This Road Safety Week we're encouraging all driving instructors to make sure their dual controls are in full working order so that they can keep everybody on the road safe.
Instructors know why they need dual controls: because with new, often nervous, drivers they do sometimes need to intervene physically to avoid an accident. Everyone knows that talking pupils through challenging situations is the best approach, but in an emergency it's that instant reaction that matters. Both new and experienced instructors can make sure they're ready to react by:
Getting the right controls
It all starts with the design. He-Man Dual Controls are designed individually for each make and model of car so that they work seamlessly and as closely to the vehicle's actual pedals as possible. Trying to install a design that's "almost the same" (we hear this a lot) can mean components interfering with the vehicle's mechanical systems, cables and springs that are strained and liable to snap, and holes being drilled dangerously close to wiring. Unfortunately we do hear from instructors who have tried this and only find out the damage they've caused in an emergency situation.
Getting the best quality
We also hear from plenty of instructors who trusted a secondhand advert that promises dual controls like new, only to find out that's far from the truth once they open the box. Missing parts, bent brackets, rusted clamps and sheared off metal all mean that the dual control isn't going to fit in the vehicle as designed, and that causes the same problems as trying to fit something that isn't intended for the car. Think: how would you know whether a dual control is what it should be?
That's why we always recommend that instructors source their dual controls directly from He-Man or from one of our approved agents. Sellers claiming to offer "refurbished" dual controls don't source parts from the manufacturer, so you don't know what you're getting in your car. Remember that He-Man don't sell on eBay, Vinted or Facebook Marketplace; it's by coming to us directly that you can make sure you're getting the right equipment to keep everybody on the road safe.
Getting to know your controls
Once you have the right controls fitted they're very low maintenance. Dirt and gunge can build up over time, and there are some components like springs which won't last forever - if they did, they wouldn't be flexible enough for the job. That's why we encourage instructors to check their dual controls monthly. You should be looking for:
- Are the cables in good condition with no fraying?
- Are the springs still flexible, not bent or strained?
- Is there any hair or dirt embedded in the pedal splines?
- Have the pedals been squeaking or grinding when used?
- Do the pedal pads still have good definition?
- Are all fixings to the bulkhead and floorpan of the car secure?
If you have any concerns they are usually easy to fix. Dirt can be brushed out, the pedals can be lubricated, and replacement cables, springs or pedal pads can be ordered directly from He-Man. You can find out more about maintaining your dual controls here. And if there's anything you're not confident in tackling, you can get in touch with our team for more advice.
Here at He-Man we stand behind Brake's message of keeping everyone safe on the roads whether they're drivers, cyclists, pedestrians or any other road user. Driving instructors play a crucial role in creating that safe environment and we're here to make sure they have the right tools for the job.
Safer roads for everyone.