Defensive Driving Courses - who's done one?

[Cranky Kitten]

So having recently (last few months) bought a new car, which is much bigger than my previous little buzz boxes and a bit more powerful as well, I'm thinking about doing a defensive driving course. Ok, I've had my licence for yonks, since I was 18, but I know I've fallen into a lot of bad habits and think it could be worth doing with Penguin due to arrive in a couple of short months.

Anyone else done one, and if so, what was your experience?

[JLeigh29]

I did one when I was in high school and it's still the best driving experience I ever had. I learned sooooooo much about controlling a car better if something were to happen (I was told there is no such thing as an 'accident' and that there is always something you can do). I learned about how better to control/brake a car in the wet or in a skid and lots more. I would definitely recommend it, well worth the money.

[black_rose]

It was the best thing o ever did, even though it was over 40degrees the day I did it. It taught me how to get out of trouble even in the wet. You learn how to control your car. It stopped me from t boning a girl and probably killing her when she pulled out in front of me last year, I hit the back of her car instead of her door. You learn how to brake safely without relying on the abs and traction control, where to look etc it becomes second nature.

[Cranky Kitten]

Oooh, extra question - would you say it's safe to do at very pregnant, or better to wait until after the birth?

[~Kim~]

I don't know if they'll let you do it that pregnant CK. Can't hurt to ask though.

I grew up with racing family so I've been doing defensive and advanced driving since well before I could hold a licence. When I joined the cops they take you through basic defensive skills before you're allowed to progress to pursuit training some time later. The amount of people that couldn't manage basic defence was horrifying, even though they'd held licences for a long time. It's great to be able to practise the skills without any stress and have a great time doing it. You're far more likely to absorb and retain the info then. DH and I recommend them to anyone.

[black_rose]

I imagine it would have to be after bubs is here, there is a lot of tension on the seat belt and it's probably not worth the risk.

[Miss.September]

I went to do one when I was pregnant (my dad is part of one here in Melb), and he told me to wait until bubs was born. DH went and did it, loved it.

[luna moth]

Yeah, when I was 19. Got in trouble at one stage for not taking the corners fast enough to do a decent skid in the skid pan

It was a good idea, but I wouldn't do it pregnant.

[Bumperstump Cummerbund]

I'd love to do one! My Dad gave me the BEST advice when I started driving - always drive like everyone's out to kill you. It really works, I'm rarely surprised by stupidity on the roads, even though I encounter it pretty much daily. I've learned how to tell when someone's about to cut me off which is something absolutely vital to know in Perth

[ladybird11]

I agree with audax, great idea, but maybe not whilst pg.

I haven't done normal defensive driving but I have done law enforcement driving courses. Heaps of fun !