How to Practise Driving Safely as a New Driver
Learning to drive is an exciting experience, but it’s natural to feel a bit nervous too. Building confidence and skill behind the wheel takes time, but practising safely is key. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your practice sessions and develop safe driving habits.
1. Start with a Familiar, Quiet Area
When first learning to drive, choose a quiet area like a residential street or an empty car park. Familiar, low-traffic places make it easier to focus on the basics without the added stress of busy roads. Practising in these areas will help you get comfortable with the car and improve your ability to steer, brake, and accelerate smoothly.
2. Practise in Good Weather Conditions
To build confidence as a new driver, it’s best to start practising in clear, dry weather. Rain, fog, and icy conditions can make roads slippery and reduce visibility, so getting familiar with the car in good weather is safer. Once you’re comfortable driving in easy conditions, you can try more challenging ones with a qualified supervisor.
3. Drive with a Qualified Supervisor
If you’re driving on a provisional licence, it’s essential to have a qualified supervisor, usually a parent, instructor, or trusted adult who’s held a full licence for at least three years and is over 21. A good supervisor is patient and knows when to give you gentle guidance without overwhelming you. Practising with someone calm and experienced can help you focus and make better decisions.
4. Focus on Basics First
Begin by mastering simple tasks like starting, stopping, steering, and parking. Once you’re comfortable with these, move on to more complex skills like merging, changing lanes, and reversing. Don’t rush – becoming a safe driver takes time, and nailing the basics will help you drive more confidently later on
5. Practise Defensive Driving
Defensive driving means being alert, expecting the unexpected, and keeping a safe distance from other cars. It’s essential to practise scanning the road ahead, checking mirrors frequently, and keeping a safe distance (two seconds minimum in good weather, four seconds in poor conditions). This approach helps you react more effectively to other drivers’ actions, reducing the risk of accidents.
6. Keep to the Speed Limit
It’s important to stay within the speed limit and drive at a speed that feels safe for you. It can be tempting to drive faster when following other vehicles, but taking it slow allows you to handle situations at a pace you’re comfortable with. As you gain experience, your confidence will grow, but safety should always come first
7. Practise Parking and Manoeuvres
Parking and manoeuvring can be some of the trickiest aspects of driving, so it’s worth practising them regularly. Start with simple parking spaces and gradually work up to parallel parking. Practising in quiet areas first can make it easier, and as you improve, you can challenge yourself with busier locations. Mastering parking helps with overall control and precision.
8. Limit Distractions
Distractions, such as a loud radio or phone notifications, make driving more challenging, especially for new drivers. Keep the car environment calm and focused – avoid using your phone, and keep conversations to a minimum while you’re still getting used to driving. If you need to adjust anything, do so before setting off.
9. Build Confidence Gradually
Confidence is essential, but it’s important to build it gradually. Avoid taking on high-speed roads or motorways until you feel comfortable on local roads. When you’re ready, take short trips on more challenging roads with your supervisor until you gain confidence. Don’t pressure yourself to drive in complex situations until you feel fully prepared.
10. Practise Good Habits Early
As you practise, aim to build positive habits, like using your mirrors, indicating early, and keeping both hands on the wheel. Practising these skills consistently helps them become second nature, which will make you a safer and more prepared driver when you’re on the road alone.
Final Thoughts
Learning to drive safely is a journey that requires patience and focus. By taking it one step at a time, choosing safe locations, and building up your skills gradually, you’ll become a confident, careful driver. Remember, everyone started where you are now, and with practice, you’ll be navigating the roads with ease.
