6 Life-Saving Driving Tips for Every First-Time Driver

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. These helpful driving tips for new drivers include:

1. Start by Familiarizing Yourself with the Car that You’re Driving

Whether you’re planning on taking the driving test with a brand new car or an old car, it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with the car. This means familiarizing yourself with all of the buttons and switches on the centre 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

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. Always Have a Safety Kit in Your Car 

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. Always Pay Attention to the Signs on the Road

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 to get faulted for a driving offence by Road Safety officers.

5. Avoid 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. Cell phone use while driving leads to millions of car crashes every year. Don’t be a statistic and remember to put your phone away while driving. That text you received can wait a few minutes.

6. Don’t Let Your Passengers Distract You

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 can also be a distraction when they want to share the latest TikTok video 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.

Conclusion

There’s 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.