BEYOND THE SATNAV

Modern satnav systems are remarkable tools. They can calculate routes in seconds, avoid congestion, provide live traffic updates and guide drivers to destinations almost anywhere in the world. For most everyday journeys, a satnav combined with good driving skills is more than adequate.

However, some journeys require more than simply entering a destination and following instructions.

Professional drivers, delivery drivers, tradespeople and anyone travelling to unfamiliar or remote locations often discover that a satnav alone cannot answer every question. The device may guide you to the correct area, but it cannot always show the exact entrance, loading bay, turning point or safest approach.

The principles explained in Road Navigation remain the foundation of good navigation:

• Confirm the destination.
• Plan the route.
• Familiarise yourself with the route.
• Observe well ahead.
• Anticipate and position correctly.
• Continue to observe and make decisions throughout the journey.

For some journeys, additional checks can strengthen these principles.

Before setting off, professional drivers may benefit from using tools such as satellite imagery or Street View to examine the final approach to a destination. These tools can help identify:

• The exact entrance to a site.
• Suitable access roads.
• Potential turning areas.
• The location of loading bays or reception points.
• Narrow roads, tight junctions or awkward approaches.
• Possible low bridges, width restrictions or other hazards.

Many experienced truck and delivery drivers routinely carry out these checks before travelling to new locations. Doing so can prevent wasted time, unnecessary manoeuvres and stressful situations.

Importantly, these additional tools do not replace the satnav. Nor do they replace the driver's judgement. They simply provide more information, allowing the driver to make better decisions.

Good navigation has always been about combining information from different sources and applying sound judgement. Technology has changed, but that principle remains exactly the same.

Satnav is a powerful tool. The driver remains responsible for using it wisely.

Use the device. Use your skill.