Good Driving Habits
Tips for New Drivers
1) Turn your head – A LOT! To be sure you are observing your side and back views.
2) Wear Your Seat Belt!!! Statistics do not lie. You are more likely to survive wearing the belt.
3) Keep your speed at safe levels. Being in control of the car is an illusion if you are speeding!
Safe Speeds allow you to handle unexpected events while driving.
4) Drive defensively! Before entering at a green light still check with quick glances to your sides.
Check all intersections. Be aware of right of way but don’t assume.
5) Keep both hands on the wheel. More control means safer driving.
6) When turning, practice to keep both hands on the outside of the wheel. When we reach
under the wheel in turning if coming up on a skid or someone cutting in, then you will have
more control if you are already in the habit of both hands outside the wheel.
7) Turn off your cell or put it away while driving!!! Being on your cell or a handsfree is ILLEGAL!
Texting is a cognitive distraction not just physical. Even if we feel confident, our attention has to
be on the multitask of driving close to a ton machine hurling down the road!
8) Keep an eye on your space cushion around your vehicle. Allow space in front and don’t follow
too closely. Be aware of the spaces around your sides and behind.
9) Avoid too much radio use, eating while driving, handling water or a soda, of course texting –
basically keep both hands on the wheel and your attention on your driving!
10) Learn how to keep your tires properly inflated, treads in good shape, know about oil and
keeping the car fluids up to date etc. The more you know about your car the safer you will be!