Iamroadsmart.com Review

Based on checking the website iamroadsmart.com, this platform primarily focuses on advanced driver and rider training, aiming to enhance road safety through education and skill development.

While the mission of improving road safety is commendable, the website promotes and partners with entities offering conventional insurance products, which typically involve interest riba and uncertainty gharar. From an ethical standpoint that prioritizes sound financial dealings, this association makes the overall offering questionable, as traditional insurance models are not permissible due to these elements.

It’s crucial to distinguish between the beneficial training offered and the problematic financial associations.

Overall Review Summary:

• Website Focus: Advanced driving and riding courses, road safety education, community engagement.
• Mission: To make roads safer for all by upskilling drivers and riders.
• Charitable Status: Registered charity in England & Wales 249002 and Scotland SC041201.
• Courses Offered: Advanced Driving, Advanced Riding, Driving for Work, and Drink Drive Rehabilitation.
• Community: Over 68,000 members, 160 groups, and 5,000 volunteers.
• Research & Lobbying: Actively involved in influencing road safety policy.
• Key Concern: Promotion of conventional insurance products from “Cornmarket,” which involve interest riba and uncertainty gharar, making them ethically unsound.
• Recommendation: Caution advised due to partnership with interest-based financial services. While the training is beneficial, users should be mindful of the associated financial offerings.

The website presents itself as a national road safety charity, established in 1956, with a clear mission to foster safer roads by enhancing the skills of drivers and riders.

0.0 0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews) Excellent0% Very good0% Average0% Poor0% Terrible0% There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one. Your review Your overall rating Select a Rating5 Stars4 Stars3 Stars2 Stars1 Star Title of your review Your review Your name Your email This review is based on my own experience and is my genuine opinion. ​ Submit Review

Amazon.com: Check Amazon for Iamroadsmart.com Review Latest Discussions & Reviews:

They offer various courses, including advanced driving, riding, and even a “Drink Drive Rehabilitation” program iamroadsmart.com/drink-drive. The emphasis is on post-licence skill development and community building through local groups and volunteers.

They also engage in research and lobbying efforts to influence road safety policy.

However, a significant red flag arises with their prominent partnership with Cornmarket, an insurance provider iamroadsmart.com/renew, iamroadsmart com membership. The website encourages users to get quotes for car, motorbike, home, travel, and GAP insurance through this partner.

Conventional insurance policies often operate on principles that clash with ethical financial guidelines, particularly concerning the inclusion of interest riba and elements of excessive uncertainty gharar. Therefore, while the core educational services are positive, their strong ties to interest-based financial services warrant a critical assessment for those seeking ethically compliant options.

Best Alternatives for Ethical Road Safety & Skill Enhancement Excluding Financial Services:

1. Defensive Driving Courses

   

   • Key Features: Focuses on accident prevention techniques, hazard recognition, and safe driving practices. Many courses are available online and in-person, often recognized for insurance premium reductions.
   • Average Price: Varies widely, from $20-$100 for online courses to $150-$500+ for in-person.
   • Pros: Improves awareness, reduces risk, often provides insurance discounts, widely accessible.
   • Cons: Can be time-consuming, quality varies between providers.

2. Advanced Motorcycle Training MSF equivalent

   • Key Features: Programs like the Motorcycle Safety Foundation MSF Advanced RiderCourse build on basic skills with emphasis on braking, cornering, and evasive maneuvers.
   • Average Price: $150-$350.
   • Pros: Significantly enhances rider confidence and control, reduces accident likelihood, recognized globally.
   • Cons: Requires physical presence, can be intense.

3. Vehicle Maintenance and Safety Check Kits

   • Key Features: Tools and guides for basic car maintenance tire pressure, oil checks, fluid levels, light checks.
   • Average Price: $30-$100.
   • Pros: Empowers drivers to ensure their vehicle is safe, prevents breakdowns, reduces long-term costs.
   • Cons: Requires some mechanical aptitude or willingness to learn.

