The standard

 

 

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Unit 1

Operate the vehicle

Element 4

Uses the controls

PC (f)
Matches steering to the desired path

notes:

This performance criterion covers how the driver holds and uses the steering wheel, and how they coordinate their eyes, hands and the vehicle's path. It does not include the effects of acceleration, braking and road variations on the vehicle's tracking.

The steering wheel input must be smooth and result in the vehicle tracking accurately.

The desired path is based on what other parts of the standard require. The path may be modified for manoeuvring, negotiating a hazard or transporting a patient in comfort.

Coordinates vision and steering - looks towards the exit of a turn before steering and continues to monitor the exit until it is reached.

extra info

Where possible, keeps both hands on the wheel. When travelling straight, one hand is positioned level with the other.

Steers by using the outside of the wheel. (Steering by placing the palm of the hand up and holding the wheel on the inside is to be discouraged, even in manoeuvring situations. There is reasonable anecdotal evidence that this technique can hinder full and accurate control of the vehicle.)

 

 

Both hands on the wheel and level with each other

 
Five to one

 

Quarter to three

 

Twenty to four

When driving in turns, adopts a hand position that allows steering to be taken off quickly.

During forward or reverse manoeuvres, it is acceptable to steer with one hand and to allow the steering to self-centre as long as the driver demonstrates accurate control of the vehicle. These are circumstances where more than half a turn of the wheel must be applied quickly and the vehicle's speed does not exceed a brisk walking pace. It does not include situations such as turning at intersections.

Assessment of this criterion is to include reversing, but only with regard to the 'mechanics' of steering - how the wheel is used and the accuracy of the vehicle's path. This can be assessed at angle parks or three-point turns. More technical manoeuvres in the context of operational driving are assessed in Unit 4 Element 4 Manoeuvres the vehicle.

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