National Driver Improvement Scheme

When a person is involved in a Road Traffic Incident and evidence is collated by the Police which indicates that they have been 'Driving Without Due Care and Attention or Reasonable Consideration to Other Road Users' contrary to Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act, 1988. The person/s involved are given an option to either have the incident referred to the Crown Prosecution Service where they may receive a fine and penalty points on their driving licence, or an opportunity to attend a National Driver Improvement Course.

Information about the Scheme is then sent to the person/s involved along with an offer to attend a course. If the offer of a National Driver Improvement Course is accepted, the appropriate paperwork is then forwarded to Staffordshire County Council who will liase with the client. Course dates are given well in advance.

The Course is delivered by a combination of specialist Department for Transport Approved Driving Instructors and Road Safety Officers. The Course involves a mixture of driving theory, which combines the latest thinking on defensive driving techniques with modern training methods and practical on-road driving.

After attending and successfully completing the course, the driver/rider will be notified by the relevant Police Authority that no further action will be taken for this particular incident. The date of course completion is recorded and held at the DVLA on a National Database. If the driver/rider is involved in another road traffic incident, falling under the same criteria within 3 years of the course completion date a second course will not be offered in lieu of proceedings.

Once a driver/rider has accepted the offer to attend a course, but then fails to attend or successfully complete, the case would then be referred to the Crown Prosecution Service and ultimately be dealt with by the Magistrates Court.

Frequently asked Questions

Where will the course be held?

Courses will be held in either North Staffordshire, at the SiTECH, Stoke-on-Trent, or in Central Staffordshire, at Wolseley Wildlife Centre, near Rugeley. However, you will be notified with exact details and a course venue map with your invitation letter.

How much will it cost?

The cost of the course during the financial year 2006/2007 is £160. This is payable two weeks prior to the course. Payment can be made by cheque or any major credit/debit cards.

Is a vehicle provided?

Yes. A modern car, fully insured, will normally be provided for the course. Provision can be made for motorcyclists, drivers of automatic vehicles and those drivers who have special requirements.

How long does the course last?

The course runs for a day and a half. The first session is a full day and the second session is on the following morning.

Will there be a test?

Can I fail?

There is no test, but satisfactory completion of the course will be required, which means you must make a positive contribution to the course and demonstrate an improvement in your driving.

What will we expect from you?

Satisfactory completion of the course, which involves:

Attending all sessions
Completing all course paperwork
Making a positive contribution to the course
Demonstrating an improvement in attitude and skills to both theory and practical instructors
If you fail to comply with the above criteria the facts will be reported back to the Police for consideration of prosecution in a court of law.

Who do I contact for further information?

The NDIS section on 01785 276617
Or visit www.driver-improvement.co.uk

Last Modified: 22/05/2008 07:31:05
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