. The DVSA states that most people need 45 hours of formal tuition and 22 hours of practice on average, to be able to drive safely on the roads independently.

However, the number of hours you will need is dependent on various factors. Some questions to consider include:

Are you generally very confident or are you more anxious when in new situations?
Do you pick things up easily? Do you struggle to learn new concepts?
Are you coordinated? Can you do multiple things at once or do you need to focus on one thing at a time?

Be honest with yourself when estimating the number of hours you think will need.

Practical driving tests cost £62 per test, in addition to the cost of the instructor’s car and time. Most instructors will block out two to three hours for the test, charged at their normal rate. Ask your instructor how they like to manage test day and factor in that cost too.

It would be lovely if everyone passed first time, however the national pass rate runs at about 50% so be prepared and budget for more than one attempt. That way, if you pass first time, you have a bit of money to spare.

Currently, there are long wait times for practical test slots, so candidates are using cancellation apps to locate available tests in their area. These can cost anything up to approximately £20. Again, do your research, and ask around to determine which apps are most effective.

Another factor to consider if you are planning to practise privately, is to ensure that your car is insured for you to drive as a provisional licence holder. Contact your insurance provider to discuss your options and costs, or use Veygo temporary cover to insure the vehicle for short periods of time.

Choosing your instructor

Bearing all that in mind, it’s time to look for your instructor. Before reaching out to a potential instructor, consider your:

budget and availability
learning style and requirements
timescale for passing

People come to me from various avenues, from the internet, through word of mouth via friends or family, or even through a third-party company.

It is wise to do some research to find a suitable instructor for you. Ask friends or family to get their honest opinion on their driving instructor and don’t be afraid to ask yourself: “Is this the right person for me?”

Good instructors will adapt their style to suit the pupil, but it can help to seek out an instructor with a teaching style that suits you. If you need lots of encouragement and support to excel, ensure the instructor you choose has that quality. Likewise, if you need pushing to work harder, find an instructor with a teaching style that suits your style of learning.

When researching online, remember to check all the reviews. People will often share first-hand comments about their experience with their instructor. Think about your own learning style and decide what type of teaching style suits you best to help your decision-making.

Then, contact several driving instructors in your area. Prepare ahead by considering your availability; which days are you free and how much time you can commit to lessons per week?

Questions to ask potential instructors:
Ask about their pricing structure and availability
Enquire about their pass rate
Ask how many hours they think you will need and let them know how many hours a week you’ll be able to commit to – bear in mind it is quite difficult to judge how quickly a pupil will progress until you have seen them drive, so the instructor will only be able to give you an estimate.

Check what the timescale is for booking tests in your area

Ask about cancellation policies and any other terms and conditions. If you are referred to a website, make sure to read up on all the information before booking.

Because of the long waiting lists for practical tests, a lot of instructors are asking that you complete your theory test prior to starting lessons. This, of course, is a very personal decision. Some people like to complete their theory first, while others prefer to start driving so, they can apply their theory revision to their practical lessons. Either way, the theory is a very important part of driving as it gives you the tools you need to understand the road, which is an ongoing process.

To summarise, do your research. Plan your budget and take some time to read reviews, talk to friends, family, and colleagues about their experiences before talking to potential instructors and making your selection.

See the checklist below of things to consider before you start your driving lessons. Hopefully this will be of some help in the planning and budgeting of a very long and safe driving career.

Finding an instructor:

1.     Ask friends and family for recommendations
2.     Search online in your area and on gov.uk website
3.     Read instructor reviews online
4.     Make a list of questions
5.     Call instructors on your shortlist; ask your questions and inform them of your requirements
6.     Choose the instructor who best suits your needs and make a booking.

Once you’ve gone over all of the above and you’re confident and happy with what you’re doing then it’s finally time to get some of Veygo’s learner driver insurance. As mentioned it gives you the freedom and comfort of practising in your own car!

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