For many people, getting their driver’s license is a momentous occasion. It symbolizes freedom and the ability to go anywhere they want. However, with this newfound freedom comes great responsibility. Driving is a privilege, not a right, and it’s important to always drive safely.
New drivers may not have a lot of experience behind the wheel, so to help new drivers stay safe on the road, here are some important tips:
Get insured
It is illegal to drive without insurance, so before you head out onto the road, make sure you’re fully insured. If you’re involved in an accident, having insurance will help to cover the cost of any damages and will help you to win a case if charges are brought against you.
There are a lot of different types of insurance from providers like one sure insurance, so it’s important to do your research and find the right policy for you.
Put Down Your Phone
Distracted driving is a major problem on today’s roads. If you’re using your phone while driving, you’re putting yourself and others at risk. Again, using your phone whilst driving, even just to change the song, is illegal, so put down your phone and focus on the road before you hurt yourself or someone else. If you use a phone cradle, make sure not to remove it, as this can distract you too.
Wear your seatbelt
Wearing a seatbelt is one of the simplest and most effective ways to stay safe while driving, and it’s also a legal requirement. In fact, seat belts cut the risk of death by 50% in the event of a crash, showing how important they are for road safety. Despite this, many people still choose to not wear a one, risking their life unnecessarily.
If you’re a new driver, it’s important to make sure that you always buckle up before hitting the road. There’s never an excuse not to wear one, so if your mate refuses to buckle up, stand your ground – it could save their life.
Obey the speed limit
Speed limits are in place for a reason. Not only does speeding increase your chances of crashing, it also greatly increases your chances of killing a pedestrian. At 40mph, there is a 90% chance that hitting a pedestrian will kill them. At 35mph, however, there is only a 50% chance they will be killed, showing how just 5mph can make all the difference.
If you’re being pushed from behind by a speeding driver, don’t speed up to match them. You’ll be the one who gets caught by a speed camera, even if it wasn’t your fault. Instead, put your hazard lights on, sound your horn and slow down. The speeding driver may get aggressive, but you’ll force them to slow down to a safe speed. If they choose to overtake, there’s nothing you can do, but at least you did the right thing. At 30mph, there is a 20% chance a pedestrian will be killed if you hit them, so if the speed limit is 30mph, stick to it.
Never drive under the influence
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is never a good idea. Not only is it illegal, it’s also incredibly dangerous. If you’re going to be drinking, make sure that you have a designated driver who can take you home safely. Alternatively, leave the car and get a taxi.
If you find yourself in a situation where you’re being pressured by mates to drive after drinking, refuse and stand your ground. Tell them that you are responsible for their safety, and you don’t want to hurt them if you crash. If they still pressure you, it’s time to look for new friends!
Conclusion
By following these safety tips, you can help to keep yourself and others safe while driving. Just remember to always use your best judgment and never take unnecessary risks. If you take care, you’ll be well on your way to being a safe and responsible driver.
