Becoming a new driver is an exciting milestone, but with it comes the responsibility for your actions on the road. Inexperienced drivers are more likely to get into accidents, simply because they are new. Read on to receive actionable advice on how young drivers can drive safely.
Basics Are Key
Before you even hit the road, you need to make sure your vehicle is all set. Check your mirrors and adjust your seat for the best visibility and comfort. Make yourself aware of what the most critical dash controls are and how to use them — such as the lights, windshield wipers, and hazard lights. Also, if you know where your car has a blind spot, it reduces the probability of having an accident.
Regular maintenance inspections are just as vital. Be sure to keep your tire pressure at its proper levels to prevent blowouts and have better gas mileage. Check your oil, brake fluid, and coolant levels to keep it driving for optimal performance. Test all of your lights and signals before driving.
Drive Defensively
Being a defensive driver is a key part of driving and it is something all drivers, including new ones, must learn. This includes being able to predict where danger may be present and use your knowledge to prevent injuries.
Keeping a safe following distance is a basic technique that provides drivers enough time to react to abrupt stops or changes in traffic conditions. Always look one step ahead of the road condition and observe your environment including other vehicles and pedestrians. This allows you to spot dangers before they become hazards. When dealing with aggressive drivers, try to remain cool and collected. Do not look them in the eye, do not pick a fight, and let them by to keep yourself safe.
Avoid Distractions
Distracted driving is a major reason why so many accidents happen, according to the Chicago car accident lawyers at Clifford Law Offices. Typical distractions are:
- using mobile devices
- eating or drinking while driving
- distraction through other passengers
To avoid distractions, make sure you have your GPS and playlist ready to go before taking off. Take advantage of hands-free devices to make and receive calls and avoid distractions by constantly keeping your focus on the road ahead of you.
Speed Management
Speed management is essential if you want to be a safe driver. There is very little doubt that there is a direct correlation between speed and crashes. Drive with care, stay within the speed limit, and move according to road conditions. School zones and residential areas are more likely spots for pedestrians and children, so use extra attention. Gradually accelerate and decelerate to be in better control of your vehicle and avoid the heavy braking that can result in a rear-end accident.
Dealing with Various Street Conditions
Driving in poor climate conditions calls for special handling. Weather conditions like rain, snow, and fog can affect visibility and grip. Use your headlamps correctly and allow a safe following distance in conditions like these. Drive slowly and smoothly to avoid skidding. Heavy traffic requires patience and a leisurely pace.
Use lower beams while driving during night time and drive slower to know where you are driving because low brightness; for the same reason you have to be more aware than in the morning.
Parking
Many new drivers have a parking issue, this however will only go away with time. Some of these common errors you will see are misjudging space and parking parallel or not checking enough for blind spots when backing up. To get better at parking practice in an empty parking lot, use mirrors, check your surroundings, turn your head, etc. Abide by various parking signs and regulations to avoid tickets and towing.
Responding to Emergencies
Being able to manage medical emergencies is key. So, the first thing to do to make sure you are alright in case of an accident with an injury is to call emergency services. Next, gather information, including the other party’s insurance and contact information. Inform the authorities about the accident at the earliest possible stage.
Vehicle breakdowns can also happen unplanned. Some items to include in your emergency car kit are a spare tire, jack and jumper cables, and other basic tools. Learn how to change a tire and check oil levels. Additionally, keep roadside service numbers for those situations.
By following these tips, young drivers can improve their confidence and make roadways safer for everyone.
