5 minute read – Veygo

Everything Electric Cars & temp insurance

Sean O'Neill — Wed, 10 Aug 2022 10:08:45 +0000

Everything is always changing in the world, and it always either seems to be progression or regression. So, with electric cars and the environment in mind, let’s talk about progression, specifically with electric cars.

Both the technology for electric cars and electric cars themselves have existed for quite some time, but like the wheel and the suitcase, they never seemed to exist together early enough.

Elon Musk and his brand of electric cars seem to have paved the way for popular mass-produced electric vehicles. Building a brand from the bottom up, starting with an electric sports car to eventually sell enough of them to start building and producing a cheaper Tesla model so that everyone will be able to have an electric car for themselves.

According to Heycar, we’ve been able to gather that the cheapest electric car on the market is Smart EQ Fortwo, looking at the specs and size of the car it’s pretty much designed for cities and towns. With that in mind, you’ll get a decent run around for the money you spend!

Auto Express gives us a tidy list of the electric cars that they believe to be the best out there in the UK. When referring to the list it’s somewhat important that you refer to it as a guide rather than a definite stance on which are the best electric cars to buy.

Let’s take a look at some of the electric cars we insure at Veygo!

Tesla
So, speaking of Elon Musk and his brand, let’s begin with Tesla. Being one of the first big names on the market and fully electric they’re considered a pioneer of mass-producing electric cars. They’ve been so successful with the cars that they’ve branched out into other fields of clean electricity!

Tesla’s aren’t only one of the first brands to produce all-electric cars but they also have superior battery technology, most miles covered in a single charge, and one of the fastest electric cars on the road, including a line of pickup trucks.

Renault
One of the more popular fully electric models that Renault do is the Zoe, there are plenty of different types of the ‘Zoe’ to choose from and it has also been voted ‘What Car?’ “Best Small Electric Car for Value 2021″

Perhaps not the most notorious brand for larger or more powerful cars but Renault has a wide range of electric vehicles ranging from compact city cars, all the way up to vans. Whatever your need for an electric vehicle, Renault is likely to cover you for a great price and great quality!

BMW
BMW has been a giant in the car industry for years and when it comes to electric cars, there’s no change! After the popularity of Tesla’s, BMW jumped on the bandwagon and released the ever-popular hybrid.. BMW i8.

However, we’re talking about electric cars, not hybrids. BMW has always marketed a classy, sporty car and nothing changes with their electric range. Don’t worry if you’re a fan of their bigger 4×4 cars, the iX xDrive40 and the iX3 have you covered.

Volkswagen
Having sold the most popular car across Europe, Volkswagen has certainly earned their name, as per their ‘classic’ range, you’re able to get all the excitement of their mechanical range within their electric range.

If you’re an avid Volkswagen fan, particularly the Golf, then switching to zero emissions shouldn’t be an issue for you! If you’re not someone who’s looking to buy the sought after Golf, again, you shouldn’t have any issues. Volkswagen has plenty of range from city cars and are super close to releasing an all-electric campervan based on their classic VW Camper.

Kia
A great option for those who are looking to get into driving electric, but don’t want to pay the prices of other brands like BMW and Audi. Launching their first line of electric cars in 2014 it only took them 4 years to win an award for ‘car of the year’ with What Car?.

Kia looks to give back with their cars, so you’re not just buying the car to look out for our planet. Each of their electric cars comes with regenerative braking, long distance-driving, the power to charge your car at home or in public, and a hefty 7 year warranty. Kia really is the people’s choice.

Audi
E-trons.. Audi’s futuristic-sounding line of electric cars. Again, like Volkswagen, it’s everything you could ask from their combustion engines, in their CO2 free engines. Audi is a great option for electric cars as not only do you get the zero-emission engines, but you also get a sleek and stylish looking vehicle.

Why electric cars?

As previously mentioned the planet is warming up and running out of oil, so everyone is looking to cut back on their carbon footprint. One way for everyone to be able to achieve this is by swapping out fossil fuels for renewable energy.

Most people drive, (or are learning to drive) and driving is one thing people think of first when it comes to their consumption of fossil fuels so natural people will look to reduce their fossil fuel consumption there.

The stigma has now gone for electric cars being inconvenient. The batteries on electric cars now run for longer than you could need, charging points are becoming more and more accessible, and home charging is cheaper and better than ever!

Imagine the scenario, commute to work or the school run, you’re running late, and you notice that you’re too low on fuel.. Nightmares, you’re now later than you were before!

Now imagine this: wake up, you’re able to turn your car heater, or air con on from your bed (to heat or cool the car), get in and notice you have got a full battery, all because you went electric, convenience at its finest!

