As a new driver on the road, you are likely really concerned about being behind the wheel without the buffer of a driving instructor. It’s normal to worry about your first timeout without supervision, but it doesn’t mean that you are going to be bad at it. The important thing to remember is that no one would pass you as someone who can drive on the road if you were not ready for it. Given the statistics that are bombarded to every new driver, you’re going to feel apprehensive, but you can drive – all you need to do is think about being safe.
Sure, the idea of being in a car wreck is scary and it’s one thing that you definitely want to avoid – but here is the thing: taking the right precautions will ensure that you can avoid those accidents and be the best you can be on the road.
Below, we’ve put together some tips for being safe on the road as a new driver.
- Never, ever, ever forget your seatbelt. The road accident facts out there will tell you that more deaths occur for those who do not wear a seatbelt. Sure, the risk of an accident happening to you at any time is low, but that doesn’t mean that you should take the risk and leave yours off. Seatbelts are there to save your life – use it and save it yourself!
- The speed limit is there for a good reason. Yes, cars can top 240mph in some cases, but that doesn’t mean that you should drive that fast. Plan ahead for any routes you’re not familiar with and make sure that you don’t speed while you are going. You’ll save so much money on traffic tickets if you just drive the speed limit. Remember what your instructor taught you about distances and stick to those!
- Put down the phone and stop using it while you’re moving in your car. If you have to answer a call, park up somewhere safe and don’t touch the phone until the engine of the car is off. If you get caught with your phone in your hands and your engine on, you’re going to risk being arrested.
- Keep your hands under wraps. Food? Eat it when parked. Makeup? Apply it when parked. Anything you want to do that differs from driving, do it when parked. You do not need to multitask while you drive: you are a good enough driver, but you are going to put other people at risk while you’re driving otherwise!
- There is nothing more fun than having a good drink and dancing with the girls on a night out, and yet you can do that while you are taking public transport or taxis! Drinking and driving will not only land you in prison, you can land yourself in the morgue. Let’s avoid anything other than soft drinks while you are in the car and remain as safe as possible as a result!
