Inexperienced or young drivers are often keen to get on the road and exercise their new-found driving freedom, as they should, but they should also be more cognisant of staying safe when on the road.
If you are a young driver or have just started driving, consider these six tips for optimal safety on the road.
Conduct Regular Checks and Maintenance
Ensuring your vehicle is properly maintained and looked after goes a long way to ensuring safety on the road. Taking the time to check your vehicle’s fluids, tyre pressure, wipers, lights, braking and other systems will ensure that your car stays in optimal working condition and will be less likely to cause issues when you are on the road.
Avoid running out of fuel at all costs as this can be a costly mistake and if it happens in a busy intersection, you run the risk of being in a collision. Keep your services up to date to ensure that not only is your vehicle in tip top condition but that the value thereof is also protected.
Comprehensive Car Insurance is Best
As a young or inexperienced driver, the best decision you can make is to drive as carefully and responsibly as possible, but accidents do happen, which is why young driver insurance is necessary. Having insurance also affords you roadside assistance if your policy covers it, so you know you are in safe hands if something unforeseen does happen.
If you are in the market for cheaper insurance for younger drivers, the price comparison site Quotezone.co.uk is the go-to source for anyone looking to compare numerous providers for their chosen insurance policy. Expect to pay more for your insurance as younger drivers are quoted more due to inexperience on the road. The good news is that the more you drive, incident free, the cheaper your premiums will gradually.
Avoid Driving if You are Emotional or Distracted
We are all living in the fourth industrial revolution which makes us digital citizens. Unfortunately, this brings along with it a distraction in the form of your smartphone or device. Studies indicate that accidents are on the increase due to distracted drivers, where at least 1 in 6 were caused by being on a mobile phone. The best way you can ensure your safety and the safety of those on the road with you is to ignore your mobile phone whilst driving. Better yet, switch the notifications off when driving. It only takes one distracted glance down at your phone for an accident to happen, which can be totally avoided.
Another great safety tip is to avoid driving if you are under emotional distress, tired or under the influence of alcohol, narcotics or medication. Making quick, reactive or responsible decisions in such states is impossible, so it is best to avoid driving during such times.
Never Rush or Speed
Better late than never may be a cliché, but it is relevant and true to road safety. If you find yourself running late for an appointment or find yourself in an emergency – do not rush or speed to gain time. The result of speeding or irresponsible driving due to rushing can be tragic. One can always apologise for being tardy - speeding is not worth the risk or the ticket. Speeding is a major cause of accidents and fatalities on the road, therefore sticking to the speed limit is not only good driving behaviour, it is lifesaving too.
Be Conscientious of Other Road Users
Be cognisant of other users on the road when you are driving - this includes other drivers, cyclists, motorcyclists, joggers, skaters and pedestrians. Keep an eye out for stray animals or wildlife that run out into the road. Even swerving out slightly to avoid these animals can cause an accident. Narrow roads and valleys are extremely difficult to navigate at the best of times, so be extra cautious in these instances. Being conscientious of your driving, as well as others on the road and your surroundings is a great way to avoid accidents and increase your safety on the road.
Plan Properly for Long Road Trips
If you are planning on a road trip, ensure you are set up for a comfortable drive beforehand. Check your vehicle meticulously the day before your trip for any malfunctions or issues that need attention so that you have a safe and stress-free trip. Get enough sleep the night before so that you wake up well rested to tackle a long drive. Your level of alertness determines your driving behaviour, which is why it is a good idea to not take medication which can affect your driving ability too. Stay hydrated and focused on the trip and stop often to stretch your legs and rest during the trip.
There are many more tips for staying safe on the road, but these six are a great starting point. The more you practice safe driving, the quicker it will become a habit. Remember to always keep a level head when behind the wheel and the rest will follow. Safe travels!
