6 Things to Know When You Drive Your Car for the First Time.
You have passed your written test to get your learner’s permit. You can finally get behind the wheel! You know your basic safety rules of the road. However, there are some more things to consider before you turn the key to the ignition.
- Adjust your vehicle seat so that you are comfortable.
It is important to be comfortable in your seat, especially if you’re going to be driving for a long period of time. Make sure your rearview mirrors are adjusted to your position so that you can see behind you clearly.
- Do not overthink the situation.
When driving a car, you need to multitask. There are a lot of rules when you are on the road so it might feel overwhelming having to remember each one of them while driving. Clearing your mind of temporary worries and fully concentrating on what’s in front of you is very important when driving.
- Calm your nerves.
It is always best to have an experienced driver next to you. Usually when you are given your permit, one of the rules is that you must drive with an experienced driver 21 years or older. That way, they can teach you if you’re doing certain things right or wrong. It’s a great way to learn and to improve your driving.
- Rid yourself of any distractions.
Driving distractions is never a good idea because it takes away your concentration from the road and from your driving. Distractions take away from you focusing on what’s going on around you. This could be hazardous. Again, it is best to have an experienced driver with you if a distraction is unavoidable.
- Stay on familiar roads.
Doing this you wouldn’t have to worry about navigating to a destination or using a GPS to get from point A to point B (which could be another distraction). Driving around your neighborhood, you are able to know where you’re going as well as the traffic patterns on certain streets.
- Stay away from interstate and major highways.
Driving on highways and interstates could be useful in the future, however, if you’re just starting out, the speedy cars and the fast atmosphere could overwhelm a new driver. Wait until you feel confident with driving in residential areas or quiet streets.
Conclusion
The purpose of being behind the wheel for the first time is to get a feel of your vehicle and to get used to driving. Some other things that aren’t recommended when it’s your first time driving include: fast food drive-through lanes, parallel parking, and filling up gas stations.
Keeping these simple rules in mind when driving could make your first experience a bit less worrisome. You shouldn’t be feeling scared when driving, although it is a big responsibility. You are taking the safety of yourself and the safety of others into your own hands once you sit in the driver’s seat. Make sure you are well educated, prepared and confident.