9 Safe Driving Tips For New Drivers
Sometimes, it can be overwhelming to think about all the things you need to do to stay safe while driving, especially when you’re a new driver on the block. The more experience you have, the easier it becomes to develop good habits behind the wheel. The safety Belt experts at Orion Safety Belts happen to be real professionals behind the wheel with a passion for teaching others to be safe drivers. Here are their 9 safe driving tips for new drivers. Once you have these down, driving will be a breeze!
1. Always Wear Your Seatbelt
This one seems like a no-brainer, but you would be surprised how many people still don’t buckle up every time they get in the car. Wearing your seatbelt is arguably the simplest and most effective way to protect yourself in the event of an accident. As a driver, you should also make sure that all your passengers are properly buckled up before setting off. Whether you are a new driver or a seasoned pro, it’s always important to set a good example when it comes to safety. So the next time you get in the car, make sure to buckle up!
2. Put Your Phone Away
It can be tempting to want to stay connected at all times, but when you’re behind the wheel, it’s important to resist the urge to check your phone. Even a quick glance at a text or email can take your attention away from the road for vital seconds, increasing your chances of getting into an accident. If you must use your phone while driving, pull over to a safe location first, park up and turn the car engine off before touching your phone. This is one rule that you should definitely follow, no matter how experienced a driver you are.
3. Know Your Vehicle inside out
Are you familiar with all the features of your car? Do you know how to use them properly? It’s important to get to know your vehicle inside out before hitting the road. This includes everything from understanding how your headlights work to knowing where your handbrake is located. The better you know your car, the more confident you’ll feel behind the wheel. And confidence is key to being a safe driver. Now that you’re new to the game, take some time to get to know your vehicle before taking it for a spin.
4. Obey The Speed Limit
One of the most important safe driving tips for new drivers is to obey the speed limit. This may seem like common sense, but speeding is one of the leading causes of accidents. If you’re new to driving, it can be tempting to want to go fast, but it’s important to resist that urge. Obeying the speed limit not only keeps you safe but also helps you avoid getting fined. And no one wants that! So stick to the posted speed limit, and you’ll be good. The speed limit is there for a reason, after all.
5. Be cautious in poor weather conditions
Bad weather can make driving conditions more difficult and dangerous. If you can, avoid driving in heavy rain or snow. If you must drive in bad weather, take it slow and be extra cautious. Leave extra space between you and the car in front of you, and give yourself more time to brake. It’s also a good idea to avoid using your cruise control in poor weather conditions. When the roads are wet or icy, it’s best to have full control over your vehicle. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. So when in doubt, just take it slow.
6. Don’t Drive Drowsy
Drowsy driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving. If you’re feeling tired, it’s best to pull over and rest. It’s also a good idea to avoid driving late at night or early in the morning when you’re likely to be tired. If you must drive during these times, make sure to get a good night’s sleep first and stop for coffee or energy drinks if you start to feel tired. The key here is to stay alert and focused on the road. Drowsy driving can be deadly, so make sure to stay awake and aware while behind the wheel.
7. Don’t Drive under the Influence
This one should go without saying, but we’ll say it anyway: don’t drink and drive. Driving under the influence is not only dangerous, but it’s also illegal. If you’re going to drink, make sure to have a designated driver or take a taxi. It’s not worth risking your life or the lives of others just to save a few bucks. So play it safe and don’t drink and drive. If you want to party, do it responsibly.
8. Use Your Mirrors
Using your mirrors is an important part of driving. You should use them to check your blind spots and see what’s going on behind you. It’s also a good idea to adjust your mirrors before you start driving. This will help you have a better view of the road and reduce blind spots. Make sure to check your mirrors regularly while driving, especially when changing lanes or making turns. If you’re not sure how to adjust your mirrors, ask a friend or family member for help.
9. Inspect Your Tyres Regularly
One of the most important parts of being a safe driver is making sure that your vehicle is in good working condition. This means regularly inspecting your tyres and making sure they’re properly inflated. It’s also a good idea to check your tyres for wear and tear. If you see any cracks or bald spots, it’s time for new tyres. This may seem like a pain, but it’s important to keep your tyres in good condition. Not only will it help you drive safely, but it will also improve your gas mileage.
There are a lot of rules to remember when driving, but it’s important to follow them all. This includes things like coming to a complete stop at stop signs and using your indicators when changing lanes. It may seem like a hassle to have to follow all these rules, but they’re there for a reason. They help keep everyone safe on the road. So make sure to follow them, and you’ll be good. When driving, always be on the lookout for potential hazards.
So there you have it, nine safe driving tips for new drivers. Just remember to take your time, be cautious, and stay alert, and you’ll be fine. Driving can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to always put safety first.