How common is torque dip?

[paulca]

Just thought I'd point out that the techniques taught and expected under exam conditions are not "legal mandates". You won't get done for staying in first gear at the lights. You won't get done for putting your right foot down. It will usually be expected of you on test day though, both learner test or an IAM (Institue of advanced motorists) test. There it's even worse as different examiners have different ideas, if you do something he doesn't like he can mark you down for it. (Getting an IAM test is good for your insurance and a wise bit of further learning).

You won't get done for going over 5k. You might get done for driving aggressively or dangerously and it's really up to plod at the time. It would unlikely for you to get done pulling to the red line on a country road under the limit if it was 'safe' to do so, but you could always get a "jobsworth" in a layby who might pull you over and give you a talking to.

The handbrake at lights or when waiting... there was a large motorway pile up in fog in England a few years back, something like 100 vehicles involved. A small accident blocked the motorway. People waiting were then rear ended by people going too fast for the visibility to stop. The insurance companies attributed a small portion of blame to those without their handbrakes on if they shunted into the car in front. They claimed it was inappropriate and unsafe to sit waiting without the handbrake on. I think it was petty and the only thing that would make the handbrake better than the foot brake is in a rear-ending your foot could come off the brake in the impact.

[paulca]

On a different note here is how we are taught to steer a car on the test, the "push steering" at the start. The "rotational steering" wasn't allowed when I was learning. You are NEVER allowed to cross you arms on the learner test. Not least as you cross the air bag.

[ame="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kkQPzRhRnN4"]Get Driving How To Steer A Car - YouTube[/ame]

This is considered the best manual for driving and road craft here:
http://www.roadcraft.co.uk/