Do you remember when all you could think about was passing your driving test? Now you have passed it so you need pro tips about driving on the road.  The good news is that you are capable of driving because you passed your test. With more experience and wise decisions, you should be able to drive safely and calmly. This article will discuss all you need to know about driving on the road as a beginner.

1. Fix your mirrors

You must adjust your mirrors to fit your field of view each time you get in your car. This is particularly valid if you drive with another person in your vehicle.

Your rearview mirror would show your whole rear window. Your side-view mirrors are crucial as well since improper adjustment results in the creation of a blind spot. This implies you won't notice a car in a nearby lane trying to pass you. Adjust your side-view mirrors so you cannot see your vehicle in the mirror to remove blind spots. You'll be able to see any oncoming autos clearly as a result.

2. Avoid distractions

Even the most experienced drivers face the possibility of getting into an accident. If they become distracted, Put your phone on quiet and keep it out of your reach so you can keep your eyes on the road. 

Never try to eat while operating a motor vehicle. Until you gain more confidence, avoid transporting any yapping newborns or enthusiastic pups, and turn off your music while driving.

3. Know everything about your car

To guarantee that your trip is as safe and comfortable as possible, you must be familiar with the characteristics of your vehicle. This covers the windshield washer, defroster, heater, air conditioner, windows, locks, indicators, fog lights, seat controls, horn, radio, and hazards.

Check your owner's manual or consult a professional if you need clarification on the meaning of the gauges on your dashboard.

When a warning light illuminates, it's critical that you recognize the problem and don't ignore it.

4. Don't run out of gas

Always fill up your tank with gas before you go on a trip to prevent becoming stranded far from a gas station. This is particularly true if the warning light illuminates, so you should head to the closest gas stations and top off your tank.

Avoid waiting until you are almost out of gas since it will be a long walk home, and your car suddenly stops when there isn't even a drop in the tank. Avoid this rookie mistake.

5. Always have these emergency supplies in your car

These supplies are helpful in case you have a breakdown or a puncture. Having these necessities in the boot of your car is crucial since nobody wants to be left out in the cold.

-A lug wrench, jack, and an inflated spare tire

-Triangle of danger

-First aid kit

-Blanket

-Hi-Vis apparel

-Antifreeze/Cold Fluid

-Vehicle fire extinguisher (powder-based)

-Duct tape

6. Know how to change your tires

Knowing how to change a tire independently is essential when driving a vehicle. You can read our article about fixing tires here. You can also ask someone to teach you and make sure you practice on your own.

7. Be familiar with your routes

Choose a path you feel comfortable with and follow it. If you must take an unfamiliar route, avoid going at night or during rush hour.

Bring a calm, dependable partner familiar with the trip who can provide direction if that helps. If you are terrified of negotiating your very first roundabout, keep in mind that everyone started somewhere, and try not to let the car beeping behind you get the better of you.

8. Speed limits

Respect the speed limit to avoid accruing points on your license or getting into a potentially tragic collision. Remember that it's simpler to lose control of your car when traveling too fast, even if your buddies encourage you.

Give way and reduce your speed to let others behind you pass if you have to go slower on an unknown road. You will feel more at ease if no line is growing behind you.

9. Be observant

Looking as far ahead along the road as you can is just as crucial as keeping an eye on the automobile in front of you. This lets you know if any traffic jams are up ahead and warns you of any possible obstacles, like a truck swerving into your lane.

10. No Alcohol

Even though it should go without saying, we'll say it anyway: never even consider drinking alcohol if you plan to drive. Don't be one of the drunk drivers that risk people's lives.

You don't have to justify your abstinence from alcohol, but if it makes you feel uncomfortable, sip on a non-alcoholic beer or have a glass of tonic with lime. 

11. Practice merging on more minor roads

It can take some getting accustomed to, particularly when transferring into a congested highway. Though your palms are sweating and your heart is pounding, remember to signal and merge when it is safe. You will gain confidence by practicing merging onto smaller roads before attempting to on a Friday night.

12. Use all five senses

While driving, our vision is the most crucial sense to use,  don't discount the importance of your other senses, too. Taking note of and responding to sounds and odors might help you stay aware of possible issues or threats. Is that engine oil-burning smell coming from somewhere? Does the engine make an odd noise? Do you hear sirens there? Maintaining an appropriate volume for your music will help you stay aware of your surroundings.

13. Rest

Driver weariness is one of the most significant causes of accidents. Rest when you are tired because even if you have somewhere to go, you also want to get there alive. 

If you are tired, do the following things:

-Set your mobile phone alarm, pull over, park in a safe spot, and take a fifteen-minute nap. 

-To maximize your break, have a caffeinated beverage (150 mg or two cups of coffee) before napping. The caffeine ought to have started working after the nap.

-After that, stretch your legs in some fresh air for a few minutes.

-You should be able to drive for another hour or so if you heed the recommendations.

14. Seatbelts

Asking your pals to buckle up in your car may make you feel a bit uncomfortable, but do you want to be held accountable for their deaths? Or what happens if they get a wheelchair? 

15. Get insurance

Anything can happen on the road, so it is better to be prepared. At Tennessee Auto Insurance Agency, we insure you for less. Click here to get a quote today.

Tips for the passenger

Never get into a car with someone who is impaired by drugs or alcohol. Their reaction time will be delayed, and they will be incapable of operating a vehicle. It might be hard to resist peer pressure, so you better walk away.

In addition, do not risk your life by entering their car if you know they are a reckless driver, even if they are not drinking. Get in if you have faith in their driving and are sure they are sober. But remember to put on your belt.

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