Being a motorist not only means keeping your car in good road-worthy condition but also knowing how to keep yourself and your passengers safe on the roads. It doesn’t matter how good a driver you think you are, you also have to anticipate what other motorists are going to do next. Whilst you can’t control what other drivers do, you can learn how to react safely.
Don’t trust too much
Many drivers put their trust in others too readily. For example, when someone flashes their headlights signalling that it’s safe to proceed. We often take this at face value and proceed, when in actual fact, the Highway Code states we must not do this. Strictly speaking, a flashing of lights means the same as sounding your horn and not that it’s safe to come through. There could always be the time that the other driver hasn’t reacted correctly, and it is indeed not safe to proceed.
Observe and plan ahead
Being a defensive driver means always being observant, knowing when to anticipate problems and looking well ahead. Do you see dustbins along the road? Could this mean a dustbin lorry around the corner? Are you passing a narrow line of parked cars? Could someone step out or open a door? Being aware of potential hazards and continually observing your surroundings can prepare you better for a time when you need to react quickly.
Keep your car roadworthy
It’s not just other drivers you need to aware of but also the safety of your own vehicle. Don’t drive when you know there are faults or repairs that need completing. Also make sure you have valid insurance, tax and an up-to-date MOT. For a Gloucester MOT, visit https://www.123carandcommercial.com/
Indicators are not always what they seem
Never take an indicator signal as definite until you see the vehicle manoeuvre in that direction. No action has been confirmed until you see it, and drivers often leave an indicator on by accident or have a sudden change of mind at the last moment.
Keep your distance
Imagine a safety bubble around your vehicle. Your aim is to keep ample distance between you and the vehicles around you so that you have ample reaction time when others make errors. You can never be sure that those around you aren’t distracted or are going to follow the rules of the road to the letter.
Never feel uncomfortable
If you experience a driver behind you who is driving too close or erratically, when you can safely do so, pull over and let them pass. Don’t ever feel pressured to drive in a way you don’t feel comfortable with and remember it’s about getting to your destination in one piece and not a race. You can’t be responsible for the driving of others, but you can keep yourself safe. Don’t get drawn into aggressive driving or tailgating as this only increases the risk of being involved in an accident.
Habits that help newly qualified drivers
Defensive driving starts from the very first solo journey. New drivers often feel nervous, and that is normal. Hold off offering friends lifts until you feel confident, because passengers can be a real distraction while you are still getting used to driving alone.
Put your phone on silent or switch it off. Using a handheld phone while driving is illegal, and even a notification on the passenger seat can pull your attention away from the road. If music helps you relax, keep the volume low enough to hear approaching emergency vehicles.
Know your obligations, too. Keep track of when your tax and MOT are due and make sure your insurance is valid, so you do not pick up points or lose the car. Breakdown cover means you will not be stranded alone. Above all, practise. The more you drive, the more natural it becomes. A Pass Plus course adds extra hours of tuition, and a trusted adult can sit with you on short trips until you feel ready.