OMG! You got your driver’s license, and you can finally drive independently. Getting your license is an exciting milestone in your life because you’re getting closer to adulthood and independence. However, with young adulthood comes responsibility. When driving, you must look out for yourself and others on the road. To help you stay safe, we’ve put together a list of the best advice for new drivers on the road.
Obey All Traffic Laws
When you took your learner’s license and driver’s test, you faced an array of questions about your local traffic laws. Those very questions will relate to your everyday driving experience. You must follow every traffic law, from road signs and right-of-way to speed limits and traffic signals; you must obey the law or face serious consequences.
Slow Down
Along with obeying traffic laws comes abiding by the speed limit. Unfortunately, teen drivers are more likely to get into fatal car accidents due to speeding. Please slow down. Your friends aren’t going to vanish into thin air if you’re running a few minutes late. To help you not speed or rush, plan your day out and follow a schedule.
If driving in inclement weather, you should also slow your driving. Often, rain, ice, and snow make the roads slick, which requires you to increase your following distance.
Always Wear Your Seatbelt
Always wear your seatbelt and ensure your passengers wear their seatbelts while the vehicle is moving. According to the CDC, half of the teen drivers and passengers aged 16–19 who died in a car accident in 2019 were not wearing a seatbelt. As soon as you get in the car, put on your seatbelt, and don’t move the car until every passenger buckles up.
Eliminate Any Distractions
As fun as it is to ride around with the music blasting, laugh with your friends, and eat a burger on the go, those are all distractions that can take your attention away from the road. Keep your eyes on the road to look out for yourself and other drivers. The same rules apply when driving at night. There’s a higher risk of distractions and reckless driving at night, so you must practice safe night driving habits. The best thing you can do is to choose your music, set your GPS, and get your giggles out before heading on the road.
Getting your driver’s license is an exciting milestone, and you should be proud of yourself! You’re on your way to young adulthood and independence. However, you should follow our advice for new drivers on the road to help you stay safe and ticket-free.