Driving

All volunteers who are willing to drive their own vehicles for Humanist Society Scotland must confirm that they have the following arrangements in place by completing our Volunteer Driver Declaration Form:

I have read and agree to:

• The Driver Guidance Document

• Manual Handling guidance in the Volunteer Handbook

Please confirm the following statements:

1. I confirm that I am legally entitled to drive the vehicle I am using, and that my driving license is valid, in date and appropriate for the vehicle I’m using;

2. I have checked with my insurer that I have the correct insurance for my vehicle which covers me driving while volunteering for Humanist Society Scotland, and my insurance is up to date.

3. That the vehicle being used is roadworthy as outlined by UK law, has a valid MOT certificate and is taxed for use on the roads;

4. I am fit to drive.

Please note that Humanist Society Scotland will not accept liability for any damage to privately owned vehicles.

Report Motoring offences

If you drive as part of your volunteering role, report any motoring offences, including cautions, summons or convictions, to the Community Engagement Manager.

It is essential that all volunteers who drive as part of their volunteering for us read and adhere to our Volunteer Driver Guidance.

Guidance from ROSPA

Journey planning

It is important to plan your route before every journey. The more planning in advance you can do, the less that unforeseen and risky circumstances will arise, and you will be better prepared to deal with them if they do.

Avoid driving in poor conditions and check the weather forecast before you set off, especially if there has been recent bad weather. If the reported advice is to only make essential journeys then you should follow it.

As a general rule, drivers should take a 15-minute break after driving for two hours. You need to examine your schedule in advance to ensure that you will not be pressured by time. Driving at night, especially after a long shift, should also be avoided.

Fitness to drive

Ensure you are fit to drive before setting off on any journey.

• Do not drive when affected by alcohol, drugs or medicines

• Do not drive when affected by illness

• Do not drive when you are too tired to do so safely.

Inform your named Volunteer Support Person or Community Engagement Manager about any health issue or personal circumstances that may affect your driving.

You are also legally required to inform the DVLA of any medical condition that may affect your ability to drive safely.

For more information: www.gov.uk/driving-medical-conditions

www.gov.uk/health-conditions-and-driving

Eyesight

In good daylight, you must be able to read a vehicle number plate from 20 metres (about five car lengths) or from 20.5 metres for old-style number plates. If you require glasses or contact lenses to drive, you must wear them at all times when driving. It is an offence not to do so, and may invalidate your motor insurance.

Have your eyesight checked regularly (at least once every two years, or more often if your optician recommends it).

Alcohol

Avoid drinking alcohol in the hours before you will be driving. It can take several hours for alcohol to be removed from your body, and you may still be over the limit, or affected by alcohol the morning after you have been drinking.

Alcohol impairs judgment, making drivers over-confident and more likely to take risks. It slows their reactions, increases stopping distances, impairs judgement of speed and distance and affects vision. Even a small amount, well below the legal limit, seriously affects the ability to drive safely.

Drugs

Do not drive if you have taken any illegal drugs. They can affect your decision-making and driving skills, as well as your physical and mental condition and behaviour, and significantly increase your risk of crashing.

The penalties are the same as for drink driving. It is also illegal in England, Scotland and Wales to drive with certain drugs in the body above a specified limit (even a very small amount would put a person over the limit).

Medicines

Check with your GP or pharmacist whether any over-the-counter or prescribed medicines

you are taking are likely to affect your driving (for example, by causing drowsiness). If so,

ask for an alternative that does not, or avoid driving. Always check the label of medicines

and the patient information leaflet to see if there are any warnings. If the label says that

certain side effects may occur, assume that they will do so.

Illness

Illness can also affect our ability to drive. We can often be tempted to continue driving,

when it would be safer for everyone concerned not to drive until we are feeling better. If

you start to feel unwell while driving, stop the vehicle somewhere safe. If the condition is

not serious, you may feel well enough to continue after a short break or taking some

medication. But, if you find your concentration is affected, make other arrangements to

continue your journey.

Fatigue

Consider whether you are likely to be drowsy or sleepy while driving. Tired drivers are

more likely to crash, especially on long monotonous journeys, and in the early hours of the

morning. If you are driving as a volunteer in the evening after a full day’s work in other

employment, you may also be more tired. If you think that you are over the drink-drive limit

or unfit to drive for any reason, do not drive. Contact your Volunteer Support Person to

explain and allow alternative arrangements to be made.

