Driving standards matter, especially in a city as bustling as London. That’s why we’re standing here in front of the Institute of Advanced Motorists. It’s an organisation dedicated to improving road safety. It achieves its goals by raising driving and riding standards.
The Institute of Advanced Motorists, now known as IAM RoadSmart, was formed in 1956. Its creation stemmed from a critical need to reduce accidents. The British police’s system of car and motorcycle control is at its core. This system was devised in 1937. Racing driver Mark Everard Pepys created it. He was the 6th Earl of Cottenham. His goal was simple to reduce accidents during police pursuits.
IAM RoadSmart is a registered charity in the United Kingdom. Its objective is simple and clear to improve driving standards. It also seeks to enhance road safety. The charity uses the British police’s system of car and motorcycle control. This system helps drivers and riders improve their skills.
Over the years, the Institute of Advanced Motorists has grown significantly. Today, it has over 77000 members. Each member has passed an advanced driving test. This test can be taken in a car, commercial vehicle, or on a motorcycle.
In 2006, the Institute of Advanced Motorists expanded its reach. It took over the work of the AA Motoring Trust. The Automobile Association established the trust in 2002. By 2016, the charity consolidated its activities. It united its programs under the IAM RoadSmart umbrella.
The Institute of Advanced Motorists offers advanced driving tests. These tests are independent of standard driving licenses. They offer drivers an opportunity to improve their skills. The IAM test is more challenging than the standard driving test. The techniques taught are based on the UK police driving manual.
Many drivers take the IAM test for various reasons. Some want to improve their skills. Others seek to increase their safety. Still others simply want to enjoy driving more. Motor insurers often offer discounts to those who pass the IAM test. These discounts can lower insurance premiums.
IAM RoadSmart is more than just a testing center. It’s a community. It is made up of over 70000 members nationally. There are 164 local groups. These groups are run by 5000 volunteers. These volunteers help deliver IAM RoadSmart’s courses. The courses include advanced driving, advanced riding, and driving for work. They also include drink drive rehabilitation.
The Institute of Advanced Motorists also has a commercial side. This subsidiary provides occupational driver risk management. It offers products and services to UK businesses. These services help businesses ensure their employees are safe drivers.
Nigel Mansell, a former Formula One World Champion, became President of the IAM in 2006. His involvement highlights the organization’s commitment to excellence. The IAM’s influence extends beyond the UK. Local groups exist in Australia, Bermuda, Hong Kong, Cyprus, Kenya, New Zealand, Portugal and Turkey.
IAM RoadSmart offers different levels of membership. Each level represents increasing skill. The entry level provides a foundation in advanced motoring. Those who pass the advanced test with top marks earn an F1RST. This is considered as high as a RoSPA Gold. The highest levels are Masters and Masters with distinction.
The Institute of Advanced Motorists stands as a beacon of road safety. Its dedication to improving driving standards has saved lives. It has made roads safer for everyone. As we move on, remember the Institute of Advanced Motorists. It embodies the pursuit of excellence in driving.