Getting your driver’s license can give you the exhilarating feeling of achieving a new level of freedom. From driving back and forth to school to going on road trips, the options are endless, as long as you have your parents’ permission. It’s typical for teenagers to think too far into the future and not realize the importance of being grounded in the present. Although you may have plenty of trips in mind with your car, you shouldn’t forget the basic principles of safe driving.
Remembering what you learned from driving school
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not environmental conditions or drunk drivers that are the leading causes of car accidents. Human error is the leading cause of these accidents, which is why you have the most impact on whether you will arrive safely to your destination.
If you need a refresher course on the things you should watch out for, here are three driving safety tips you should review:
1. Safety first with your seatbelts
The most straightforward advice is the most effective, especially when it comes to driving safety. Your seatbelts are there to ensure that you’re safe from potential accidents. This is something you should keep in mind, especially if you don’t have a comprehensive medical insurance plan.
Remember that a car accident will cost you repairs on your vehicle and medical bills for your injuries as well. You should buckle up if you don’t want to lose your driving privileges, or your life, after a car collision.
2. Avoid distractions while behind the wheel
Many people think that alcohol, drugs, and marijuana are the leading causes of driving accidents. However, it’s just one of the many distractions that you should avoid. Texting while driving, eating, and drinking can leave you vulnerable and unprepared to evade an accident.
Besides external distractions, you should also keep yourself vigilant by paying attention to your well-being. Going on long drives can be exhausting even if you’re just sitting down behind the wheel. This is why you should get a good night’s rest before you go on a long trip, especially if you’re crossing the countryside.
Remember to pay attention to speed limits and take breaks in between to keep your energy up. If you’re running a strict deadline, you can ask a chaperone to ride with you so you can change places behind the wheel and take a breather.
4. Be mindful of your passengers
Passengers can become another kind of distraction, especially if you have a rowdy group of friends. Although it might seem like a great idea to carpool with your friends to school, you should be cautious about them being liabilities while you’re behind the wheel. Teenage drivers can become more prone to do more risky maneuvers through peer pressure.
Remember that you’re responsible not just for your own safety but also with your passengers. This is why you should be strict about enforcing safety policies for them and yourself.
Conclusion
Having a driver’s license lets you take one more step towards becoming an independent person. However, you shouldn’t use it as an excuse to be reckless on the road. The best way to prove that you deserve your license is to be a responsible driver, whether you’re with passengers or driving solo.
Preparing before you get behind the wheel is a requirement for any would-be drivers. Athens Driving Prep is a driving school in Athens, GA that offers affordable driving packages to get you started. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our services!