Part of Six Principles and Official Guidance

Written for Everyday Drivers

THE SIX PRINCIPLES ARE TIMELESS – THE TECHNOLOGY IS NOT

New technology simply provides new ways of putting the principles into practice

One of the key messages in Road Navigation – The Principles Explained is that the six principles of good road navigation do not become obsolete when technology changes. Instead, new technology simply provides new ways of putting those principles into practice.

Many drivers assume that modern navigation is all about choosing the right app or satnav. In reality, successful navigation depends on how the driver uses those tools.

The six principles can be supported in many different ways:

1. Confirm the Destination

  • Magnify the destination on the satnav
  • Google Maps
  • Street View

2. Confirm the Route (or Change It)

  • Magnify the planned route
  • Compare alternative routes
  • Paper maps
  • Google Maps

3. Familiarise Yourself with the Route

  • Zoom out on the satnav
  • Google Maps overview
  • Paper maps

4. Observe Well Ahead

  • Next-turn symbol
  • Top of the satnav screen
  • Looking well ahead on the road

5. Anticipate

  • Lane guidance
  • Traffic conditions
  • Road signs
  • Hazard information

6. Correctly Position

  • Road markings
  • Signs
  • Lane guidance
  • Good driving technique

Supporting Technologies

These technologies are valuable, but they are not navigation principles. They simply help the driver apply the principles more effectively.

This is why the six principles remain relevant regardless of future developments. Whether tomorrow's vehicles use artificial intelligence, augmented reality, or completely new navigation systems, drivers will still need to confirm the destination, confirm the route, become familiar with it, observe well ahead, anticipate hazards, and position their vehicle correctly.

Technology will continue to evolve. The principles of good navigation will not.

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