So, you’ve passed your driving test—congrats! The road is yours to explore, and the freedom feels incredible. But before you put the pedal to the metal, safety should always come first. After all, staying safe means more adventures, right?
Here are three essential (but super easy!) tips to help you stay safe and confident behind the wheel. Here, we recap three top tips for keeping yourself safe as a new driver.
Stay on top of your vehicle maintenance
Regular MOTs and services are vital to keeping your car road-worthy. The AA reported that in 2021, there were over 1,700 road casualties as a direct result of poorly maintained vehicles. Of these, defective brakes and tyres caused 1,241 casualties, with 21 people sadly and needlessly losing their lives.
Before each drive, do a quick walk-around: check your tyres, windows, and lights. It takes seconds but can save you from a breakdown—or worse. Spot a problem? Get it checked ASAP. A smooth-running car makes for a stress-free ride!
Take it slow at night
Driving at night feels very different from driving during the day. As a new driver, you might not have had much practice yet. The contrasting bright lights from other road users in combination with the darkness of your surroundings can be dazzling, a hazard that affects as many as 91% of drivers. It can also be disorientating, making it harder to judge distances from hazards, other road users, and the side of the road.
If you’re not used to it, start slow. Take short trips at dusk to ease into it, and only drive at night when you feel fully alert. Keep your windscreen clear, use your headlights correctly, and take your time. Safety first—there’s no rush!
Be aware of road rage
It’s a fact of life that sometimes, driving can be downright frustrating. Especially if you’re in a rush, traffic can cause you to become hot-headed behind the wheel. It’s crucial to learn to control your emotions and drive responsibly regardless of the situation, but you also need to be prepared for the possibility of another road user struggling with road rage.
If you experience a tense situation on the road, don’t retaliate. Take a deep breath and avoid eye contact with the driver trying to rile you, and continue to drive in a safe and responsible manner. If someone is tailgating you, keep your eyes on the road ahead and pull over if necessary, when safe to do so, to allow them to pass by. If another driver is being aggressive towards you or driving unsafely, you can report the incident to the authorities and give details of their licence plate.
Plan ahead and enjoy your journey
As a new driver, the best way to make the most of your time on the road and keep yourself safe is to plan ahead. With a clear route, enough time, and a reliable vehicle, you can enjoy the journey. You won’t need to worry about your path or get distracted.
