The Do’s and Don’ts of Learning to Drive

Learning to drive can be both a thrilling and daunting experience. It’s a chance to explore the open road and gain a new level of independence. If you’re like most people, learning to drive is a rite of passage that signals the transition into adulthood.

But it’s also a big responsibility. There’s a lot to think about, from learning the basics of car control to mastering more complex maneuvers. And, of course, there’s the crucial factor of staying safe on the roads.

If you aspire to be a new driver, it’s vital to understand the dos and don’ts of learning to drive. So before you hit the streets, here are a few things you need to know.

The Do’s

If you want to learn to drive, you should do a few things. The most vital ones include:

Find an Experienced Driving Instructor

The driving instructor you choose can make a big difference in your driving experience. So, choose a driving school with reputable instructors. A good driving instructor will teach you the skills you need to be a safe driver and put you at ease behind the wheel.

The instructors should be patient with you as you make mistakes and help you learn from them. After all, learning to drive can be a stressful experience. They should offer you the driving help you need to become a confident and capable driver.

Study for and Pass Your Driving Exam

Before you can get your driver’s license, you’ll need to pass a written exam and a driving test. The driving test will assess your skills behind the wheel, so preparing yourself is essential.

Most states offer a driver’s handbook that outlines the road rules to help you study. You can also find practice tests online. If you’re planning to take a driving test in Ontario, check out a G1 practice test at https://www.g1course.com/ontario-g1-practice-test/.

Display Your L Plates

In most states, learner drivers are required to display “L” plates on the front and back of their cars. These indicate to other drivers that you are a learner driver and still gaining driving experience.

They also alert authorities that you may not yet be familiar with the road rules. They’ll forgive the odd mistake as long as you’re a learner. So, make sure you put your L plates on before hitting the road.

Be Attentive to Local Hazards

As a learner driver, you need to be extra vigilant about local hazards. This means being aware of speed bumps, school zones, and construction sites.

You should also watch out for pedestrians, cyclists, and animals that might dart into the road. By being attentive to your surroundings, you can help avoid accidents.

Choose the Right Car

The car you learn to drive in can also impact your driving experience. If possible, try to find a comfortable car that’s easy to handle.

Some newer cars have features that can make driving easier, such as automatic braking or parallel parking assist. If you have the opportunity to drive a car with these features, it can help you feel more confident behind the wheel.

The Don’ts

In addition to the do’s of learning to drive, there are also a few driving don’ts you should be aware of. These include:

Don’t Rush

If you’re a new driver, it’s essential to take your time and not rush. Don’t drive over the speed limit. Also, leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you.

Take your time when making turns or changing lanes. If you rush, you’re more likely to make mistakes. And as we all know, driving mistakes can be dangerous.

Don’t Drive Distracted

Driving requires your full attention. This means not driving when you’re tired, angry, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you have a night out, make sure you have a designated driver or take a cab home.

Avoiding distractions also means no texting, no talking on the phone, and no fiddling with the radio. If you need to do any of these things, pull over first.

Bear in mind that, as a new driver, even passengers can distract you. So, choose your driving companions wisely.

Don’t Panic

If you make a driving mistake, it’s important not to panic. Panicking can lead to more errors and an accident.

If you find yourself in a difficult driving situation, take a deep breath and think about what you need to do. Keep a straight head, and you’ll be able to handle anything that comes your way. The important thing is to not let other road users stress you out.

Don’t Assume You Know What Another Driver Wants to Do

Just because another driver flashes their lights at you doesn’t mean they want you to do anything. They could just be trying to let you know they’re there.

So, don’t assume that another driver wants you to do something. If they want you to move over or let them into your lane, they’ll use their turn signal. And if they don’t use their turn signal, it’s best to stay where you are.

Don’t Drive Without Insurance

In most states, it’s illegal to drive without insurance. If authorities catch you driving without insurance, you could be fined or have your license suspended.

So, if you’re learning to drive, make sure you’re insured. Your parent or guardian can add you as a named driver on their policy.

If you have your own car, you’ll need to get your own vehicle insurance. This can be expensive, but there are ways to save on car insurance for new drivers.

Understand the Vital Do’s and Don’ts of Learning to Drive

Following the do’s and don’ts of learning to drive can help you have a positive and successful driving experience. Do your best to follow these tips, and you’ll be driving like a pro in no time!

If you’re looking for more helpful tips, check out the rest of our website.