Become A Pro Behind the Wheel with These Simple Driving Tips
Before you get behind the wheel on your own, it’s assumed that you already know the basics about your car – especially as you’ve passed your test and obtained your license. But as far as driving is concerned, there is always room for improvement, whether you are an expert driver or just beginning. One of the best ways to improve and become a better driver is to learn as many driving tips as possible throughout your driving experience. Are you a beginner looking for the right information to help you be a better driver? Then you are in the right place. Check out these tips below.
- Learn the parts of your vehicle
Learning how to drive your car alone is not enough to make you a better driver – especially when you have to run to your mechanic at the slightest sign of an issue. Learning about your car’s parts also makes it possible to make the right upgrades when you need to. It is not enough to know where the steering wheel, the paddles, and the engine are. For example, understanding the impact of adjustable coilovers on the car’s suspension will help you know whether you need to fit higher or lower spring rates. Knowing the various parts of your car allows you to better understand it, enhance your driving experience, and make you a better driver.
- Stay focused
According to experts, about 8.5% of fatal vehicular accidents are caused by distracted drivers. This is why it is crucial not to take your eyes off the road or your hands off the steering wheel while driving. Ensure that you can also see ahead of the car in front of you. Be alert of your blind spots and take precautions to follow the road signs. Always maintain your focus and avoid using your phone or even having a conversation with others in your car, as doing this can affect your concentration.
- Have a mental plan of your route before setting off
With the benefit of different traffic apps and maps, it is effortless to plan your driving route before setting off. So, be sure to check your course to know where to avoid if you are looking for a continuous, relaxing drive. If you are already familiar with a particular route, then make a mental note of the obstacles to expect. This way, it will be easier to avoid causing avoidable damages to your car.
- Adjust your mirrors properly
Take time to adjust your mirrors properly to ensure that you do not see any part of your car through them. That is because if any side of your vehicle is visible in your mirrors, then you may be creating blind spots which can be very dangerous. Therefore, ensure that your side mirrors cover as much of the lanes beside you as possible. Also, adjust your rear-view mirror in a way that ensures that your car’s rear window is centered. When driving, make it a point to check your rear-view as often as possible – at least once every 10 ten seconds. You can adjust how often you check your rear window depending on the traffic level on the road, how often you plan changing lanes, etc.
- Do not weave between lanes
Good drivers are patient drivers, especially when caught up in very slow-paced traffic. An impatient driver will always try to get ahead of other drivers by weaving between lanes.
Contrary to what most drivers think, lanes almost always move at the same speed without interruption. The only thing that causes one lane to move slower than the other is impatient drivers driving between lanes. If every driver exercises enough discipline and patience to stay in their lanes, traffic will move quickly on both sides. The reason is that each time a driver weaves into a different lane, it causes other vehicles to come to a momentary stop, causing further delay.
- Prepare yourself for cyclists to appear from anywhere
Always be on the alert for your fellow motorists, especially cyclists and motor riders in large cities. Cycling is one of the primary forms of transportation in large cities, and you should expect to see one at almost every turn. Unfortunately, this also means that you could easily bump into one if you do not pay as much attention as you should. Anytime you approach a traffic light, you should expect and make room for your two-wheeled motorists. While doing that, look out for the cycle lanes and boxes, and ensure that you observe them.
I love how you said to be patient when driving, as it will slow up others and myself to weave between lanes. I also feel that driving impatiently is more likely to cause accidents. Do you have any tips for finding a good driving school that teaches these things? My friend is learning how to drive, so this could really help.