4. First Aid Kits for Vehicles

   • Key Features: Contains essential medical supplies for minor injuries or emergencies on the road.
   • Average Price: $20-$60.
   • Pros: Crucial for immediate response to accidents, provides peace of mind, highly practical.
   • Cons: Requires basic knowledge of first aid for effective use.

5. Emergency Roadside Kits

   • Key Features: Includes jumper cables, reflective triangles, flashlights, basic tools for roadside breakdowns.
   • Average Price: $40-$100.
   • Pros: Essential for unexpected breakdowns, promotes self-reliance, enhances safety during roadside incidents.
   • Cons: May not cover all breakdown scenarios, some items might require specific knowledge to use.

6. Dash Cams with Parking Monitor

   • Key Features: Records driving activity, providing visual evidence in case of accidents or disputes, often includes parking mode for surveillance.
   • Average Price: $80-$250.
   • Pros: Provides objective evidence, deters fraud, can offer peace of mind, enhances security.
   • Cons: Requires installation, storage management, privacy concerns in some regions.

7. Car Safety Hammer and Seatbelt Cutter

   • Key Features: A compact tool designed to cut jammed seatbelts and break tempered glass in emergencies.
   • Average Price: $10-$25.
   • Pros: Potentially life-saving in critical situations, affordable, easy to store.
   • Cons: Needs to be easily accessible within the vehicle, requires quick thinking in an emergency.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Iamroadsmart.com Review & First Look: A Detailed Assessment

Based on an initial look at iamroadsmart.com, the platform immediately presents itself as a significant player in the road safety education sector.

The website is clean, professionally designed, and easy to navigate, conveying a sense of trustworthiness and expertise.

The homepage prominently highlights their mission to “make better drivers and riders” and their status as a “national road safety charity.” This suggests a commitment to public welfare rather than purely commercial gain.

They showcase their history, established in 1956, which lends considerable credibility and experience to their offerings.

Understanding the IAM RoadSmart Mission

The core of IAM RoadSmart’s work revolves around upskilling drivers and riders beyond the standard licensing requirements. Their aim is to foster a culture of safety, control, and confidence on the road. This isn’t just about passing a test. it’s about developing a deeper understanding of vehicle dynamics and road conditions. They emphasize “post licence holders,” indicating a focus on continuous improvement for experienced road users. This approach is highly beneficial for reducing accidents and improving overall road etiquette. The mention of “Discover our Volunteer Support Fund” and “People Power campaign” indicates a strong community and charitable backbone, which are positive aspects. Zsideocontentllc.com Review

Initial Observations on Website Structure

The website’s layout is intuitive, featuring clear calls to action for various courses, membership, and community involvement.

Sections like “Our Courses,” “Our Community,” and “Our research and lobbying work” are well-defined.

The inclusion of testimonials, such as Christina’s “I feel much more confident and comfortable driving my car now,” adds a personal touch and builds user confidence.

However, a critical eye quickly spots the prominent advertising for Cornmarket Insurance, presented as an “official insurance partner.” This partnership is where ethical considerations come into play, as traditional insurance models often involve interest riba, which is not permissible.

This partnership is directly linked via sections like “Advanced drivers and riders could receive benefits from our official insurance partner Cornmarket” and links to various insurance types Car, Motorbike, Home, Travel, GAP. Webmarketpro.net Review

Iamroadsmart.com: Ethical Considerations and Concerns

While iamroadsmart.com excels in its educational offerings for road safety, a crucial ethical challenge arises from its direct and prominent partnership with Cornmarket Insurance.

This partnership is explicitly advertised on their homepage, offering various insurance products from car and motorbike to home and travel insurance.

The concern here stems from the fundamental principles of conventional insurance, which often include elements that are problematic.

The Issue of Riba Interest in Conventional Insurance

Traditional insurance models, as offered by companies like Cornmarket, typically involve riba, or interest. This can manifest in several ways:

• Investment of Premiums: Insurance companies invest the pooled premiums, often in interest-bearing instruments or conventional financial markets. The profits generated from these investments, which are then used to pay claims or create shareholder returns, include interest.
• Late Payment Fees: Policies may include late payment fees that are essentially interest-based penalties.
• Financing Options: If policies can be paid in installments, these often come with an implicit or explicit interest charge.

