Driving as a beginner can be challenging because of the fear that you will likely make a mistake and be on the wrong side of the law. Any worries will culminate to fear, and this will cause you to make mistakes. The bottom line for successful and safe driving for a beginner is confidence. Before you get the car to the road, make sure you are confident with your skills and the car that you are driving. That way, you will not be intimidated by other road users and will make decisions without fear.
Here are nine tips that you should consider to improve your safety driving as a beginner:
1. Acquire adequate knowledge.
Successful drivers have both theoretical and practical knowledge about driving. Texas state has a robust driving curriculum that will ensure that your tutor guides you through the most critical elements that will help you qualify as a driver. Visit texasapprovedcourses.com/approved-defensive-driving-list/ to select a course that will kick-start your driving journey.
2. Clear all intersections.
More than half of the intersection accidents happen a few seconds after changing of the lights. When you are the first driver at the stop light, and the lights go green, make sure you quickly look both ways to ensure that traffic is not moving. Do not hold the mentality that other drivers will automatically stop, instead, take your time and check.
3. Ignore any tailgating.
Because you are a new driver, tailgating will confuse you and intimidate you to speed up. Get used to tailgating as it is part of driving and particularly in metropolitan areas. If by any chance you end up in an accident after speeding up, the authorities will not consider that other drivers intimated you.
4. Before getting on the road, learn basic car mechanics.
Your car can break down anywhere and anytime. Sometimes it will be because of basic problems. You cannot assume that other road users will help you out. Therefore, learn how to jump a battery, change the tire, change a light bulb, pop the hood, understand the meaning of different warning lights on the dashboard, and understand how you can add a coolant or oil to your car. At least learn the basics!
5. Driving distance.
Improper following distance can cause accidents. Make sure you can effectively control your car and maintain a safe following distance to avoid running into the other car when it slows down.
6. Avoid Distractions.
Always concentrate when driving. Distractions can come from using a cell phone, listening to your favorite music, having a passenger who is sharing a story with you, or even drinking a soda. As a beginner, suppress the levels of any distractions so that you can concentrate on driving.
7. Keep your senses attentive.
Driving safely is a culmination of the correct use of all your senses. You should be in a position to see what is happening on the road, notice any smell, for instance, from burning oil, and listen to any changes in the sound produced by your car. Loud music will reduce your sense of hearing, thus, increase chances of causing an accident.
8. Avoid alcohol.
Getting drunk will give you a false sense of being. As a result, you will accelerate without regard for other road users. If you intend to drive, do not consume alcohol.
9. Do not be concerned what other drivers say about you.
Beginners often worry so much about what other road users are saying about them and end up not doing the right thing. Always have the correct driving information and act in the way that you have learned is right.
Finally, make sure you are comfortable in the vehicle by taking a proper sitting position. Make sure that you are not straining your back or hands. Do not be stressed as it will lower your concentration on the road. Most importantly, focus your attention on driving and be confident in yourself.