Pros

At home and on the go charging
Much cleaner energy and fewer emissions
Savings made on tax and fuel
Typically more advanced features
Futuristic, you’re keeping up with the world
Cleaner conscience (and air quality)
Less risk of things going wrong/less maintenance
Better take-off performance

Cons

On the longest journeys, you may struggle to find a charging outlet
Time to refuel is much longer than fossil fuels
Currently more expensive to purchase than a fossil fuel car
Arguably not as nice as the classic cars (despite classic models being remade with a battery)
Some electric cars will ask you to unlock hardware features on the cars to increase performance.

As with most new things, there will always be teething problems, hence the cons, but this means it gives companies time to iron out the creases and look at what can be improved.

Incentives for going electric

Similar to the pros of going electric, there are some serious incentives for getting a ‘green’ car, some are as follows;

Government grants
You’ll be given a discount from the vehicle manufacturer or dealership off the total price of the car when purchasing. To find out more about the grants for your low-emission car visit GOV.uk.

UK roadmap
Very similar to the grant incentive by GOV.UK, this roadmap intends to get all cars zero emissions from the tailpipe by 2035, so by purchasing electric now you get ahead of the game!

Features
The features that come with an electric car aren’t just driving benefits, you also have a great console to control your car from, wirelessly or whilst in the car. Tesla to name one of the few are mounted with a 17″ tablet, and it’s not just a sat-nav or movie player like most cars, it has the full capability of a pc being able to access all the car’s features.

Here’s a list of the quirky features that you’d be able to get if you purchased a Tesla!

Using Tesla again as an example, the driving features may be just as incredible as the computer features they have. Tesla can produce things like ridiculous horsepower, insane torque, and a huge mile coverage all in their batteries and engines! Access to their full specs are on the Tesla website for a full breakdown (as it will be for most car manufacturers).

If you know someone with an electric car and fancy giving it a spin, Veygo offers a great rate on temporary car insurance that’ll allow you the opportunity to give it a go and see for yourself!

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How to Reduce Fuel Consumption

Sean O'Neill — Wed, 13 Jul 2022 10:02:09 +0000

How to reduce fuel consumption

With the price of petrol and diesel soaring, it’s a good time to cut down on your fuel consumption. So, how can you make sure you’re not burning through the juice? Here are Veygo’s top tips for reducing your fuel consumption, and saving money into the bargain.

Why is reducing fuel consumption important?

The eye-watering cost of fuel is a big factor here. GOV.UK figures show that, in October 2021, the average price of unleaded petrol in the UK was 137.66p/litre[1]. By the start of April 2022, this had jumped to 161.91p/litre[2]. So using less fuel should put less of a strain on your finances. Burning less fuel also means less pollution, which is ultimately better for everyone’s health, and for the environment. Win-win!

Plan your journeys

It sounds simple… And it is! Spending a bit of time planning your journeys before you set off is a great way to save on fuel, time and stress. Working out the most efficient route and avoiding rush-hour traffic is the most fuel-efficient way to get from A to B.

To take your planning to a pro level, try to avoid roadworks, routes with excessive stop-start driving (such as streets with lots of traffic lights), and passing schools at pick-up and drop-off times. Make sure you always set off in plenty of time, to avoid being in a rush and getting flustered. It’s easier to make mistakes when you’re stressed, so make sure you’re nice and relaxed.

Keep on top of your car maintenance

Keeping your car in tip-top condition is a good idea for a number of reasons… And fuel consumption is high up the list.

Keeping your tyres pumped up to the optimum pressure is the best tip we have in this regard. According to car repair website Protyre, it’s estimated that tyres lose pressure at a rate of about 1-3 PSI (pound per square inch) each month. This happens naturally due to permeation of air.. But this could be more if you have a slow puncture.

If tyres aren’t at their recommended PSI, they become misshapen, leading to more friction from the road. In addition to being bad for the tyres, this means you’re using more fuel to keep the wheels running smoothly.

You can find your ideal tyre pressure in the car’s manual. And most cars have a sticker with the optimum PSI, which can usually be found inside the driver’s side door.

To find out how to keep your car in good shape, check out our essential car maintenance checklist.

Get your car serviced regularly

Another way of keeping your car well maintained is to make sure it’s serviced regularly. Making sure your engine oil and spark plugs are well looked after will keep your engine in good working order, and maximise your miles per gallon (MPG).The rule of thumb here is to get your car serviced annually, or every 12,000 miles – whichever comes first. This is what’s recommended by most car manufacturers.

To save money on getting your car serviced, check out what local deals are available on sites like Groupon. This way you’re making sure your money goes even further.

