How to Stay Safe on the Road as a New Driver

Getting behind the wheel for the first time with your new driver’s license is an exciting moment — you may feel like you have newfound freedom. In order to maintain that sense of accomplishment and joy on the road, you’ll want to take some important steps to protect yourself and other drivers.

Keep reading for simple tips for staying safe on the road.

Choose the right car

As a new driver, it’s important to figure out what type of car will best serve your needs. For example, if you’re mainly commuting back and forth to work every day, you might consider an affordable car with good gas mileage. However, if you’re looking for a vehicle that will eventually be used for longer road trips or in difficult weather conditions, you may consider a four-wheel drive vehicle with a high safety rating.

When you’re young and don’t have a long credit history, you might not get the best interest rate on an auto loan right away. But if that happens, you could look into a refinance car loan down the line. Refinancing your car loan could improve the interest rate and other important terms. Just keep in mind that while a new loan may help lower your monthly payments, extending the length of your loan could mean you’ll end up paying more in interest over the life of the new loan.

Learn about and maintain your vehicle

Figuring out how your car works and what issues to look out for are important safety concerns for all drivers, but especially new drivers. Make sure you’re familiar with the basic workings of your vehicle, including the brakes, windshield wipers, lights, turn signals and dashboard alerts. Learn how to check your oil level, tire pressure and tire treads.

Taking your car in for routine maintenance is another key part of staying safe on the road. Having the oil, engine, filters and fluids regularly checked by a professional will ensure your car keeps working properly and keeps you and others safe when you’re operating it.

Practice makes perfect

Becoming a confident driver takes time and focus. Stay as calm and relaxed as you can and take as long as you need to get comfortable behind the wheel. At the start, you may just want to drive short distances during daylight hours, say from your home to the grocery store. As you build confidence, you can become more adventurous with your routes by getting on the highway more often, driving during rush hour or heading out during challenging weather conditions. You can always ask a more seasoned driver to accompany you if you feel nervous.

When you’re ready to start driving in the dark, take it slowly and stay even more alert to your surroundings and other vehicles on the road.

Avoid any distractions

Beyond wearing your seatbelt and following all traffic laws, not getting distracted is the next best way to stay safe.

Put down your phone. Never look at it while you’re driving, even if you’re at a stoplight. Don’t text, send voice notes or talk on the phone — it may be illegal in your area, and any distraction could keep you from being fully aware of what’s going on around you. If you need to check your phone, pull over.

Don’t get distracted by other drivers, either, particularly if they’re speeding, weaving between lanes or driving dangerously. Instead, stay alert and drive defensively, always staying ready to make a quick decision if there’s a sudden stop or someone drifts into your lane. Always maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you.

Never operate a car under the influence of alcohol, drugs or any other substance that could impair your ability to drive safely. Similarly, don’t get behind the wheel if you’re too tired and can’t keep your eyes open.

Prepare for an emergency

Having an emergency plan is important. Think about who you would call for help, including your emergency contact, your insurance provider and a car repair/tow company. You may also need to call 911.

An emergency kit is great to keep on hand in your vehicle.  Include a first aid kit, flashlight, bottled water, jumper cables, a blanket and even snacks in case of bad weather, an accident or a breakdown.

Build your confidence one drive at a time

Hitting the road as a new driver can be intimidating and overwhelming. With practice and more experience, you can build confidence. Safety is another important part of the equation. Learn about your vehicle and how to maintain it, practice driving in different conditions, always avoid distractions and prepare for an emergency. You’ll be driving like a pro in no time.

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