Hill-starts are easy

Following this advice will ensure that you are always confident about hill-starts!

The simple trick is to use the handbrake as a 'safety lever' to prevent the car from rolling back while you adjust your feet during an uphill start.

When learner drivers have a problem with starting on hills, it is usually because of the fear of rolling back. If the car rolls, even a little bit, they 'panic' and start tap dancing with the pedals!

Using this method, you will only adjust your feet on the pedals when the car is safely secured with the handbrake.

Method

Start by preparing the car by pressing the gas pedal and bringing the clutch up to the biting point. Now keep your feet still!

Make your normal observation checks and then release the handbrake very gently - no more than a few millimetres. If the starts to move (back or forward) keep your feet still and pull the handbrake back on again.

Re-adjust your feet while the car is secure, double check that the road is still clear, and then try again. Repeat this until you have full control.

By using this method you will feel secure in the knowledge that you cannot roll back more than a couple of centimetres; with practise you will find that you soon get the right 'feel' for the clutch every time.

You will find more information about hill starts and moving off generally in the SmartLearners Online course.

This information is not only essential for safety while you are learning to drive - it is absolutely essential for safe driving after you pass the driving test.