TIPS FOR NEW DRIVERS

Avoid distractions: Keep your eyes on the road. That means no texting, no calling, no eating, no channel surfing on the radio, and no turning around to talk with friends in the backseat. Accidents can happen in a split second, but if you’re paying attention, you’ll have a better chance of avoiding one. One of the best tips for new drivers is to take the time to set yourself up for your drive while you’re still in your driveway. Choose your music, set your GPS, put your phone on Do Not Disturb, and make sure any important communication is completed or paused before your drive.

Adjust your accessories: No, not your bling. We’re talking about making sure your seat is in a comfortable spot and checking all mirrors to make sure they give you visibility of your car’s blind spots. How to check? A vehicle overtaking from behind you should start to appear in the side mirror just as it’s disappearing from the center rear view mirror. As a tip for new drivers, especially, do this before you start your drive, not when your vehicle is moving.

Don’t tailgate: Following too closely is a leading cause of rear-end accidents. Just remember the 3-second rule: Pick an object on the road ahead (like a sign, tree, or overpass), and when the vehicle in front of you passes the object slowly count “one-one thousand, two-one thousand, three-one thousand.” If you reach the object before completing the count, you’re following too closely. Remember, if the car in front of you slams on their brakes and you rear-end them, it could mean a ticket for you, a lawsuit from the other driver and an expensive bill from your insurer.

Be prepared: In case of accidents, breakdowns, or other emergencies, your car should always contain critical driving documents and an emergency kit with everything you’d need for an extended time in your vehicle. Ensure you have things like your vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and driver’s licence handy. A good emergency kit also includes water, non-perishable snacks, an emergency blanket, flashlights and road hazard cones.