8 tips for beginning drivers
Many of us dream of the day of getting a driver's license and finally getting in front of the wheel. For this, we must attend driving school if we have not learned to drive before DOT mock audit.
Finally, the moment comes. However, the nerves of throwing ourselves to the streets of our city for the first time are understandable. There are no magic formulas to be infallible when driving, but there are certain guidelines that we can follow to protect our safety and that of those around us.
If you are taking your first steps in driving a vehicle, we have some tips for you:
Get familiar with your car
Know your car thoroughly. Knowing which side the gas tank is on if all your tires have air if you have enough water or coolant, it is essential for your trips. In addition, you must know what each of the levers and buttons you have inside the vehicle is used for.
Set your routes before driving
It is common to relocate a bit when you are behind the wheel. Maybe because you're nervous or because it's not the same to be a passenger than a driver. Trace your routes, mentalize the path you are going to follow and help yourself from your phone if you have problems.
Set aside your cell phone
This advice is for everyone, novice drivers and experts. Distractions due to the use of telephones are one of the main causes of accidents in Ecuador. If you are very urgent, try connecting your device's Bluetooth with your vehicle.
Practice in different places every day
Doing something right is about practicing. But don't just practice in the same places as always. Venture and look for slopes, sites with greater and lesser traffic, but above all, practice your way of parking.
Review the basic traffic rules
Something fundamental. Knowing the traffic rules will prevent you from committing infractions that could be avoided when driving through the city or the road. Always keep your eyes open for all the traffic signs you find on the road.
Learn some mechanics for any emergency
No one is exempt from suffering any mechanical damage along the way. Learn to change a tire, a light or how to act when the vehicle overheats. Try to understand how your vehicle engine works and under what conditions it is better to drive it.
Learn different ways to get your car on a slope
This is one of the most difficult moments when you are new at the wheel, especially if your car is manual. You can use your handbrake, learn to use only one foot to press the brake and accelerator; or, know well the dead center of your car so that it does not slip backward.
Always drive defensively
Driving defensively means maintaining a safe space between our vehicle and other users, making other drivers notice our presence and having enough time to make decisions.