Connect and Grow with Swindon Advanced Motorists
Join Us for Monthly Meetings!
At Swindon Advanced Motorists, we're not just about improving driving skills; we’re creating a community. You can become a member and participate in our engaging monthly group meetings. These gatherings are designed for like-minded individuals who share a passion for driving and want to enhance their abilities on the road.
Meet the first Wednesday each month (except January and August) at Blunsdon House Hotel, Swindon, SN26 7AS @ 7:30pm. Let us know if you'd like to come along.
For just £12 a year, you’re investing in not only your driving excellence but also in lifelong friendships. Sign me up! Payment by Standing Order is preferred to help us keep administration to a minimum.
Note - you must be a member of IAMRS to join SAM - info here.
August 2026
There is no group or committee meeting in August. Our next group meeting is the AGM on 2 September at Blunsdon House Hotel, Swindon.
Details of the AGM wlll be emailed in good time. Please make every effort to attend and support your group.
Do you use all of the safety tech that's available in your car?
A 2025–2026 news report based on IAM RoadSmart research highlighted that a significant proportion of UK drivers are failing to use advanced safety systems in their vehicles, despite the potential to prevent collisions.
- Around 33% of drivers never use driver assistance systems (such as collision warnings or lane-keeping aids)
- Among high‑mileage drivers, over two‑thirds switch off key safety features like lane assist or speed limiters
- Experts noted that this often comes down to lack of understanding or confidence in how to use them effectively
IAM RoadSmart’s policy director described this as a major missed opportunity, emphasising that better education and driver training are essential to ensure these systems actually improve road safety.
Technology alone doesn’t make safer drivers; skill, understanding, and discipline do.
That’s exactly where advanced driving (IAMRS) and Roadcraft-based training come in:
- Advanced driving teaches the System of Car Control (derived from police Roadcraft), focusing on observation, anticipation, positioning, and control.
- It ensures drivers understand not only what tools exist (ADAS, road layouts, hazards), but how and when to use them effectively.
- It bridges the gap between being licensed and being genuinely skilled something even modern vehicles can’t compensate for on their own.
This recent coverage highlights a fundamental truth:
- Many drivers rely on technology but don’t fully understand it.
- Many collisions still stem from human error, poor observation, or weak decision-making.
- Advanced driver training develops the Roadcraft mindset, enabling drivers to:
- Anticipate hazards earlier
- Use technology intelligently (not blindly)
- Maintain smoother, safer control at all times
In other words, advanced drivers don’t just use the road - they read it, manage it, and stay ahead of it.
