What are some safety tips you would give to a first time driver?

huupitekwari

Keep in mind that you are operating a deadly weapon, and use your judgment accordingly; treat driving your vehicle as though you were handling a loaded weapon.

And remember---speed limits exist for a reason. There's no where any of us have to be that is worth someones life....

Acct. Student 101

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Dave

be aware of the road and other cars around you.

Keep your eyes moving, checking mirrors, etc.

Learn to love space around your car, not hitting something is your best defense.

Be cautious as you gain experience (making left turns in traffic, etc.). Keep distractions to a minimum (no cell phone answering or conversations).

Be aware of driving conditions and adjust as necessary. If the roads are slick, increase braking distance.

Kiffin # 1

Always use the safety belt/harness! Make sure you come to a complete stop at stopsigns and look both ways (first to the left, then to the right and then again to the left!

Take your foot off the accelerator when you're coming to an unmarked (or even a marked) intersection, since you never know if there's anything coming or a person attempting to cross the street.

Always give pedestrians the right-of-way (even if they're jaywalking).

Always check the rear-view mirror and signal before changing lanes and always look behind and under the car before moving it especially when backing it up (there may be pets or children behind or under the car).

Observe posted speed limits and always pay attention to police officers who are directing traffic flow. Other than that, use common sense when you're behind the wheel (don't drink coffee, eat, read, put on makeup or talk on the phone while driving. Be safe, not sorry!! Good luck!

Mr. Knowitall

The other answers are pretty good!

I would say drive a little slower than you think you can. This gives you just a little longer to react to the unexpected. The unexpected happens when you least expect it. Also you'll save gas.

You want to try to be aware of everything that's happening around you. It's not easy, it's a skill you learn over time. But for starters, remember to keep your eyes outside the car.

On the freeway (or major road) stay 2 seconds behind the car in front. This is just extremely important on motorcycles because they don't stop as fast, and my paranoid motorcycle habits have carried into my car driving. Wait for the car to pass something, like a signpost or something, and then say 'Only a fool breaks the two second rule.' That takes two seconds. In the rain it's THREE seconds.

Good luck!

Barry auh2o

Get rid of that cell phone. You're not driving a phone booth.

Jeremy G

Watch the road like a hawk. Look many times before crossing and intersection. Don't drive fast, prepare for a green light to change red, and don't follow people too close.

Al Mac Wheel

Get professional driver's education.
If you do not get "A" grade, take the class again.

When you go to your insurance agent to check out auto insurance rates, also ask for tips on how to be a good driver.

Ask aquaintances how often they have had traffic accident, or near miss, what they learned from that how to avoid in the future.

When I park my car, I back into parking space when it is legal, for a variety of safety reasons. When I get to my parked car, when it is in a residential area, I first walk around the car to make sure no kid, nor kid's toys are hidden from sight, like right in front of the wheels on the side of the car other than driver side.

You know about blind spots? Do not drive into them.
Before changing lanes, glance back there, do not rely exclusively on rear view mirrors, because of blind spots.

Driving through a residential district? You do not have to do the speed limit ... go a little slower. If a ball or pet comes bounding out into the street, SLOW DOWN ... there may be a kid chasing it.

Duane M

The most important tip I could give is always pay attention to what is going on around you. Be aware and alert there are some terrible drivers out there.
Do not get in a hurry either if you are late be late you want to get some where on time leave early.

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