If you’re a new driver, then you might feel anxious to get out onto the road for the first time. But don’t worry, this is perfectly normal. No one is a confident driver straight away – it takes time and motivation to become comfortable while driving.
Although you’ll start to naturally build your confidence the more you go out on drives, there are certain steps that you should take to promote this. Through the following tips, not only can you do this, but they will also ensure that you’re as safe as possible:
Pay Attention to the Weather
Snow, wind and rain can cause extremely unpredictable driving conditions. And these dangerous and difficult types of weather can cause a new driver anxiety. Which is why before heading out, you should check what the weather is going to be like and decide whether that drive is 100% necessary. If it’s not essential and you don’t feel comfortable, then it’s better to avoid it.
Don’t Give Your Friends Lifts Straight Away
As a new driver, you might feel as though you have to give your friends rides when they ask for it. However, if you’re not feeling confident or comfortable with this, it’s vital that you don’t give in to the pressure. By agreeing to it, you’re only putting you and your passengers in a potentially dangerous situation – i.e you could become distracted by them.
Recognize When You Should Avoid Driving
Whether you’re tired, angry, sad or hungover you should try to avoid driving. By driving when you’re feeling this way, your mind won’t be fully focused – something that’s very dangerous. And when you’re still under the influence, it’s also illegal. You don’t want to find yourself with a DUI conviction (some states have as much as 24,334 DUI convictions each year).
Get Familiar With Your Car
When you get your first car and you start driving it, you need to get familiar with it. Start by making sure that your seat is positioned correctly, that your mirrors are adjusted and that you know how all of the buttons work. By getting to know your car, you’ll be able to steer clear of any problems that can be avoided.
You should also make sure that your car is regularly maintained, so that it’s safe while on the road. This involves making sure that it’s oil levels are topped up, it always has enough petrol and that you get any issues checked out if you’re not sure of how to fix them yourself.
Know Your Routes
Although you might rely on sat-navs at first, you should try and get familiar with any routes that you’re taking – especially if it’s a drive that you’ll have to do often.
Therefore, it’s a good idea before heading out to sit down and study a route. Then, consider doing a few practice runs. You don’t want to get lost when it comes to doing the drive and you want to feel as confident as possible without it – which is why this is worth doing.
Final Thoughts
So, there you go! Those are 5 top tips that new drivers can use to help boost their confidence while on the road. All valid points, they will assist in your journey to becoming comfortable in your vehicle and assured in your driving abilities.
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