New Driver Tips: 3 Common Mistakes You Need To Avoid
Just passed your driving test? Well done, you have managed to survive one of the most stressful days of your life, and you now have the freedom of the open road. But wait! Life isn’t that easy, and as a new driver, you may be in danger of making some classic mistakes. The following are common to all new drivers.
Choosing the wrong car
Buying a car for the first time can be a difficult experience if you don’t know what you’re doing. You may not have the money to buy something new, so if you decide to go for something second-hand, take an experienced car driver with you. Older cars may have issues that your beginner’s eye may not pick up on, and a second, more qualified opinion, will stop you from buying a potential money trap. Of course, if you can’t afford to buy a new car, you can still lease something. Check out these deals on BMWs for example. Newer models are safer to drive, are better for the environment, and in many cases, won’t require road tax. Despite the initial expense, you will still save yourself money in the long-term. In any case, take your time, until you find the right car for you.
Not shopping around for car insurance
It’s sad to say, but insurance companies love new drivers. Compared to other road users, you are considered a risk due to your lack of experience. Yes, you may have passed your driving lessons with little effort, but the insurance company still want to make money from you. Still, there are ways to lower your premiums. Take a look at these cars, which are affordable and are less to insure. You can also take advanced driving tests which may lower your premium further. The bottom line is this, however. Don’t assume you have to pay over the odds for your insurance because of your new-driver status. Not only can you lower the premium, as we have discussed, but you may find a good deal if you use a price comparison service. Even if you do pay a small fortune on insurance in your first year, the premium will drop, so be sure to shop around for a better deal every renewal date.
Failing to work on weaknesses
You know, and we know, that nobody is perfect. There are bound to be elements to driving that you find difficult, despite having made it through your driving test without a scrape. Many people avoid the things they struggle with. Driving for ages until they can find a parking space big enough to fit a bus in is common, and driving around the block can be easier than reversing around a corner. That’s fine if you want to waste time and fuel, but it still pays to work on your weaknesses. Not only will you become a better driver, but you may not always have an easy get-out when driving, and you will have to rely on your skills at some point. Advanced lessons will help you sort out some of the weak spots in your driving, but regular practice (and courage) is also advised. You may never be perfect, but you will get better.
Finally
These aren’t the only mistakes new drivers make, but they are the common ones. With time and experience, you will overcome them, and your time on the road will be less expensive and safer as a result.
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