Are you thinking about learning to drive? Or maybe you have a child that is ready to get their L plates on. We talked to some of our trusted local driving instructors and got their top tips to help learners to get the best out of their driving experience.
Don’t learn to pass your test, learn to drive safely
Your driving test isn’t an obstacle that you need to get over, or a chore you need to complete before you can get on the road, it is an assessment to see if you are equipped with the practical knowledge and skills needed to drive on the road safely now and for the rest of your life. In that respect, there aren’t shortcuts that you can take – and nor should you want to take any. Because the better you learn to drive, the more confident you will be, and the safer you and your future passengers will be.
Remember – every day is a school day
Just as you’re not learning to drive simply to pass your test, once you have passed you won’t stop learning. Every day, whether you are in a driving lesson, in a car as a passenger or driving solo, is an opportunity to learn. So, don’t beat yourself up if you make a tiny mistake – try to let it go and put it down as a learning experience.
Ignore angry drivers
We all have bad days now and again and unfortunately some people take that out on the road. Most people remember stalling on a hill or missing traffic lights when they turn. We have all slowed down for the wrong turning or driven a little too cautiously. If you encounter an angry driver at any time, remember it is their problem and not yours. Continue to drive safely and pull in to let them overtake if it is safe to do so.
Learn a little at a time
No matter how confident and practical you are, you are not going to be able to drive like a seasoned professional straight away. Give yourself a break – literally, by breaking up your learning into bite-sized chunks. Focus on one skill at a time and eventually you will be a confident, proficient driver.
Practice makes perfect
The more you practice, the better you will be. It’s simple. So beg your parents to take you out as often as they can to help you to clock up as many driving miles and as much experience as possible.
Turn the radio on
Having the radio on in the background will provide you with a low level of distraction that will make it easier for you to concentrate both in your test and when you start driving solo.
Like anything, learning to drive takes time. For more advice for learners, follow Trust A Garage on Facebook or Twitter.