As with many skills, you never stop improving on your ability to drive. Here are some tips that will help you become the best driver you can be.
According to the World Health Organisation the UK has one of the lowest rates of road fatality in the world, in no small part due to the careful driving of its inhabitants. A mix of high quality infrastructure and comprehensive driver training all contribute, but what can you do to become the perfect driver?
DON’T RUSH
Leave enough time to get to your destination: rushing puts pressure on you and makes you more likely to speed and to react aggressively to other road users. Don’t overthink the task of driving, all of the other drivers are simply aiming to get to their destinations safely too and are not out to menace you in any way. Relaxed drivers also make fewer mistakes, errors which can eventually lead to car crash claims.
ANTICPATE
It’s called defensive driving, and involves anticipating the behaviour of other road users. When you approach a crossing and see another vehicle, be ready to apply the brakes and make sure you have your hands on the wheel if you need to swerve. Watch out for drivers who behave aggressively, and take extra caution around them.
FOLLOW THE RIGHT PROTOCOL
The most important thing to remember is that you absolutely have to stop at the scene and get in touch with the other parties involved. At the very least, try to capture the number plate of the other car as this will be invaluable when it comes to car crash claims.
Ideally you should note the names, full address and make and model of the cars for all the parties involved. Take photographs of the scene if it is safe to do so or draw a sketch as soon as you can. This can be given as essential evidence when proceeding with car crash claims such as chasing a higher settlement amount.
INDICATE
Often underestimated, indicators serve as a signal of your intentions to other drivers, and allows them to plan ahead. Signalling before you take a turn-off suggests to other drivers that you will soon slow down; while switching on your indicator before you attempt to change lanes will give other drivers the opportunity to allow enough room for your manoeuvre, and prevent them for being surprised by your actions.
BE EFFICIENT
Being a good driver is not only about safety. The way you drive will have a big effect on the amount of fuel your car consumes, and how much wear and tear it undergoes. Constantly accelerating under a full throttle, only to brake at the speed limit will significantly increase your fuel bill; accelerate gently instead. High engine revolutions increase wear and tear; while drivers of manual cars should never use the clutch to keep the car from moving while stationary.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Small efforts with each trip can add to significant savings over time, and efficient habits are core to the driving style of the best drivers.
