Road Smart: A Guide for Young Drivers Gaining Confidence
Becoming a qualified driver is such an exciting moment. It’s a wonderful milestone to reach, especially after all the lessons and prep for both the theory and practical.
However, if you’ve recently passed your test, it’s understandable that you might be feeling a little wary. But, while you don’t have someone instructing you, it’s important to remember that you passed for a reason. You’ve got this.
If you just need that nudge, here are some pointers to help boost your confidence now you’re behind your own wheel.
Striking a balance
Before we look at how you can feel more comfortable while on the road, it’s worth noting that there are people who are overconfident in their driving abilities. While this is the opposite of where you are right now, it can be helpful to know that going to the other extreme has its downsides. Overly confident drivers can become reckless and make avoidable mistakes.
So, we’re going to look at ways to help you find a balance. Let’s start with the basics.
Mastering the basics
Becoming a confident driver isn’t something that happens overnight. If you practice in a variety of driving conditions, such as different types of weather, at night, or along winding country lanes, for example, you’ll gradually become more self-assured.
To help you enhance your skills and get experience in these more challenging scenarios, you might want to consider signing up for an advanced driving course, such as the Pass Plus scheme. This course is specifically designed to help new drivers gain experience and can even reduce insurance premiums.
Here are some more tips to help:
Be safe: Remember to always prioritise safety, whatever type of driving you’re practising. Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, obey speed limits, and be aware of potential hazards such as pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users.
Avoid distractions: The temptation to check your phone while driving is dangerous and illegal, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is one of the leading causes of accidents among young people.
Managing costs
Owning a car isn’t just about driving; it comes with financial responsibilities. Young drivers need to factor in costs such as fuel, regular maintenance, and insurance. Choosing a fuel-efficient car can help keep fuel costs down, and regular vehicle maintenance – such as checking tyre pressure, oil levels, and brake condition – can prevent costly repairs down the line.
While insurance for young drivers is often more expensive due to their inexperience, there are ways to manage these costs effectively. For instance, young drivers can choose telematics or ‘black box’ insurance policies, which track driving behaviour. By demonstrating safe driving habits, drivers can earn lower premiums over time. A smaller, less powerful car can also reduce insurance costs, as can building a no-claims discount by driving responsibly.
Dealing with emergencies
Every driver will likely face a roadside emergency at some point, whether it's a flat tyre, a breakdown, or an accident. Being prepared for these situations can make a difference.
Carry essential emergency items, such as a spare tyre, jack, warning triangle, and a first-aid kit. This will prepare you for any unforeseen incidents. It’s also important to know basic maintenance skills, like checking your oil level and tyre pressure, which can help prevent breakdowns.
In the event of an accident, you should be familiar with how to make an insurance claim. Being aware of your policy details, the process of reporting an accident, and understanding what coverage you have is key. Having breakdown cover is another investment, providing peace of mind that help will be on its way should your car fail you.
Ready to go? Take it steady and remember that you’re a competent driver.