From an ethical perspective, involvement with transactions that generate or involve interest is to be avoided. Claritylocums.com Review

The website’s direct endorsement and promotion of such services, even if for “benefits” to members, links the user to a financially questionable practice.

Gharar Uncertainty or Speculation in Insurance

Another critical concern with conventional insurance is gharar, which translates to excessive uncertainty or speculation. While some level of uncertainty is inherent in any contract, in conventional insurance, the amount of premiums paid versus the potential claim received is highly uncertain and can be viewed as a form of gambling or speculation.

• No Direct Exchange of Value: There isn’t a direct exchange of specific, known value at the time of contract. You pay premiums for the chance of receiving a payout.
• Gambling-like Element: If no incident occurs, the premiums are “lost,” similar to a bet. If an incident occurs, a large payout might be received for a small premium, which can be seen as disproportionate and speculative.
• Lack of Mutuality: Unlike cooperative models like Takaful, conventional insurance often operates on a commercial basis where the insurer profits from premiums, not just from managing a fund for mutual benefit.

The presence of gharar in conventional insurance contracts makes them ethically problematic.

By promoting these services, iamroadsmart.com, despite its charitable status and positive road safety mission, implicitly endorses these financially unsound practices.

Alternatives to Conventional Insurance: Takaful

For those seeking ethically compliant alternatives, Takaful is the widely accepted model. Takaful is a cooperative system of insurance based on the principle of mutual assistance. Cozmeticstore.com Review

• Mutual Cooperation: Participants contribute to a fund, and claims are paid from this fund. The participants mutually agree to guarantee each other against loss.
• No Riba: The fund is managed and invested in a way that avoids interest-bearing instruments. Any returns generated are distributed among participants, not retained as interest for the company.
• No Gharar Excessive: While some uncertainty exists, the cooperative nature and shared risk model significantly reduce the speculative element inherent in conventional insurance. The aim is mutual protection, not profit for the insurer from policyholders’ losses.
• Transparency: Takaful operations are typically more transparent, with clear guidelines on how funds are managed and invested.

Therefore, while iamroadsmart.com’s educational content is valuable, its alliance with conventional insurance providers like Cornmarket raises significant ethical questions.

For users who prioritize ethical financial dealings, it’s essential to be aware of these implications and seek alternative insurance solutions like Takaful, which are widely available in many regions.

Iamroadsmart.com Membership and Courses: What’s on Offer

IAM RoadSmart positions itself as a comprehensive platform for drivers and riders seeking to enhance their skills and confidence on the road.

Beyond individual courses, a membership structure is in place, offering additional benefits and community engagement.

Understanding IAM RoadSmart Membership

Becoming a member of IAM RoadSmart, as highlighted on their site via “Want to join IAM RoadSmart? Click here to find out more about becoming a member,” goes beyond just taking a course. Nutmeg.com Review

It signifies joining a community of over 68,000 like-minded individuals. Members gain access to:

• Local Groups: There are approximately 164 groups across the UK, all run by volunteers. These groups provide a platform for members to share ideas, participate in events, and contribute to the charity’s broader road safety initiatives.
• Road Trips and Rider Clubs: For motorcycle enthusiasts, there’s the added benefit of organized road trips and rider clubs, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared passion.
• Contribution to Road Safety: Members implicitly support IAM RoadSmart’s “research and lobbying work,” which aims to influence government policy on road safety. This is a significant aspect for those who wish to contribute to a wider public good.
• Potential “Benefits” from Partners: As discussed, members are directed towards their “official insurance partner” Cornmarket, albeit with the ethical caveats around conventional insurance.

The emphasis on community “Our Community” and volunteering “Recognising our Volunteers,” “5,000 volunteers” underscores a strong, collaborative approach to road safety, differentiating them from purely commercial driving schools.

