If you have finished driving school and have obtained a license, you should not attempt unconventional tricks on the road. Beginners are often excited about driving a vehicle for the first time without supervision. In some cases, the excitement can translate into oversight and carelessness, leading to major road accidents. Therefore, it is essential for you to keep your guard up to prevent unfortunate incidents. Here are some practical guidelines for ensuring road safety as a new driver.
Check the Traffic Signs
One of the bad practices that cause road accidents among new drivers is ignoring traffic signs. The road signs are put in place to provide information and maintain order on the road. If you fail to adhere to the instructions indicated, you could cause harm to other road users. You should pay particular attention to road signs indicating the speed limit in a specific zone and turning options. If you do not obey the rules, you could easily collide with a driver following the indicated signs. Remember, clear roads can be deceptive. You should not overlook signs just because you are alone on the road.
Avoid Following Closely
You should never drive too closely to the vehicle ahead of you. This practice is borne out of impatience, particularly during busy morning and evening hours. As a beginner, you might not be able to respond to an emergency situation if you are too close. You need to leave plenty of space ahead of you so that you can make a fast stop if necessary. If you cannot respond quickly enough, you will collide with the other party. Remember, you will not get to your destination any slower by leaving some extra space between you and the vehicle ahead.
Learn to Drive in Adverse Conditions
You should gain some experience before driving in harsh outdoor conditions. Most beginners can drive with ease during the day and in good weather. Unfortunately, the unfamiliar perils of adverse weather or darkness can be overwhelming. In some cases, one will lose control of the vehicle and the result is a major accident. In other situation, a new driver might get anxious about the circumstances and handle the car incorrectly. Therefore, you should take time to gain some experience before driving alone in the dark or on icy roads.
Finally, you must never use your phone while driving because it will distract you from your tasks. If you must make an emergency call, you should pull over first to avoid causing an accident.