Did you know there are six million car accidents a year in the U.S.? Don’t let that number scare you! As a new driver, you may be nervous, but there are several things you can do to keep yourself safe on the road. Keep reading to learn the top ten driving safety tips for new drivers to help you build your confidence on the road.
1. Follow the Speed Limit
We’ve all had days where we’re running late and think driving a bit faster will help solve the problem. If you find yourself in that situation, remember that speeding is not worth it! By driving just 10mph faster, you will only get to your destination a few minutes quicker, but you’ll double your chances of crashing.
Speeding makes it more difficult to safely drive through curves and diminishes a driver’s reaction time. It also increases the distance you need to stop safely. Abiding by the speed limits on the roads you drive will help you stay in control of your vehicle.
2. Don’t Drive Drunk
Be smart about when you get behind the wheel. An excessive amount of alcohol in your body leads to several impairments that impede your ability to drive safely. If you’re going to an event where you know there will be alcohol served, think about taking an Uber or taxi or get a ride with a friend who you know will stay sober.
If you end up at an event where you didn’t know there would be alcohol, leave your car overnight and get a sober ride home. The inconvenience of having to pick your car up in the morning is minor compared to the fatal consequences of driving under the influence.
3. Avoid Distractions
Taking a phone call or texting while driving can be hazardous. While many drivers are aware of that, they don’t realize that using a hands-free device or changing the song on the radio can also distract you. Anything that distracts your attention from the road can lead to an accident.
If you must use your phone at any point while you’re driving, be sure to pull over and find a place to park where you can do so safely.
4. Wear a Seatbelt
Seatbelts are in cars for a reason! Seatbelts were designed to keep people in their seats in a collision. They help prevent passengers from crashing into the interior of the car or each other. Wearing a seatbelt can save lives, so be sure you and everyone in your car wear one.
5. Monitor the Weather
Weather can have a huge effect on road conditions. It’s easy for car tires to lose traction when roads are wet, icy, or snowy. If you are driving in any of these conditions, be sure to leave more room for braking distance and be aware of other drivers on the road. Adverse conditions tend to lead to more driving mistakes and accidents.
If the weather and road conditions are especially bad, think about staying home. You should only be driving in bad conditions if necessary.
6. Keep Your Distance
You always want to keep a safe distance between you and the car in front of you. You need enough time to react if the car ahead of you suddenly stops or turns.
One of the easiest ways to ensure you’re leaving enough space is to use the “three-second rule.” This entails finding a stationary object on the side of the road, and once the car in front of you passes it, you start counting. Three seconds should pass before you reach that spot.
7. Stay on Top of Vehicle Maintenance
Vehicle maintenance isn’t just for elongating the life of your car. Regular maintenance also helps prevent accidents due to mechanical problems or failure.
Improper tire pressure is one of the most common issues that can lead to a crash. Uneven tire pressure can lead to a blowout. Make sure that all your gauges are working, and be sure to bring your car in for regular checkups by a certified mechanic. They’ll alert you to any issues with your car before it becomes a big problem.
8. Respect and Be Aware of Other Drivers
You’re not the only one out there on the road. Being aware of other drives is a great way to keep yourself safe. Being aware of other vehicles entering your lane and checking blind spots twice are good safety tactics. It’s also a good idea to give noticeably erratic drivers more space.
Unfortunately, we can’t always control what other drivers do. If the worst happens, make sure you have a good car accident lawyer or car injury attorney on your side.
9. Avoid Driving When Tired or Drowsy
A study found that 20% of car crashes are caused by fatigue. That should be enough to tell you that getting behind the wheel when you’re tired is extremely dangerous.
Make sure you’re getting enough sleep before a long drive. If you find yourself yawning excessively behind the wheel, pull over as soon as you find a safe place to do so.
10. Be Extra Careful at Night
Driving at night comes with additional dangers and hazards. It’s harder to see pedestrians, animals, and road signs. In addition, the lights from other cars can be distracting or make it difficult to see.
If you have to drive at night, you should take extra precautions. You should leave even more space between you and the car ahead of you. Be aware of other drivers, follow the speed limit, and be extra vigilant about pedestrians or other obstacles in the road.
Use These Driving Safety Tips
Now that you’ve learned about these driving safety tips, are you ready to confidently get on the road? By following these driving safety tips, you’ll be on your way to gaining confidence as a new driver.
If you’re a new driver involved in a car accident, Car Accident Lawyer Tampa is here to help! As personal injury attorneys in Tampa, Florida, we process claims that require car accident lawyers. We provide sound legal counsel and help you get the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.