Learning to drive can be both exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. As a new driver, you not only need to know how your car functions but also be familiar with the numerous written and unwritten rules that motorists are expected to follow. If you are an inexperienced driver, you may be highly susceptible to making some errors, which most driving veterans have learned to avoid.
Today, we are going to look at some of the mistakes that many new drivers make, and why it is important to learn how to avoid them.
Phone Usage while Driving
Although most motorists are aware that using the phone while driving is potentially dangerous, many fledgling drivers are usually ignorant about the risks involved. The truth of the matter is that using the phone while driving significantly increases the risk of fatal road accidents. Statistics reveal that over 2000 people get injured each day in accidents involving phone usage while driving on the U.S. roads alone!
While activities such as eating and drinking can cause distraction when driving, there are several reasons why cellphones are worse distractors on the road. Firstly, cell phones usually have numerous apps that are designed to capture and hold the attention of a person for longer. These include social media apps such as Facebook and Instagram. A large number of accidents involving phone usage usually occur because a driver was distracted while checking their notification or replying to messages on social media. In addition to this, smartphones usually have a lot of entertainment features such as games and media, which can also shift a driver’s attention from the road.
Speeding
Most beginner drivers are usually very ill-trained at gauging the speed limit when driving. This poses very serious risks since it is much more difficult to control a vehicle at high speed. While experienced drivers may be able to handle vehicles comfortable even at very high speed, the same cannot be said of amateurs. Which is why fledgling drivers are advised to observe speed limit signs until they have developed enough experience to handle driving at high speeds.
Failure to Maintain the Vehicle
Most beginner drivers often underestimate the value of regular vehicle maintenance. This is potentially risky because it increases the likelihood of the car breaking down in the middle of a busy road or freeway. As a driver, you need to prioritize the maintenance of your car in order to avoid getting into an unwanted situation. It is vital that you take your vehicle for a routine check-up to diagnose any problem, and get them fixed before going on the road.
Tailgating
Many amateur drivers often overestimate their ability to stop a vehicle in time, which is why they usually tailgate cars in front of them. However, following closely behind other vehicles can be very risky, especially in a busy highway, as it can lead to multiple crashes in case of an accident. As a beginner driver, therefore, it is important to keep a safe distance from the car in front of you at all times. This will give you ample time to respond in case the car in front stops abruptly.
A Final Word
Due to lack of experience, new drivers are more prone to making mistakes, which could lead to serious accidents. As a beginner driver, you need to try as much as possible to avoid dangerous practices such as speeding, tailgating and phone usage while driving.
At Payas, Payas, and Payas, we aspire to provide our clients with timely assistance when it comes to auto accident compensation. Our professional auto accident attorneys are always ready to help you make a successful personal injury claim.
For more information about our services, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