Safe speed

Drivers who travel at higher speeds have less time to identify and react to what is

happening around them. It takes them longer to stop. And if there is a crash, it is more

severe, causing greater injury to the occupants and any pedestrian or rider they hit.

Higher speeds also magnify other driver errors, such as close-following or driving when tired or distracted, thus multiplying the chances of causing a crash.

Speed limits

Always stay within speed limits even if you think the limit is too low.

Speed limits set the maximum speed for that road. But, there are many circumstances

when it is not safe to drive at that speed (for example, around schools at opening and

closing times).

Make sure you know the speed limit of the roads you are using. Speed limit signs tend to be placed at junctions because this is often the point at which the limit changes. However, junctions are also where you need to absorb a wide range of different information and it is easy to miss a speed limit sign when concentrating on one or more other things, such as the intentions of other road users. Get into the habit of checking for speed limit signs at junctions, and looking for repeater signs after the junction, especially if the nature of the road has changed. If you are not sure, assume the limit is lower until you see a sign.

Staying within the limit

The following tips are designed to help you be mindful of your speed:

• Check your speedometer regularly, especially when leaving high-speed roads

• Know the limits – look for signs, especially at junctions

• Assume lamp posts mean 30mph, until signs say otherwise, but remember it could be 20mph

• Remember, speed limits are a maximum, not a target

• 20’s plenty when kids are about – and may even be too fast

• Try no higher than 3rd gear in a 30mph limit

• Recognise what makes you speed — keeping up with traffic, overtaking or being tailgated • Concentrate – distracted drivers speed

• Slow down when entering villages • Give yourself time – there’s no need to speed and you usually won’t get there quicker

Distractions

Driving requires your full concentration all of the time. Trying to do something else while driving will distract you, slow your reactions and increase the risk of crashing.

A wide range of things can distract drivers, including using a mobile phone (speaking, dialling, texting, surfing), inputting directions into a sat nav, reading a map or document, eating, drinking, and smoking.

Mobile phones

It is illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving. Volunteers are prohibited from using a hand-held mobile phone or similar hand-held electronic device whilst driving as part of their volunteering, whether this is to make or receive telephone calls, send or read text or image/picture messages, or to access the Internet or e-mail.

If you are discovered contravening this rule, you will face serious action under the Society’s problem solving procedures.

In view of the potential health and safety implications, it may also constitute gross misconduct and you could be asked to leave your volunteering role.

If you wish to use a hand-held mobile phone when driving, you must stop the car and completely turn off the car’s engine before using the mobile phone. A person is regarded as “driving” for the purposes of the law if the engine is running, even if their vehicle is stationary. This means you must not use a hand-held phone at traffic lights, during traffic jams or at other times when the engine is still running.

A hands-free phone is one that does not require the user to hold it at any point during the course of its operation. A mobile phone that is attached to fixed speakers and does not require the user to hold it whilst in use (for example, because it is stored in a cradle) would be covered, as would a hands-free mobile phone with voice activation. If the phone needs to be held in the user’s hand at some point during its operation, for example to dial the number or to end the call, it is not hands-free.

If you drive as part of your volunteering role and you wish to use a mobile phone, you must ensure that you have the appropriate hands-free equipment and only use it for navigation purposes while the engine is running.

Hands-free phones do not significantly reduce the risks because of the mental distraction of taking part in a phone conversation or glancing at the screen at the same time as driving. A hands-free phone can be used as a sat nav, but only while securely held in a cradle, with the route programmed before the journey. If the driver needs to input new directions, they should only do so when parked in a safe place, with the vehicle engine switched off.

Even with hands-free equipment, driving and conducting a telephone conversation are both demanding tasks and you should take all reasonable steps to ensure you do not carry out these tasks at the same time. You should therefore make use of any voicemail or call divert facility available, rather than make or receive “live” calls. Stop regularly in safe places to check for voicemail messages and to make and return calls. If you do need to make or receive a call whilst driving on Society business and you have the appropriate hands-free equipment, these calls should nevertheless be limited to essential calls and only when it is safe to do so.

Occupant safety

Seatbelts

The most effective way of protecting people inside vehicles is to make sure that every occupant always wears a seatbelt on every journey, no matter how short the journey. It is just as important for passengers in the rear to wear seatbelts as those in the front.

In a crash at 30mph, an unrestrained person is thrown forward with a force 30 to 60 times their body weight. They are thrown about inside the vehicle, injuring themselves and often seriously injuring other people inside the vehicle.

