Road Safety Tips for New Drivers
Everyone remembers the day they first earned their driver’s license.
It’s a rite of passage. Although many take driving for granted, it’s one of life’s most anticipated milestones; being able to drive means freedom and opportunity. But on the other hand, driving a vehicle is one of the most dangerous things a person can do — and the majority of people drive on a daily basis!
Each day, another 100 lives are lost due to motor vehicle crashes, making traffic accidents the leading cause of death in the United States. In 2021 alone, approximately 43,000 vehicle fatalities occurred on US roadways.
With spring and summer breaks just around the corner, many new drivers will soon be venturing onto roads alone for the very first time. Because young drivers are more likely to be involved in a crash than any other age group, it is critical that they understand their limitations and exercise a high level of caution.
Send this guide to the new driver in your life who you want to set up for success.
The New Driver’s Checklist
Before you start the car…
While behind the wheel…
Think Smart: How to Respond to Driving Challenges
| Challenge |
Response |
| Erratic driver |
If another driver on the road is swerving, drifting between lanes, or behaving erratically, it could be a sign that they are under the influence. Keep yourself out of harm’s way and maintain distance between your vehicles. Get to the side of the road as soon as possible and contact law enforcement, or have your passenger do so. Describe the hazardous driver, your location, and provide their license plate number if possible |
| Flooded roadway |
If heavy rain is forecast or occurring, avoid dips, potholes, low-lying areas, and sections of road that regularly flood. Don’t make the mistake of overestimating your car’s capabilities: most motorists lose control of their vehicles, including heavy-duty SUVs, in just six inches of water. 18-24 inches of moving water produces enough force to carry a vehicle off the road. If a roadway appears flooded, don’t risk it. Turn around and take an alternate route |
| Fog |
Use your low-beam headlights or fog lights (if you have them) to make yourself visible to other drivers. Never use your high-beam lights in fog! High-beams cause glare, making it more difficult for you and other drivers to see the road. Leave plenty of distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. Stay in the proper lane by keeping your eyes focused on the road lines |
| Heavy rain |
First, if your windshield wipers are on, make sure your headlights are on as well. Slow down. Remember — in rain, braking takes longer, so keep a significant distance between yourself and the car in front of you. If conditions worsen, pull to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights until the weather lets up |
| Hail |
Driving in hail is extremely dangerous. If it begins to hail, pull over immediately. Protect your face and head. It’s safe to resume driving once the hail subsides |
| Hydroplaning |
Hydroplaning occurs when a car’s tires lose traction with the road. Don't panic and don't swerve — gently touch your foot to the brakes to regain control. Then, cautiously steer your car in the appropriate direction |
| Night driving |
Slow down to compensate for limited visibility and reduced stopping time. Use high-beam lights sparingly — the safest time to turn them on is when there are no other vehicles on the road. When approaching a blind curve, a hill, or oncoming traffic, turn off your high-beam lights |
We’re Here to Help
If you or a relative were recently injured in a car crash, you may be entitled to punitive damages and medical compensation.
The dedicated injury attorneys at Anderson Traylor Edwards have over 50 years of combined experience representing people in Louisiana. If you are in need of empathetic and experienced counsel for your case, look no further. We’re dedicated to fighting for you, no matter how long it takes.
Don’t wait until time runs out. Contact us today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.
