9 Tips For New Drivers On The Roads
Getting in the car for the first time as a new driver can be scary. Over time you will start to get more comfortable with the roads and start to feel more confident driving. The most important thing is to ensure you are safe. But first, there are a few things that you should know before going on your first drive…
1. Adjust Your Mirrors
You should have your side-view mirrors adjusted so that your car isn’t visible in them. It is also important that the rear-view mirror is adjusted correctly. This is so that you can see out the back window of your car completely. When adjusting your mirrors make sure that you are sitting as you would whilst driving.
2. Do not Drive Through Puddles!
Many of us didn’t learn whilst driving, to not drive through puddles. When approaching a puddle it is important that you slow down. If you drive quickly through a puddle you risk getting water in the ignition.
3. Make Sure You’re Covered
It’s required that you have insurance,but breakdown cover isn’t required. But it’s very important to have it. Having it will cover you for any roadside repairs if you break down whilst out driving.
4. Be Aware of Penalty Points
As a new driver for the first two years of driving, you can only accrue up to six penalty points. If you do receive six penalty points then you will have to reapply for a provisional driving license. You’d then have to re-sit both the theory and driving test again.
5. Check!
It’s important to make sure your oil and water levels are correct. Also that all your lights are working . Also, it’s good to get your tyre pressure checked regularly. Some vehicles do have a tyre pressure monitor which will monitor your tyres.
6. Think About Taking Pass Plus
Pass Plus is designed to help new drivers improve their skills and drive safely. It will cover different road types and environments such as…
Motorways
Towns
Rural Roads
Dual Carriageways
All Weather Conditions
Night Driving
7. Avoid Distractions
You need to make sure that you have as little distractions as possible to help you focus. This could be having the music quiet in your car. Maybe not have passengers for the first few months of driving. Also make sure you are focused on the road and not the surroundings.
8. Have a Valid MOT
Often your first car will be a second-hand car, so before you do anything make sure you have a valid MOT. At Express Fit we offer MOT’s for £35. If you do not have an MOT then you risk £1000 fine, and potential penalty points. Having an MOT will also ensure your vehicle is road safe! So it’s important to make sure you have one.
9. Have Road Tax
Having road tax is a legal requirement and without you can face a fine. You can Tax your vehicle on the Governments website, here you can pay annually, or set a monthly direct debit. Even if you are exempt because of a disability to pay road tax, you must still register to tax the vehicle.