Head restraints

Adjust your head restraint correctly, and check that every passenger has their head restraint correctly adjusted. Properly adjusted head restraints help to protect against whiplash, and prevent long-term injuries. The top of the head restraint should be level with the top of your head and it should be as close to the back of your head as possible.

Safe vehicle

Vehicle defects are only involved in a small proportion of crashes. However, the type of vehicle also has a major influence on the likelihood and severity of injuries when there is a collision. Any vehicle that is, or suspected to be, in an unsafe or illegal condition must NOT be used until all necessary repairs have been completed. As the driver, you are also responsible for ensuring that the vehicle you are driving is safe and legal.

Before driving any vehicle, check:

• Tyres are undamaged (no cuts or bulges), are at the correct pressure for the number of passengers or equipment being carried, and have enough tread depth. The legal minimum is 1.6mm, but above 3mm gives much shorter braking distances in the wet

• There are no signs of vehicle damage

• Oil, coolant and windscreen wash levels are correct (check when cold) • You know the correct type of fuel for the vehicle

• Brakes are working

• Lights and indicators are working

• Windscreen and windows are not damaged

• Washers and wipers are working

• Mirrors are correctly positioned

• All occupants are using their seatbelts, and head restraints are adjusted correctly

• Loads are securely restrained.

If you are not sure how to check any of the above, read the vehicle handbook or ask someone to show you. RoSPA’s video, vehicle checks (https://bit.ly/3ow6abE), may also help.

Driving position

You should be able to see and reach all of the controls comfortably. Good all-round, unobstructed, visibility is vital. Check that your view is not obstructed unnecessarily by objects such as stickers or devices such as sat navs, and that sat navs are not placed where they might be hit and flung forwards by an airbag in the event of a collision. Consider whether the vehicle is suitable for the task, for example:

• If carrying passengers, is there a seatbelt for each occupant?

• If carrying children, is there an appropriate child seat for each child that needs one?

• If carrying a heavy load or an animal, can you secure it safely?

Emergency procedures

It is essential that you are familiar with, and follow, these procedures if an emergency occurs.

In the vehicle, keep copies of:

• The emergency procedures

• Contact details for the person(s) to whom you should report emergencies

• Contact details of the breakdown firm you use for breakdown recovery and any reference numbers that you may need to quote. Make sure you have a fully charged mobile phone to summon help if necessary. Do not use the phone while driving.

A summary of the main points to remember can be found below.

Accidents

• Use hazard warning lights and switch off your engine

• Do not move injured passengers unless they are in immediate danger of further injury from other vehicles or from fire or explosion

• Call the emergency services immediately; provide them with information about the situation, any special circumstances (for example, if carrying oxygen bottles) and if any passengers have additional needs

• If child passengers are present, ensure an adult remains with them

• If the emergency services are called, stay at the scene until they allow you to leave

• Obtain the names and addresses of all independent witnesses (if possible)

• Ensure the vehicle is roadworthy before continuing the journey

• If there is any injury or the names of people involved are not exchanged, you should report the accident to the police as soon as possible or in any case within 24 hours and to the Community Engagement Manager.

Breakdowns

• Move the vehicle off the carriageway (onto the hard shoulder or emergency refuge area on a motorway) and switch on the hazard warning lights

• If this is not possible, move it as far away from moving traffic as you can

• Move passengers out of the nearside of the vehicle and as far away from it and other traffic as possible – no one should stand between the vehicle and oncoming traffic

• On motorways or other busy roads, passengers should be taken onto the embankment or grass margin and as far from the traffic as is practicable

• Keep passengers together, keep children under constant supervision

• Call the emergency services, or breakdown firm, giving them accurate details of the vehicle’s location, and whether children or passengers with mobility problems are being carried

• Call your nominated contact person to tell them what has happened

• On a motorway, use the roadside emergency telephone as this will enable the police to pinpoint your location. If you are involved in a collision, discuss the details with your Volunteer Support Person at the next appropriate moment. This will help them ensure that any risk assessments that they have made are relevant and up to date.

Review the latest edition of ‘The Highway Code, road safety and vehicle rules’ for the most up to date information.

