Our Top Five Driving Tips for New Drivers

1. Take Some Time to Learn About Your Vehicle 

Before you step foot in your vehicle, you should have a good understanding of its features and capabilities. This goes beyond make and model. It’s important that you know where switches for headlights and windshield wipers are, how to adjust your seat and mirrors, where the button to activate your hazard lights is located, and more!

Knowing how to take advantage of your vehicle’s features will help ensure you’re ready to react appropriately to any situation you encounter while driving.

2. Research the Right Tires to Meet Your Needs

It’s important to remember that there is a difference between the best tires and the right tires for your vehicle. For example, while it’s true that a top-of-the-line set of high performance tires may fit on your vehicle, it doesn’t mean you need them. In fact, based on your driving style, high performance tires may not be a smart choice for you vehicle. Research different tread designs and determine which ones are right for your needs. For example, if you do a lot of off roading, you may want a set of tires with all-terrain traction that offers increased grip and control in any environment. On the other hand, if you spend most of your time driving around town or on the highway, you may want to consider all season tires to make sure you and your passengers arrive safely.

3. Be Aware of the Weather

Anyone who lives in Canada knows the weather can change on a dime, which is why it’s always important to be aware of the forecast. Not only can checking the weather help you plan your trip, it can also help you make adjustments if you’re not confident driving in certain types of weather (for example: torrential rain). If you find yourself caught in unexpected inclement weather, don’t be afraid to pull over to the side of the road and wait it out. Driving in weather conditions you’re not comfortable in can make you a risk to yourself and other drivers.

4. Always Stay Alert

It can be easy to get distracted. Whether it’s talking with your friends or looking at your smart phone, there are millions of different things constantly vying for your attention. That said, when you’re behind the wheel of your vehicle, you should only be paying attention to one thing: the road. Statistics have shown that 80% of collisions and 65% of near crashes are caused by some form of driver distraction[1]. By staying alert, you’re keeping yourself safe, as well as everyone else on the road.

5. Stay on top of Routine Maintenance 

Of all the driving tips you could be given, staying on top of your routine and seasonal maintenance is probably the most important. If you want your vehicle to perform well, you need to take proper care of it. Routine maintenance includes:

• Oil changes
• Tire rotations 
• Seasonal tire changes
• Brake inspections 
• Wheel alignments 
• And more!

Performing regular maintenance on your vehicle can help ensure it has a long life. It can also prevent expensive repair bills down the line. Most importantly, routine maintenance helps keep you safe while driving, which is incredibly important for new and experienced drivers alike.

Getting Behind the Wheel is a big Responsibility. We Hope These Driving Tips Help 

Over time and with experience, you’re sure to become an even more confident driver. These tips are simply to ensure you start off on the best foot possible. If you’re struggling to remember everything you need to know about your vehicle, or want even more driving tips, our Beginner’s Guide to Tires and Maintenance can help. When you download this FREE guide, you’ll receive expert advice on everything from when to perform routine maintenance, to what to keep on hand in case your vehicle breaks down. Be sure to print out your copy and store it in your glove compartment so it’s always there when you need it. And, as always, if you have any questions or concerns, contact the experts at your local TIRECRAFT today.