Are you a new driver? Many people transition from new to experienced drivers after learning the ins and outs of driving.
Sometimes, people don’t transition completely. They’re superstitious about certain driving habits, wary of certain situations, or have certain driving tips they always follow.
While everyone has their driving habits, there are some common driving tips you should follow no matter who you are. Some safety tips might seem redundant, but you increase your safety the more you can internalize safe driving habits.
Here is a driving guide to help improve the safety and proficiency of drivers of all ages.
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Always Wear Your Seatbelt
Studies have shown that wearing a seatbelt can reduce the risk of fatal injury in a car accident by up to 45%. It is not only required by law in most places but also a common-sense safety measure.
The seatbelt is designed to restrain the driver and passengers during sudden stops or accidents. When a car stops suddenly, everything inside the car, including the driver and passengers, continues to move forward at the same speed the car was moving before stopping. Without a seatbelt, the person inside the car would keep moving until something stops them – often resulting in severe injury or even death.
Many new drivers may feel that seatbelts are uncomfortable, but it is essential to wear them. The discomfort of wearing a seatbelt pales compared to the pain and trauma caused by a car accident. Even if you are driving slowly, wearing a seatbelt can protect you from serious injury.
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Staying Focused on the Road
It is vital to avoid distractions such as texting, eating, or adjusting the radio while driving. Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents, and new drivers are particularly susceptible to this as they are still learning the ropes of driving.
It is important to keep your eyes on the road and be aware of your surroundings. It means avoiding the temptation to use your phone while driving or looking away from the road for extended periods. Doing so puts you and other road users at risk and can lead to accidents.
As a new driver, it can be easy to get distracted by passengers in the car. Talking to passengers or turning to look at them for an extended period can take your attention away from the road. Therefore, it is important to minimize these distractions and focus on the task at hand.
If you need to make a phone call or send a text, pull over to a safe location and do it then. You should also ensure your phone is silent while driving to avoid being distracted by notifications.
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Following Traffic Rules and Signs
These rules and signs are designed to keep drivers and pedestrians safe, and disobeying them can lead to common injuries a car accident can cause.
Speed limits are one of the most important traffic rules to follow, as they help ensure that you are driving at a safe speed for the road conditions. It is also important to come to a complete stop at stop signs and red lights and to yield to pedestrians and other vehicles when necessary.
As a new driver, it is essential to pay close attention to road signs that indicate one-way streets, lane closures, or construction zones. These signs are designed to alert drivers to potential hazards and help them navigate the road safely.
It is also important to be aware of school zones and to slow down when driving near schools. Children may not always be mindful of their surroundings, so it is up to drivers to exercise caution and keep them safe.
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Proper Vehicle Maintenance
Maintaining your vehicle is essential to ensure its safety, reliability, and longevity. Regular car inspections can help you avoid costly repairs and breakdowns. To keep your vehicle, you should perform frequent oil changes, check the tire pressure, brakes, and fluids, replace filters, and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.
Oil changes are crucial for the engine’s health, and it is recommended to change the oil and oil filter every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, depending on the type of oil and the make and model of your vehicle. Checking the tire pressure is also essential for your vehicle’s safety and performance. Check the tire pressure regularly and keep it within the recommended range.
Brakes are one of the most critical safety features of your vehicle. Ensure that your brakes are checked regularly and replace them if they show signs of wear. Additionally, checking the fluids, including coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, is necessary for your vehicle’s performance and safety. Top up or replace these fluids as necessary.
Air and cabin filters help keep your vehicle’s engine and interior clean and healthy. Replace these filters at regular intervals to ensure optimal performance. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, which provides a maintenance schedule outlining the recommended service intervals. Following this schedule will help you keep your vehicle in top condition.
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Practice Mindful Driving
Driving at a safe speed is a critical aspect of safe driving for new drivers. Speeding increases the risk of accidents and is a leading cause of fatal crashes. Adjusting your speed to match the road conditions, such as weather, traffic, and visibility is essential.
As a new driver, staying within the posted speed limit is important. The speed limit is determined based on various factors such as road design, traffic volume, and pedestrian activity. Respecting it is essential to ensure the safety of yourself and other road users.
In addition to staying within the speed limit, adjusting your speed in adverse weather conditions is essential. For example, you should slow down in heavy rain or snow, as these conditions reduce visibility and traction, making it more challenging to control your vehicle.
Another critical factor to consider when adjusting your speed is traffic. If you are driving in heavy traffic, it is essential to slow down and maintain a safe following distance to avoid accidents. Rushing or weaving through traffic puts you and other drivers at risk and is a recipe for disaster.
Observe These Driving Tips Today
New drivers must always remain vigilant when navigating the road. They should remember to stay calm, be aware of their surroundings, and practice safe driving habits. With the driving tips from this article, new drivers can better handle the stress and responsibility of driving.
Drive safely and enjoy the journey!
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