Driving for the first time is exhilarating! It usually goes in between excitement, a feeling of liberation, and of course, a little to a lot of nervousness to top that. Earning a license of any sort, like a driver’s license, comes with tons of responsibilities.
If you’re a first-time driver in the Philippines or a driver who has been traversing the road for a long time now, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to help you stay safe and responsible on the road.
DriveSafe PH listed a few things every driver should know to make driving safer.
1. It’s not just about you.
Yes, I know that your driver’s license is hard-earned; you passed the theoretical exams, you made sure you have the practical skills, and you listened to almost every driver close to you give you advice on how to do this and that.
But driving is not just about you. Safety on the road is a shared responsibility between road users and motor vehicle owners to make sure all vehicles out there are road-worthy.
2. Make sure your vehicle is roadworthy.
Get to know your car by reading your car manual; this will help you understand the features, familiarize yourself with all the buttons and locations of each and every car accessory, and help you know what signs you should be on the lookout for if there should be any car-related problems.
This also means regular maintenance and tune-ups, as well as ensuring that your car is insured.
3. Your vehicle should complement you
You and your vehicle will be on the road together longer than you would always want to, so you have to make sure that it is adjusted with your comfort in mind.
Dress appropriately and comfortably, and adjust your seat, your mirrors, and even your car temperature too. Remove any unnecessary things in your line of sight that might take your focus away from the road, and most importantly, put your seat belts on.
Accessorize your car with safety measures too.
There’s so much to think about when you start driving off, so make sure you have everything settled inside your vehicle before you hit the road.
4. Drive defensively
Driving is a skill that takes getting used to, so consider driving in less strenuous environments, for starters. Enhancing your driving skills is important, as driving gets complicated once you are on the road.
The country roads are mostly quiet, and it helps to drive on roads that you are familiar with. It is also best to drive around during the day rather than driving around at night or at sunset when the light from the sky and the car beams get too bright.
5. Stay calm
Calmness helps you stay focused and aware of other drivers and anticipate their actions.
6. Do not overthink
DriveSafe PH is an online Theoretical Driving Course provider that will equip you with everything you need to know about road safety and the rules and regulations that go with it.
There may be a lot to remember, but thinking about the rules and regulations you might violate or analyzing all the signs you see on the road will take away your focus on what’s more important, which is the road you are on.
7. Obey all traffic laws and signs
Follow all traffic laws and signs as you see them and as you deem necessary. It is very helpful to be very familiar with the basics of traffic rules and regulations, which includes speed limits, yield signs, and stop signs. Use your turn signals when changing lanes or making turns, and remember to slow down.
8. Don’t drink and drive
This is something we’ve all heard before, and we are all very familiar with the consequence that this can bring. Alcohol consumption can impair your judgment and reaction time behind the wheel.
9. Plan your route and allow yourself plenty of time to reach your destination.
Navigation apps come in very handy, mobile apps such as Waze and Google Maps can help you plan out your route and thus, you avoid getting lost or making wrong turns.
This will help you avoid rushing and make better decisions while driving.
10. Drivers don’t just drive
Drivers should make themselves familiar with driving-related work such as changing a flat tire, jump-starting a car, and even adding washer fluid. These are useful skills that you may never know when to put into use.
Or if not, it helps to at least know where to find these services and whom to call when you find yourself in such a situation.
The law of the road is something road users need to obey AT ALL TIMES.
Keep these things in mind to help you stay safe and responsible on the road. Remember, driving is a privilege that comes with great responsibility.
Drivesafe PH provides a theoretical driving course that helps you understand the basics of driving in comprehensive detail, along with some tips to help you navigate the roads. Drivesafe PH is the 1st LTO Accredited Online Theoretical Driving Course Provider, a social learning platform that provides accessibility to Defensive Driving Education to future Filipino drivers who would like to take the first step in Road Safety.
Drive safely!
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