If you’re a new driver, congratulations! Passing your test is a great achievement, and getting on the road will open up a whole world of new opportunities and experiences for you. However, you need to ensure you’re as safe as possible when you’re on the road. There’s nothing to say that just because you’re a new driver you’re going to get into an accident, but 26.12% of new drivers aged between 18 and 24 admitted to having an accident in their first year, as did 27.7% of new drivers aged between 25 and 34 – according to a report by ala.co.uk.

If you’re going to get behind the wheel, make sure you pay attention to these dos and don’ts so you can do so safely.

Do Get Acquainted With Your Car Before Taking It For A Spin

Before you get into your car to go out in it, you should get well acquainted with it if you haven’t already. You should know exactly where everything is, such as your lights, wipers, and other crucial elements of the car. The amount of new drivers that aren’t aware of these things is shocking!  

Don’t Have Your Music On Full Blast

It can be tempting to blast your music out loud and proud and have a party while you drive – after all, you’ve passed! You’re finally on the road! Yay! However, this can be a huge distraction from what’s going on around you. It can be a good idea to have it down super low, or even not at all when you just start driving.

Do Drive Somewhere Familiar

It probably isn’t a good idea to drive somewhere completely unfamiliar when you first get into your car. Driving somewhere you know will give you confidence – the last thing you want to do is come up to confusing roads and begin to panic. You may need to contact a truck accident attorney if you take the motorway having never been on there before and you end up panicking. See if a more experienced driver is available to come with you if you want to go somewhere you’ve never been.

Don’t Ignore The Rules Of The Road

Just because you’ve passed your test doesn’t mean you can ignore the rules of the road. You may have your license revoked before you’ve even really started! Always pay attention to and honor the speed limits, avoid tailgating, and make sure you are mindful.  

Do Keep Distractions Away

Put your phone in your glovebox, don’t do your hair or makeup as you drive – even if you’ve stopped in traffic. Minimize distractions as much as you can.

Don’t Have Too Many Passengers

Having too many passengers can be distracting when you just start out. Their chatter can easily distract you, especially if you’re involved. If you have to carry multiple people, ask them to be quiet.

Do Make Sure You’re In A Fit State To Drive

You shouldn’t drive if you’re angry or anxious, and especially not if you’re tired.