Each newbie driver is different – some newbie drivers take over the steering wheel as if they were born to drive, whereas other drivers struggle with the idea of driving even when they are simply driving around the corner.
On that note, if you are a driver and you feel nervous, you should know that you aren’t alone. Understandably, you are new to driving as you have just passed your test. The more time you spend on the roads, the better you will get at driving.
The more experience you will gain, the more confident you will feel.
The following tips can help.
Plan the Route
As a newbie driver, you should plan your route in advance. The rule applies even when you are planning to drive down the street to the shop at the corner. As a new driver, you will be taking some time to build up your muscle memory, which is why you need to pay attention to the route of your journeys.
When planning the route, also look out for some alternative routes that you can take in case something unexpected comes up. While you are at it, also consider the time of the day as the traffic flow is different for the different hours. Simultaneously, check the weather conditions.
For instance, if it is snowing, then you are more likely to experience poor visibility, in which case, you will have to adapt your driving strategy and drive slower.
Get Familiar with Car Controls
Another rule to follow as a newbie driver is to get familiar with the car controls. You might have understood everything in theory, but for effective driving and safe driving, you must familiarize yourself with the functionality of the controls.
By familiarizing yourself with the controls, you will know what to use in which situation. You will also develop muscle memory and use controls without having to look for them. Also, by familiarizing yourself with the controls, you will accumulate some extra reaction time for yourself, which is why you must familiarize yourself with the different car controls.
While you are at it, get to know the controls for the following:
- Hazards
- Fog lights
- Headlights
Also, if you have a modern car that comes with screen-based technology, it is in your best interest to get a feel of the controls as a way to eliminate the chances of distraction while you are driving.
Go for Test Drives
As a newbie driver, you might have gotten a car just recently, which is why you must ensure that your car is running all right. It all starts with the moment when you buy a car, which can also be second-hand. On that note, it is essential to take your car on a test drive before you pay for the car.
In case of a second-hand car, make sure to take someone who is familiar with cars and has been driving for some time with you so that they can double-check the car and ensure that it is running okay and that you won’t have any problems later.
Nonetheless, once you have the car, opt for regular car maintenance as a safety measure to ensure that your car doesn’t break down in the middle of the road. When it comes to regular car maintenance, check for the following:
- Check brake
- Check tire
- Check fluids
- Check fuel
- Check coolant
- Check battery
- Opt for screen wash
- Check engine air filter
Also, take your car to the mechanic once a week to ensure that everything is running smoothly and that your car won’t break down in the middle of the road.
Adjust the Driving Position
You should take your time to adjust to the idea of driving and find the right driving position. Being comfortable is incredibly important to prevent accidents. On that note, you should know that even the slightest distraction while driving can lead to an accident.
Speaking of accidents, you should know what to do in case you get into an accident. For instance, if you reside in Denver, you should get in touch with personal injury lawyers in Denver, as they can help you with dealing with the at-fault driver’s insurance company and ensure you are rightfully compensated.
Nonetheless, speaking of driving positions, adjust your seat in a way that your feet can easily reach the brakes so you can maneuver the car effortlessly while driving. Apart from the seat, make sure to adjust your steering wheel so that your hands can easily steer the wheel and rest on the steering wheel when you aren’t driving.
When adjusting your seat, make sure that you are sitting high enough to be able to see the car’s bonnet. However, avoid sitting up too high. Only drive the car and take it on the roads when you are happy with the driving position.
Here is the thing: you can only drive well if you feel comfortable while driving. So, ensure your comfort even if it means that you have to make a few upgrades to the car, such as changing the material of the seats or getting a new steering wheel.
Stay Observant
While driving on the roads, you have to stay observant and keep scanning the roads and the incoming traffic. The thing is that it doesn’t matter whether you have been driving the car for a few days or for years; you must stay alert on the streets and keep observing and scanning.
On that note, you should know what is happening around you. It wouldn’t be wrong to state that you should develop a third eye to detect any movement. You get the point – keep your eyes moving and avoid having a fixed stare, as it can cause you to zone out, which can increase the chances of getting into an accident. By moving your eyes constantly, you can stay mentally alert and actively notice what is going on around you and on the roads. This is also an effective way to learn defensive driving and avoid sudden collisions.
