New Driver

Everyone remembers their first time behind the wheel—maybe you felt excited and confident, or maybe you felt nervous and scared. Each time you get out on the road you are responsible for driving safely to protect yourself and other drivers around you.

Whether you are driving your own car or a company truck, being aware of the laws and rules of the road is the best way to stay safe.

If you are new to driving, read these road safety tips before buckling up your seatbelt and hitting the open road. 

1. Do Not Drive Impaired

Don’t drink and drive. If you are impaired from alcohol or any other substance, you should not be driving. It doesn’t matter how far you have to travel or if you are familiar with the roads, there is no excuse for driving while under the influence.

Impaired driving also includes driving when you are very tired or even if you are overly emotional. It may seem silly, but these types of things can impact the way your brain processes situations and can put you at risk for an accident.

2. Know What to Do If You Breakdown or Are in an Accident

If your car breaks down, stay calm. Turn on your hazard lights and find a safe place that you can pull over away from traffic. Once you have gotten to safety, stay in the car and make a call to get professional help.

If you are in an accident, you should first check that all passengers involved are safe. Then, you should call the police. If you suspect someone is seriously injured you should mention that when you call 9-1-1 so that they can send a medical team.

Always have your insurance information handy and be prepared to share it with the police.

If you are a truck driver that has been in an accident, you should contact a truck accident injury attorney.

3. Drive Defensively

Driving defensively means being aware of your surroundings. Scan the road for pedestrians, merging cars, or potential hazards to ensure you are safe on the road.

Always keep a safe distance between you and the car in front of you. Not everyone is a safe driver, so expect the unexpected on the road.

4. Know How to Drive in All Conditions

During rainy or icy conditions it is important to drive with caution. If it is raining heavily, you should decrease your speed and keep a greater distance between you and the car in front of you.

If the roads are icy, slow your speed and come to all stops cautiously as ice may cause the car to slide.

Putting Road Safety Tips to the Test

If you follow the rules of the road and practice the road safety tips above, you should have no concerns hitting the open road.

Remember that you cannot control how other people will drive, but you can protect yourself by driving safely and keeping your cool.

Buckle up, and enjoy the ride!

If you want to read more useful tips for road safety, check out some of our other articles!