Getting a driver’s license is among the greatest joys for teenagers. Driving comes with the freedom they may not have known before, like being behind the wheel with nobody else in the car.
However, young drivers don’t yet know what they don’t know about how to safely operate a motor vehicle, and their inexperience and nervousness increases the chance of getting into an accident.
According to statistics, teenagers, who make up the most significant percentage of new drivers, are most at risk of causing an accident. You can better your chances of staying safe on the road as an inexperienced driver by practicing safe driving habits.
Follow Traffic Rules
Obeying traffic rules is the most important thing to do while on the road. For example, stick to the posted speed limit, stop at red lights even when you do not see an approaching vehicle, pay attention to road signs, and leave adequate speed between you and the car ahead of you.
Following traffic rules as a new driver helps to cement compliance in your mind, which will be helpful for the rest of your life.
From a distance, speeding looks thrilling, and it may be among the things you intend to do at some point. It is not a good idea to speed – whether or not you’re a new driver.
Speed can significantly increase the chance of losing control of your car, and it affects your stopping distances in case of an emergency. Also, in an accident, high speeds have a high probability of resulting in severe injuries.
Proper Vehicle Maintenance and Wearing Your Seatbelt
As a new driver, you may not be familiar with some aspects of car maintenance. Understanding your car’s maintenance needs is essential because it affects how a car performs and, ultimately, its chances of getting into an accident. You may have to talk to a mechanic for tips, as well as for things to look out for to ensure your car is safe while on the road.
Wearing the safety belt is a no-brainer and is among the first lessons in a driving class. While wearing a seat belt cannot help reduce your chances of an accident, it can significantly increase your chances of survival in an unfortunate event.
Remember, not all accidents are a result of your abilities or inabilities. Many are caused by the actions of other drivers. You’re not only protecting yourself in the event that you have a bad judgment call, but also in the event that other drivers act in error.
Avoid Distractions
One of the most unsafe yet common practices of young drivers is distracted driving. You may want to read or post on social media or text friends or family while behind the wheel. The road is not the place for using a phone.
“The few seconds your eyes or mind stray from the road could be enough to cause an accident,” says car accident lawyer Derek Sieck of OnderLaw.
Your phone is not the only form of distraction. Eating, drinking, smoking, arguing with passengers, and fixing makeup are other common distractions that are equally dangerous.
Drive Defensively
While you could be doing everything in the book to stay safe, other road users may not be doing the same. You will need to drive defensively.
Defensive driving means driving with the assumption that you are the only reasonable driver on the road, so drive safely and be ready for potential mistakes made by other drivers to avoid being hit.
It may be tempting to lose your temper due to the actions of other drivers. While you may feel like you want to give them a piece of your mind, just let them be. Road rage can put you and everyone around you at heightened risk for an accident.
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Jo Rushton