Lighten your load

The more weight you’re carrying in your car, the more fuel you’ll burn. While it’s advisable to keep a few essentials in there – such as screenwash and a bottle of water – carrying around all of your kit at all times will mean you’re paying more regularly at the pump.

With this in mind, declutter your car regularly, and only take what you need for the journey you’re making

Keep your driving smooth

Your driving style has a surprising effect on your fuel economy. Speeding and accelerating sharply means revving your engine excessively, which is a drain on your fuel. On the other hand, harsh braking also has a detrimental effect on your car’s MPG. To avoid this, try to drive smoothly, and keep a good distance between yourself and other road users to minimise any evasive action.

Both in terms of safety and fuel consumption, it’s a good idea to practise defensive driving. Find out about the principles of defensive driving here.

Share car journeys

If one of your main journeys is driving to work and back, or maybe even the school run, try and set up a lift sharing group. The idea of lift sharing is people take it in turns to drive a regular route, it may mean adding a few extra minutes to your journey each time to pick up participants, but could potentially save you driving up to 4 times a week.

In the context of driving lessons, perhaps get some learner driver insurance and perhaps use the morning or evening commute as extra practice, so you’re not going out of your way to take a lesson or get some valued experience behind the wheel.

On the other hand, temporary car insurance is a great way to share the load driving, if you and a friend, or a family member want to go to two different places but don’t want to have to drive to both, pick up some short term cover and take the same car to both destinations!

With car sharing and saving fuel in mind, if you are looking to get some temporary car insurance or some learner driver insurance, hit the button to find a quote!

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Provisional Driving Licence

James Armstrong — Tue, 14 Jun 2022 11:23:14 +0000

So, you’ve decided you’re going to learn how to drive, you’ve seen your friends starting and you want to get involved in all the excitement. You can taste the independence, smell the freedom and it’s making you hungry to learn.

Learning to drive is a step-by-step process, it only requires a few stages to get through. Acquiring a provisional licence, passing your theory test, passing your practical test, and getting your car.

So, let’s look at the first stage, obtaining your provisional driving licence.

What is a provisional licence?

To put it simply, a provisional licence allows you to be able to practise driving in the UK. So, you’ll be able to drive on all public UK roads besides the motorways. As standard with a UK driving licence you should have it on you at all times when driving on UK roads.

To be able to drive on UK roads you will need either; a driving instructor, or someone who’s been driving for at least 3 years and is also over the age of 21.

Who is eligible for a provisional licence?

If you’re a UK resident, then you’re able to apply for a provisional driver’s licence.

How old do I have to be to apply?

In the UK the minimum age to apply for a provisional driver’s licence is 15 years and 9 months of age. However, the licence will only work as identification until you turn 16 which is when you’ll be able to finally use the licence properly.

How much does a provisional licence cost?

If applying online then the cost of a provisional licence will cost you £34, but if you’re applying via postal service then the cost could be up to £43.

How do I apply?

There are a couple of ways to apply, the quickest way is to apply online, this is a faster process and it’s the cheapest. The other way to apply will be to get postal forms, these can be sent to you, or you can go to your local post office and pick one up.

When applying you’ll need a couple of things. Some form of ID, so this could be a passport, or a birth certificate, if using a birth certificate then you may be asked to back this up with something, usually proof of a national insurance number.

You’ll also need to prove your address for the last three years or addresses if you’ve lived in more than one in the last three years.

Finally, you’ll need a small picture of yourself that will be displayed in your ID.

The picture

For those of you who’re worried about looking your best, don’t. It’s simply a small picture that’s supposed to be the most accurate version of you to be placed on the front of your ID and is barely noticeable.

The picture itself does have a few requirements, and if they’re not met then your provisional licence will be delayed. So here are the requirements:

Must be full colour.
45mm x 35mm.
The photo looks exactly like you.
The background must be light and plain. Meaning no textures or patterns. Light grey or cream.
No disruptions like shadows, try and use a natural light source, try and stand around half a metre away to help prevent any shadows.
You should be around the same distance (0.5meters) away from the camera.
Your head, shoulders, and upper body should all be visible in the image, and you should be looking straight at the camera.
No facial expression and eyes open – simple as that, nothing more, nothing less.
Hair out of your face.
No kind of glasses whatsoever.
Headwear is only appropriate for medical purposes or religious beliefs.
Do not crop the image, send the original as it is.

For those who aren’t sure where to get the image, you can use digital ones as long as it meets the requirements stated by the DVLA. If you’re unable to sort a digital image, then most large supermarkets have photo booths that can provide the exact picture with settings that you’ll need.

Refer to Nidirect for exact specs for the picture.

Can I get a provisional licence with disabilities?

