If you’re a new driver and are looking for a simple guide on how to drive from a to b safely, simply continue reading to discover a few invaluable tips to keep in mind!
A beginners guide to driving safely:
1. Make sure to increase your following distance in inclement weather
When it’s raining, foggy or snowing, it’s important to increase your following distance between your car and the car which is in-front of your car. As if you lose control of your car due to snow or a wet road or can’t see properly in the fog, you’ll still be able to stop safely, without running the risk of crashing into the car in front of you.
It’s particularly useful to increase your following distance by a couple of seconds on highways, where you’ll be driving at speed. As the faster you’re driving, the more damage you’ll to your car and your body if you’re involved in a collision.
2. Make sure that your tyres are in great condition
One of the reasons why many drivers lose control of their vehicles is that their tyres are bald or punctured and no longer have enough grip. So, it’s a great idea to check the condition of your tyres frequently in order to know if you need replacement tyres before they become a driving hazard.
3. Ensure that your seat and your wing mirrors are in the right position
If you share your car with another individual or you hire rental cars on a semi-regular basis, make sure to adjust your seat and your wing mirrors to suit your height and body, before you start driving again.
4. While you should never speed, make sure that you don’t drive too slowly either
If you drive too slowly you can also become a moving hazard and may cause other vehicles to crash into you. So it’s well worth driving at a safe, medium speed.
5. Put your phone away before you start driving
You’d be surprised at just how many individuals think it’s safe to check their social media accounts or text messages when their car is stopped at a set of traffic lights. As grabbing your phone instinctively can be extremely dangerous, it’s a great idea to get into the wise habit of placing your phone in your glove box or in a bag on your back seat, before you start driving.
It’s also wise to put your phone away when you’re driving as talking on a smart phone and driving with one hand is an idiotic move to make.
6. Make sure that you and all of your passengers have your seat belts secured at all times
Not only should you secure your own seatbelt before you start driving, regardless of whether you’re just driving down the road or you plan on driving for several hours but you should also check that each of your passengers is safely buckled up as a safe, responsible driver.
7. Train yourself to be able to point out potential hazards
As an example, children playing soccer next to a road could be a potential hazard as well as a pair of cyclists who are illegally cycling side by side.
So there you have it, 7 simple tips that you should keep in mind as a new driver. All of which are designed to keep yourself and others safe on the road!
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