If this seems difficult to do at first, it is only because
it is the first thing you learn about driving. Usually, you will start from a
zero knowledge base and won’t be used to the car. Eventually, you will do this
without much thought at all.
As there are lots of separate elements to moving off and
they have to be done in a certain order, it helps to break the task in to three
areas – prepare, observe and move (or POM,
for short)
Prepare – Put
down the clutch all the way then press the gas until you can hear the engine,
although it shouldn’t be too loud. When you are happy with the gas level, move
the clutch to the biting point. You will know when you are there when the noise
of the engine changes slightly. Please note that if the car starts to pull or
the back end moves up, the clutch is too high so lower it until the engine
sounds normal.
Observe – Look
all around the car. The easiest way is to start from the left blind spot and
move your head round to look in all your mirrors, the road ahead and the right
blind spot. If it is safe to move but you think there is someone who might need
to know you are moving, consider a signal.
Move – Release
the handbrake, add a bit more gas and move the clutch up slowly all the way to
the top.
Common Faults
Many drivers signal while waiting for traffic to pass before they move.
This could make another driver think you are about to move and force them to
slow down. If you need to signal, only put it on just before you take off the handbrake.
After you start to move, it is tempting to move the clutch up too quickly. The
gears and engine are still ‘getting to know each other’ so try to resist
temptation and bring the clutch up slowly all the way to the top. Do this, and
the car will move off smoothly and Mum and Dad will be impressed!