It’s important to remember when thinking about learning to drive that a disability doesn’t prevent you from driving. However, when applying for a provisional licence you’ll need to check to see what disabilities need mentioning. It’s worth checking Nidirect to see which ones will affect your provisional licence as if you happened to get pulled over this could cause complications with authorities.

FAQ

How do I apply for a provisional licence online?

Simply go to GOV.UK and follow the steps online. It’s a good idea to have a payment card, a couple of forms of ID, and the photo you’re going to use ready.

What happens if I lose or damage my provisional licence?

Again, it’s fairly simple, go to GOV.UK and they have a page about this information with easy, step by step guides.

What are the benefits of a provisional driver’s licence?

The main benefit will be allowing you to drive on the roads (with an instructor or someone who meets the requirements), you have a proper form of ID, and for those who are under 17 it gives you the opportunity to get on the roads driving a 50CC moped/bike if you want to.

How long does my provisional licence last for?

You roughly get 10 years to use your provisional licence before you have to renew it.

How long does a provisional licence take to be delivered?

You can apply for your provisional licence online. It should take about a week to be processed and sent to you.

If you’ve made an application by post, allow about three weeks.

When you apply, keep hold of your 14-digit reference number. This will come in handy if you need to track your driving licence application.

Please note: At the time of writing, there may be a delay in receiving your licence, due to a DVLA backlog. Please make sure you apply in good time!

What happens to my provisional licence when I pass my test?

Your driving examiner will take it off your hands and have it sent off to the DVLA and you’ll receive your pink licence in the post.

Can I still get points on my licence even if it’s a provisional one?

Yes, you are able to get points on a provisional driver’s licence. However, it’s a different system and you’re able to receive 11 points and still be able to take your test. For a full breakdown read Veygo’s ‘Provisional Licences and Penalty Points’.

Learner Driver Insurance

If you want to make the most out of your provisional driving licence then why not check out our learner driver insurance?

Our learner driver insurance lets you practice in a friend or family member’s car from 1 hour right up to 180 days. They don’t need to worry about their annual policy, because with Veygo, the owner’s no claims bonus is completely protected.

Get a quote

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Unmarked crossroads priority

Simon Jones — Tue, 25 Jan 2022 11:06:04 +0000

Who has priority at an unmarked crossroads?

Unmarked crossroads are one of those things that can make even the most experienced of drivers feel like a deer in the headlights. With no clear signs telling you what to do or where to go, it’s easy to panic and throw all your driving knowledge out the window. Not to worry, we’re going to run through everything you need to navigate unmarked crossroads.

What are unmarked crossroads?

Crossroads are where two or more roads cross each other and form an intersection. You’ll be glad to hear that most crossroads do have road markings, signs and sometimes even traffic lights With unmarked crossroads, the clue’s in the name. They are crossroads where there are no markings or road signs to tell road users to give way. Unmarked crossroads are usually found in very quiet or rural areas.

Who has priority at unmarked crossroads?

According to rule 146 of the Highway Code, nobody has priority at an unmarked crossroads. They advise that while driving on side roads and country lanes, road users should look out for unmarked junctions where nobody has priority. That means neither you or any other drivers have any formal right of way.

So, if no driver has priority, what should you do at an unmarked crossroads? There are some general right of way rules that you can apply in this situation. However, the key thing is to never assume that the other driver will follow the
same rules.

Always take it steady and try and figure out what the other driver is going to do. We know, it’s tough being behind the wheel. You’re not just a driver but a navigator, observer and now detective. If you arrive at the same time as another driver, try and establish eye contact to get a sense of what they’re doing.

If you want to make it easy, there’s always the option to wait at the crossroads and use your hand to signal to the other driver to go ahead. That way you know you’re all on the same page and you can drive when it’s safe to do so.

General right of way rules at unmarked crossroads

Remember that you should never assume the behaviour of another driver. Technically no one has priority at an unmarked crossroads, but there are some general right of way rules you should bear in mind.

Give way to whoever arrived at the junction first
If you’re crossing the road of another vehicle, that vehicle will usually have
priority
If you’re emerging from a crossroads and turning right, give way to drivers
going straight on

Think you know who has the right of way on the road? Play our right of way game to find out.

How should you deal with unmarked crossroads?

The lack of signs and road markings make it can be difficult to know what’s coming. So how should you prepare for these mysterious unmarked crossroads?

1. Observe

It’s so important to observe and be aware of your surroundings. Observations at junctions are one of the most common driving test faults so once you’ve passed your test, don’t let this key driving technique slip!

Look out for the cars ahead of you. If another car turns left or right or joins your road, it’s a big clue that you’re coming up to a crossroads. It’s also worth keeping an eye out for gaps in upcoming hedges or building as this could be a sign you’re approaching a crossroad.

