Role of the accompanying rider (in collaboration with the driving school team)
The Tecnic team appreciates your willingness to guide, help and provide advice to the learner during the learning stage.
No need to worry however! We will make your job easier by teaching the learner correct driving techniques and various notions concerning highway safety.
For the safety of the learner along with that of other road users, driving education consists of the following two phases:
- Learning the correct driving techniques.
- Becoming increasingly aware of various notions concerning highway safety, which will develop safe and responsible driving behaviours and attitudes.
Who can be an accompanying rider? (From the SAAQ Accompanying Rider’s Guide)
Since most new drivers are 16 to 24 years old, an accompanying rider is generally the driver’s father or mother. Another family member, a spouse or a friend can also fulfil this role.
Accompanying riders need to:
- have held, for at least two years, a valid Class 5 driver’s licence (passenger vehicle);
- know the various driving techniques and be able to explain them to the learner driver;
- behave safely, responsibly and cooperatively.
THE ACCOMPANYING RIDER’S ROLE (From the SAAQ Accompanying Rider’s Guide)
An accompanying rider is like an additional instructor. You play your part in several ways:
- by being a role model as a driver;
- by working in harmony with the driving school;
- by discussing the learner’s strengths and points to improve;
- by helping the learner progress toward independence
In your role, you should normally:
- Use the tools offered to you via the Toolbox to offer your learner as much assistance as possible. During your entire stint as an accompanying rider, you will receive various helpful messages prompting you to explore specific tools at specific times.
- Support the learner by having him get behind the wheel (when you are present!) on a regular basis. If possible, aim for the learner to drive a minimum of 50 hours during his year of learning (see the article on this topic in the Toolbox).
- Have regular conversations with the learner regarding his strengths, the maneuvers he needs to practice to get ahead, and the attitudes that will serve him well while driving.
- Teach the learner how to be a safe, cooperative and responsible driver.
- Have the learner drive in different places and conditions (road, weather, etc.).
- Remember that you are a role model for the learner and display good driving habits.
- Be patient.
