New Driver Guide: ensuring you’re legal and safe on the road

Thursday 27th January 2022

Passing your driving test is a fun and exciting time – however, before you are unleashed on the roads, there are a few things to remember to ensure you are driving safely. Our helpful guide will equip new drivers with knowledge that they need to know to drive legally and safely on the roads.

Car safety for new drivers

The first port of call for ensuring you’re safe on the roads is making sure your car is in tip-top condition. You will need to ensure your car is insured, has passed its MOT, and is regularly serviced. There are also a few visual inspections you can carry out on your car to ensure your car is safe:

Tyres: the legal limit for tyre tread is 1.6mm, however, it is recommended that your tread is a little bit above this. There is an easy way to check your tyre tread – by using a 20p coin! All you have to do is place the coin within the grooves - if you can see the outer band of the coin, this indicates that your tyres are within the legal limit. However, if the band is clearly visible, this indicates that your tyres are illegal.
Tyre pressure: driving with overinflated or underinflated tyres can seriously affect your braking distance, fuel efficiency and steering. To find out the optimal tyre pressure, you should refer to your vehicle manual.
Lights: it is essential you get your lights checked, not only for your road visibility – but also for other drivers to know what actions you are about to take on the road.
Oil level: maintaining your oil levels is vital – as oil lubricates and protects the moving parts of your engine.

To make sure your car is in working order, you might want to book in for servicing – this is when a mechanic conducts a series of checks on your vehicle to ensure everything is running smoothly. You can learn more about the servicing your car may require from our helpful blog. Here at Formula One Autocentres, we offer full, interim and hybrid servicing.

Tips for safe driving

Stay focused on the road: being new to the road is exciting, yet you must stay focused! Maybe don’t blast the radio for your first few drives, as this might be distracting, or you may be inclined to fiddle with it. Also avoid too many in-depth conversations with your passengers and, most importantly, don’t use your phone while driving! All these small distractions could potentially cause major havoc on the road.
Practice defensive driving: this driving method is when you are consciously staying aware of what other drivers are doing on the road. Always looking out for anything unexpected that might occur, therefore you can react calmly and safely.
Don’t drive when you are feeling sleepy: tired drivers are much more likely to make mistakes - if you are feeling drowsy, ensure that you take a break. It might also be worth having a caffeinated drink, or have a short nap, if time allows.
Avoid speeding: there is never a need for speed, and many accidents each year can be prevented if motorists slowed down – so be mindful of your speed as you’re adjusting to your new life on the roads.

These essential facts are just a few things you need to keep in mind when starting your next chapter on the road. If you would like to learn more top tips about motoring, have a look at our helpful blogs. Or if you have any more car queries, do not hesitate to get in contact with our helpful team.