2. Take it slow

Rule 146 of the Highway Code also advises that you shouldn’t treat speed limits as targets. It’s not always safe to drive at the maximum speed limit. So, without wanting to sound like a broken record, make sure you observe, be aware of your surroundings and drive accordingly.
You’ll need to be driving at a speed that would allow you to stop in time if you had to. Might be worth having a refresh on your stopping distances to help you judge this.

3. Mirror, signal, manoeuvre

As always, it’s time to whip out that MSM routine. We’ve got a whole guide dedicated to mirror, signal, manoeuvre to help you nail it. Indicating your intentions and positioning yourself on the road is really important to let other road users know where you’re intending to go. Looking out for what other people are signalling will also help you decide what move to make.

For the full guide on navigating crossroads safely and finding out who goes when our guide video may come in super handy for you!

How to Navigate Crossroads Safely - Learning to Drive

Learning to drive?

If you’re learning to drive, why not get in some extra practice outside of your driving lessons? It’s a great way to build your confidence and prepare for your driving test. Either insure your own car or borrow a car from a friend or family member. If you’re borrowing a car, it won’t even impact the owner’s no claims bonus if you need to make a claim. Happy driving!

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What are windscreen pillars

Simon Jones — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 18:45:07 +0000

What are windscreen pillars?

If you’re learning to drive you may have seen some potential theory test questions related to windscreen pillars. If you’ve stumbled upon this article, you’re probably wondering “what are windscreen pillars?” and we’re going to answer that for you. Plus, we’ll run through the potential theory test questions and how to answer them.

What are windscreen pillars?

Windscreen pillars are the upright posts that frame your windscreen. Sometimes referred to as ‘A’ pillars, windscreen pillars are there to reinforce the windscreen and hold it in place.
Most cars have 3 pillars, known as A, B and C. Some bigger cars even have a fourth ‘D’ pillar. The windscreen pillars (A) are located at the front of the car.

Can windscreen pillars cause accidents?

In modern cars, windscreen pillars are generally wider than they used to be. Especially in big cars like minivans and SUVs. That’s because as cars get bigger and heavier, car manufacturers need to increase the structural integrity of the car. To get more structure and support, bigger windscreen pillars are often used.

However, this design can be potentially dangerous by blocking the driver’s view. Some motorists have blamed windscreen pillars for causing accidents due to the blind spots created. The problem has been recognised by the industry with car brands such as Continental creating ‘see-through’ A pillars.

If you’re driving someone else’s car, it’s important to figure out where the potential blind spots are. That way you can check your bling spot by moving your head to look around the pillar before turning.

When do windscreen pillars cause obstruction?

Windscreen pillars cause the most obstruction when driving on bends, roundabouts and junctions. That’s because other road users can be hidden from view when you’re turning. This can particularly be an issue with pedestrians and cyclists because the blind spot impacts a narrow field of vision.

If you’re answering this question on your theory test, remember that turning is what causes the most severe obstruction. It’s less of an issue when you’re driving on a straight road, for example when you’re driving on the motorway or approaching a one-way street.

Learning to drive?

If you’re learning to drive, you might find it helpful to get some extra practice outside of your lessons. With our learner driver insurance, you could get cover on your own car or borrow one from a friend or family member.

It’s totally flexible and you can be on the road in minutes! If you borrow a car from a friend or family member, make sure you check where the blind spot is from the windscreen pillars on their car as every car is different.

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Yellow box junctions, time limits & cameras

Simon Jones — Sun, 09 Jan 2022 18:31:58 +0000

Box junction rules explained

Box junctions are one of those things that can fill even experienced drivers with dread. Listen, we can’t promise this article will make your next experience with a box junction feel like a walk in the park. But we can take you through all the box junction rules to help you avoid getting slapped with a fine.

What is a box junction?

A box junction is an area in the centre of a junction, usually at a busy crossroads or T-junction, where the road is marked with a yellow criss-crossed box. They are there as traffic control measures, to prevent gridlock at junctions. Box junctions are often also controlled by traffic lights, but this won’t always be the case so keep your eyes on the road markings and make sure you’re up to scratch on your box junction rules.

What are the rules for a box junction?

1. Do not enter a box junction unless the exit road is clear
2. Only stop in the box if you’re turning right and waiting for a gap in traffic
3. If the traffic lights go red before you turn, you’re still allowed to make the turn
4. Blocking a box junction is illegal and could land you with a fine

When may you enter a box junction?

You should not enter a box junction unless the exit road is clear. Even if the traffic lights are green, you should wait until you can be sure there’s a clear path to get to the exit you want to go down.

