2020 has seen an increase in people looking to pass their driving test. The coronavirus and Covid-19 pandemic have made many of us realise that though public transport is better for the environment and can prove cheaper, having access to your own vehicle can allow you to get from A to B with a minimised risk of catching or spreading the virus and can give you a whole lot more independence too. As a result, when driving schools have started running again, many of us have started taking driving lessons or have looked into buying our own car. Of course, safety is key when you’re behind the wheel, so you need to make sure that you’re the best driver you can be at all times. Here are some steps that can help you to achieve this.
Follow the Rules
The first thing you need to do is keep all of the rules of the road in mind at all times while you’re driving. As people get more comfortable behind the wheel, they can begin to break rules and can end up in difficult situations as a result. An example is people beginning to drive while impaired. Believe it or not, there have been thirty-eight impaired driving accidents in Southern Nevada alone this year so far. Make sure to never break driving rules. They’re there for a reason.
Get to Know Your Vehicle
Whenever you get your first vehicle or a new vehicle, it’s absolutely essential that you take some time out to get to know it. This will ensure that you know where all of the different controls are as and when you need them. You should know where your lights are, where your indicators are, what to turn to turn your windscreen wipers on, how to demist your window and more. You should also know what different lights or warning symbols on your dashboard mean. This can ensure that you tackle issues promptly.
Know How to Deal with a Road Incident
Knowing how to deal with a road incident is another absolute essential. Of course, you don’t want this to happen. But if the situation occurs, it’s important to know what you’re doing. The following steps should help you:
- First and foremost, stop your vehicle
- Make sure that you and anyone else involved is physically well
- If necessary, call for emergency medical attention
- If not necessary, take the insurance details of anyone involved
- Also take a note of vehicle makes and models and the time and location of the incident
Following the incident, reach out for help and support if necessary. Shock can set in and you may need help or support dealing with any mental repercussions too.
When it comes down to it, becoming a driver just takes practice, diligence and a constant commitment to improving and maintaining your driving skills and vehicle. Hopefully, some of the above steps will help you get started on the right path.