How to be a safer young driver 2023

When you’re a young driver you have a lot going on. You have to think about car insurance, you have to think about your first NCT, all the rules and regulations of your newfound independence and much more. Here are at Cover in a Click, we know it can be a lot to take in but safety has to be first on the agenda. Young drivers simply don’t have a lot of experience when they are starting out on the road. Subsequently, young drivers are at a much higher risk of having a collision than more experienced drivers. So what can you do to ensure that you are the safest young driver on the road? We have some tips below.

1. Reduce your speed

It goes without saying, but we're going to say it anyway. It's incredibly important to slow down when you’re driving. Speed is a contributing factor in a high percentage of accidents. Remember that sometimes, you will need increased braking distances, and sometimes you will also have reduced visibility so it’s important to take that into account when your foot is on the accelerator.

Keep an eye on your speedometer and the cars ahead of you. Remember the expression 'it's better late than never.

2. Wear your seat belt

Firstly, it’s illegal in Ireland to drive without wearing your seatbelt. Secondly, seat belts reduce serious collision-related injuries and fatalities by about half. If you’re involved in a crash the impact is going to be high and the higher the impact the more dangerous the crash. In order to avoid being throw from the car and to remain secure in your seat, you must be wearing a seat belt.

So, remember that the minute you sit into your car, put your seat belt on first.

3. Clean your windshield

Small things such as dirt, grime and insects can quickly find themselves upon your windshield. In order to maintain maximum visibility in your car however, your windshield needs to be entirely clean.

When a windshield has been cleaned effectively you can see the difference when driving in different weather conditions. Dirty windscreens can cause water to sit longer on your glass and this can affect your ability to drive safely.

An additional benefit of keeping up with windscreen maintenance is durability. If you fail to regularly clean the windscreen of your car, it becomes more suspectable to wear and tear. Dust and debris sitting on the glass can damage your wipers and your wipers have to work harder to clear away materials.

Assess your windscreen once and week and clean it if needed.

4. Always hold your steering wheel properly

Properly holding the steering wheel of your vehicle is an important safety precaution to observe every time you get behind the wheel. When you complete your driving exam, the administrator will watch your body position while you are behind the wheel of the test vehicle. One aspect that the instructor will be looking for is the proper placement of your hands on the steering wheel. Many drivers often wonder why the way that they hold or use the steering wheel of a vehicle is evaluated during the examination required to obtain a driver’s license. Drivers who use the correct technique to hold the steering wheel of their vehicle are less likely to have an accident and will be able to use their vehicle more efficiently. Statistics show that improper steering wheel techniques are the main cause of crashes when drivers run off the road. Even experienced drivers should be conscious of their posture, body position, and hand placement while driving.

When you get behind the wheel of the car remind yourself to hold the steering wheel in a 9 and 3 position. Never drive with only one hand, your fingertips, or, even worse, with your knees. While turning to the left or right, use the push and pull technique to ensure that the steering wheel does not slip out of your hands

5. Take a defensive driving course

If you haven’t heard about defensive driving courses, then you’re not alone. Defensive driving courses have been around for years but the benefits of availing of them are rarely discussed. A defensive driving class goes beyond the basics that you learn in your initial 12 lessons.

A defensive course essentially prepares you for driving in hazardous conditions and teaches you how to effectively anticipate dangerous situations and avoid accidents. The best part about these courses is that aside from learning pragmatic driving tips, they also can have a positive impact on your insurance premium.

So why not take a class and reap the benefits? There are a number of facilities that run these courses in Ireland, one of which is the Leinster driving campus which is based in Kildare.

6. Cut out distractions

Your chances of an accident more than doubles if your eyes are off the road for more than two seconds, so stay focused when driving and put away that smartphone. Even if you have a hands-free phone it's not safe to take calls, as your mind is off the road. When travelling with children ensure they have everything they may need within arms reach and do not try to attend to their demands when driving.

At Coverinaclick.ie, we value young drivers and their first-time experience with insurance. If you’re on the hunt for great insurance cover and a great price, then reach out to use today!