Drive 55 Plus

Courses designed to refresh and update your driving skills

Drive 55 Plus is a joint casualty reduction initiative, between the three local authorities in Dorset, to reduce the numbers of drivers aged 55 plus being injured on our roads.

For many people car travel is an important aspect of their independence and well-being, giving them access to friends, family, shopping and health related services such as GP's, hospitals and opticians.

However, research suggests that human error is a contributory factor in almost all collisions and that 36% of people aged 55 plus killed or seriously injured on Dorset's roads* are car drivers. (* 3 year casualty data (2005-7)

Courses are designed to address the most common causes of collisions in Dorset, namely a lack of hazard perception and awareness and inappropriate use of speed.

They provide drivers with an opportunity to update their driving skills and knowledge, helping them deal with ever changing road conditions, and can reduce the risk of becoming involved in a road collision.

The courses are held during the day, giving drivers an opportunity to discuss issues related to driving and receive help and guidance with things that may concern or worry them.

The popularity of these courses means that booking is essential. Whilst priority will be given to drivers aged 55 plus, drivers of any age are welcome to participate.

A fee is normally payable, but as part of a pilot scheme, selected courses are FREE to attend -ask for a leaflet

Drive 55 Plus - Driver Refresher Course

This half day (3 hour) course aims to help drivers update their knowledge and skills. No driving is involved.
The group discussions include:

  • new driving techniques
  • changes in the law and Highway Code
  • keeping fit to drive
  • motorways
  • roundabouts

Free to attend courses in the local area:
Contact the Road Safety Team on 01305 224558 or email roadsafety@dorsetcc.gov.uk

Day Date 2010 Time Venue
Thursday 13 May 9.30 a.m. Verwood - The Hub, Rm 30 Brock Way BH31 6WW
Thursday 13 May 2.00 p.m. Verwood - The Hub, Rm 30 Brock Way BH31 6WWl
Wednesday 19 May 9.30 a.m. Bridport - Leisure Centre, Pavilion Brewery Fields DT6 5LN
Monday 24 May 9.30 p.m. Bournemouth - Kings Park Safety Centre
Monday 24 May 2.00 p.m. Bournemouth - Kings Park Safety Centre
Friday 4 June 9.30 a.m. Dorchester, Weymouth Avenue Sports Pavilion
Friday 4 June 2.00 p.m. Dorchester, Weymouth Avenue Sports Pavilion
Friday 11 June 2.00 p.m. Sherborne - small Digby Hall DT9 3AA
Wednesday 16 June 9.30 a.m. Wimborne, Allendale Centre BH21 1AS
Wednesday 16 June 2.00 p.m. Wimborne, Allendale Centre BH21 1AS
Monday 21 June 9.30 a.m. Poole, Upton House (The Study)
Monday 21 June 9.30 a.m. Poole, Upton House (The Study)
Tuesday 29 June 9.30 a.m. Chickerill, Willowbed Hal

Other dates/venues are available.
For details go to: www.dorsetforyou.com/roadsafety or contact the Road Safety Team on 01305 224558 or email roadsafety@dorsetcc.gov.uk

A limited number of practical driver refresher courses are also available free of charge (usually £37.50), full details are available at the courses.