5 Driving Tips for New Drivers

With back-to-school season here, there are lots of new drivers out on the road. This is such an exciting time for new drivers, but there are definitely safety factors you need to consider before you hit the road. To all the parents and guardians out there, here are a few driving tips for new drivers:

1. Follow Traffic Rules. From following the speed limit to always being buckled up in a moving vehicle, there are several rules that you need to make sure your new driver knows. The permit stage is a great way for new drivers to learn these new traffic rules. Knowing the traffic rules helps new drivers to be safe on the road and avoid traffic tickets.
2. Invest in Vehicle Maintenance. Avoid breakdowns and potential accidents by investing in regular vehicle maintenance. Be sure to change your oil, check your tires regularly, address any dashboard lights, and more. Your car can only take care of you if you take care of it.
3. Avoid Tailgating. Tailgating the car in front of you is a lead cause of rear-ending. Use the 3-second rule to gauge your following distance. This means when the car in front of you passes by an object in the distance, it should take you 3 or more seconds to pass that object too. You can also estimate the number of cars that could fit between your vehicle and the one in front of you, 1 vehicle for every 10 MPH that you are going.
4. Minimize Distractions. From turning on your vehicle before you start driving to always keeping your eyes on the road, tell your new drivers to avoid distractions if possible. Even switching the song on your phone can cause enough of a distraction that could result in an accident, depending on how long the driver has been on the road. Be diligent!
5. Never Drive Under the Influence. Driving safely is only possible when you have a clear mind. When you consume alcohol or drugs before driving, this compromises your senses and endangers yourself and others on the road. Being sleepy while driving can also make it difficult for you to drive safely. Rather than getting behind the wheel, request rideshare or call someone you trust to pick you up.

Hopefully, these tips were a good reminder for you to drive safely but also to remind the new drivers in your life to do so too. Driving is one of those activities that bring up your heart rate, so do your best to not add extra stress to your journey.