You can join a stationary line of traffic on the other side of the junction, but make sure there’s room for your car on the other side before going ahead. This isn’t something you want to misjudge, so it’s best to be cautious! Plus, it goes without saying that you shouldn’t enter if the traffic lights are on red.

How to approach a box junction

1. Slow down as you approach
2. Use the mirror signal manoeuvre routine in plenty of time
3. Check that the exit you want to go down is clear
4. Do not enter unless there’s room for your car on the other side, even if the traffic light is green

5. If you’re turning right, position yourself in the middle of the box and don’t turn until the path of traffic is clear

When may you wait in a box junction?

If you’re going straight or turning left, you shouldn’t stop and wait in a box junction. The only time you should wait in a box junction is if you’re turning right and your path is blocked by oncoming traffic.

If you’re turning right, slowly drive into the yellow box to the place where you’re going to turn from. Make sure you don’t get in the way of traffic coming the other way. From there, you can turn or wait until there is a clear path for you to turn right.

What to do if you’ve entered a box junction and the light turns red?

If you’re waiting to turn right in a box junction and the traffic light turns red, you’re still allowed to make your turn. There will be a pause in the time between your light turning red and the opposite traffic light turning green. This is a great opportunity to safely make your turn without blocking the road or getting in the way of other drivers.

If you’re trying to turn left or drive straight on and get stuck in a box junction with the lights on red, you’re blocking the junction. Not only will this be frustrating for other drivers, but it’s actually illegal. What’s the penalty for stopping in a yellow box junction?

If you’re caught stopping in a yellow box junction you could be charged with obstructing traffic. This could land you with a fine of up to £70, or even £130 in London. If you pay the fine within 14 days, this number could be reduced by 50%. The same rule usually applies with parking tickets, check out our article on parking restrictions for more information.

Do all box junctions have cameras?

Not all box junctions have cameras installed. At the moment, only councils in the capitals of Cardiff and London can issue fines for moving traffic offenses like box junctions. So cameras are mostly only found in these areas. If you’re anywhere else in England or Wales, you’ll only be fined if you’re caught by a police officer.

However, that’s all changing at the end of this year, and you’ll need to be even more cautious to avoid the dreaded box junction fine. In 2022, all councils in England and Wales will be able to issue fines for moving traffic offenses. This means we’re likely to see more Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras at box junctions across the UK.

Make sure you’re insured

If you’re heading out into the big city, make sure you’re insured. Our temporary car insurance is perfect for borrowing a friend’s car or sharing the drive. You could get cover from 1 hour up to 60 days and be on the road in minutes.

Get a quote

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Help guide for anxious learner drivers

Simon Jones — Fri, 24 Dec 2021 16:03:50 +0000

If you feel anxious about learning to drive, then you’re not alone. Any new and unfamiliar
experience can cause anxiety, and that certainly includes learning to drive a car during a
global pandemic.

Experienced drivers aren’t immune from anxiety behind the wheel either, and Anxiety UK
says a fear of driving is one of the most common phobias in the UK. But there are some simple steps you can take to build your confidence and reduce your anxiety while driving.

Find the right instructor for you

Choosing a good, supportive driving instructor can make a big difference. You’ll be spending a lot of time together so it’s important to choose carefully and find someone who’s a good match for your personality. Try to find someone who seems supportive, patient and understanding – someone you can talk to openly if you’re nervous or suffer from anxiety in general.

If you’re unlucky enough to choose an instructor who tuts and rolls their eyes whenever you
make a mistake – instead of showing you where you went wrong and encouraging you – then
you’ve probably got the wrong person for the job. It’s them, not you – try someone else!

Focus on the positive

Feelings of anxiety can come about when you imagine things going wrong. You might do
that without even consciously realising it. So next time you find your mind replaying worst case scenarios on loop, try and flip that thinking and instead imagine yourself having a successful, positive driving experience, whether that’s a regular lesson or your test.

Drive….and lots!

Being prepared can help reduce anxiety, and any extra time in the car will help. So drive, drive and drive some more! Lessons are expensive – and instructors in high demand – so get as much practice in as possible with another experienced driver, such as one of your parents.
But, as any learner driver will tell you, you’ll need to choose someone who doesn’t stress
you out even more. Veygo’s learner driver insurance is a great way to put this into practice!

Remember, you aren’t alone

There can’t be many learner drivers who haven’t felt some level of angst; and that probably
included your instructor or practical tester, back when they were pursuing their L-plates.
And that’s even more true now, at a time when the pandemic has heightened mental health
problems. There are likely to be even more anxious learner drivers out there.

