Moving Off Routine (POM)
Here we will explain the moving off routine (POM) we will show you how to move off safely from the side of the road using sound control of the car, and effective observation.
The routine you will need to remember is simply P.O. M
The driving POM routine is an abbreviation of the Prepare Observe and Move routine. Most driving schools use this routine as it’s easy to remember.
The POM routine performed correctly will ensure you are moving the car off as safely as possible.
The Driving POM Routine
When learning to drive the moving off routine (POM) will often be explained to you on your first driving lesson. At first it may seem like a lot to remember and you may even get the order mixed up, but with some practice you will soon be a master of the routine.
It’s important that you follow the correct order, for example; if you do OPM instead of POM ( a common mistake by newbies) then this could potentially cause an accident and possibly get you a serious fault on your driving test.
PREPARE
PREPARE the car to move off. You are basically preparing your FEET.
Clutch Down
First gear
Find Bite
Set the gas
That’s it!
It’s all too common for learner drivers to stall when moving off. This is usually bringing the clutch up too fast, selecting the wrong gear or leaving the handbrake on
OBSERVE
Full effective all round observations should be carried out before moving off.
A common routine to remember is the SIX POINT CHECK.
1.Check Left shoulder (blind Spot)
2. Check left door mirror
3. Centre mirror
4. Look ahead
5. Right door mirror
6. Right shoulder (blind spot)
Many accidents can happen due to lack of observation when moving off. Remembering your six point check will ensure you have covered all areas where a potential hazard could come. Many learners fail the driving test for lack of observation so practicing this routine is vital in becoming a safe driver.
It’s important not to leave a long delay in observations and actually moving off. Moving the car should be only done immediately after observation, if there is a delay, ensure all observations are performed once more.
MOVE
After the car has been prepared and all observations suggest it is clear and safe to go, the car can now be moved off.
Release the handbrake
Tight clutch control higher than bite
Gently squeeze the gas pedal
Bring clutch up.
Good clutch control is necessary to execute this routine correctly. If you release the clutch too fast it’s likely you will stall. If you do stall the car, try not to panic. If you stall, secure the car and try again. Try not to lose you cool, it can be frustrating at first mastering the clutch, but practice makes perfect!