Are you just about to get your driver’s license or are enrolled in a driver’s training course? If so, then you’re probably overwhelmed with learning all of the rules of the road and how to drive a car. However, there are some key tips that you should remember whether you’re a new driver or have some experience under your belt.
1. Familiarize yourself with the car that you’re driving
A teen driver gets familiar with a car. | Getty Images
Whether you’re planning on taking the driving test with a brand new car or your mom’s 87 Volvo station wagon, it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with the car. According to the folks at Driving Tests, this means familiarizing yourself with all of the buttons and switches on the center console, where turn signals are, where the wipers are, etc.
By familiarizing yourself with the car that you’re driving, you likely do better on your driving test and you’ll feel more comfortable driving it every day.
2. Always have a map or Google Maps available
A man using Google Maps on an iPhone. | Kevin Nixon/Future via Getty Images
Yes, having a foldable map in your car sounds really old school and it is, but it can be helpful. Cars have map pockets behind the two front seats for a reason, after all. However, if you don’t want to keep a map in your car then at least make sure you have access to your phone and can use Google Maps to show you where to go.
There’s nothing like having the freedom to explore by driving a car, only to end up getting lost.
3. Having a safety kit in your car can be a lifesaver
It’s a good idea to keep a small safety kit in your car in case it breaks down in the middle of nowhere. Sure, there’s a pretty slim chance of that happening, but in reality, you never know. Just make sure to pack things like a flashlight, jumper cables, spare batteries, and any other tools You never know when you may need them.
4. Pay attention to the signs on the road
A 35 mph speed limit sign. | Ben Hasty/MediaNews Group/Reading Eagle via Getty Images
If you have just started driving, then you have probably noticed all of the different signs on the road. Yes, there are speed limits to pay attention to on every road, but did you know that those limits can change as you drive further down those roads? It pays to always be aware of the signs, the last thing you want is a speeding or parking ticket that could have easily been prevented.
5. Don’t use your cell phone while driving
This one should go without saying, but it’s always worth noting. Please do not use your cell phone while driving. According to the National Safety Council, cell phone use while driving leads to about 1.6 million crashes every year. Don’t be a statistic and remember to put your phone away while driving. That text you received can most likely wait a few minutes.
6. Don’t let your passengers distract you
Two teen drivers cruise around in a car. | Carlos Alvarez/Getty Images
When you finally get your driver’s license, you’ll probably end up driving your friends around everywhere. Sure, your friends are fun, but they also are a distraction when they want to share the latest Snap Chat clip they made or turn up the radio. However, it’s best not to let them be a distraction to you as much as possible.
Just like using your cell phone, the passengers in your car can easily take your attention away from the road ahead, which can lead to an accident.
New drivers can be safe drivers
There’s definitely a lot to learn when you’re learning how to drive. Random road signs, distracting passengers, and your cell phone can all affect whether or not you get to your destination safely. Just remember to keep calm, know your car, and pay attention to the road. By doing so, you can keep yourself and the cars you share the road with as safe as possible.
Keyword: 6 Important Driving Tips for New Drivers