There is no better place for new drivers to learn how to drive and learn the rules of the road than a proper driver’s education center. Driver’s ed is available broadly across the US and is offered to new drivers of all ages. These courses cover the essentials from the basic rules for driving to the fundamentals of the vehicle itself. It gives you the opportunity to learn and improve your driving in a controlled environment. This is essential to not only pass your driving test but also the foundation to being a better driver.
No matter how good your driving skills are, all the police officer will care about is whether or not you have a valid license. To drive in accordance with the law, an individual must have a driver’s license. Getting pulled over without a license can lead to serious consequences, depending upon the circumstances.
Even a small tweak to your driving position makes for a much more comfortable, pleasant, and safe ride. It’s important that your backside and back are up against the seat, as this allows for better support of the body while you’re driving. Here are some adjustments for new drivers:
Adjust the steering wheelAdjust the mirrorsAdjust the seat forward or backAdjust the seat heightAdjust the seat recline typically about 110 to 120 degrees
Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from driving, this includes talking or texting, eating and drinking, talking to people in your vehicle, changing your music or your GPS — anything that takes your attention away from driving safely. You should always avoid distractions, and if you find yourself being distracted pull over to a safe spot and don’t begin driving again until you can fully focus. Learn more about distracted .
Driving requires you to multitask. As you sit in the driver’s seat as a new driver, you might begin to feel overwhelmed by all the rules that you have to remember. Although remembering to use turn signals and what a particular road sign means are both very important, what’s even more important is your ability to concentrate on the task at hand. Try to keep your mind clear and focused.
Almost everyone has some nerves when they first begin to drive. Try and calm these nerves by taking a long, slow breath in through your nose and holding for three seconds. Exhale slowly through your mouth and relax the muscles in your face, hands, jaw, shoulders, and stomach. Repeat these steps as many times as necessary.
When you first begin to drive, you’ll improve quicker the more you practice. Even if it’s just for 15-20 minutes. Make sure you practice: parking, driving in traffic, and driving at a specific speed. Bring an experienced driver with you for tips and guidance.
When you first begin driving, it helps to first go to places you feel comfortable driving to, and the places that you know the way. This allows you to focus on driving and avoid distractions like using a map service. You will also feel much more comfortable when you know exactly where you are headed.
Driving on major highways and interstates can be very stressful for new drivers. Avoid them when you first start driving. Once you get more comfortable driving on smaller roads you’ll gain the confidence to enter and drive on roads with more traffic and higher speeds.
As a new driver, it is extremely important to ensure you remember and follow all road signs and rules of the road. Following the rules makes the roads a safer place to be, and if everyone follows the rules, it makes it easier to predict how people will behave, making your own life behind the wheel far less stressful. Remember, a safe driver is a confident driver.