General Guidance Checklist for Drivers

✓ Check that your vehicle is safe to drive before every journey and regularly check tyre pressure, screen wash, and oil levels

✓ Ensure your vehicle is serviced in line with the service schedule

✓ Ensure your vehicle has a valid MOT (if 3 years or older) and is taxed and insured for business use

✓ Get your eyesight tested every 2 years

✓ Always wear your seatbelt

✓ Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you – a minimum of 2 seconds (4 in poor weather)

✓ Use your mirrors and check your blind spots regularly – always expect the unexpected

✓ Look out for cyclists and motorcyclists

✓ Leave plenty of space when overtaking

✓ Plan your trip and allow plenty of time for breaks (at least 15 minutes every 2 hours)

✓ Check that your seat and mirrors are properly configured before you set off

✓ Follow any road signs and instructions

✓ Be patient, not everyone is as good a driver as you …

✓ Drive predictably, so that other road users know what you plan on doing

✓ Use your headlights at night, in fog, or when lighting is poor

✓ Take out breakdown cover

✓ Don’t speed

✓ If you’ve drank alcohol the night before, it may be advisable not to drive the following day. You may wish to buy an alcohol breathalyzer

✓ NEVER drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol

✓ Never drive when you feel too tired

✓ Avoid eating while driving

✓ Keep hydrated

✓ Take heed of travel warnings; if the weather is poor and the advice is not to drive, then don’t

✓ Follow the Highway Code

✓ Be mindful of road rage

Using a Satnav

✓ Set up your satnav before you set off and do not adjust it while driving

Recommended year-round Essentials to keep in your Car

✓ A fully charged mobile phone

✓ An in-car phone charger or power jack

✓ Sunglasses

✓ Any personal medication

✓ A First Aid kit

✓ A road atlas, in case of diversions

✓ Sat-nav or a printed route for an unfamiliar journey

✓ Your breakdown cover details

✓ Hazard Warning Triangle

✓ Fire Extinguisher

✓ Reflective jacket in case you break down

✓ Food, snacks, and drinks

Coping with Cold, Snow, and Ice

Breakdowns are more common in winter and road conditions in Scotland can be very tricky. Recommended Winter Emergency Kit and Severe Weather Extras Even when your car is really well-equipped, there is still a risk of getting stuck.

In addition to year-round Essentials, consider the following:

✓ A blanket, rug, or sleeping bag

✓ Shovel

✓ Ice scraper and de-icer

✓ Torch and batteries

✓ Extra screen wash

✓ A warm winter coat, scarf, hat, gloves, and warm clothes

✓ Waterproofs

✓ Sturdy footwear

✓ A flask of hot drink

Batteries and Electrics

Car batteries rarely last longer than 5 years and winter puts extra demands on them. Suggestions:

✓ Turn off electrical items (e.g. lights or wipers) before trying to start the car

✓ Use the starter in short 5-second bursts

✓ If the car doesn’t start, wait 30 seconds and try again

✓ A continuous squealing noise when you start the car could mean a frozen water pump – if this happens, stop the engine straight away and let it thaw out

✓ If your car overheats within a few miles of leaving home, the radiator may have frozen – stop so you don’t cause more serious damage

Antifreeze

You need a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water which protects your engine down to -34C and most modern cars use long-life antifreeze. Check that you are using the correct type and that it’s been changed in line with your car’s service schedule.

Vision

✓ Clean both sides of the windscreen and windows

✓ Keep the windscreen and windows clear of snow and clear snow from the roof

✓ Use the air-conditioner (it’ll demist the windscreen quicker & reduces condensation)

✓ Replace worn or damaged wiper blades

✓ Use an additive in the screen wash to reduce the likelihood of it freezing

Visibility

✓ Check that the lights are working and keep the lenses clean

✓ Use the headlights in poor visibility

Tyres

✓ It’s advisable to have at least 3mm tread, especially in winter

✓ Consider buying winter or all-season tyres

Snow and Ice

✓ SLOW DOWN – the stopping distance is about 10 times longer

✓ Keep plenty of distance behind the vehicle in front going uphill or wait until it’s clear so you can avoid stopping; keep a constant speed to avoid changing gear

✓ Slow down and use a low gear before going downhill and avoid braking

✓ Use the ‘winter mode’ if you drive an automatic and have it

✓ If you get stuck, straighten the steering and clear the snow from your tyres – a sack or old rug in front of the wheels can help give your tyres some grip

Other advice for the Winter

✓ Allow extra time for your journeys and about 10 minutes to de-ice your car ✓ Keep an eye on your fuel and keep at least a quarter of a tank in case you are delayed

✓ Try to use major roads as they’re more likely to have been cleared and gritted

Review the latest edition of ‘The Highway Code, road safety and vehicle rules’ for the most up to date information.