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Advice Centre >> Staying Safe >> Driving alone for the first time

Driving Alone for the first time

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Passing your driving test is such a big thing for learner drivers! And now, you have your license, it's time to drive....but....by yourself for the first time. Most people prefer to use the first trip after passing their tests with friends, family and partners. This is all good and well however, there will come a time when you need to drive alone, so this article should hopefully help you on your way. Don't forget, you can keep your P-Plates on for as long as you like to make other drivers aware that you are a new or young driver and thus give more patience to you. 

Firstly, try to choose a journey where you already know the route and need not look for directions etc. This will cause panic and its something we would definately not advise as a new or young driver. Also, have you got a tom tom? This may be helpful in case you get lost. Alternatively, you could also use an A-Z, a more old fashioned method but yet, still works just as good as anything else. If you are to use an atlas, ensure you stop ina safe place and make sure you don't care any tickets on your way. Other hot tips incllude:

    1. Adjust your mirrors, make sure you have covered all bases comfortably and clearly.

    2. Don't change lanes unnecessarily, keep calm and stay in the right place, doing so may aggrevate other experienced motorists.

    3. Always remember to give signals when turning, parking or changing lanes.

    4. Keep your phone on silent and avoid using handsfree devices.

    5. Never rush, if you are running late to get somewhere and you are driving by yourself, pull over and let the person you are going to meet you will be late.

    6. Keep your distance - two can lengthsis the recommended distance.

    7. Be polite to other drivers, if they want to cut in etc, let them do so, this will keep you calm and avoid any conflict.

    8. Maintain a good speed and stay within the speed limits, anything else may lead to rash decisions and cause a road traffic collision.

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