• Obtain proper education and training on driving rules, such as enrolling in a basic driving program or reading driver’s education material.
• Practice driving in different weather and traffic conditions to become comfortable and confident.
• Follow traffic laws, obey speed limits, use turn signals, and be wary of distractions while driving.
• Practice defensive driving techniques and maintain an appropriate distance between yourself and other vehicles.
• Always stay sober when driving, and have a designated driver or call a taxi if you plan on drinking.
As a responsible driver, you can make the roads safer for yourself and others. As someone still starting to learn the rules of the road, it’s important to develop good habits from the start. While being a responsible driver is easier said than done, there are some key concepts and tips to remember.
Start with Learning
Everything starts with proper knowledge. Seeking help from a family member may not be enough to become a responsible driver. It’s important to obtain the proper education and training. Here are ways to get the training and information needed to become a responsible driver:
Enrolling in Driving School
Enrolling in a trusted driving school is the best way to learn road rules and improve your skills. Most states require a certain number of hours of instruction to obtain a learner’s permit or driver’s license. This kind of foundation helps create a good understanding of the basics.
Reading Driver’s Education Material
Learning about driving does not only have to be done in person. Many books, magazines, and other materials are filled with useful information on driving responsibly. You can also find helpful videos online demonstrating certain techniques or offering advice on certain topics.
Practice in Different Conditions
Before hitting the roads alone, practice driving in various weather and traffic conditions. These conditions include rain, snow, highway driving, city streets, and more. It’s important to get comfortable and confident in different environments so that you can react quickly, no matter the situation. This will help you become more prepared for when you encounter these same conditions on the roads.
Follow Traffic Laws and Rules of The Road
Being a responsible driver means following the rules of the road and traffic laws. These laws are not only important to keep you safe, but they are also in place to protect other drivers. Here are ways to start:
Use Turn Signals
Always use your turn signals whenever you make a lane change or turn. Your turn signals warn other drivers of your intentions, so using them is important. Not using them could cause an accident or inconvenience to other drivers.
Obey Speed Limits
Speed limits are in place for a reason, and they must be followed. Pay attention to the posted speed limit signs and do not exceed them. This is key to avoiding tickets and accidents. These are usually located in areas with a high concentration of pedestrians or other vehicles. Stay alert and keep your speed low.
Be Wary of Distractions
Distractions such as talking on the phone or having an unruly passenger can lead to major accidents. Not being able to keep your eyes and hands off your phone or other items increases the chances of getting into an accident. When driving, it’s important to stay focused and alert at all times.
Drive Defensively
In addition to following traffic laws, it is also important to practice defensive driving techniques on the roads. This means always staying focused on the task at hand—driving—while remaining aware of potential hazards around you, such as aggressive drivers or distracted pedestrians. You should also be sure to maintain an appropriate distance between yourself and other vehicles on the road; this will give you more time to react if something unexpected occurs. Here are some tips for practicing defensive driving:
- Keep your speed reasonable to ensure you have more time to react.
- Scan the road ahead and behind you often to look for potential hazards.
- Be aware of vehicle blind spots, both yours and others.
- Avoid tailgating or cutting off other drivers.
Stay Sober
Drunk driving accounts for about 10,000 deaths in the United States every year. It is an incredibly dangerous and irresponsible practice that puts the driver at risk and endangers everyone else on the roads. According to a study, more than 230 children were killed in drunk-driving crashes in the US in 2019 alone. This is why it is important to never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Here are essential tips to abide by when it comes to drinking and driving:
- Always have a designated driver if you plan on drinking.
- Call a taxi or any TNVS if you don’t have someone to take you home.
- Stay the night where you are rather than risk an accident.
Learning to be a responsible driver takes time, practice, and dedication. If you focus on these basic tips, however, you can be sure that your driving will always be safe and efficient. It also helps to remember that everyone makes mistakes; just try your best to learn from them. Remember, safety always comes first when you are on the road.