Overview of IAM RoadSmart Courses

The website prominently features “Our Courses” designed to “make better drivers and riders through education and upskilling.” They categorize their offerings to cater to various needs:

• Advanced Driving: This is likely their flagship course, focusing on developing a higher level of driving skill, control, and awareness. It’s about moving beyond basic competency to a more proactive and predictive style of driving.
• Advanced Riding: Similar to advanced driving, but tailored specifically for motorcyclists, emphasizing advanced bike control, cornering techniques, and hazard perception unique to riding.
• Driving for Work: This course is geared towards professionals who drive as part of their job, focusing on minimizing risks, improving efficiency, and ensuring compliance with occupational road safety standards.
• Drink Drive Rehabilitation: This is a crucial offering, addressing a serious public safety issue. It provides education and support for individuals who have committed drink-driving offenses, aiming to prevent re-offending. This specific course is linked directly via “iamroadsmart.com/drink-drive.”

They also highlight popular new courses like:

• Rider Development Session: Costing £95, this 4-hour on-road training session is tailored to specific needs, aiming to make riding “safer and more fulfilling.”
• Driving Skills Refresher: At £125, this course helps individuals “regain confidence, update knowledge, or enhance driving abilities,” often in the comfort of their own vehicle. This is also accessible via “iamroadsmart.com/courses/driving-skills-refresher-course.”

The website encourages users to “Try before you buy with our free taster session,” which is an excellent way for potential participants to experience their approach firsthand before committing to a full course. Millionkm.com Review

This demonstrates confidence in their training methodology and removes a barrier to entry.

IAM RoadSmart vs. Traditional Driving Schools: A Comparative Look

When considering improving driving or riding skills, IAM RoadSmart offers a distinct approach compared to traditional driving schools.

While both aim to create competent road users, their philosophies, target audiences, and outcomes differ significantly.

Focus and Philosophy

• Traditional Driving Schools: Primarily focus on teaching the fundamental skills required to pass a driving test and obtain a license. Their curriculum is often geared towards compliance with basic road laws and safe operation. The emphasis is on getting new drivers to a minimum standard of competency.
• IAM RoadSmart: Operates on a “post-licence” basis. Their philosophy is about continuous improvement and advanced skill development. It’s not about learning to drive, but learning to drive better, safer, and with greater control. The goal is to move beyond mere competency to expertise, proactively anticipating hazards and mastering vehicle control. This is explicitly stated: “teaching post licence holders drivers and riders new skills to create fulfilling and safe journeys.”

Target Audience

• Traditional Driving Schools: Cater almost exclusively to learner drivers or those needing to refresh very basic skills for re-testing. They are the entry point into driving.
• IAM RoadSmart: Targets experienced drivers and riders who already hold a license. This includes those looking to:
  • Enhance their skills beyond the basics.
  • Boost confidence after an incident or a period of not driving.
  • Improve specific maneuvers like parking “Struggle with parking? Feel more confident parking after a targeted session”.
  • Address specific issues like drink driving “Drink Drive Rehabilitation”.
  • Drive professionally “Driving for Work”.

Training Methodology and Instructors

• Traditional Driving Schools: Employ Approved Driving Instructors ADIs who are qualified to teach basic driving skills. The instruction is often one-on-one, following a structured curriculum for passing the driving test.
• IAM RoadSmart: Utilizes “expert guidance” and a network of “5,000 volunteers” who are highly experienced drivers and riders themselves, often holding advanced driving qualifications. Their training is practical, on-road, and often tailored to individual needs. The volunteer-led model fosters a community feel and peer-to-peer learning, as evidenced by testimonials like Adam’s, who praised his “Observer” for being “very knowledgeable and had excellent interpersonal skills.”

