Being a new driver can be a very gratifying experience because you finally get to experience the freedom of driving alone without the assistance of an experienced and older driver.
However, it can also be a dangerous time for non-car insurance drivers and pedestrians alike, so we encourage you to drive carefully and pay attention to those around you!
Behind the wheel of a car for the first time you've purchased yourself gives a sense of ownership and accomplishment. The feeling is like none other when you first get your licence and car insurance. However, you need to ensure many things before hitting the roads. In its absence, you will need to deal with both legal and financial hassles. We understand the pain of going through these. So, we have explained the things a first-time driver should know and implement in real time for a safe and hassle-free experience.
8 Must Know Things for a First-time Driver
Check below the eight facts you should know before taking your car on the roads for the first time. It's also essential to have your car insurance renewal on time to safeguard yourself and your precious vehicle.
1. Safety First
You want to ensure you're dressed appropriately to begin driving your car. Depending on where you live, various climate conditions may create slippery roadways, causing an accident for you and others if the car tyres aren't up to the challenge to keep you safe.
To keep yourself safe legally in such a case, you should also have at least third-party car insurance for your vehicle. You can buy your car insurance online to get the best premium offers.
2. Sitting Straight
When driving a car, it is essential to sit up straight. The best way to prevent yourself from getting tired when driving for extended periods is to find the most comfortable position possible. Ensure you can use your hands comfortably and precisely without straining. Holding your hands up or crisscrossing them may make turning more difficult due to limited arm movement.
3. Remain Alert
Have you ever noticed how much multitasking goes into driving a vehicle? You must keep an eye on the road yet be aware of what's happening around you. Are drivers too close? Are pedestrians crossing the road? Drivers risk distractions like using a cell phone or eating and drinking while driving.
We want you to remain alert while driving. So, you can stop your car at a safe place and do such things. Besides, don't drive under the influence of alcohol. We believe you can better control all tasks by being alert throughout your day.
4. Using Mirrors
Using the rearview mirror while driving is like looking at yourself in the mirror - only focusing on what you don't like about yourself and not giving yourself a chance to admire anything else. By utilizing more mirrors within your vehicle, such as the side mirrors, you'll be exposed to a perspective of your surroundings that you might miss out on otherwise (such as vehicles approaching from behind). And what's more?
The side mirrors can even show you things you could never have imagined, for example, a beautiful sunset on your left or an adorable puppy crossing the road next to your car!
5. Carrying Documents
A driver must have his licence and vehicle registration document (RC) in addition to the pollution certificate (PUC) when driving a motor vehicle on the streets. Not carrying these necessary documents can get you in trouble when a traffic check occurs. It can result in heavy penalties, and the traffic police might seize even your vehicles. Don't let your inexperience as a driver harm you.
6. No Road Rage
Learning how to drive is easy – it only takes a few hours and a bit of practice. But in the real world, what you do with your ability behind the wheel will be much more difficult. Remaining calm under pressure and thinking straight will help you know if you can keep your hands on that steering wheel for longer. If things get too stressful, perhaps there are other means available, like public transportation or hiring someone who can get you where you need to be on time!
7. Honk Less
There are a lot of reasons for you to refrain from using a horn unless it's necessary. On top of being unhelpful at the moment, honking is also unnecessary. If you do decide to use your horn, use it in moderation. Being passive-aggressive will only create more negative frustration that you're building up inside yourself while slowing down traffic.
8. Use Indicators
Indicators are like sign language for vehicles. When someone uses indicators while manoeuvring his vehicle, it helps him predict their actions and understand what he's trying to do. Just as you would use the appropriate gesture if talking to a person, make sure you signal your intentions when you change lanes or turn because, in both cases, sudden movements can be dangerous and lead to accidents.
So remember that, as with any new skill, it will take some time before driving feels natural to you. Using indicators is necessary so that other vehicles on the road can perceive your plans and avoid running into any barriers with them!
Read more - What To Do After a Car Accident: A Step By Step Guide
Closing Remarks
This blog post has been written to help you get the information you need to start driving safely. We hope you've gained some interesting new knowledge and insight about driving. Hope you implement that in real time.
Read more - The Importance of Car Insurance on a Road Trip
