Background Information to the Driver of the Year Competition

Aim

The immediate purpose of the competition is to find the best heavy motor vehicle drivers in various categories. The long- term aim of the competition is to stimulate driver education in Southern Africa and improve the standard of heavy motor vehicle driving.

Benefits

Many companies have already experienced the fact that money spent on the proper training of drivers has proved to be a very good investment. Damage to vehicles and equipment, high fuel consumption and loss of man hours can effectively be counteracted by skilled and competent drivers. Participation in this competition provides an ideal opportunity for employers to compare not only the abilities of their own drivers with other drivers in the industry.

The possibilities of being recognized in an internal competition not only as the best driver in the company but also as provincial, national an international ambassador, should indeed be strong motivation for every driver to improve his/her standard and knowledge of driving. The benefits for the employer and for road safety are obvious.

Participation

To qualify for the competition, a competitor should be in possession of a valid drivers license and an un-endorsed professional drivers permit. No driver instructors may participate.

Categories

There are three categories:

1. Rigid – minimum length 7metres.
2. Bus – minimum length 9 metres.
3. Articulated – minimum length 10 metres.

Phases

In-company competition: Every employer selects his best drivers by organizing an in house competition. These drivers then enter for the regional competition.

Regional/Provincial Competition: Regional competitions were held in the four regions, Empangeni, Ladysmith, Durban and Pietermaritzburg. Two winners of each category will compete in the provincial competition. With the current National winner, Mr Wally Gumede in the articulated category, defending his title. There will also be a separate bus category for female drivers.

The provincial team to go to the National competitions will comprise of six members, consisting of two in each category plus 2 female contestants and one manager. One member of the team will be selected as team captain.

Tests

There are four tests that the drivers have to complete:

1. Track test – this tests the drivers ability to manouevre a vehicle in a confined space.

2. Road test – here the drivers attitude and ability to drive safely and correctly according to recognized defensive methods as well as correct handling of the vehicle is evaluated.

3. Theory test – a test will be conducted to test the drivers knowledge of road situations; education and rules of the road and road signs.

4. Pre-trip inspection – this consists of a physical inspection of the vehicle to test the drivers knowledge and habits regarding roadworthiness of the vehicles. The driver has to compete this test within 8 minutes.

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