Even though most people are unaware of it, there’s a major difference between an average driver and a great one. Unfortunately, only the latter drive around our streets without causing accidents and breaking the law, which is why these people are the ones we need to praise more than ever. Another thing we need to do is try to upgrade our own driving skills and take them to a higher level. Becoming a better driver takes a lot of effort, energy, and patience, but it’s something any single one of us can do if we dedicate some time to it. So, if you too want to turn into a better driver, here’s what you need to do.
Talk to someone with experience
This is the oldest trick in the book, but it’s still a very effective one. Talking to someone who has more experience, skills, and knowledge can help your life in so many ways, including your driving expertise. It doesn’t matter if it’s your parents, your older sibling, your partner, your friends, or even your children – as long as this person is a better driver than you, they can help you.
Experience is crucial when it comes to driving, which is something the studies have shown as well, so listening to an experienced driver can help you become more relaxed when you’re driving, but you can also learn a few new tricks as well.
Learn how to park
This is an issue that’s been bothering drivers for ages, and it’s still one of the biggest reasons why lots of them don’t like driving at all. Whether it’s parallel, forward, or reverse parking – this is something you absolutely have to know, regardless of your age, your driving experience, and the size of your car.
Parking with precision isn’t always the easiest thing in the world, especially if you’re in a rush or stuck with a tiny parking spot, which is why practicing this is vital. Keep in mind that it only takes a couple of days to perfect each of these parking techniques, which will take your overall driving capability to a higher level, providing you with a chance to use these tricks in the decades to come.
Maintain your car regularly
In the end, this is probably the best way to show the world what an amazing driver you really are. Only by maintaining your car properly and often enough will you be able to keep driving it in the future as well, but you’ll also minimize the chances of causing accidents and crashes, thus saving your life and the lives of other drivers.
Luckily, there are lots of ways of making sure your car is in perfect shape. From checking your oil regularly to using only those reliable 4wd tyres that will make your ride safer and smoother at the same time – maintaining your car takes some time and energy, but it’s an investment you simply have to make.
Don’t drink before you drive and don’t use your phone
In this day and age, you’d think that all drivers already know how dangerous it is to use your mobile phone while driving – whether it’s for texting, checking your e-mails, or having a conversation – as well as drinking before you drive. As a matter of fact, these two things could be the most dangerous decisions you could make as a driver, and are thus something you definitely shouldn’t do, no matter what.
However, if you’re forced to use your phone while you’re in the car, you need to find an alternative. Lots of people, from business executives to social media addicts, opt for a simple solution – they simply pull over, do whatever they have to do on their phone, and then continue their journey. You could also explore the benefits of Bluetooth and wireless technology, and talk to whoever you want for as long as you want without putting your life in danger.
Don’t speed
Finally, this is the simplest and most basic driving tip in the world, but it’s also something that will turn you into an amazing driver. Instead of speeding and trying to arrive at your destination as soon as possible, you should take it easy and follow the rules. Not only will you become a better driver, but you’ll also save your life as well.
Moreover, the experts have shown that speeding is actually only efficient on long drives, at least according to math, logic, and theory. When talking about short distances and driving around busy city streets, speeding will get you nowhere – literally!
As you can see, becoming a better driver isn’t as hard as people think. It’s all about finding smart and practical ideas and solutions that go a long way and help you focus on your driving more than before – so start with these five ideas and continue updating your skills behind the wheel every day of your life!
By Peter Minkoff
Peter is a lifestyle and travel writer at Men-Ual magazine, living between Ústí nad Labem and Antwerp. Follow Peter on Twitter for more tips.