Young Driver Safety Tips

Getting your P-plates is a liberating experience for young drivers - you no longer need to rely on parents or friends for transport and you have the freedom to go anywhere at anytime.

While many P-platers practise safe and responsible driving, one of the primary causes of car accidents involving younger drivers is simply lack of experience.  With this in mind, Supercheap Auto has collated a list of road rules and driving recommendations to keep young drivers as protected as possible while at the wheel:

» Firstly, drive a safe car.  For many young drivers, car choice comes down to cost instead of safety features.  Regardless of your finances, ensure the car you drive is roadworthy - lights, tyres, brakes, seatbelts and steering must all be in effective working condition to keep you safe

» Attending a defensive driving course is highly recommended.  Generally lasting one to two days, you’ll be taught how to react in road situations, develop safe techniques and improve driving judgments

» Adhere to speed limits, and reduce your speed in wet weather.  As roads are hazardous when wet, driving at a slower speed allows more of the tyres’ tread to make contact with the road and provide greater traction

» Be aware of road hazards and develop your recognition skills.  Many P-platers don’t possess the insight of older, more experienced drivers in identifying road hazards, which may include blind corners, loose road surfaces, lack of signage or lines, puddles etc

»  Practise slowing down to determine how long your brakes take to stop at different speeds

» Never be over confident at the steering wheel

» Wear seat belts at all times, both as a driver and passenger

» Never drive while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.  In doing so you not only risk your life, but the lives of your passengers, fellow motorists, cyclists and pedestrians

» Carrying several passengers in one vehicle is a contributing factor to many accidents.  Laughing, talking, loud music and so on may distract the driver’s attention away from the road ahead.  In addition, the driver may also experience peer pressure to speed, attempt unsafe manoeuvres and engage in reckless behaviour. For this reason, it’s advisable for young drivers not to travel with more than one person of a similar age

» Driving at night is more difficult due to the impact of darkness on a driver’s vision and visibility.  Always turn on headlights and reduce speed to be aware of the road, surroundings, signs and other cars

» Never drive when tired – not only could you fall asleep at the wheel, but your analysis of road conditions and situations will be negatively impacted by fatigue.

» Don’t use your mobile phone while driving.  It is an illegal activity because it distracts the driver’s attention.  If you need to be contacted while on the road, install a hands-free unit.