Welcome back and today we’re going to look at the remaining 5 mistakes that learner drivers often make after finishing driving school.
If you can’t see where you’re driving, you’re bound to have an accident at some point. It’s important to have your eyes tested regularly. You may not even realise you’re starting to develop a problem with short or long sightedness. While you will be given a simple eye test each time you renew your licence, it’s better to take a proactive role. Let’s keep the meaning of “blind spot” to just one meaning!
Being unable to see what’s in front of you leads us to the second piece of advice. It’s crucial you’re not only able to see what is in front of you but what is coming up along side and behind you. If you use a shared vehicle, people will often adjust the mirrors to suit their own height and needs. Check your mirrors and ensure you’re able to see what other motorists are doing before you begin your trip. It doesn’t matter whether your going to the shops or on a long trip. Do it every time!
If you have young children or will be driving with kids in the car, it’s important to have a car seat properly fitted in the backseat. It’s illegal to have them on the front passenger side, so stick to the backseats. Improperly fitted car seats are one of the leading causes of injury and death amongst children of a fairly young age. Be smart and purchase a car seat that meets the industry standard and is Australian road approved.
While we covered off of on drinking and driving last time, it’s also important you don’t eat while driving. As tempting as it may be to tuck into your takeaway while behind the wheel, this severely impacts your ability to control the car and react to other people. We here it time and time again where someone spills a hot drink or drops their lunch in their lap and moments later they’re involved in a car accident. Wait till you arrive home or back at work and eat your meal then.
Don’t overload your car with passengers. It’s fun to head out for a night on the town or see a movie but there are laws that stipulate how many passengers a learner and provisional driver can take with them. This also varies from state to state and whether you’re driving during the day or at night. Check with your state laws to find out what restrictions may apply to you.
There you have it, a lot of it are basic things you should already know but often forget!
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I have a 1 yr old and 4 yr old cousins I live with. And hold a current learners permit.
Am I able to drive with children in the car whilst learning?? I have had experience but do niy drive if there is no1 to watch the kids. If so how old do children have to be to be in the same car whilst learning
i have learn how to drive new car from driving school but we have not confident in perfect driving kindly advice