Skidding on loose surfaces is a common hazard, yet many drivers are unprepared for the unique challenges presented by gravel roads. HRETD's "Defensive Driving for Gravel Roads" course equips drivers with the techniques to handle these surfaces proficiently. From tyre choice to speed management, the course covers a gamut of essential topics, enriched by multimedia resources like quizzes and illustrative videos.
Master the Unpredictable. Navigating gravel roads demands specialized skills and heightened awareness. Our course provides hands-on experience, empowering participants to anticipate and react to common hazards like washboards, loose gravel, and low-traction conditions. In-depth subject notes and case studies enable drivers to apply their knowledge practically, reducing the risk of accidents.
Whether for occupational requirements or personal skill development, this course offers valuable insights into maintaining control and ensuring safety when driving on gravel surfaces.
Entry requirements
A currently valid heavy vehicle national driver’s license with the appropriate code for the class of vehicle being used for practical coaching and exercises.
Advanced driver training
Defensive driving for gravel roads training
Freight delivery vehicles
Course content
Vehicle Dynamics on Gravel Roads
Focus on vehicle traction and control on gravel roads, emphasizing adjusting driving
for different loads and weight distribution. Participants will practice managing skids
and maintaining control, building confidence in navigating heavy-duty vehicles on
gravel surfaces.
Speed and Distance Management
This module delves into the intricacies of determining safe speeds and maintaining
appropriate following distances on gravel roads. Drivers will learn the importance of
controlled acceleration and lower speeds, and how to adjust speed and distance
based on varying road and weather conditions.
Navigating Turns and Bends
Addressing the challenges of navigating sharp turns and bends on gravel roads, this
module imparts techniques for managing vehicle momentum and centrifugal forces.
Participants will practice proper use of brakes and acceleration through turns and
learn how to address oversteer and understeer.
Overtaking and Passing on Gravel Roads
Overtaking and passing on gravel roads present unique challenges due to visibility
issues and dust clouds. In this module, drivers will learn how to assess when it is safe
to overtake, communicate their intentions effectively to other road users, and return to
the correct side of the road safely.
Crossings and Uneven Surfaces
Navigating through water and mud crossings, as well as dealing with potholes,
washboards, and rutted surfaces, are integral aspects of driving on gravel roads. This
module teaches strategies for adjusting vehicle speed and position for uneven
surfaces and provides recovery techniques for scenarios where the vehicle gets stuck.
Wildlife and Livestock Interaction
On gravel roads, interaction with wildlife and livestock is common. This module
teaches participants to anticipate and respond to animals, adjust speed and distance,
and employ collision-avoidance strategies. It also covers the correct response to
animal strikes, enhancing driver preparedness.
Practical coaching
Participants will engage in hands-on exercises, navigate through various challenges, and
receive peer review and feedback on their driving techniques. This scenario-based
training enables drivers to develop personalized strategies for safe driving and build
confidence in their ability to handle real-life situations on gravel roads.
Assessment methods
We conduct a formative theoretical assessment at the beginning of the course to gauge the learner’s initial understanding (novices only). At the end of the training, a summative theoretical and practical application assessment is conducted, to find if the learner is competent; if not, additional developmental areas are identified and suggested.