Outcomes and Benefits

• Traditional Driving Schools: The primary outcome is obtaining a driving license, signifying basic competency.
• IAM RoadSmart: The outcomes are more nuanced:
  • Enhanced Safety: A key objective is to create “safer roads for all” by reducing accident rates through improved driver/rider skill and hazard perception.
  • Increased Confidence: Many testimonials, such as Christina’s, highlight a significant boost in confidence.
  • Skill Mastery: Beyond just knowing how to drive, it’s about mastering vehicle control in various conditions.
  • Potential Insurance Benefits: While ethically questionable due to involvement with conventional insurance, IAM RoadSmart members are often touted for potential insurance premium reductions from partners like Cornmarket. This indicates that insurers recognize the reduced risk associated with advanced training.
  • Community and Support: Access to a large community provides ongoing support and opportunities for continued learning and engagement.

In essence, while traditional driving schools lay the foundation, IAM RoadSmart builds the skyscraper of advanced driving and riding proficiency, focusing on lifelong learning and continuous improvement for experienced road users.

How to Engage with Iamroadsmart.com: Getting Started and Making Ethical Choices

Engaging with iamroadsmart.com offers multiple pathways, from trying out a taster session to becoming a full member. Ca.shein.com Review

For those keen on improving their driving or riding skills, navigating the site and making informed choices is straightforward.

However, maintaining an ethical stance requires careful consideration, especially concerning their financial partnerships.

Starting Your Journey: Taster Sessions and Initial Exploration

The website makes it easy to dip your toes in without immediate commitment.

The “Free driving and riding taster sessions” are a great starting point.

As the site states, “Are you interested in our Advanced Driver or Rider Course? Try before you buy with our free taster session. Asapskincare.ie Review

Click here to find your local group and book your session today.”

1. Find Your Local Group: The initial step involves locating a group near you via the “Find your local group” link iamroadsmart.com/local-groups. These groups are the backbone of their volunteer-led training.
2. Book a Taster: Once a group is identified, you can arrange a free taster session to experience their instructional style and understand the scope of the advanced courses. This hands-on experience is invaluable for deciding if their programs align with your learning preferences and goals.
3. Explore Course Offerings: Even before a taster, it’s worth reviewing “Our courses: start your journey today” iamroadsmart.com/courses to understand the full range, including the Rider Development Session and Driving Skills Refresher.

Becoming a Member and Accessing Benefits

If a taster session confirms your interest, the next step might be “Want to join IAM RoadSmart? Click here to find out more about becoming a member” iamroadsmart.com/membership. Membership provides access to the full community and ongoing support.

• Membership Enrollment: The website outlines the process for joining their community, which likely involves an annual fee.
• Community Access: Members can then engage with local groups, participate in events, and connect with other advanced drivers and riders.
• Lobbying and Research: By becoming a member, you also contribute to their “research and lobbying work” iamroadsmart.com/media-policy/research-and-policy, supporting their advocacy for road safety policy changes.

Navigating the “Drink Drive Rehabilitation” Program

For those mandated to attend or voluntarily seeking help, the “Drink Drive Rehabilitation” course iamroadsmart.com/drink-drive is a significant offering.

The website provides details on how to enroll in this specific program, which aims to educate individuals on the dangers and consequences of drink-driving, helping them make safer choices in the future.

Ethical Considerations for Engagement: The Insurance Partnership

This is where personal diligence is critical. Atlassian.com Review

While iamroadsmart.com offers valuable training, its explicit promotion of Cornmarket Insurance requires a cautious approach.

• Acknowledge the Value, Avoid the Problematic: Focus on the skill-enhancing courses and community aspects, which are beneficial.
• Decline Problematic Financial Offers: When presented with opportunities to get insurance quotes through Cornmarket e.g., “Advanced drivers and riders could receive benefits from our official insurance partner Cornmarket”, politely decline or ignore these.
• Seek Ethical Financial Alternatives: If you need insurance, actively research and pursue Takaful providers or other ethically compliant financial services that avoid riba and excessive gharar. Do not use the links provided on iamroadsmart.com for insurance purposes if you are committed to ethical financial practices.

