Automatic

Automatic transmission

If you want to learn to drive quickly and get your restricted licence sooner rather than later then automatic may be the way to go. It is less testing than manual because you don't have to worry about gears and clutches etc. It still takes plenty of practise because you still need to learn how to brake and accelerate smoothly,  as well as steer correctly around corners.

The good thing about driving automatic is that you can spend more time concentrating on road procedures as there is less things to worry about in the car.

Things to avoid when driving an automatic!

Not placing foot on footbrake before selecting 'drive'.

Most automatic cars won't let you select 'drive' unless you are applying some pressure to the footbrake. This is a built in safety measure! It doesn't stop some people trying though- usually without success.

Danger: It can damage the transmission. The car could also shoot forward if the accelerator is pressed by mistake.

Remedy: Always apply pressure to the footbrake before selecting 'drive'.

Holding onto gear stick whilst driving

This can become a bad habit and can be dangerous as you have less control over the steering wheel.

Danger: If anything suddenly happened up ahead you wouldn't be able to steer to avoid it.

Remedy: Always have two hands on the wheel whilst driving preferably in the ten and two positions. This gives the most control.

More things to avoid!