Congratulations! You’ve finally received your driver’s license and are ready to hit the road and enjoy your vacation. Whether you are just driving to your holiday destination or whether you are driving around on a touring holiday you will need some tips to help keep you safe. And remember, for more tips on safe driving and insurance, check out 123.ie’s insurance tips for new drivers.
Driving can be a very rewarding experience, but it can also be dangerous if you’re not careful.
As they say, with great power comes great responsibility. So here are 10 tips to help you become a better driver.
1) Control Your Speed
Did you know that the fatal crash rate of teenage drivers is triple the rate for drivers over 20?
One of the main reasons for this is that teenagers often drive too fast.
Whether it’s for the thrill or to impress their friends, it can be tempting to skirt the rules and do your own thing.
However, by doing so, you run the risk of endangering not only the vehicle but also your and your passengers’ lives.
Resist the temptation to speed and take your time when driving, especially in unfamiliar areas.
2) Follow the Rules of the Road
Don’t take what you learned in driving school for granted.
When you’re driving, be sure to follow all traffic signs and signals.
This includes stopping at red lights and stop signs, yielding to pedestrians and other vehicles, and watching the speed limit.
3) Wear Your Seatbelt
This one might seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many drivers don’t wear their seatbelt.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), wearing a seatbelt can reduce the risk of serious injury in a car crash by as much as 50%.
Seatbelts are also required by law in Australia for people aged 7 and above, so there’s really no excuse not to wear one.
4) Don’t Drive Drunk
In Australia, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.05% or higher.
And if you’re caught driving drunk, you can face heavy fines and even jail time.
So if you’re ever thinking of going to a party or getting drinks with friends, be sure to have a plan for getting home safely.
5) Keep a Safe Distance from Other Vehicles
One of the most important things you can do as a driver is to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
The reason? If you tail them too closely, you might not have enough time to brake in the event of an emergency.
This can cause a collision, which is not only expensive but can also be potentially life-threatening.
Maintain a two-second buffer between your car and the one in front of you, and be especially wary of large trucks and buses. These short moments can make all the difference between life and death.
6) Be Aware of Your Surroundings
As a new driver, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings at all times.
This means checking your mirrors regularly, scanning the road ahead and to the sides, and being aware of potential hazards.
Even just a momentary glance at your phone or at your passenger can lead to disaster.
Stay alert and focused when driving, and be prepared for anything that might happen.
7) Use Your Turn Signal
Using your turn signal is crucial when changing lanes.
Not only does it let other drivers know your intentions, but it also prevents collisions by ensuring that everyone is aware of your movements.
Turn signals help you communicate your intentions to other drivers, so be sure to use them whenever you need to make a change. Don’t change lanes too often, though.
8) Don’t Drive When Tired
Fatigue, whether it’s caused by overwork, sleeplessness, or other forms of stress, is a leading cause of car accidents.
If you’re feeling tired, pull over and take a break. Get some fresh air, drink some water, and rest your eyes for a while. You’ll be safer and more alert when you get back on the road.
8) Keep Your Car’s Health in Good Shape
Another important factor in safe driving is making sure your car is in good condition.
This means keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure, maintaining good brakes and steering, and keeping all of your lights and signaling devices in working order.
If you’re not sure how to do any of these things, take your car to a mechanic. You can also consider getting your car insured to save money on repairs. Companies like NRMA protect you and your vehicle in the event of accidents, theft, fire, flood or even storm damage.
9) Don’t Drive Distracted
It’s essential to put your phone and other forms of distraction away and concentrate on the road, especially if you’re still starting out.
Texting, eating, and calls can all be done at a later time.
10) Get Comfortable Before Driving
Before going out for a drive, always check your accessories to see if they’re in position. Are your mirrors angled the right way? Are you comfortable in your seat?
Make any necessary adjustments as needed before you start driving.
