The excitement of getting a driver’s license is something every teen looks forward to, but with it comes a great deal of responsibility and expectation.
At a greater risk of facing an accident compared to all other age groups, teens certainly do get a large share of the blame, but not for inexperience. Therefore, it is necessary to develop safe driving habits from the beginning.
Whether you are a complete beginner or have been driving for a couple of months, being safe and responsible behind the wheel can be achieved with the following ten tips.
1. Put Your Phone Away
Scrolling through playlists, checking social media, or even texting might take your attention off the road. Your phone should be placed in a way that makes it impossible to reach or keep on “Do Not Disturb” mode. It is vital to always remain attentive to the road. A Jersey City car accident lawyer may help you understand the severe consequences of using a phone while driving.
2. Use Your Seatbelt
Wearing a seatbelt needs to become a habit because failing to do so greatly increases the chances of severe injury if a car accident occurs. Also, encourage your passengers to fasten their seatbelts.
3. Adhere To The Speed Limit
Speed restrictions are often ignored, specifically by novice drivers and this is the root cause of many accidents. Additionally, always obey set speed restrictions and modify your speed appropriately in adverse weather conditions like fog, rain, wind; and heavy traffic; or if you are driving in a new place.
4. Adopt Defensive Driving Techniques
Be always aware that other drivers can commit a mistake, so plan for safe reactions when this happens. Maintaining a reasonable distance behind the car in front of you will allow for such eventualities.
5. Never Drive Under The Influence
Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, and, in some cases, heavy medication is very dangerous. It is, therefore, prudent to never use a vehicle that is manned by an impaired person. Your life is too valuable to simply grab a lift.
6. Stick To Familiar Areas For The First Few Times
Start with routes that you are already familiar with or have driven through before. With time, as your confidence grows, begin taking more challenging routes that include different conditions and environments.
7. Limit sign driving
The chances of an accident happening at night are inherently greater than during the day due to reduced visibility. Thus, avoid driving after dark until one is more experienced. Make sure that when you do drive at night, your headlights are cleaned and turned on.
8. Avoid Driving with Excessive Passengers
Friends can be a fun but troublesome distraction. Some states even have laws restricting how many passengers a young teen driver can have. Fewer passengers result in fewer distractions, which makes driving safer.
9. Maintaining Your Vehicle
For safety purposes check your tires, lights, brakes, and oil frequently. Proper maintenance of the vehicle enhances its safety features. Basic skills of car upkeep help boost your confidence while driving.
10. Remain Calm
Being anxious when starting out is completely normal, but try to remain relaxed. Practice fuels confidence. Inhale deeply, adhere to the rules, and if you begin to feel nervous, you can always pull over safely.
Final Words
To an extent, the idea of perfect driving does not truly exist; driving safely means remaining alert, responsible, and fully prepared. The more frequently you drive with concerns about safety, the more you’ll start to feel confident and capable.
So concentrate, be smart, and remember to always stay focused while driving one mile at a time. With these simple tips, teens can become more responsible.
Also read:
How to Build Resilience in Teens
How to Get My Teen Outdoors and Off Screens
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