With the start of wintery weather this week, the BMW Winter Driver Training Programme offers drivers the opportunity to brush up on how to drive in snow and ice, and learning how to cope with many problems we may face on the road, writes Trish Whelan.
The BMW Winter Driver Training Programme, delivered by Rally School Ireland, combines practical advice with crucial driving experience on their special Winter Driver Training circuit which replicates urban and winding rural roads in wet, icy and snowy conditions.
Rally School Ireland's course includes theoretical instruction followed by application of the theory in simulated live situations. You learn how to reduce your reaction time, improve your car control, and learn skid recovery. You also get to learn so much more, as I discovered when I took the course a few years ago, including the difference when driving on winter tyres over summer ones in wintery conditions, and undertaking emergency lane change tests.
The course is designed for new and recently qualified drivers, business and high mileage drivers, nervous drivers, emergency response drivers, or anyone who has experienced difficulty in the past driving in winter conditions.
The cost is from €175 per person and there are special group/company rates available. To book a course or buy a voucher as a gift, call 047 89098. Visit www.rallyschoolireland.ie for more information. It's based at Gola, Scotstown in Co Monaghan.