In short, it’s normal to be worried. Perhaps you can take some solace from the fact that

countless learners have been in your shoes, and overcome their nerves and passed.
Don’t be afraid to fail Roughly half of practical driving test results are fails. So it’s really common not to pass the first time, or second or third time…. in other words, you shouldn’t feel under pressure to pass straight away.

In fact, some people try to go into their first test with the mindset that it’s a practice run, that
they can learn from. This doesn’t mean they don’t give it their best, just that they don’t heap
too much pressure on themselves.If they pass, then that’s a bonus.

If you fail, keep working hard and practicing – it will happen!

Be in the know

Often the great unknown can make you feel more anxious. Finding out as much as possible
about what lies ahead might just help you better manage your anxiety.

Be sure to plan ahead and find out what to expect. Before your first driving lesson, talk to
other people about their experiences and ask your driving instructor what will happen.

The same goes for your test: chat to your instructor about how you feel if you need
reassurance. They’ll know to take you through any manoeuvres that need more practice.
Look after yourself on test day and beyond. Taking good care of yourself before and during test day can really help. If you are tired and ragged, then it’s not going to help your mindset.

Think about basics like trying to get enough sleep, eating properly and staying hydrated.
Then allow yourself plenty of time, so you’re not rushing around getting ready at the last
minute.

And remember, if you don’t pass this time round, there’ll always be another chance. Good
luck!

Learner driver insurance

Don’t forget, if you’re looking to get some extra practice in, we might be able to help you with cover from just 2 hours to 180 days.

Get a quote

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What is a T-Junction Road Sign

Simon Jones — Sun, 19 Dec 2021 20:03:07 +0000

How to tackle T-junctions

When you’re learning to drive, one of the things you’ll inevitably have to tackle is a T-junction. They can be a little intimidating when you’re starting out on your journey. Not to worry, we’re going to run through how to recognise the T-junction sign and how to emerge safely at a T-junction.

What are T-junctions used for?

T-junctions are used where a minor road joins a major road. That’s why they’re called T-junctions, driving up the minor road is the vertical line, and the top of the ‘T’ is the major road.

T-junction sign

The first step to nailing T-junctions is being able to recognise the T-junction sign. Knowing your T-junction road sign will help you get prepared so you can approach the junction safely.

The T junction sign is a red triangle because it’s a road sign that’s warning you of an upcoming hazard. The right of way is shown by the direction the thicker line is pointing in.

Mirror signal manoeuvre.

When you’re dealing with T-junctions, using your mirror signal manoeuvre routine is essential. Observation at junctions is the most common driving test fault. The best way to avoid this mistake is to practice and make sure your observations become habit.

A bit of exaggeration with your mirror checks on driving test day won’t hurt either. An extra tilt of the head towards the mirror will make sure your instructor doesn’t miss your observations!

You’ll need to be able to show your driving instructor you can pull out safely.

Check your mirrors and your blind spots
Signal with plenty of time before you get to the junction
Get in the correct position on the road
Slow down as you approach the junction and get into the right gear
Observation at the junction – make sure the road is clear
Move swiftly once you’re sure it’s safe for you to go

How to emerge at different types of T-junctions

As you approach the T-junction, you’ll need to figure out whether it’s an open or a closed junction.

Closed junctions

Closed junctions are junctions where the view of the road ahead is obscured by something; whether it be trees, bushes or houses. At closed junctions, you’re likely to have to come to a complete stop before moving off.

At some closed junctions, there may even be a stop sign. If there’s a stop sign, by law you’ve got to come to a complete stop. You can’t just slow down, you’ll need to come to a total stop before moving off in first gear.

As you pull out, you’ll have to emerge slowly. It’s often referred to in driving as the ‘peep and creep’. It sounds a bit funny, but it just means you move out slowly while constantly checking the road and your blind spots. Check carefully and once it’s safe, move out to the road ahead of you.

Open junctions

Open junctions are where the view of the road ahead is clear. In this situation, where there’s nothing obscuring the view, it’s generally safe for you to move onto the road ahead without stopping.

However, it’s important to approach the junction slowly. Generally, second gear is the most appropriate gear to drive in when you’re approaching an open junction.

Once you’re certain it’s safe to pull out onto the road, it’s important to move fairly quickly. You should be able to pull out onto the road, without causing any of the oncoming traffic to slow down or change their route.

Learning to drive?

If you’re learning to drive, you might find it helpful to practice driving at T-junctions outside of your driving lessons. With our learner driver insurance, you could practice with a friend or family member. It’s totally flexible and you could be on the road in minutes.

Get a quote

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When not to sound your car horn

Simon Jones — Wed, 15 Dec 2021 13:01:43 +0000

When are you not allowed to sound your horn?

