All posts tagged teaching new driver

As a newly licensed teen, you are probably ecstatic about your accomplishment. You passed your road test, but you still need to learn defensive driving skills. An experienced driver is always mindful of irresponsible and careless drivers and these skills take time. To learn them, ask your parents, teachers, and other drivers you know what defensive skills you should have.

Be Mindful of Tailgaters

If someone is following your car too closely, try to put twice as much space between your car and the other vehicle. The extra space will decrease the chances of you being in a collision. Do not press your brakes too hard and check your surroundings. When you have an opening, move to another lane. Be aware of how close you follow other cars as well. Being too close can increase your own risk of getting in an accident.

Use Your Turn Signals

Always use the turn signals. The turn signals should be used whenever you are making a left or a right turn. You should also use the turn signal whenever you are changing lanes. Other drivers will anticipate your actions and respond accordingly. This is an important part of your road test, but don’t neglect it later on when you have your license.

Keep a Consistent Speed

Whenever you drive, other drivers will watch your actions so they can stay safe. Your actions need to be predictable. Look for obstructions. You need to anticipate slow traffic, erratic drivers, and construction. You should always look far ahead and keep your mind on the road. 

Yield and Stop at Red Lights

According to a Memphis car accident attorney, if you and another driver cannot decide who has the right of way, you should always yield. If you do not yield, the other driver might hit your car. If another driver hits your car you might be liable. You should always stop at red lights and changing yellow lights as well. Sometimes, you might not notice a red light at an intersection. If you lower your speed when approaching an intersection, you will notice a yellow or red traffic light more easily.

Drive Slower in Rainy and Snowy Weather

Drive slower in rainy weather and make sure there is ample space between your car and other vehicles. You should also drive slower in snowy weather. Turn off cruise control when the road is wet or icy, and keep your eyes peeled as you go along.

Control Your Temper

It is only natural that you might get angry at other drivers, but you have to control your temper. If you drive aggressively, you might hurt yourself or other drivers. If another driver is driving recklessly, you should get away from the car and contact the local police.

Practice your defensive driving skills every day. These skills will be second nature after a few weeks of driving on crowded city streets and you will recognize hazardous road conditions from afar. Hopefully with these tips in your toolbelt, you can respond appropriately when another driver does something dangerous.