Comprehensive driving tips for beginners

Before you hit the road, it's crucial to familiarise yourself with your vehicle:

Adjust Your Seat: Position yourself so you can reach all pedals comfortably while slightly bending your elbows when gripping the steering wheel.
Set the Mirrors: Adjust your rear-view and side mirrors to minimise blind spots. Your rear-view mirror should show the entire rear windscreen, while side mirrors should just overlap with the view from your rear-view mirror.
Understand the Dashboard: Learn what each light and gauge means. Pay particular attention to warning lights for issues like low fuel, engine problems, or tyre pressure.
Locate Essential Controls: Familiarise yourself with windscreen wipers, lights, indicators, and the horn. You should be able to use these without looking away from the road.
Practice: You should get enough practice in safe environments and stay on familiar roads before driving on the highways to build your confidence and become more familiar with your car.

Perfecting these techniques will make you a smoother, safer driver:

Steering: Keep both hands on the wheel at the 9 and 3 o'clock positions. Use the push-pull technique for turning: push up with one hand and pull down with the other.
Accelerating and braking: Apply pressure gradually to both pedals. When braking, press firmly first, then ease off as you slow down for a smooth stop.
Turning and changing lanes: Always let other drivers know when you want to change lanes or turn. Check your mirrors and blind spots before signalling. When changing lanes, wait for the gap in the traffic and move smoothly into the new lane, maintaining your speed unless traffic conditions require otherwise.
Parking:
- For parallel parking, line up your rear wheels with the rear bumper of the car in front, turn your wheel sharply towards the kerb, and slowly reverse.
- For perpendicular parking, use your side mirrors to align yourself in the centre of the space.

Safety should be your top priority every time you get behind the wheel. The following road safety tips are some of the things you should keep in mind while driving.

Seatbelts: Always wear your seatbelt and ensure all passengers do the same. It's your most important safety device.
Speed limits: Always adhere to posted speed limits. Remember, these are maximums, not targets. In adverse conditions, drive below the limit for safety.
Alcohol: Don’t drink and drive. Alcohol impairs your ability to respond to unexpected situations while driving and it’s also illegal.
Fatigue: Never drive when tired. Take regular breaks on long journeys, and don't hesitate to pull over for a quick nap if needed.
Scanning: Continuously scan the road ahead, behind, and to your sides. Look for potential hazards like pedestrians, cyclists, or cars pulling out.
Anticipation: Assume other drivers might make mistakes. Be prepared to react if someone runs a red light or changes lanes without signalling.
Following distance: Maintain at least a two-second gap between you and the vehicle in front. Increase this gap in poor weather or when driving at higher speeds.
Road conditions: Adjust your driving to suit weather and road conditions. Slow down in rain, fog, or on winding roads.
Yielding: Understand who has the right-of-way at intersections, roundabouts, and when merging. When in doubt, yield to other road users to stay safe.
Mindset: Approach each drive with a focused, calm mind. Leave emotions that might lead to aggressive driving at home. If you’re upset, take a few deep breaths.

Be aware of these common mistakes new drivers often make:

Distracted driving: Stay focused. Never use your mobile phone while driving. Set your GPS and music before you start your journey.
Overconfidence: Recognise that you're still learning. Start slowly. Don't take unnecessary risks or attempt manoeuvres you're not comfortable with.
Neglecting blind spots: Always check your blind spots before changing lanes or merging. When a car is blocking your view, lean over so you can see pedestrians or the changing traffic lights more clearly.
Feeling Pressured: Don’t worry about what other drivers think as long as you’re driving safely. Don't let passengers pressure you into driving in a way that makes you uncomfortable. You're responsible for everyone's safety.
Road rage: Slow down and let the angry driver pass you. Ignore them and focus on the road ahead instead. Move a lane or two from that driver or exit the road if necessary.

Becoming a skilled driver takes time, practice, and a commitment to continuous learning. Stay patient with yourself, remain focused on the road, and always prioritise safety over speed or convenience. With experience, you'll gain the confidence to handle a variety of driving situations safely and comfortably.

Consider upgrading to high-performance tyres like Michelin Primacy. These tyres offer superior grip, improved handling, and enhanced safety across various road conditions. The advanced technology in Michelin Primacy tyres can contribute to a more confident and secure driving experience, especially for new drivers still honing their skills.

You can also check other tyres we offer and see if they are suitable for your vehicle and driving needs. Choose high-quality tyres from our catalogue here.

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Driving Tips for Beginners

Know Your Vehicle

Master the Basic Driving Techniques

Prioritise Safety

Avoid Common Pitfalls

Enhance your Driving Safety with Michelin Primacy tyres