Advanced Driving Techniques Course

The Advanced Driving Techniques (ADT) Program has been developed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the driver’s abilities and inabilities; vehicle dynamics; and how the environment may influence the manner in which the driver operates a vehicle. A client can select the specific course that is suitable to their drivers, equipment, and environment:

urban roads >>> rural roads >>> industrial / resource roads

The purpose of the 8 to 10 hour program is to improve overall driving skills, introduce the driver to shuffle steering and threshold braking, heighten the awareness of the hazards associated with driving, and modify risky habits and behaviours. This highly engaging and popular program is designed for participants with some driving experience, and is of particular benefit to employees who operate a motor vehicle as part of their day-to-day activities. AFSI is an approved driver training school. The ADT Program is recognized by the Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals.

The ADT program is typically 1 day in length and involves two (2) hours of classroom, a one-on-one driving assessment, a half-day of practical driving on a closed track (or in a field) to demonstrate advanced skills. A quiz is used to measure comprehension of current Motor Vehicle Act regulations related to driving. Certificates are issued upon successful completion of the course. Depending upon the size of the group (maximum is 12); the ratio is typically three (3) students to one (1) instructor. The course requires the use of one vehicle for every two students, preferably company vehicles that the employees use while on duty.

1) Classroom Session (2 hours)

Presenter-based with the opportunity for students to ask questions and engage in peer-to-peer group experiences with relevant time to share stories and opinions. The unique training model includes a syndicate-based learning environment in which the group is divided into smaller units i.e. syndicates, to review the Motor Vehicle Act regulations related to driving. A variety of topics are discussed with reference to actual incidents, including: Acceleration; ABS vs. Standard; Observation Skills; Getting the Big Picture; Reaction Time; Shuffle Steering; Speed; Threshold Braking; Time and Distance; Backing; and Hazard Avoidance Techniques.

2) Driver Assessment (45 mins)

This component involves one-on-one individual assessment on a pre-selected route. Portions of the assessment involve a narrative drive. All driving is done in vehicles typically driven by the student. During the individual assessment component, the other participants work on quizzes.

3) Practical Application and In-Vehicle On-Track (1/2 day)

This component involves each student performing practical hands-on exercises that reinforce the techniques described during both the classroom and assessment process. These exercises are performed on a closed track under direct supervision of AFSI instructors. Operating in a controlled environment enables the students to acquire confidence. Practical exercises include: slalom; threshold braking; ABS braking; ABS hazard avoidance; braking on two surfaces e.g. asphalt, gravel; and backing exercise in confined space.