TIPS
- Be sure to slow down before making turns.
- Wear your seat belt. This is the easiest way to be safe in a car.
- Stay in your own comfort zone. If it has snowed and roads are covered in ice, drive as slow as you need to, to feel in control of the vehicle, and if people get impatient and start honking, so what? Protect yourself and your loved ones. They can go around you!
- Study the manual A.K.A. the driving guide, from your state! This will help for learning the rules of road so you don't get ticketed or arrested for breaking the rules of the road.
- Always follow safe driving practices. Don't drive recklessly fast, accelerate suddenly or brake unexpectedly. Also, don't weave in between vehicles on the highway - it is very dangerous, and can cause highly damaging collisions.
- Put away all distracting items such as cell phones etc. before you even step behind the steering wheel.
- Practice makes permanent, so practice good habits (e.g. turning your head to check your blind spot) instead of bad ones (e.g. checking mirrors without turning your head).
- Stay safe, don't text when driving.
- If you are a new driver, always ride with an experienced driver until you are confident.
- Maintain your car properly and regularly check oil level, wheel alignment, headlights, and brakes.
- Be careful with other cars.
- Don't wear bulky shoes with big soles, they might get in the way when pressing down the brakes during an emergency.
- When driving big cars, make sure you are clear of the road ahead before overtaking
- If you are just starting to drive, or if you are unsure of driving by yourself, it might be a good idea to get a parent or an older friend who can help you drive.
- Don't drive faster than what you're comfortable with.
- When you park your car and exit the vehicle, be sure to turn off your lights, put on the parking brake, lock the doors, and remember your parking spot (use landmarks if needed).
- If you are making an emergency stop in car equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), press the brake as hard as you can. ABS makes a car's break pump more rapidly than your foot can. This stops the car while still offering you control over the direction. Do not 'pump' the brake nor loosen the force. While ABS is active, you may feel vibration through the brake pedal - this is normal. Just continue pressing the brake until your car stops.
- Service your car within the mileage or age ranges recommended by your manufacturer or dealer.
- Keep enough room between your car and the vehicle in front so there is enough room to come to a full stop should the car in front suddenly has to stop. Tailgating is dangerous.
- Hire a certified, experienced driver teacher if you're nervous.
- Never read newspaper or eat something while driving.
