First Experience Behind the Wheel: 6 Vital Things to Remember When Driving for the First Time

First Experience Behind the Wheel: 6 Vital Things to Remember When Driving for the First Time

The first time you take control of a vehicle can be an exciting as well as frightening experience. Although most people have already studied the rules of the road and proper driving techniques before they actually drive a car, there are still a few things to consider when you have your first experience behind the wheel.

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6 Things You Should Know When Driving for the First Time

  1. 1

    Adjust the vehicle so that you are comfortable. Before you start the car, make sure that you can see out of all mirrors and that the seat is adjusted to your height. Being comfortable will help you relax during this somewhat nerve rattling experience. The following guide is an excellent assistant when you try to adjust your seat and mirrors.

  2. 2

    Do not overthink the situation. Driving a car is an experience that requires you to multitask. As you sit in the driver’s seat for the very first time, you might begin to feel overwhelmed with all the rules that you have to remember. Although remembering to use turn signals and what a particular road sign means are both very important, even more important is your ability to concentrate on the task at hand. Try to clear your mind and focus on what you are doing.

  3. 3

    Calm your nerves. It is always best to have a trusted and experienced driver in the passenger seat next to you when you drive a car for the first time. There is a reason that a learning period during which you are only able to drive with another adult in the vehicle is usually required before you are issued a driver’s license. Having a trusted parent or other adult there to help you and give you advice will make driving a vehicle for the first time a little less scary.

    driving for the first time

    Even if your parent isn't a driving expert, their support will help you feel more comfortable and enjoy the ride
  4. 4

    Rid yourself of distractions. This is not the time to transport your crying little sister to daycare or three of your talkative friends to a party. Driving with distractions is never a good idea, particularly if you have never driven a vehicle before. Also turn off the radio, roll up the windows, and put away your cell phone. Again, a trusted and experienced driver is the best passenger to have on your first experience behind the wheel. Here is why it is essential to concentrate on the road:

  5. 5

    Stay on familiar roads the first time you drive. You do not need to have to navigate your surroundings as you drive for the first time. Drive around your neighborhood or on a route that you are very familiar with.

  6. 6

    Stay away from interstates and major highways. Although you will need to learn how to drive on these types of roadways at some point in the future, the first time you get behind the wheel is not a good time. Wait until you have some experience controlling a vehicle before putting yourself in difficult driving situations. Here is how to drive on highways when you start feeling more confident:

There are many other aspects of driving besides going from one place to another.

There are several things that you probably should not attempt to do during your first time driving. Some examples are: fast food drive-through lanes, parallel parking, drive-up teller windows at banks, and filling up at gas stations. The sole purpose of your first time behind the wheel should be to get you acquainted with the feeling of controlling a vehicle.

Keeping these simple guidelines in mind as you prepare to drive for the first time will help make the experience a little less scary. Driving is not something that should be feared, but it is a huge responsibility. Every time that you get behind the wheel, you are taking your safety and the safety of others into your own hands. Make sure that you are prepared to drive for the first time by keeping calm and being knowledgeable about the rules of the road.

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