If you’re driving in a dangerous situation, you’ve only got a second to decide
whether to sound your horn. For some people, especially for new drivers, it can
be difficult to have the courage of your conviction and actually honk that horn.

Some drivers have the opposite problem and are a little too horn happy.
Whichever camp you sit in, understanding when you’re not allowed to sound
your horn and when you definitely should, can help you make those fast-paced
decisions.

What is a car horn for?

According to rule 112 of the Highway Code you should only ever sound your horn
to warn other road users that you’re present in a moving vehicle. It’s basically
there to warn road users of danger.

When should you sound your horn?

Here’s some examples of when it’s a good idea to honk your horn:

If another vehicle is moving into your lane and hasn’t checked to see that you’re there, you should sound your horn to let them know of your presence.
If you’re travelling around a bend and need to alert other drivers that you’re coming.
If you’re driving in winter in foggy conditions or your vehicle is obscured by something.

When are you not allowed to sound your horn?

You’re not allowed to sound your horn in aggression… ‘road ragers’, we’re going to need you to listen closely to this one. You’re not allowed to sound your horn to let out your frustrations. As tempting as it can be when someone is lane hogging or doesn’t indicate at a roundabout this isn’t an appropriate use of your horn. Deep breath and keep it moving. However, if you get cut up for example and this puts you in danger, you should honk your horn to let the driver know that you’re there. There can sometimes be a fine line between annoyance and a genuine need to make another driver aware of the problem. If you’re frustrated but you’re also in danger, you should still sound your horn.
You’re not allowed to sound your horn in a stationary vehicle according to rule 112 of the Highway Code, you should only honk your horn in a moving vehicle. This is because your horn is there to warn cars of danger. (Except when another road user poses a danger)
You’re not allowed to sound your horn restricted areas between the hours of 11.30pm and 7.30am. Restricted areas are generally built up areas with lots of buildings and street lighting. This is because it’s considered anti-social behaviour to sound your horn late at night or in the early hours when people are trying to sleep. However, there is an exception. You’re allowed to sound your horn if you’re warning a road user of a danger. Danger on the road trumps people needing to sleep, so don’t be afraid to sound your horn if you need to.

When should you NOT sound your horn?

Here’s some examples of when not to sound your horn:

When you drive past your friend and just want to say hello.
When you’re parked in stationary traffic and feeling annoyed.
When you’re driving in a built-up area at night and someone is lane hogging.

Car horn isn’t working?

Your car horn is there to keep you safe in the car. If your car horn isn’t working, you’ll need to take it to a garage to get fixed ASAP. It might even be worth getting a full car service while you’re at it.

If you still need to drive while your car’s in the garage, you could borrow one with temporary car insurance. You could get cover from 1hr to 60 days. Plus there’s no impact on the owner’s no claims bonus if you need to make a claim

Get a quote

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What are car sidelights?

Sean O'Neill — Sun, 12 Dec 2021 10:40:20 +0000

What are sidelights on a car?

We’re all familiar with our headlights and our hazard lights. But when it comes to sidelights on a car, some of us are in the dark about what they are and when to use them. Not to worry, we’re going to shine a light on what car sidelights are and how to use them.

Front and rear sidelights on a car?

Despite their name, car sidelights are not actually located on the side of your car. Sidelights are the small, white lights located on the front corners of a car. In modern cars, they’re often found within the actual headlight unit. When you turn on your sidelights, your tail lights and number plate will also illuminate.

They’re also known as parking lights. Sidelights are sometimes used as an alternative to dipped headlights, but there is a key difference. Sidelights are less bright than headlights and tend to use a 5W bulb.

The reason sidelights are less bright is because they’re designed to make your car visible, rather than to light up the road ahead of you.

How to turn on your car sidelights?

Generally, to turn on the sidelights on your car you will need to twist one of your indicator stalks. However, in some cars there may be a separate dial for you to turn in order to turn on the sidelights.

Your car manual will guide you on how to turn on your car sidelights if you’re struggling. It’s worth practicing to make sure you know where they are before you set off on your next journey, especially if you know you’re going to be parking up at night.

You’ll know when your sidelights are on because a car sidelights dashboard symbol will light up. The car sidelights symbol looks similar to the headlights symbol. There are two green symbols that face away from each other.

Do you need sidelights to pass your MOT?

Yes, to pass your MOT you’ll need to be able to turn on all four car sidelights easily. They will need to be unobscured and in good working order.

If your car is SORN you could use temporary car insurance to get cover to drive you to your pre-booked MOT appointment. With cover available from 1hr up to 60 days, you could be on the road in minutes.

Get a quote

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