Driving can be fun, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. Before hitting the road, new drivers should brush up on some important safety tips and etiquette. Teenagers are involved in more motor vehicle crashes late in the day and at night. If possible, limit your driving to daytime hours until you gain more driving experience. Following these safety tips for new drivers will help keep you and others safe.
9 Safety Tips for New Drivers in Missouri
1. Stay Alert and Focused
When driving, always stay alert and focused. Avoid distractions like eating, drinking, or using your phone. Pay attention to the road and be aware of other drivers. Don’t drive if you’re tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
2. Prepare For The Unexpected
Be prepared for unexpected events. Always keep your eyes on the road and be aware of your surroundings. Be ready to take evasive action if necessary. Be prepared for road construction, bad weather, and other unexpected events like an animal running across the road.
3. Adjust Your Speed
When road conditions deteriorate due to weather or other factors, slow down or pull over in a safe area until driving conditions improve. Extra attention is needed to avoid injuring workers in a work zone area. Watch for road work and follow all posted signs to reduce speed and lane changes while driving in an active work zone.
4. Maintain Your Vehicle
Regular maintenance is essential for safe driving. Ensure you keep up with oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine care. Check your vehicle regularly for any issues that may need to be addressed, including tire pressure. Make sure your windows, mirrors, and lights are clean and unobstructed. Carrying emergency supplies like a first aid kit, spare tire, and jumper cables is always a good idea.
5. Be Courteous and Respectful
Always be courteous and respectful to other drivers. Take extra precautions when changing lanes. Before switching lanes, it is essential to check your blind spots to make sure there are no other cars or motorcycles in the area. Use your rearview mirror and side mirrors and glance over your shoulder to check your blind spots. Always use your signals when merging or changing lanes.
6. Do Not Tailgate
Stay a safe distance behind the car in front of you. The general rule is to keep a 3-second gap between you and the vehicle in front of you. During inclement weather, keep more space between you and other motorists, so you have time to stop safely. Be patient and give other drivers the space they need. When a vehicle passes and cuts in front of you, remember to create a safe distance from it.
7. Watch For Pedestrians and Cyclists
Be aware of pedestrians and cyclists. Always give them the right of way and be prepared to stop if necessary. Be mindful of your speed and watch for any signs that pedestrians or cyclists may be in the area.
8. Learn the Rules of the Road
Make sure you understand all of the traffic laws in your area, including speed limits, parking regulations, and right-of-way rules. Be aware of any road signs or markings that may apply to your route. Make sure you understand the laws when driving in another state and be prepared to adjust your driving accordingly.
9. Know What to Do In the Event of an Accident
In Missouri, like most states, you must stop if you are involved in an automobile accident. Leaving the scene of an accident is a crime. Move your vehicle if it may cause other drivers to have an accident. Otherwise, leave your vehicle where it is until a law enforcement officer tells you to move it. Contact the police or call 911. Move yourself and any passengers to safety. Exchange information with other drivers, including your name, address, driver’s license number, vehicle identification, license plate number, and the name of your insurance company and policy number. Only leave an accident scene once a law enforcement officer tells you to.
Practice Safe Driving Habits
Following these tips and practicing safe driving habits will help ensure your safety and the safety of others. Staying alert and prepared for unexpected events will help you avoid accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2020, there were 2,276 killed in traffic crashes involving teenage drivers. Don’t become a statistic!
Contact St. Louis Traffic Fix
When you need help with a speeding ticket, DWI, traffic accident, or another issue, call the experts at St. Louis Traffic Fix. We proudly represent clients in St. Charles, Lincoln, Warren, and St. Louis Counties. We help clients resolve traffic issues in a timely and beneficial manner. Call us at 636-685-0440 to schedule a consultation.