By consciously separating the valuable educational content from the ethically problematic financial partnerships, users can benefit from IAM RoadSmart’s core mission while adhering to their principles.

Iamroadsmart.com Pricing Structure: Courses and Membership Costs

Understanding the pricing structure on iamroadsmart.com is key for potential learners and members.

While some initial offerings are free, the core advanced courses and membership come with associated fees.

The website generally provides clear pricing for individual courses and indicates how membership works. Carstub.com Review

Course Specific Pricing

The website highlights the costs for some of its more popular standalone courses:

• Rider Development Session: Explicitly priced at “only £95.” This 4-hour on-road training is designed to be tailored to specific needs, offering additional knowledge and skills for safer and more fulfilling riding.
• Driving Skills Refresher: Advertised at “only £125.” This course is aimed at helping drivers regain confidence, update their knowledge, or enhance their abilities, often conducted in their own vehicle.

For the flagship Advanced Driving and Advanced Riding courses, the website does not list a direct price on the homepage or in the main course overview.

Instead, it encourages users to “Discover more” iamroadsmart.com/courses, which leads to detailed course pages.

The exact cost for these comprehensive programs might vary based on location, duration, and the specific package chosen, often requiring a direct inquiry or selection of a local group.

This approach is common for more extensive training programs where customization or regional variations exist. Cloudbeds.com Review

Membership Costs and Benefits

While the precise annual membership fee isn’t prominently displayed on the homepage, the website does detail the benefits of joining “Want to join IAM RoadSmart? Click here to find out more about becoming a member” at iamroadsmart.com/membership. Membership typically involves an annual fee and is often a prerequisite or an advantageous add-on for those pursuing the full advanced courses.

• Community Access: Membership provides access to their network of over 160 local groups and 68,000 members, fostering a supportive environment for ongoing learning and shared interests.
• Support for the Charity: Memberships directly contribute to IAM RoadSmart’s charitable mission, including their “research and lobbying work” for road safety policy and their “Volunteer Support Fund.”
• Partner “Benefits”: As noted, members are also directed towards “competitive insurance deals from Cornmarket, our official insurance partner.” This is a significant aspect of membership, even if ethically problematic.

Free Taster Sessions

A standout feature of their pricing strategy is the offer of “Free driving and riding taster sessions.” This allows prospective learners to experience their teaching methodology and meet their local group before committing financially.

This is a valuable no-risk entry point, demonstrating confidence in their program’s ability to engage and convert interested individuals.

In summary, iamroadsmart.com employs a tiered pricing model: free tasters to attract interest, clearly stated prices for shorter, focused courses, and a membership structure that likely involves an annual fee, granting access to a wider community and partner benefits.

Users should be prepared to delve deeper into specific course pages or make direct inquiries to ascertain the full cost of the more extensive advanced training programs. Allclean.london Review

How to Cancel Iamroadsmart.com Subscription or Membership

For individuals who have joined IAM RoadSmart and wish to cancel their membership or discontinue services, the process is generally straightforward.

While direct cancellation links aren’t front and center on the homepage, information related to managing accounts and terms is usually available in dedicated sections.

Locating Cancellation Information

Typically, for any subscription-based service, the most relevant information for cancellation can be found in:

1. Terms and Conditions: The website footer includes a link to “Terms” iamroadsmart.com/terms-and-conditions. This document is legally binding and should detail the cancellation policy for memberships and courses.
2. Privacy Policy/Cookies Policy: Less likely to contain cancellation details, but sometimes related information on data retention after cancellation can be found here. Links like “Privacy” iamroadsmart.com/privacy-notice and “Cookies” iamroadsmart.com/privacy-notice#cookies are in the footer.
3. Contact Us Section: The “Contact us” link iamroadsmart.com/contact in the footer is a direct way to inquire about cancellation procedures if they are not explicitly stated elsewhere. You can usually find a phone number, email address, or contact form here.
4. My Account/Dashboard: If you are a logged-in member, your personal “My account” or “Dashboard” iamroadsmart.com/my-dashboard section might have options for managing your subscription, including cancellation or renewal settings. This is a common feature for membership-based platforms.

