The number of new drivers is once again on the up, following an historic slump in driving test applications in previous years. With around 1.3 million new drivers expected to be on UK roads from last year alone, that means many people are making their first forays onto UK roads and motorways. Driving is a skill, and one improved with time – but improving confidence at the outset of your driving life can help immeasurably. Here are four simple considerations that can help you gain confidence on the road.
Get to Know Your Vehicle
The act of driving alone can feel unfamiliar for some time, even after passing a practical driving test. This improves with practice, but the speed at which you get comfortable driving can be negatively impacted by your relationship with your vehicle. You’ll have been quizzed on such things as how to check your oil and coolant, but learning things like economical driving and avoiding engine wear come with time. You should also familiarise yourself with how your engine sounds, so that you can get your car booked in for a local car servicing the moment something sounds wrong – which is often the first indicator of car trouble.
You should also take some time before setting off to re-familiarise yourself with where everything is on your dash. If you’re still fumbling your way around the dashboard or peering at your indicator sticks to find the operation you want, you’ll feel a lot less confident making decisions on the road.
Drive in Bad Weather
Many other guides online will make a point of telling new and learning drivers not to drive in bad weather. The reasons are understandable enough, as car responsiveness can change significantly in poor weather and increase the risk of an incident. However, avoiding bad weather will not make you a better driver. Conversely, it could make bad weather conditions more dangerous for you, should the weather turn while you’re driving and unprepared to handle it. Getting driving practice in bad weather will make you a better driver – and the more caution, the better.
Drive on the Motorway
By that same token, many new drivers harbour a wariness for driving on motorways. Motorway driving can be a daunting prospect, but as with poor weather it is better to rip the plaster off quickly – familiarise yourself with slip roads and joining the flow of the motorway, and before long it will be second nature to you. Early adoption will make you a better driver quicker, and once again, your caution as a new driver will stand you in good stead. You’ll also be required to read and comprehend more road signs, requiring you to stay up date with the Highway Code.
On Using ‘P’ Plates
The infamous green ‘P’ plates that indicate a recently-licensed driver are a matter of debate as far as their usefulness is concerned. They can be a confidence boost for new drivers, as other drivers on the road can recognise them and be a little more lenient at junctions or on carriageways. However, the ‘special treatment’ the P plates afford can be a double-edged sword, making it harder for drivers to completely accustom themselves to UK roads. Ultimately, the decision is up to you as an individual driver, depending on your confidence levels and whether or not you feel you need a little more time to get comfortable with driving full-stop.