Learning how to drive as a teen can be risky and overwhelming. It can also be exhilarating — getting a driving license means you have the right to drive without supervision. Here are seven tips to start driving safely when attending a teen driving school.
1. Attend All Teen Driving School Lessons
911 Driving School recommends that you attend all your lessons. Our teen driving school instructors have course outlines that need strict adherence as they are formatted to fully prepare you to drive. These education classes include:
- The Foundations of Safe Driving
- Signs, Signals, and Markings
- Safe Driving Techniques
- Rules of the Road
Our classes are designed to arm new driers with the knowledge skills, and techniques they require as they take on this new responsibility. If you have a scheduling conflict, please discuss this with your instructor.
2. Drive at the Right Speed
Driving at the right speed allows you to stay alert and maintain your safety. Some teens learning how to drive may be tempted to do so faster than the permitted speed. However, no beginner has fully mastered the art of defensive driving. Always stick to the required speed limits. Graduates from our classes will be taught best practices for driving at speed. We will help you acquire the skills needed to obtain your license and be a safe defensive driver.
3. Avoid Distractions
There are myriad distractions that you have to deal with when driving. It’s estimated that 58% of teen car crashes result from distracted driving. When learning how to drive, avoid anything that can distract you. Teens often check their smartphones when driving, while others eat snacks, apply makeup, or hold conversations. If you have to eat, fiddle with the radio, or apply makeup, stop somewhere safe first — better yet, take care of the issue before you get going. What if you’re driving with a talkative friend? Conversations can affect your concentration. Let your friend know that conversation when driving diverts your attention.
4. Avoid Alcohol
Drunk-driving accidents cause about 28 deaths in the United States every day. That means one person dies after every 52 minutes due to accidents caused by drunk driving. At 911 Driving School, we encourage our drivers — teens and adults alike — to drive sober and drive responsibly. Drinking while driving will divert your attention and affect your judgement. You may speed up, fail to observe traffic rules, and cause accidents. Driving sober allows you to anticipate issues on the road in real-time.
5. Follow Road Signs
911 Driving School’s classes will take you through road signs, signals, and markings. You’ll learn defensive driving skills during actual driving time with our instructors, all of whom have worked in the public sector as police officers, firefighters, or EMTs. When driving, keep your eyes open to see all road signs. They promote road safety and are posted to warn or inform drivers about road conditions. Even when you are confident with your driving skills, don’t go out on the road until you confidently understand what all road signs mean.
6. Don’t Drive at Night
Night driving for teens who are learning how to drive can be grueling and risky. At night, there’s low visibility, and you don’t know what’s happening a few yards ahead. If you must drive at night, try to have the company of your parents. You are more likely to encounter tired and/or drunk drivers during this time. They might not be concentrated on the road, and it’s up to you to avoid the occurrence of an accident. After gaining more experience and confidence, you can use our tips to help you drive safely at night. We encourage our drivers to reduce speed, keep windshields clean, and adjust headlight beams when driving during this time.
7. Brake Gently
Using your brakes gently when coming to a halt can reduce the chances of accidents. If you want to remain in control of your vehicle, learn to brake gently. Our teen driving school instructors will guide you on how and when to apply breaks. There are times you’ll need to use your brakes quickly or gently. For instance, when rolling your car to a stop, you should apply light pressure on the brakes. If you see a hazard or objects ahead, you can apply more pressure on the brakes. Sudden braking will allow you to avoid driving into other vehicles or hurting cyclists and pedestrians.
Final Thoughts
As a teen learning how to drive, it’s your responsibility to master all driving skills. Follow all the instructions taught during your time at a teen driving school. At 911 Driving School, we teach our teen drivers the importance of defensive driving. Our experienced instructors guide you through the learning process to always be in control of the car. Contact us today if you and your teen are ready to take get behind the wheel.