Part of the requirement to enable me to drive a car provided by the company was to obtain a Defensive Driving Certificate. Thus registered myself for one in June. Having driven since high school and also having had an ex who was a petrol head, I was kinda cocky about cars and assumed that the course was gonna be boring. Boy, was I wrong.
Held at BSTS, Miri, the course last one whole day starting from 8am till 5pm. It consists of classroom teaching, hands on lessons and also written and practical tests. They also provide breakfast, lunch and tea. It cost RM750 (I dont know if that is corporate rate or open for public too).
First, we had to do a written exam, testing our knowledge on what the course had to offer. (Note: We have to resit this at the end of the course and believe me there were many "I didnt know that" moments). Then came the lecture and informative videos on what's requisite in a good driver and how to excel in defensive driving. Most profound were the videos on accidents, its impact and what actually occurs was quite an eye opener. Let's just say seat belts for my passengers, front and rear are a must after that. (A ride on the crash simulator was also convincing)
Then the fun part, we learned how to steer with Push and Pull TEchnique, activate ABS, Emergency Braking - Stomp, Steer and Stay. Just like video!! Trust me, having someone yelled at you to brake when the cone is 5inch from the car is a heart attack waiting to happen. I may have triggered one in my instructor :D
After lunch, we learned about car parts and maintenance. Especially useful before a long journey. Always remember the acronym POWER (Power Oil Water Electricity Rubber) and that is what you check for. Next, each of us had to drive around with the instructor while giving commentary on what we applied from the morning lessons. Trust me, commentary driving sucks!! (Tip: When the instructor hints to you that it looks like its going to rain with the cloudy sky, you are suppose to switch on your lights for visibility to other. Do not response by saying "I think I'll make it back before it rains" like me.)
Finally its back to the classroom for a shot at PS2 GT4 Game. No, it wasnt for fun, the instructor will actually talk to you while you are driving. Why?? To show you that you cant concentrate on the road while talking to someone i.e. ON THE PHONE! But I actually did pretty good.So he concluded either its because I'm a gamer or women are better at multitasking. I wonder if that excuse will let me off the hook from the cops. :D Then we had a crack at their beer goggle and tried to kick a ball while wearing one. I think they overrated that bit, I use to play futsal after happy hour.
Overall, if you have extra pennies or your company pays for your training this is one course that I highly recommend. Actually Malaysian Government should make it a pre-requisite before awarding driving license as in many developed country. Sure would help reduce the statistics. Food for thought.
-small.jpg)