Safety Tips And Tricks For New Drivers

As a new driver, there’s a lot to learn when out on the roads. Luckily, we’ve created a guide to help you stay safe, with our best tips and tricks for driving as someone who hasn’t been doing it for long.

SAFETY TIPS

Know Your Limits

Overconfidence is the nemesis of the new driver. Sure, you’ve earned your licence, but this doesn’t mean you’re suddenly a flawless motorist. Skills like hazard perception can take a long time to develop, and many young drivers take risks without even realising it. It’s important to build your experience up slowly, so don’t be tempted to tackle marathon journeys or complex routes straight away.

Stick To Suitable Speeds

Having access to so much power at the press of a pedal can be an intoxicating feeling, but don’t fall into the trap of thinking you’re at Mondelo park each time you climb into the driver’s seat. As well as risking convictions, driving too fast could endanger you, your passengers and other road users. Also, when you’re on winding country roads, bear in mind that the speed limit is not a target. Depending on the road and weather conditions, you might have to drive significantly slower than the limit to stay safe.

Resist Peer Pressure

Peer pressure can prove deadly on the motorways, so don’t let your friends encourage you to do risky things on the roads. According to Brake, the road safety charity, young drivers are four times more likely to die in road accidents when carrying their peers as passengers than they were when driving alone. However they are much less likely to have fatal accidents when carrying older passengers, proving peer pressure has a huge effect on young peoples’ driving.

Steer Clear Of Distractions

All drivers need to pay full attention to the road, and this is especially important for inexperienced motorists. Snacking on a sandwich, sending texts and speaking to people on the phone can all seriously compromise your concentration. All it takes for a crash to occur is a momentary lapse of focus. To help you keep your mind in gear, try to avoid any distractions and consider switching your phone off when you get behind the wheel.

Don’t Drive Under The Influence

We all know that we shouldn’t drink or take drugs and drive, but sometimes the lines can become blurred, especially if you find yourself driving to parties or to the pub. In situations like this, you’ll need to be strong and say no. Being even slightly under the influence of drink or drugs can be very dangerous and could land you in major legal trouble.

TRICKS FOR NEW DRIVERS

To help you develop your driving knowledge and give yourself an easier intro to driving, there are some great tricks you should be aware of.

Keep Your Car In Good Running Condition

If your car runs smoothly, you’re less likely to run into any problems while driving. This means you’ll be able to focus on driving well and getting to your destination, rather than worrying about the technical aspects of your car.

Adjust Your Accessories

Make sure your seat is comfortable and your mirrors are in the right place before you start moving. Once you’re happy with the position of everything, you’ll be able to drive away in full confidence that you’ll be able to see everything going on next to and behind you.

Watch The Weather

Check the forecast before you set off so you know exactly what to expect on your journey. We’d also recommend going out in all types of weather when you can, just for a short drive, so you can get used to driving in those conditions.

Set Yourself Goals

Put together a plan to build your confidence as a new driver, slowly adding more and more types of driving. Try the motorway with an experienced driver in the passenger seat, drive a short way to your friend’s house or head out in the heavy rain for a 10 minute spin.

Driving is always associated with an element of risk, but by following tips like these, you can stand a much better chance of avoiding accidents.Car insurance is something that you do not want to take a risk with. So give us a call on 01 400 3400 or get a Quick Quote and let us help you get the right policy.