For teenage and adult drivers alike, getting your first license is a huge achievement. You’re probably eager to start going places and flexing your newly acquired driving skills, but before you do, we want to arm you with some safety tips for new drivers. Staying safe on the road benefits you for obvious reasons, but did you know that safe driving also keeps your insurance premiums low? Here are some safe driving tips that every new driver should have in their back pocket.

How to Stay Safe on the Road

Always remember that what you do behind the wheel affects everyone else on the road, so be courteous of your fellow drivers by making safety a priority.

Avoid Distracted Driving

Anything that takes your eyes off the road can be potentially dangerous. Accidents happen quickly, so it’s important to remain focused and minimize distractions. This means avoiding texting, calling, eating, tuning the radio, or turning around in your seat to talk to passengers while driving. Select your music, get directions, and finish any last-minute communications while you’re still in the driveway.

Obey Traffic Rules

Learn and follow all the rules of the road, such as road signs and right-of-way, to make driving easier and more relaxed for everyone. Speeding should always be avoided as it can cause accidents and endanger other drivers. The faster you drive, the longer it takes to brake, which can make any subsequent accidents and injuries more severe. Obeying the speed limit can prevent you from getting pulled over and ticketed, which can be pricey and even raise your insurance rates.

Buckle Up

Don’t neglect your seatbelt! Make a habit out of buckling your seatbelt every time you get into your vehicle. According to a study on teen drivers and passengers between 16 and 19 who died in car crashes in 2019, roughly half of all victims weren’t wearing a seatbelt.1 Being properly restrained protects you in the event of an accident, so make sure that you and your passengers are strapped in before leaving the driveway.

Adjust Your Accessories Accordingly

If you share a car with someone else, don’t forget to adjust your seat and mirrors to suit your height and preferences. Make sure you can see safely behind you, on each side of the car, and into your car’s blind spots.

Watch Out for Inclement Weather

Roads become slippery and wet, and thus harder to navigate when you’re driving in the snow or rain. Avoid driving on those days if you think you need more practice driving in severe weather. If you choose to drive, leave plenty of space in front of you for braking, drive slowly (speed limits are meant for ideal conditions), and keep your headlights on. Don’t forget to turn off cruise control if it starts to rain so you’re in full control of your vehicle.

Now that you know how to stay safe as a new driver, don’t forget to secure insurance for your vehicle before your initial ride. Here at The General, we believe that everyone deserves affordable insurance regardless of age or driving record. You can get a free quote in under two minutes or read some rave reviews from our happy customers. Want more safe driving tips? Explore more articles on our blog.