Passing your driving test is one of the great thrills in life. Whether you pass first time or take ten attempts, there are few feelings like it as it opens up a world of possibilities while also giving you a great deal of responsibility.
Now you can get from A to B with no fuss but you must also do so sensibly and safely to protect, not only yourself, but the rest of society on the roads.
It can be daunting driving around Yorkshire without the assistance of your driver teacher or family and friends. Therefore it is essential to continue learning long after you have been given the keys to drive and this article will offer practical tips and guidance to ensure you enjoy a smooth journey into driving.
Know your Car and Maintain it
So, you’ve just passed your test and buy your first motor. There is no doubting it will be your pride and joy but as a first-time driver, it is imperative you know all about your car and are constantly monitoring its functionality to ensure you are able to maintain it. For instance, you may be driving and discover you need a new headlight, which may certainly be the case at some point if your car is not brand new and has wracked up some miles on the clock. It’s always wise to seek the help of a professional, as well as finding more information online at sites such as autodoc.co.uk where there is information on car headlights.
Regular checks by yourself as the driver and also mechanics in the Yorkshire area can help you avoid costly repairs and also decrease the likelihood of your breaking down in the middle of nowhere. By keeping on top of your vehicle’s health and enhance your overall driving experience and take confidence from being on top of the car’s maintenance. Simple tasks like oil changes and tyre rotations don’t take all day but are key in ensuring your car drives safely and efficiently.
Always Observe Traffic Laws
This may seem obvious but the laws are set to ensure people are safe on the roads and must be adhered to at all times. The Highway Code must be observed at all times while concentrating on the road is imperative. One of the laws people sometimes fall foul of is speeding. For instance, if you do 23mph in a 20mph zone, this is considered too fast so always keep an eye on the dial and ensure you are travelling at the correct speed, firstly to stay and protect those around you and secondly, to avoid fines and points on your driving licence. By adhering to UK driving laws, you will continue and build on good habits and importantly, reduce the risk of having an accident.
Vehicle maintenance is one of the laws you must follow with the car needing to be in proper working order and passing an MOT to ensure it is to safe drive. AUTODOC Expert Council:« If the lights get fogged, it is advisable to check the condition of the sealing elements, and whether the rear covers fit the housing tight.»
Practice your Driving
Though you are now a qualified driver, it’s a wise move to get out and practice your driving, particularly in different conditions. Head out in the early evening or when the night is drawing in, for example, so that you can get accustomed to driving in the dark. Also drive in different conditions in the rain or snow but, of course, only do so if this is safe. Building up different driving experience will make you a better driver and help you when it comes to making quick decisions behind the wheel.
Build your confidence behind the wheel and keep developing the skills you learned when gearing up for your test. Boost your reaction times and master different elements of driving. You should also avoid distractions when driving so be sure to stop the mind from wandering and keep music on the radio at a sensible volume level so that your attention is on the road and not singing along.
Plan Journeys Ahead of Time
Planning ahead will ensure you remain comfortable in the car and help avoid too many unwanted surprises. Check online news sources and radio reports for road closures in Yorkshire so that you can plot alternative routes. Putting the location you are heading to into your sat-nav will minimise stress and help you avoid any wrong turns.
Familiarising yourself with different streets can help you on the drive while estimating travel times will also aid you in avoiding mistakes made by being flustered or in a rush. Understanding traffic patterns will become second nature if the route is one you take often during a commute or heading to and from the same location while it’s important to note the weather before getting behind the wheel as adverse conditions can impact your journey.
Wrapping Up
Becoming a new driver after passing your test is a truly exciting part of life and presents so many options now that you can get about Yorkshire and beyond independently, without the need to rely on public transport or other drivers. However, with that in mind, driving coms with great responsibility and so you must always maintain your car and follow the laws of the road to ensure everyone is safe.