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Driving Safety Tips for Your New Driver
Is your new driver constantly begging for the car keys? Summer is well underway, and for some new drivers, they’re feeling ultimate freedom–no sports practice, no school, and a day open for adventure. This may mean they’re driving more than usual.
We see a lot here at The Auto Shop in Jefferson City, and we need to continue promoting safe driving habits among new drivers. In this blog post, we will provide valuable advice from the perspective of an auto mechanic, sharing driving safety tips that will help ensure the well-being of new drivers and their passengers.
1. Buckle Up
The first and most crucial safety tip for new drivers is always wearing a seatbelt. Emphasize buckling up before starting the vehicle and insist all passengers do the same. Seatbelts save lives and reduce the risk of severe injuries in case of an accident.
2. Eliminate Distractions
Distractions while driving can be hazardous, especially for inexperienced drivers. Encourage your new driver to focus solely on the road and eliminate distractions such as texting, eating, or adjusting music. Remind them to use hands-free devices for any necessary phone calls.
3. Obey Traffic Laws
Stress the significance of obeying all traffic laws and regulations. Teach new drivers about speed limits, traffic signs, and right-of-way rules. Explain the importance of signaling when changing lanes or making turns and remind them to be cautious of pedestrians and bicyclists.
4. Maintain a Safe Following Distance
Explain the concept of a safe following distance to your new driver. Encourage them to maintain a distance of at least three seconds behind the vehicle in front of them. This will give them ample time to react and brake if necessary, minimizing the risk of rear-end collisions.
5. Practice Defensive Driving
Teach your new driver the importance of defensive driving techniques. Emphasize the need to anticipate and be prepared for the actions of other drivers on the road. Encourage them to constantly scan the surroundings, check mirrors frequently, and remain aware of blind spots.
6. Proper Vehicle Maintenance
I cannot stress enough the significance of regular vehicle maintenance. Teach your new driver the basics of checking tire pressure and fluid levels and ensuring all lights work. Regular oil changes and scheduled maintenance are vital for optimal vehicle performance and safety.
7. Adjust to Weather Conditions
Educate your new driver about the importance of adapting their driving to different weather conditions. Explain how these conditions affect visibility and road grip, whether rain, fog, or snow. Encourage them to slow down, increase following distances, and use appropriate vehicle controls to navigate safely.
8. Avoid Drowsy Driving
Warn your new driver about the dangers of drowsy driving. Lack of sleep can impair judgment and reaction time, making it extremely risky to operate a vehicle. Encourage them to get enough rest before embarking on long drives and take regular breaks to combat fatigue.
9. Keep Your Vehicle Serviced
Regular vehicle maintenance prevents unexpected breakdowns and ensures a safe driving experience. Encourage your new driver to schedule routine inspections and adhere to the manufacturer's recommended service intervals. Regular servicing helps identify potential issues before they become major problems, saving time, money, and potential frustration.
Visit The Auto Shop For All Your Vehicle Needs!
As summer brings forth a new wave of teenage drivers hitting the road, it is crucial to equip them with the necessary driving safety knowledge. By following these tips, new drivers can reduce their risk of accidents, protect themselves and their passengers, and promote a safer driving culture. At The Auto Shop, we prioritize the well-being of all drivers, and we hope that this blog post will contribute to a safer and more enjoyable driving experience for new drivers this summer.
Safe driving is a lifelong commitment, and these tips apply to drivers of all ages. Stay informed, stay alert, and enjoy the freedom of the open road responsibly! The Auto Shop is located at 612 Missouri Boulevard Court, Jefferson City, MO, 65109. Our shop is the only ASE blue-ribbon-certified shop within 100 miles! We have diagnostic equipment in each tech bay, so you don’t have to wait around to get work done. Our business hours are Monday - Friday, 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM. We accept cash, personal checks, Visa, MasterCard, AMEX, and Discover for payments.