If you're a new driver, there are some things you need to know before getting behind the wheel. First, let us say, congratulations! Learning to drive is an exciting time in your life! You're becoming more independent – and with that independence comes more responsibility. You'll be learning how to share the road with other drivers and pedestrians as well as being responsible for the safety of anyone in or outside your vehicle. Driving is a privilege that should be enjoyed and taken seriously!
1. Take a New Driver Course
The best way to train as a new driver is by taking a driver course like Drivers Education. This class will give you the opportunity to practice with a skilled driving instructor in how to merge onto busy highways, change lanes in traffic, urban driving skills, parallel parking, and how to handle your vehicle in various weather conditions. A course like Drivers Education will prepare you for your driver’s test when you go to apply for your license. (Bonus: Many car insurance carriers will give you a discount on your car insurance coverage for taking Drivers Education – win, win!)
2. Keep Your Eyes on the Road and Hands on the Wheel
One of the biggest problems on the road today is the use of cell phones when driving. The National Safety Council recently stated that 1.6 million crashes each year are due to cell phone use and 1 out of 4 car accidents in the United States are caused by texting and driving. Many states are now giving tickets for being on your phone when driving, with serious penalties for anyone who violates this law. Using your phone when driving is simply not worth it! If you must use your phone, safely pull over in a parking lot or on the side of the road. You can adjust your maps and music when stopped at a stoplight or use updated technology features like Apple CarPlay and voice commands to answer texts, calls, change music, and update turn-by-turn directions while you drive.
3. Watch for Blind Spots
Before you put your car in gear, be sure to adjust your mirrors (rearview and side mirrors) as well as check for potential blind spots. Every car has blind spots and you will need to know where each one is to decrease the chances of potential collisions. Many new vehicles offer a Blind Spot Warning (BSW) system with cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors that will alert the driver to detect vehicles and pedestrians within a certain radius. It never hurts to have an extra pair of eyes on the road!
4. Use Your Blinkers
Using your turn signals properly will help other drivers and pedestrians know where you are going – preventing unnecessary crashes or confusion. Signal early, well before you turn, and be sure to turn your signal off after you have turned (most cars do this automatically). You will also want to use your turn signal when changing lanes or waiting for a parking spot to open up. Using your blinker is not only the proper way to drive, it is car-courtesy to everyone else on the road!
5. Be a Defensive Driver
Though we wish everyone on the road would look out for other drivers, we know that simply isn't true. For utmost safety, become a defensive driver yourself by being aware of your surroundings and paying attention while on the road. When following other cars on the highway, keep a 3-4 second distance behind the vehicle in case of sudden stops. Decrease the number of distractions in your car by using apps like Apple CarPlay to assist you in voice-texting, calls, changing music, or updating directions.
6. Obey All Traffic Laws
Being a good driver means abiding by the traffic laws set by the state. Adhere to the speed limits, traffic signs and signals, stay off your cellphone when driving, wear your seatbelt, and be aware of school zones, pedestrians, and construction sites.
7. Don't Drive Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol is not only a danger to you and your passengers – it is a danger to every other person on the road. Any amount of alcohol or drugs in your bloodstream can severely impair your driving ability. Driving tired, or with little to no sleep can also decrease your reaction time. To be a good driver, you must be sober and attentive – able to make good judgments and concentrate with a clear mind.
8. Be Prepared for Weather
Depending on where you live, you will need to know the difference between driving on dry roads vs. driving in rain, snow, or sleet. Weather conditions severely impact our driving ability and many times, it is simply smarter to just stay home if the road is icy or if visibility is down due to a snowstorm. Always keep a first-aid kit and emergency items in your trunk (with a blanket, water, batteries, flashlight, and food) in case you run into unexpected weather.
9. Wear Your Seatbelt
Wearing your seatbelt is not only a traffic law – wearing a seat belt will dramatically reduce the risk of serious injury or death in the case of an on-road collision. Seat belts are made to keep drivers and passengers safely in place during impact and are designed to work alongside your airbags if they deploy.
10. Keep Your Car Running in Good Condition
Taking your car in for regular maintenance will prevent car issues from becoming big problems on the road. Your car dealership or mechanic will check your car oil and fluid levels, air filters, tire pressure and tread, turn signals, and brakes.
At Bob Penkhus Motor Company, your safety is our top priority. Stop into one of our showrooms to get your vehicle inspected by our team of car experts or to test drive a new vehicle. Don't feel comfortable coming in person? That's okay. Schedule a maintenance pick-up or virtual car tour today!
- Your friends at Bob Penkhus