Basic Safety Tips for Young Drivers

There is more to driving safely than just passing your driving test.

16:25 06 October 2015

 If you have managed to pass that difficult test, there are more important things to remember than fastening your seat belt.

 

Experts and road safety consultants think that young drivers need to make sure they put all their attention into driving and nothing else. According to them, it is mostly the attitude of the driver rather than skills that causes many car crashes and collisions. They say young drivers need to be able to focus on the road and other users all the time and avoid being distracted by passengers in the car. It is crucial that your cell phones are switched off so you can be sure there is no distraction from any incoming messages or calls. 

 

Insurers think that drivers often succumb to passenger pressure. Therefore they need to steer clear of travelling with a large bunch of friends.  Statistical studies point out that the more friends you ferry about in your car, the higher the possibility you or the car might end up damaged in a car crash. Research also suggests that fairly inexperienced testosterone-fuelled male drivers can find young female passengers a real distraction especially when they need to concentrate hard on driving safely. And they usually succumb to the urge to flaunt off; taking risks such as racing other motorists or overtaking on tight bends and zipping along the motorway. Young drivers should know that driving irresponsibly is not the best way to impress their peers. 

 

Police officials say that young motorists should keep an eye on their speed. Death of young teens is an issue they are trying to address, but it’s a serious issue they cannot address on their own, so they are appealing for young drivers to follow safety guidelines, watch their speed, avoid being put off by other passengers, and to never ever hit the road after taking drugs or drinking.  Alcohol slows you down hampering the way you react, reduces your coordination skills, and greatly affects judgement of distance, speed and risk. 

 

Make sure you pay attention to such tips If you’re a young driver and you don’t want to risk your license on the road.