Driving safety tips for young drivers
Young drivers under the age of 25 are statistically more likely to be involved in a car accident than adults aged 25 and older. In fact, according to the AA, up to 23% of 18-24-year olds will get into a car crash within 24 months of receiving their driver’s licenses. It is for this reason that young drivers often find themselves slapped with hefty premiums when looking for car insurance in the UK.
With these statistics in mind, here is a list of driving tips to help bolster your safety on the road.
Always wear your seatbelt
This seems obvious to say, but its importance cannot be emphasised enough. Your seatbelt can protect you from a host of serious injuries if you are ever involved in a crash. Unfortunately, according to data from the CDC, one in seven people still refuse to buckle up. Remember, neglecting to wear a seatbelt when driving in the UK is against the law. You can be fined up to £500 if you are caught in your vehicle without one.
Avoid distractions
Countless accidents in the UK and around the world are brought about as a result of distracted driving. This can include talking on a mobile phone, texting, as well as eating or drinking when behind the wheel. Therefore, if you haven’t already, be sure to buy yourself hands-free wireless communications devices. Ensure that you use them with an earpiece or Bluetooth for maximum safety.
Drive the speed limit
There is a reason why the speed limit exists. Speed is the culprit behind a high percentage of vehicle crashes on UK roads, mostly because you have much less time to react in the event of an emergency or an error (either yours or someone else’s) when you are driving too fast.
You can reduce the temptation to exceed the limit by ensuring that you always leave the house 10-15 minutes earlier than you need to. It is also wise to invest in a car, either new or second-hand, with a smaller engine.
Plus, most under 21 car insurance UK providers will lower your premium if you drive a car with a smaller engine. Don’t forget to compare deals with the help of car insurance experts like those at My First UK.
Get to know your car
Simply knowing and understanding the various features of your vehicle can boost your confidence when driving. Further to this, if you know your car well, you will be much more likely to respond quickly at a crucial moment and possibly prevent an accident from occurring. Even if you don’t have time to study every page of your car owner’s manual, at the very least, it is imperative that you know:
- where to find the button to switch on your hazard lights
- how to turn on your front and rear fog lights
- how to activate your windscreen wipers
Enrol in the Pass Plus scheme
If you have managed to pass your standard driving test, good for you! Now is the time to get used to driving and perhaps hone your newly acquired skills even more with the help of the Pass Plus scheme. This optional course is spearheaded by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency and strives to help new and young drivers build up their confidence and driving know-how. Considering the many benefits associated with taking the course, including a possible reduction in car insurance premiums, the £150-£200 that you are likely to pay will surely prove to be well worth it.
Consider telematics car insurance
Telematics insurance, also known as black box insurance, revolves around placing a ‘black box’ in your car that actively tracks how well you drive. The better and safer you handle your vehicle, the lower your car insurance premiums are likely to be. Telematics insurance often offers an incentive for young drivers to pay more attention when they are behind the wheel, which can boost their safety day to day.
Don’t forget to check your blind spot
Make an effort to avoid getting ‘lazy’ when in your car and only checking your mirrors — you need to check your blind spot and you need to check it every single time you change lanes or make a turn. The consequences of failing to do so can be catastrophic!
By keeping all of these driving safety tips in mind, you will be well on your way to becoming an accomplished, respectful driver. Here’s to many safe, happy years on the road.
