How to be a better driver: 8 quick tips

Whether you’ve been on the road for donkey’s years or you’re just getting started, there’s always room for improvement. Here are some quick and easy pointers to help you become a better driver.

1. Pay attention. Being constantly aware of your surroundings is definitely one of the most important parts of being a competent road user. Check your mirrors, keep your mind on the task at hand and always try to anticipate what everyone else is going to do.

2. Be nice. Driving can be frustrating at times but the more courteous you are to your fellow motorists, the better the experience will be for everyone. Let people out if they are waiting for a break in traffic and thank those who let you out in turn.

3. Don’t bow to pressure. If the car behind you is travelling above the speed limit, let them pass. There is no need to prove anything to someone who insists on driving dangerously.

4. Keep a safe distance. Don’t get too close to the car in front of you. Ideally you should keep 2-4 seconds distance between you and the car up ahead. This will allow you to react accordingly if they brake or swerve suddenly.

5. Use your indicators. Know the right moment to indicate and do it every time without fail. This important safety measure will inform fellow road users of what you’re going to do before you do it.

6. Residential areas. Reducing your speed when travelling through residential areas will afford you more time to respond to potentially dangerous situations, such as a child running out onto the street.

7. Pay attention to trucks and buses. Larger vehicles are more difficult to handle so take special care when driving near trucks and buses. Remember: if you can’t see the driver in their mirror then they can’t see you.

8. Be patient with older drivers. The elderly need to use the road too so avoid becoming agitated if they make a mistake. If you notice that an older person is driving the car in front of you, try to be extra vigilant.

9. Don’t race the lights. Many of us are guilty of this one. When we see a light changing from green to amber, we take it as a challenge to get through the junction before they turn red. Other road users including pedestrians will expect you to be stopped by the time the red light appears so make sure you slow down when you see that yellow light.

For more information on driving and other topics, check out our earlier blog posts or get in touch with us today.

Take care,

The Team at GMIB.ie