For the first time, you’re about to drive without your parents in the car and it’s exciting! You’re also nervous, though, especially if this is your first vehicle and you don’t know much about cars.
We’ve got some automotive tips that will make your driving experience as stress-free as possible so that you can focus on enjoying your freedom and making memories behind the wheel of your new ride.
Here are our top five automotive tips for new drivers that every driver should keep in mind:
Get to Know Your Car
Getting into the driver’s seat for the first time can be intimidating. But don’t worry, we’ve put together a list of five tips that every new driver needs to know.
- 1. The steering wheel is on the right-hand side of your car
- 2. The gas pedal is on the right-hand side of your car
- 2. The brake pedal is on the left-hand side of your car
- 3. Look ahead and not at the dashboard
- 4. Pull up on the gearshift lever to shift from park to drive
- 5. Push down on the gearshift lever when you want to stop your car. When driving with other people in the car, only one person should speak at a time so that everyone can hear what’s being said.
Don’t Drive Distracted
Driving distracted is a huge problem for new drivers. Texting, talking on the phone, or taking selfies while driving is just as dangerous as drinking and driving.
When you’re behind the wheel, you need your full attention focused on the road ahead of you – not your phone or friends. The result of being inattentive can be tragic.
So put down the cell phone, close out any open windows on your computer screen that are not essential to driving safely and get going!
Drive Defensively
Don’t be in a hurry when driving, especially if you’re on the highway or in heavy traffic. You should always drive defensively and know what is going on around you, which includes being aware of what is going on behind you as well.
This will help keep you safe and avoid becoming involved in an accident. Stay at least three seconds behind the vehicle in front of you to give yourself enough time to react if it suddenly stops.
Avoid driving distracted and always wear your seat belt for added safety. When following other drivers, don’t try to pass them by speeding up.
Be sure that the driver in front of you sees you coming before passing them on the right hand side.
If they do not see you coming and decide to make a turn without signaling first, it could cause an accident between both drivers since they are not expecting each other’s actions and movements.
Obey the Speed Limit
It is important that you obey the speed limit while driving. It is illegal to drive faster than the posted limit and if you get pulled over, you may be fined or even arrested.
There are many reasons why people are pulled over by police including speeding, running a red light or stop sign, talking on a cell phone without a hands-free device, texting while driving, and drunk driving.
If you think the officer has made an error in your ticketing process contact them right away so they can investigate.
Remember, it’s not just about obeying the law, it’s also about safety; driving too fast can result in accidents which could lead to injury or death. Be Nice: Driving takes patience and courtesy.
Don’t Drink and Drive
- 1) Don’t drink and drive. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is dangerous for you and everyone else on the road.
- 2) Make sure your windshield wipers work well in the rain, so you can see where you’re going.
- 3) Keep your car’s tires filled with air, so they don’t blow out unexpectedly. 4) Remember to wear a seat belt every time you get into your car, even if it’s just around town.
- 5) Be aware of distracted drivers–drivers who are talking on their phones, texting or eating while driving–and avoid getting near them. 6) Follow the speed limit, and never tailgate other vehicles. 7) When traveling long distances by car, be prepared with plenty of gas, water and food supplies in case of an emergency
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