General Steps for Membership Cancellation

Based on standard online membership practices, the steps for canceling an IAM RoadSmart membership would likely involve:

• Reviewing Terms: First, consult the “Terms and Conditions” to understand any notice periods, refund policies if applicable for unused portions of membership, or specific procedures required.
• Logging In: Access your “My account” or “Dashboard” area using your login credentials iamroadsmart.com/home/login. Look for a “Manage Membership,” “Subscription Settings,” or “Cancel” option.
• Direct Contact: If an online cancellation option isn’t evident or if you prefer direct communication, contact IAM RoadSmart directly via phone or email as provided in their “Contact us” section. Clearly state your intention to cancel and provide your membership details.
• Confirmation: Always request and retain a confirmation of your cancellation for your records. This ensures that you have proof that the process was completed.

Cancelling Course Enrollment

For specific course enrollments, especially if you paid upfront, the cancellation policy might differ from general membership. Budgetdumpster.com Review

• Course-Specific Terms: Check the terms and conditions that apply to the particular course you enrolled in. There might be deadlines for refunds or rescheduling.
• Direct Communication: For course cancellations, it’s often best to directly contact the IAM RoadSmart team or your local group coordinator to discuss options.

It is highly recommended to proactively review the terms and conditions at the time of joining or course enrollment to be fully aware of the cancellation policies, especially regarding any financial commitments or refund eligibility.

IAM RoadSmart’s Influence: Research, Lobbying, and Social Impact

Beyond direct driver training, IAM RoadSmart actively engages in broader initiatives to enhance road safety through research, lobbying, and community support.

This multifaceted approach underscores their commitment as a national charity dedicated to public welfare.

Research and Policy Influence

• Manifesto and Reports: They provide access to their “manifesto, research reports and policies by clicking here” iamroadsmart.com/media-policy/research-and-policy. This transparency allows the public and policymakers to review their findings and recommendations. These reports likely draw on data from real-world driving behaviors, accident statistics, and the outcomes of their training programs.
• Evidence-Based Advocacy: By conducting research, IAM RoadSmart can provide evidence-based arguments to government bodies, advocating for improvements in road infrastructure, driver education standards, and enforcement policies. For example, research might highlight the impact of advanced driver training on reducing accident rates, or the benefits of specific road design changes. This contributes to a more informed policy-making process.

Charitable Initiatives and Volunteer Support

IAM RoadSmart’s status as a charity is clearly emphasized, with registration numbers provided for both England & Wales 249002 and Scotland SC041201. This status underpins their commitment to social good.

• Volunteer Support Fund: They highlight their “Volunteer Support Fund,” a new initiative designed “to remove barriers and provide adjustments to our volunteers impacted by a disability or health condition” iamroadsmart.com/get-involved/volunteer-support-fund. This is a commendable effort to support the very individuals who are the “lifeblood of what we do,” ensuring inclusivity within their volunteer base.
• People Power Campaign: The “People Power campaign” iamroadsmart.com/people-power further recognizes and celebrates the invaluable contributions of their volunteers, without whom their mission would be impossible. This campaign highlights the human element behind their widespread impact.
• Gift Aid: For UK taxpayers, they promote the “Gift Aid declaration form” iamroadsmart.com/campaign-pages/end-customer-campaigns/giftaid, allowing them to reclaim 25p for every £1 donated at no extra cost to the donor. This maximizes the impact of charitable contributions towards their road safety initiatives.

Community Engagement and Local Groups

The “Our Community” section proudly states that it’s “made up of over 68,000 members nationally, 160 groups, and 5,000 volunteers.” Vizubinvestment.com Review

• Local Group Activities: These groups, run by volunteers, are vital for delivering courses and fostering local engagement. They enable members to “share ideas and contribute to IAM RoadSmart’s important work in developing and promoting innovative road safety strategies.”
• Grassroots Impact: The decentralized nature of these groups allows IAM RoadSmart to have a pervasive presence across the UK, reaching communities at a grassroots level and tailoring some activities to local needs.

