I've recently passed my driving test and was wondering if there is a limit to the number of friends I can take as passengers?
(Male: 18)
This is a really important question and our answer is a bit long but the content is very important.
Your car will probably be designed to carry 4 passengers and yourself as the driver - one in the front and three in the rear. Check how many seat belts are fitted? This is generally the big clue. There are vehicles designed to carry more passengers - MPVs etc - so familiarise yourself with the car you are driving.
Never be tempted to fit that extra person in the rear as this will seriously affect the dynamics of the vehicle. Also who wears the seat belts? Who takes the risk not to? This potentially is a disaster waiting to happen and trust me they do with all too much regularity.
Cars are technically designed, and if more persons are carried than it is designed for the weight distribution will affect the handling of the vehicle.
Also - think about it - more often than not there may only be one front seat passenger in the car - when there are 3 in the back the car will handle differently and drivers need to be aware of this. Cars will perhaps corner and handle very differently with passengers in the back, tyre pressures may need to be adjusted with "full loads" etc. There is a lot to think about when carrying passengers.
As a driver carrying passengers, NEVER be pushed into situations because you feel pressurised. " Come on mate can't you go faster”; "my Mum drives faster than you"; "have you got the handbrake on"; are all comments that have been made in the past. Ignore them. Mates or not, stop the car and tell them to get out - they either want a lift from someone who is being sensible and safe or than can make alternative arrangements.
REMEMBER AS THE DRIVER YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR ACTIONS. It is not big or clever to react to comments made to you as a driver especially when it all goes wrong and you end up seriously injuring yourself and others, or worse killing someone, and are subsequently sentenced to a period behind bars.
If you have a question for Sussex Road Policing Department then email w4y@wealden.gov.uk
My friend has just had his bike nicked and I have also heard of other people who have had it done to them. Is there anything I can do to make sure my bike isn't taken?
(Male: 14)
Sorry to hear that your friends bike has been stolen. But it does bring it home doesn't it, how careful we all have to be.
If you have spent a lot of money on a decent cycle, then it is worth buying a good bike lock. Your best buy is a 'D' lock or a good quality plastic coated chain (so it doesn't damage the paintwork), secured with a good padlock. Many locks have a 'Sold Secure' identification and they are always the better buy. Ask for advice at your local bicycle store.
When you leave your bike always lock it to something secure, like a bike rack or lamp post. If you cycle to school, always remember to secure the bike before going to class. Some wheels are 'quick release', so it is worth locking them in place. If you have light fittings it may be better to take them away with you.
Finally think about having the bike securely marked or engraved. Many bike shops will offer this service when you buy a bike. So remember 'lock it or lose it'
