Moving Off & Stopping

Moving Off

POM routine ( Prepare, Observe and Move)

Lets start off with P - Prepare, we could split this P into 3 parts.

1st Clutch Down

2nd Select First gear

3rd Find the biting point

Then lets do the "O" - Observation

Start off with checking your main mirror, then proceed with the all-round checks starting at 7 O'clock ( left shoulder blind spot ) around to 5 O'clock ( right shoulder blind spot )

Now we need to decide whether we need to give an indication signal or not. If anyone ahead of you then it would be a good idea to put one on whether its a pedestrian, cyclist or motorised vehicle. If there is traffic approaching from behind, then its best to delay your indication signal until the vehicle gets into your right shoulder blind spot, re-do observational checks then indicate and release the handbrake (go). If on the other hand the traffic is some way behind you then you can indicate and go. Your judgement whether to delay or not is whether you would be able to walk accross the road or not

Stopping

MSM routine  ( Mirrors Signal and Manoeuvre )

How to stop a car at the roadside. Think of MSM - Mirrors Signal Manoeuvre.

  • Mirrors - Observe as for stopping at the roadside

  • Signal - Signal left if necessary

  • Manoeuvre -

  • Press on the brake pedal to start slowing the car.

  • Increase the pressure on the brake pedal to that which is sufficient to slow the car appropriately.

  • As the car slows, steer towards the roadside.

  • Just before the car is going too slow for the gear it is in, press the clutch pedal fully down and keep it down.

  • Just before the car stops, adjust the brake pedal to bring the car to a comfortable stop and approximately 6 inches from the kerb.

  • When stopped, press firmly on the brake pedal to hold the car still while you apply the hand brake.

  • Select neutral gear, cancel the signal if it was used, then release both the brake pedal and the clutch pedal.

Simon Rimmer