In essence, IAM RoadSmart’s influence extends far beyond individual training sessions, contributing to a safer road environment through strategic research, policy advocacy, and robust community engagement underpinned by a strong charitable ethos.

FAQ

What is iamroadsmart.com?

Iamroadsmart.com is the official website for IAM RoadSmart, a national road safety charity based in the UK, established in 1956, dedicated to improving the skills of drivers and riders to make roads safer.

What services does IAM RoadSmart offer?

IAM RoadSmart offers a range of courses including Advanced Driving, Advanced Riding, Driving for Work, and a Drink Drive Rehabilitation program, along with free taster sessions and a membership community.

Is IAM RoadSmart a charity?

Yes, IAM RoadSmart is a registered charity in England & Wales Charity Number 249002 and Scotland Charity Number SC041201.

What is the IAM RoadSmart mission?

Their mission is to promote being a force for good with skills development and education at the core of what they do, teaching post-licence holders new skills to create fulfilling and safe journeys on the road. Mentoga.com Review

Does IAM RoadSmart offer advanced driving courses?

Yes, they offer comprehensive Advanced Driving and Advanced Riding courses designed to enhance skill, control, and confidence for experienced road users.

What is the Rider Development Session?

The Rider Development Session is a 4-hour on-road training costing £95, tailored to give riders additional knowledge and skills for safer and more fulfilling riding.

What is the Driving Skills Refresher course?

The Driving Skills Refresher course costs £125 and is designed to help drivers regain confidence, update their knowledge, or enhance their driving abilities, often in their own vehicle.

Can I try a course before I buy it?

Yes, IAM RoadSmart offers free driving and riding taster sessions for those interested in their Advanced Driver or Rider Course.

What is the IAM RoadSmart Drink Drive Rehabilitation program?

The iamroadsmart.com/drink-drive program is a course designed to educate individuals who have committed drink-driving offenses, aiming to prevent re-offending and promote responsible choices.

How many members does IAM RoadSmart have?

IAM RoadSmart has a community of over 68,000 members nationally.

How many local groups does IAM RoadSmart have?

They have approximately 160 groups across the UK, all run by volunteers.

Does IAM RoadSmart do research and lobbying?

Yes, they are passionate about keeping road users safe and lobby the government to influence road safety policy, providing their manifesto, research reports, and policies on their website.

What is the Volunteer Support Fund?

The Volunteer Support Fund is a new initiative by IAM RoadSmart to remove barriers and provide adjustments to their volunteers impacted by a disability or health condition.

How do I become an IAM RoadSmart member?

You can find out more about becoming a member by clicking on the “Click here to find out more about becoming a member” link on their homepage iamroadsmart.com/membership.

What is the “People Power” campaign?

The “People Power” campaign is an initiative by IAM RoadSmart to recognize and celebrate the vital contributions of their volunteers who are essential to their mission.

Does IAM RoadSmart offer corporate or business training?

Yes, they have a dedicated commercial website for businesses looking for advice or training for their employees iamcommercial.co.uk.

What is Gift Aid and how does it relate to IAM RoadSmart?

Gift Aid allows IAM RoadSmart, as a charity, to reclaim 25p for every £1 donated by a UK taxpayer, at no extra cost to the donor, maximizing charitable contributions.

Is IAM RoadSmart affiliated with any insurance companies?

Yes, IAM RoadSmart has an “official insurance partner” named Cornmarket, which offers competitive insurance deals to their members for car, motorbike, home, travel, and GAP insurance.

How can I log in to my IAM RoadSmart account?

You can log in to your account via the “Log in” link on the homepage iamroadsmart.com/home/login or access your dashboard through iamroadsmart.com/my-dashboard.

Where can I find the terms and conditions for IAM RoadSmart?

The terms and conditions for IAM RoadSmart are linked in the footer of their website under “Terms” iamroadsmart.com/terms-and-conditions.