6 Things Every New Driver Should Know

When learning to drive, you may think that getting behind the wheel and learning how to maneuver the car is the only thing you need to know. However, any driving instructor will tell you that there is plenty of important lessons on top of the driving that you also need to learn. 

Photo by JESHOOTS.com from Pexels

Let’s have a look at some of them below: 

How To Tackle A Flat Tyre 

So, you’ve passed your test and are well on your way to the freedom that driving gives you but you end up with a flat tyre. What do you do? You should pull completely off the road, even if the tyre gets completely destroyed. Then you can either call roadside assistance to change the tyre for you or tackle the problem yourself. If you have a spare tyre, make sure you are out of the way of any traffic before you try to change it yourself. Some newer cars now have an expanding foam to repair a flat, but if your tyre is completely destroyed the only option is to have it replaced. 

How To Tackle The “Check Engine” Light 

If your check engine light comes on and is accompanied by any smells, noises, or changes in the car performance, stop them immediately. If there are no symptoms, but the engine light has come on, it’s best to take your car to a trusted mechanic who will be able to run a diagnostics and inform you of the problem. If you’ve just filled up at the gas station and the engine light has come on, it could be indicating that your cap is loose, or you have filled up with the wrong fuel. 

To learn more about the varying types of warning lights check out this comprehensive guide. The key takeaway for warning lights is that: 1) red calls for immediate action 2) amber for non-urgent attention; 3) green or blue is just for information.

The Rules And Regulations 

There are a lot of different laws across states regarding driving. From different rules for new drivers or whether you can use a cell phone through to the seeds you can drive and the insurances that you need. It’s a good idea to research exactly what is required depending on where you live. If you’re driving outside of your state it’s best if you check if there are any additional requirements before you travel. You can take a driving test sample to brush up on specific driving rules and regulations in your state as well the states that you plan to visit.

How To Know Your Repair Shop Is Been Honest

Ok, so this one does come with a little bit of practice. Most new drivers will fall victim to overpaying for car repairs or services at some point in their driving journey. The best thing for you to do is try to understand what might be wrong with your car and then research on the internet to see the average cost for the repairs that might be needed. If you don’t know what the problem is, don’t be afraid to take a quote and then do your research after. You can then go back and question the pricing if you feel that it’s too high or ask for an in-depth explanation of the costs. Before you even go to the repair shop, have a look at some reviews from previous customers. If they have good reviews then the chances are you can trust them. 

How To Drive In Bad Weather 

At some point, you are going to drive in heavy rain or snow. And although it should be avoided if you can, at times it’s unavoidable. Make sure you always reduce your speed and stay further away from the cars in front of you. You should understand that a car might hydroplane at times, especially if there is a sudden heavy rainfall that doesn’t clear from the roads. If you can, try to practice on empty roads such as a carpark after it has snowed or rained to get in some experience. Take it slow and steady and get to know how the car feels in these situations. 

Avoiding Road Rage 

New drivers are notorious for bearing the brunt of a lot of road rage. When you’re no inexperienced driver, you usually drive slower, more cautiously, or sometimes make mistakes. This is because even after passing your test you are still becoming familiar with driving. You may at times inadvertently anger another driver, but try not to get drawn into interacting with them. If you can ignore them, or if needed, change your route. If someone really offends you, just take a deep breath, count ten, and your anger will soon dissolve. 

Hopefully, these tips will help you to feel safe and prepared to drive your vehicle without worry. Is there anything that you wish you had known when you passed your test? Please share them in the comments below.

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11 Comments

  • Thanks for the tip I should be aware of a roadside assistance services in my town so that I know who to call in case of emergency in the middle of the road. I’m planning to buy a truck someday so that I can more easily transport supplies from my storage unit to my house from time to time. Perhaps saving a roadside truck repair contact on my phone would be a responsible way to make sure that I’m always ready for any emergency.

  • […] What exactly are the best ways you can be prepared before taking your first road trip or long-distance journey as a new driver? […]

  • This article provides details about the 6 things every new driver should know. I enjoyed reading this article and would suggest others it as well. Thank you for this article! This is really very informative for us and look forward to more such in future for all of us.

  • I am so happy I found your blog and I absolutely love your information about 6 things every new driver should know! I liked and it is wonderful to know about so many things that are useful for all of us! Thanks a lot for this amazing blog!!

  • It’s good to know that new drivers should know the state’s rules for cell phone usage, since they can actually vary a lot. My cousin never got her license when she was younger but is interested in finding a driving school now so she can gain independence. I’ll have to pass along these tips to help her stay as safe as possible when adjusting to the roads soon.

  • Chase says:

    Among the problems you’ll encounter on the road result from missing to check your car’s fluid – be it the motor oil, coolant, brake fluid, or windshield washer fluid. To avoid inconveniences such as overheating and malfunctioning air condition unit, check everything that uses fluid in your car.

  • Larry says:

    Battery reconditioning is basically resuscitating or reviving a battery if it’s not charging as expected. This process includes restoring the battery’s standard electrolyte level and full charging capacity.

    Larry
    junkcarboyssanantoniotx.com/

  • Howie says:

    Pull completely off the road, even if it means destroying the tire. Call roadside assistance and let that person change the tire. If you have a spare and know how to change the tire, make sure you are out of traffic and in plain sight of oncoming traffic before changing it yourself. If you are in need of a new tire, we’ve got you covered! Visit https://junkcarboyshoustontx.com/ to shop for tires by vehicle, size and brand.

  • Roger says:

    Congratulations on the excitement of becoming newly minted drivers, and the responsibility that comes with this milestone. I am confident that you will take ownership of the fact that this exciting new privilege requires new levels of maturity. If you treat it the right way, driving will help you to grow, develop character, be of better service to others, able to handle greater challenges, as well as be a source of great enjoyment.

    Roger
    Junk Car Boys – Columbus
    http://junkcarboyscolumbusoh.com/

  • Travis says:

    i know a shop that buys junk cars. so if you want to cut costs for your new car you can actually sell your car to a junk car shop

  • thank you junk car boys for taking 2 cars from my garage!! feel free to check them out

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