Sand Driving Course - Full Day

The RACQ Driver Education Sand Driving Course aims to familiarise drivers of the key features, capabilities and limitations of their off-road capable vehicle.

It also develops a clear understanding of the correct and safe use of 4WD vehicle in off-road situations, where protection of their passengers, the vehicle and the environment can be demonstrated.

This course provides participants with the skills and knowledge required to use the appropriate range, gear and technique to drive a 4WD vehicle through and over sand terrain and use basic vehicle recovery techniques.

Travelling in sand can be dangerous. There is always the risk of being bogged on your own on a beach with an incoming tide or the possibility of a roll-over arising from an ill -fated attempt to ascend a dune or sand hill. You could also be involved in an accident with another vehicle.

This RACQ Sand Driving Course will provide you with the opportunity to tackle a variety of different and challenging sand obstacles in a safe and supervised environment. This course will also provide you with confidence in your own ability and the capability of your vehicle. For the experienced driver, the course will provide the opportunity to enhance your driving skills and develop greater confidence. This will equip you to handle varying conditions.

Focusing on systematic sand driving techniques, this ‘Sand Terrain Specific’ course will enable you to pass through obstacles with greater control, while providing more safety and comfort for your passengers. The use of the correct sand driving techniques and also the right vehicle maintenance will save you money and inconvenience.

Content

The RACQ Sand Driving Course devotes equal attention to theory and practice, with a low ratio of one instructor to eight participants.

Theory

• identify 4WD specific terms, terminology and techniques
• how a 4WD works and when to use high & low range
• beach driving rules
• sand appreciation
• ground clearance
• tyres and tyre pressures
• plan for minimal environmental impact
• essential and emergency 4WD equipment
• trip preparation

Practical

• vehicle inspection & pre-departure checks
• blind areas, turning circle and seating position
• ground appreciation and wheel placement
• use the features of a 4WD vehicle to drive in a wide variety of sand terrain
• stall/start procedure – start/recovery techniques in sand conditions
• recovery techniques in sand without recovery equipment and safe and correct use of a snatch strap & Maxtrax