After getting your driver’s license, you will surely be eager to hit the roads and drive around legally. But as a new driver, the experience can be a bit overwhelming. You now have a responsibility—not just to drive, but to drive safely.
Despite passing the driving exam, you should not neglect the rules and tips you previously learned. Becoming familiar with them will keep you safe and out of accidents and trouble. In this article, we will look at some useful tips for new drivers on the roads.
10 Safety Tips New Drivers Should Consider
If you are a new driver, here are some tips you should keep in mind whenever you prepare to drive:
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Follow Traffic Rules
You have probably heard this repeatedly in your driving lessons, but we will remind you again. Traffic rules are there for a reason—to keep you and other drivers on the road safe. Make sure you obey all the traffic signals and signs whenever you drive.
Also, always be alert around construction zones.
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Always Wear Your Seatbelt
Another rule you hear all the time is always wearing your seatbelts. Seat belts reduce the risk of injury by 50 percent and death by 45 percent. Always ensure you and everyone in your car put on a seatbelt before you begin driving.
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Avoid Impaired Driving
Drunk driving or driving under drugs at any point is dangerous – for you and everyone on the road. It is an established cause of car accidents in the U.S. If you must go somewhere drunk or after consuming another drug, consider ride-sharing or have a friend pick you up.
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Avoid Overspeeding
It isn’t easy to control a vehicle when moving too fast. This can be very dangerous and lead to serious collisions. Always make sure you are driving according to the speed limit.
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Maintain the Car
Always make sure to prioritize vehicle maintenance. Consider things like tire pressure, oil change, brake fluid, coolant levels, brake pads, gas, etc. When your car is properly working, you will not have to worry about breakdowns and some easily-avoidable accidents.
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Avoid Distractions
Distracted driving is recognized as a leading cause of car accidents. Distractions take away your attention from driving and can cause accidents. As a new driver, refrain from eating, texting, calling, talking, or engaging in other non-driving activities.
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Avoid Tailgating
Try to leave a significant amount of space between your vehicle and the driver in front of you. This will help you avoid a collision if the vehicle in front stops abruptly.
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Make Use of Indicators
Remember to use your indicators whenever you need to change lanes or make turns. This will signal the other drivers to know what to expect.
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Anticipate Accidents
Accidents can happen despite following all safety rules. As such, it is important to be prepared if it happens to you. An emergency kit in your car will come in handy whenever the need arises.
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Do Not Ignore the Weather
Harsh weather conditions can cause accidents due to their effects on the road and the surrounding. Navigating the road while driving may become quite difficult in bad weather conditions. If you can, avoid driving in dangerous weather conditions.
Conclusion
Being a new driver comes with great responsibility, and it’s crucial to prioritize safety on the road. Following traffic rules, wearing seatbelts, avoiding impaired driving, and maintaining the car are key aspects of safe driving. As a new driver, being cautious on the road should not be taken for granted. To drive each time safely, we advise new drivers to keep in mind these safety tips we have highlighted.
