10 things new drivers should know

Which knob to adjust or what to do after an accident... are things that new drivers should keep in mind.

New drivers often face a myriad of challenges and most take a few years to get the hang of the game. In some cases, people never really get used to the car, and the unlucky ones can get into trouble for it.

Autoevolution has compiled a list of things every new driver should know after getting their license. It doesn’t take anything to become a safe driver—someone who knows how a car works and how it behaves on the road. All you need is some time with a car and an Internet connection, because much of the list is just an online search away. The rest is just a keen eye for detail and a desire to improve your driving skills.

1. Each has its own merits.

Whether you own a car, or simply get behind the wheel, whether it's a family car, a pickup truck, or a motorcycle, they all have things in common, and these parts work the same way to keep the car rolling.

“A piece of cake” means that the new driver is responsible for knowing every knob on the car and how to adjust it. They should also know how to identify the major components, not just the ignition switch and the tires.

2. How it all works

Motorized vehicles, including cars and motorcycles, operate on a few basic principles, so new drivers can find instructions, videos, and even graphics online that explain how they work.

Websites like How Stuff Works are great places to start, and Engineering Explained is a great introduction for anyone who wants to know how their car works. Once you have a basic understanding of how an engine works, how brakes work, and how tires handle a car, you can suddenly become interested in mechanics, become a semi-professional mechanic, or simply gain valuable knowledge about cars.

3. Basic repairs

Once you know how a car works, at least the basics of each component, you’ll be able to diagnose problems that arise. No one is forcing you to grab a wrench and get your hands dirty when you hear a strange noise, but you’ll now be able to explain to a mechanic what you think is wrong with your car, and to a tow truck.

However, there are also situations that a knowledgeable newbie can solve without help, such as a flat tire. And even if you can't handle it yourself, due to lack of strength, it's good to know how to do it.

Other little things that new drivers should know include how to check the oil and other fluids in the car, check the tires, change the wipers, add washer fluid, and fill the gas tank.

4. What to do after an accident

The worst thing to do if you find yourself in an accident is turn off the engine and remove the keys from the ignition. Check to see if the car is on fire and make sure the parking brake is applied to ensure the car does not roll when you get out.

If you feel you can get out of your seat, and your body is unharmed, check on the other passengers. Get out of the car and walk away from the accident while paying attention to traffic. If another car has collided with yours, talk to the other driver and make sure they are okay. Give yourself a few minutes to calm down, then gather your paperwork.

Make sure you take photos of the scene before the car is removed. If your version of the accident is incorrect, or the other driver tries to trick you into paying for damages that weren’t your fault, photos will be your best evidence. In this regard, you should also talk to any bystanders who witnessed the incident and be willing to testify in case you’re unsure who was at fault. If in doubt, call an experienced friend or a lawyer.

5. Driving in adverse conditions

It's a cloudy day, and it looks like it's going to get worse, so what should you do? Make sure your tires are properly inflated, that your lights are working, and that your car's headlights are working properly.

Driving in the rain or snow is not the same as driving on a sunny day. Allow more distance from the car in front of you than usual. Avoid sudden movements.

Remember that traction is not as good as on a sunny day, and wet roads are dangerous. So be prepared for mistakes. The best way to avoid them is to slow down and pay attention to every move. If possible, take a course that teaches you what to do if you skid.

6. Avoid speed racing

It is easy to get angry with someone. Everyone has done it at some point in their life. Drivers and motorcyclists need to stay calm no matter what happens. Speeding never brings positive results. Learn to stay calm in situations and you will become a better driver.

If you feel the need to yell at another driver, hold back. Think about how they might be right, and try to empathize with how they feel. They may not be right today, but they may have had a tough day and couldn’t control themselves. Instead of getting into a fight, let them vent, apologize, and walk away.

If you are the victim of a speeding accident, let the other driver pass. Avoid rolling down your window. Say sorry if you did something wrong. Yelling will not do any good, and violence will not help. Be smart and find a way to avoid conflict before someone gets hurt.

7. Do not drive after drinking alcohol or using stimulants.

Drugs and alcohol are not compatible with driving. Never drive under the influence of these substances, no matter how experienced you are or how short the journey.

Also remember that driving after a night of heavy drinking is dangerous, even if you have had a few hours of sleep. A night of partying takes a lot out of your body, and your judgment can be clouded the next day, which can lead to accidents. Get at least eight hours of sleep after a night of heavy drinking before you even think about driving.

If you have taken stimulants or prescription drugs, then never think about driving. It is best to ask your doctor if you are allowed to get behind the wheel after taking the medication.

8. Put your phone aside

Modern cars are often Bluetooth compatible, allowing you to connect your phone to your car’s audio system. These connectivity options allow you to use your phone safely while driving. There are also other wireless devices available to help drivers who want to stay in touch with the world while they’re behind the wheel.

However, new drivers may not want to use these solutions. Simply put your phone away. Ignore calls and messages, no matter how important they are, because you are doing something more important: driving.

If you are expecting a call from someone, pull over to the side of the road, in a safe place, and take the call. You don’t have to answer right away, you can call back after you have stopped. Remember, your safety is worth more than any call.

9. See where you want to go

This advice is a basic principle of defensive driving and even applies to racers. It’s easy. Just look at where you want to go, not at any specific direction or location. For example, when you’re skidding, don’t stare at an obstacle, because you might crash into it.

Try to keep your eyes on the corner, and don't focus too much on obstacles on the side of the road or any cars ahead. Instead, rely on your rearview mirror and get into the habit of checking the road in your rearview mirror frequently.

10. Don't try to prove yourself, just be an adult.

The final piece of advice is to act like a responsible adult. This advice is often given to teenage drivers who are assigned to operate a motor vehicle even though they may not be old enough to vote.

Make sure you are worthy of your license and don’t set a bad example on the road. Remember that you don’t need to prove anything to others, and it’s best to focus on driving. Speeding is not something for public roads, and your friends won’t be happy if you crash your car while trying to show off your driving skills, something that could end someone’s life, or get someone injured.

According to VNE