Are you trying to figure out how to drive a car for the first time? If yes, you should check out our guide here on the important things to know.
About 4 in 10 people fail the road portion of the driving test. That’s almost half of the total people who are trying to get their license.
As you’re learning to drive, there are strategies that you can use that will help you pass the driving test in the future. You don’t want to be part of the statistic that fails.
If you’re wondering how to drive a car for the first time, keep reading. We have the key things to know when you’re driving so that you can get a head start on acing that driver’s test.
1. Stay Calm
One of the biggest problems with new learners that get behind the wheel is that they get exceedingly nervous. This causes them to make quick turns, slam on the brake, and act too quickly in nerve-wracking situations.
Before you even turn the car on, you should calm down. Take a deep breath and don’t overthink. Remind yourself that many people have done this before you, and you can do it too.
2. Make Adjustments
The car that you’re driving is likely not your own. It probably isn’t adjusted to your height and seating preference.
You should adjust your mirrors, seat, and wheel before hitting the road. You want to make sure that you’re in a position that minimizes any blind spots and ensures your vehicle’s safety on the road.
Make sure that you can reach the pedals, see out of all the mirrors, and keep your eyes on the road and speedometer. This seems like a lot, but there is a sweet spot. Try to mess around with the controls until you are comfortable.
3. Avoid Distractions
Most people drive with some music on, but you shouldn’t start out with this kind of distraction. Try driving with the music off for your first trip out on the road. This will minimize mistakes and maximize learning potential.
You should also keep your phone on ‘do not disturb’ and keep it out of sight. This is one of the deadliest distractions to have.
The people in your car also matter. You should minimize the amount of distraction that your passenger(s) are doing. In fact, you should only start out with one trusted adult in the car.
Many learners start out with a driving instructor in the car. These instructors are available from a public school driver’s education or a homeschool driver’s education.
4. Start Small
Don’t try to go out on the highway the first time you drive. This can make learners extremely anxious and is bound to cause a problem.
Start on small, slow roads and move to larger, busier roads as you learn.
The key to this is just taking your time and understanding what you can handle.
Learning How to Drive a Car for the First Time
Now that we’ve explained how to drive a car for the first time and you know what to do, go out and actually try it. We know that it can be scary, but you can do it.
Take it one step at a time and be patient.
For more helpful articles like this one, check out the rest of our blog.