Advice For New Drivers
Editorial Idea - Young drivers have always been involved in a disproportionate number of accidents. It’s the skills you learn in driving school, not the license in your pocket, that will help you.
Advice For New Drivers
Young drivers have always been involved in a disproportionate number of accidents. In fact, people under age 20 make up five percent of drivers, but account for 10 percent of traffic fatalities. Without running through all the rules of safe driving, here are a few tips new drivers should keep in mind when they hit the road, regardless of their age.
Investigate driving schools thoroughly before choosing one. Check out exactly what and how you’ll be taught, and switch schools if you’re not satisfied. Don’t look for shortcuts. Passing a driving test doesn’t necessarily mean you’re a competent driver. It’s the skills you learn in driving school, not the license in your pocket, that will determine your abilities behind the wheel.
If your driving experience has been mostly under ideal conditions, be ready to adjust when the road conditions change, such as in snow and rain. That means decreasing your speed and increasing the distance between you and other vehicles.
Like weather conditions, nightfall affects how you should drive. At night, you can see only one-sixth the distance as during the day. Your forward view is limited by the range of your headlights, and in rain, snow or fog, that range is limited even more. Reduce your speed accordingly.
Do you have night myopia? You may not realize this until you start driving at night, but if you have trouble focusing and seeing in the dark, make an appointment with your eye doctor.
As a passenger you may not pay much attention to the route. When you’re driving, however, you must be ready to make all your moves. Plan your route before you head off, and anticipate things like exits. Making hesitant or sudden lane changes or turns puts everyone on the road at risk.
“Don’t drink and drive” is one of the most important safety rules for all ages. This is even more important for people who are inexperienced with the effects of alcohol or who don’t drink often. If you’re out with friends where alcohol is served, appoint a designated driver. If you’re a passenger, never get into the car with a driver who has been drinking. Keep some extra money on hand for a cab, or get a ride with someone else.
Just because you have your license doesn’t mean your driving education has to end. Other defensive driving programs can increase your safety skills. It’s a lot cheaper investment than paying for accident repairs or higher insurance rates.