So, you’ve finally reached the age of 17 and you’re dead excited because you’ve got your provisional driving licence. It’s time to do away with taking trips on the bus or train, and start to learn how to drive. This is one of the most important milestones in a teenager’s life, and whilst it can be daunting (learning anything new can be), it does mean that once you’ve passed your test, you can finally get out on the open road.
The sense of freedom feels like it’s within your reach but, I’m getting ahead of myself here. First of all, you need to know how to handle a car, and not only that, understand just how important it is that you stay safe. You will need to learn important skills like decision making, and believe it or not, hand-eye co-ordination.
The purpose of this piece is to give you some idea of the do’s and don’ts of learning to drive. The number of cars on the road rises every single year, and congestion is a problem. This is why you have to learn not only how to handle a car but, that you’re confident enough to deal with any situation that might arise.
The Do’s and Don’ts
DO get yourself a professional driving instructor and DON’T ask you Mum, Dad or a friend to teach you. Below are some of the reasons why:
Using a Professional
- A professional instructor is highly trained in the use all types of roads from country lanes to the motorway.
- They also have the advantage of knowing what the local testing centre is currently looking for.
- They are taught to stay calm in just about any situation and, believe me, there will be some close calls along the way, that’s what learning is all about.
Using a Close Family Member or Friend
- It doesn’t matter how safe a driver is, they will pick-up the odd bad habit here and there. If you choose to go out in a car with a friend or family member these habits will more than likely be passed on to you which will not help when you come to take your test.
- The person sat beside you probably owns the car you’re driving, and it won’t help their stress levels if you “scratch” a gear or hit the accelerator instead of the brakes.
- People that are close to you are not trained to deal with high pressure situations on the road like a driving instructor is and this could lead to both of you getting into a panic.
- Finally, you will probably end up arguing. It can be very irritating for you when someone is constantly saying “you don’t do it like that”.
In Conclusion
Learning to drive is exciting but it’s also vital you take it seriously. After all, you’re not just responsible for you own life on the road; you’re responsible for others as well!
