Chris Belson Oxford

Dear Ride Drive,

A belated thank you for your letter (and enclosed certificate) following my Ride Drive day with Neville in December. Adrian Flux has applied the discount as you indicated and this has resulted in a marked benefit over my previous Saga re insurance rate, so thank you.

I recall reading somewhere that you value feedback from your customers and have had this in mind since. A little time has passed, but I think I can therefore reflect more carefully on the changes your course has made for me.

Primarily, I think it is one of (cautious) confidence in my judgement. A number of the the things Neville highlighted I already instinctively felt, but perhaps did not apply with as much definition as I think I now do. The endorsement of a proven driving strategy has been very positive, and of course I have learnt some new (and very logical when analysed) things.

The theoretical briefing was revealing too. The proliferation of road signage often feels like ‘barrack square bawling,’ potentially crude and confusing in its sometimes overwhelming quantity. I say this as someone who has analysed visual reactions’ effects on end user behaviour professionally. But factors other than good practise are allowed to interfere these days in my opinion.

Neville’s concentrating on the intelligent, progressive information (if more subtle) of white lining and the like was enlightening.

Neville’s commentary imparted a lot in a way that even if I didn’t manage to follow everything perfectly at the time, I certainly have absorbed and continue to hear in similar circumstances now. I think about the day when I am now driving which gives me a continued opportunity to try and better myself.

Although enjoyable and instructive, the airfield part of the day left me feeling as though I might not have got as much out of it as I might. I think firstly that driving on such open tarmac areas is a culture shock to a road only driver. The open and unrestricted spaces are such a contrast to following a lane and left me feeling out of my habitat.

The sense of one’s own speed is changed and therefore braking, cornering and exiting feel unlike that which one is used to. However, it does give you a greater sense of the car’s behaviour even if one’s own performance becomes less familiar. This was valuable.

The appraisal you sent in the form of the risk assessment report was very useful too. It again bolstered my confidence in that it broadly reflected my self judgement. I know the fluidity of my driving on the day was down. I have often noticed that some days one makes particularly smooth and efficient progress.

Regular road driving I expect has something to do with it, but one’s blending of judgement and handling skill obviously does vary. But I think my approach to other road users and my attention span on what I’m doing is right and you confirmed my feelings.

So thank you for a very instructive and positive day.

Yours sincerely,

Chris Belson
Porsche Boxster