Learning the proper routine to move off and stop safely is something learner drivers learn very early in their driving lessons. This video will go over two methods for doing just this – POM (Prepare, Observe, Move) and MSM (Mirrors Signal Manoeuvre). Furthermore, this will explain when and why one should or shouldn’t use indicators.
1. Find the Biting Point
Learning to drive safely involves mastering two distinct routines for starting and stopping safely: POM (Prepare, Observe, Manoeuvre) and MSM (Mirrors Signal Manoeuvre).
Before driving the vehicle, it is necessary to prepare it. This involves pressing down completely on the clutch, selecting neutral and then, in manual cars, placing on handbrake. After this initial preparation has taken place, drivers may gradually increase clutch pressure until ‘biting point’ has been found – this may be indicated by changes to engine noise or even by slight increase of bonnet movement.
Once the clutch has reached biting point, the driver should gradually apply more accelerator pressure in order to speed up movement off of the kerb. At this stage, it is imperative for them to frequently check their mirrors and blind spots in order to ensure safe pullaway without causing obstructions or delays.
2. Observe
Moving off and stopping are skills learned very early on in driving lessons, and will ultimately be tested during their driving test. They’ll need these abilities when out on their own on the road!
Before moving off from the side of a road it is essential that you observe its environment to make sure it is safe to do so. This involves looking out for traffic approaching from behind, pedestrians and any other vehicles in the vicinity as well as checking mirrors and blind spots; people often become disoriented this way!
Once it’s safe to move forward, prepare the car by pressing down on the clutch pedal and selecting 1st gear. Also consider whether or not signaling should be necessary; remember it’s only necessary when necessary!
3. Prepare
As part of their instruction, driving instructors focus heavily on teaching you to start off and stop smoothly and safely on the road, something which will come in handy on your test. You must be able to do it without endangering other road users and without creating an unsafe situation for themselves or the car in front.
To do this, follow a POM (Prepare, Observe and Manoeuvre) routine. Press your clutch fully down, select first gear and release your handbrake before keeping both feet off of pedals as letting go at this point could stall the vehicle causing serious faults.
After gathering all-around observations, including checking mirrors and blind spots, take an effective all-round survey before assessing whether it is safe to move off and if so making the move.
4. Move
Your instructor will initially make decisions about whether you can move off, but as your lessons continue, it is up to you to decide when and if to move off yourself. This means evaluating factors like road type and proximity to kerb. In particular, consider what size vehicles will pass you – it would be wise not to move off too soon in these instances!
Once it is safe for you to start moving off, prepare your vehicle by pressing down with your left foot on the clutch and selecting first gear. Next, put on your indicator light, check mirrors and blind spots and move off safely – this should only occur if other drivers can keep pace without being forced to slow down or alter their journeys.
5. Signal
Learning to move off and stop are skills which new drivers will practice from the outset of their driving lessons. Understanding the correct procedure for doing these actions is crucial as this will be assessed during their driving test.
As soon as you’re about to leave from a stationary position, it is a wise idea to use your indicator light to notify other road users that you intend on pulling away from the side of the road. This way drivers coming behind you don’t assume you will suddenly pull into their path causing them to slow down or worse swerve abruptly.
However, be careful not to overuse your indicators. There is no need to signal every time you are pulling up or signalling; only do so if another road user would benefit from knowing this information.
6. Stop
Learner drivers must master two essential driving skills early on during their driving lessons and the driving test: moving off and stopping securely without forcing other road users to slow down or change direction. It is advisable that learners start practicing their routine in quiet areas first before selecting a location which meets legal, convenient and safe stopping standards for future testing purposes.
This video tutorial provides an in-depth explanation of both the Preparation, Observation, Signal If Necessary and Move (POM) routine for moving off and the Mirrors Signal Manoeuvre Position Speed Look (MSSM) routine for stopping. It should answer all of your queries on these essential driving skills while providing insight into what a driving examiner expects when it comes to safe moving off and stopping procedures.
Conclusion
Mastering the ability to move off and stop in a manual car is a fundamental driving skill that requires practice, precision, and a clear understanding of the POM (Prepare, Observe, Move) and MSM (Mirrors, Signal, Manoeuvre) routines.
Regular practice in quiet areas will help you build confidence and make informed decisions on the road, preparing you for success during your driving test and ensuring your safety in real-world driving situations.
