Easy Tips to Be a Better Driver

When most people talk about driving, they think, “I’m a good driver, I don’t need to change anything.” And maybe you are a good driver, but as the age old saying goes, nobody’s perfect. To follow are some simple tips to make yourself a better driver. Some of them you may already even do!

Keep your bubble

While I’m not sure of it’s origin, I seem to remember a common saying “you’re in my bubble” growing up. I know when I started driving this was something that I specifically applied to my lessons. My bubble became much larger, adding the size of the car and then some. I always wanted cars at least a specific distance away from me, and was uncomfortable when they would encroach on my bubble. This is my personal space, and having your car that close to mine makes me uneasy!

But as we drive more and more, we begin to get more comfortable with the world around us. Some of us even lose site of that bubble of personal space they’ve created, and begin entering others when at stoplights or when considering changing lanes. Remember to keep that bubble for you and the others around you!

Keep your cool

More often than not, the people that are more likely to get irked are the ones that are slightly more aggressive drivers. While aggressive drivers are not always a concern, they are much more likely to make snap decisions when upset. These decisions can include swerving in and out of lanes, driving at a higher speed, and driving harder on the gas and brakes. All of these things will make it harder for other drivers to be on the road with you, and can cause severe problems if you don’t handle yourself correctly.

Keep others aware

One of my major pet peeves is when people don’t signal. How are other drivers supposed to know what’s going on if you don’t tell them? While it seems like a simple thing, there are more than a few people out there that don’t. Make it easier on all of us by keeping everyone aware.

Drive for the conditions

Again, a no brainer, but maybe not something new drivers are used to. I know that when I’m driving I instinctively drive slower in the snow and rain, without thinking about it. While I think this is true for the majority of drivers, new drivers are not yet accustomed to driving at a comfortable speed (possibly because they’re still learning to drive according to speed limits). Drive at a speed your comfortable in the weather conditions your dealing with.

Know your Abilities

This is a concept that some people never consider in their driving years, but it’s an important one. For example, if you’re driving on the highway and you can see 100 yards ahead of you, should you really be driving so fast that it’ll take you 150 yards to stop? Know what limitations you’re up against, and stay within them.

Maintain your car

I know I’ve said this multiple times, but MAINTAIN YOUR VEHICLE! Changing the oil regularly and checking your tire pressures are two simple things that can not only extend the life of your car, but prevent break downs (which no one likes). The better care you take of your car, the better care it will take of you.

Wear your seatbelt

This is another thing that is just a no-brainer to me. Obviously I’m going to wear my seat belt, because that’s what they’re there for. But again, there are more than a few people in this world that think otherwise. We can’t stress this enough – keep yourself safe – wear a seatbelt!

Store your items properly

I personally drive a teeny-tiny car. As such, it’s common for me to have to find innovative ways to fit everything that I’m moving around in my car and trunk (think of Christmas time – yikes!) While driving around with cargo in your backseat isn’t a bad thing, make sure you store everything PROPERLY. Make sure you can see out your back window, and that nothing’s going to fly around if you had to hit the brakes hard. While it seems like a simple concept, these things can help protect yourself and your stuff!

Know your Limits

One of the things that few drivers take into account are their limitations. While we know the issues that drinking and driving cause, what about driving when tired? Few people consider it an issue, but being tired can be a similar result to driving when intoxicated. Make sure that before you get behind the wheel you are sure that you’re ready to drive, especially if you’re traveling long distances.