Don’t let corners drive you round the bend

This week IAM Drive & Survive’s head of training Simon Elstow explains an advanced driving technique, IPSGA, which covers driving as smoothly as possible through bends:

• Information. What’s going on around you? Check your mirrors to work out the movements of other road users, and signal before changing course. If there is a lot of traffic or someone is following close behind do this as early as possible.
• Position. After confirming it’s safe, take the best position for dealing with the bend. On a left-hand bend move closer to the centre line and on a right-hand bend closer to the kerb. This will improve your view around the corner. 
• Speed. Adjust your speed to prepare for the corner.
• Gears. Once you’re at the right speed, select the right gear. Adjust your speed early so that you have time to separate changing speed from changing gear.
• Accelerate. Once you can see through the bend, accelerate smoothly if it is safe, bearing in mind the road conditions. Gently accelerating through a corner balances the car.

Elstow said: “Bends catch a lot of people out, and are especially prevalent on rural roads – the worst for accidents. But by following the straightforward IPSGA routine, you’ll get through corners safely, comfortably and more quickly.”