While it’s true that cars and roads in London have become safer, it’s still crucial for every driver to remain vigilant. Despite improvements, numerous distractions persist, underscoring the importance of mastering safe driving techniques.
It’s important to remember and use these safety tips every time you drive, whether you’re a new driver or have been driving for a long time.
Read our recommended safety driving tips below to ensure you and other drivers stay safe, especially if you embark on an intensive driving course in London.
1. Make sure your vehicle is serviced.
Making sure you take good care of your car and having it checked often can help prevent it from breaking down or causing accidents because of any problems. Before going on long trips, make sure to check these things regularly:
- Turn signals and headlights
- Tyre pressure and tread depth
- Fluid levels like water and oil
It’s essential to pay attention to your car’s tyres. The lowest legal tread depth for tyres is 1.6mm, and if you see any damage on the sides of the tyres, replace them immediately.
2. Avoid using phones
Many drivers still use their phones while driving, which is dangerous and can lead to accidents. Phones are distracting because they require full attention, taking your eyes, hands, and mind off the road. Using a phone while driving is illegal, even if your car is stationary, but the engine is on unless you use a hands-free device. You could face a £200 fine and 3 points on your license if caught.
3. Do not drive if you are tired.
We all know that driving when tired or sleepy can be dangerous. It’s a big reason why car accidents happen so often. Feeling tired while driving can make you zone out or doze off for a few seconds.
4. Get your eyesight checked
It’s best to get your eyes checked by an eye doctor every two years. But if you feel something’s wrong with your eyes, get tested immediately. Even though they might not look cool, if you need glasses for driving, you must wear them to stay safe on the road for you and others.
5. Stay alert and observe your surroundings.
When you’re driving, it’s wise to be a defensive driver. That means being ready for anything that might happen on the road. Here are some easy tips:
- Drive at a steady speed that you can control.
- Think about what other drivers might do, but don’t assume they’ll always do the right thing.
- Stay focused, and don’t let anything distract you, like using your phone.
Also, don’t just watch the car in front of you. Look far ahead on the road to see what’s coming up. And pay attention to how other drivers act.
Final thoughts
You can use these tips to drive safer and be more responsible. This helps lower the chances of getting into accidents and having to pay for repairs. Don’t forget, it’s not just your driving that matters. Keep an eye out for other drivers, too, as not everyone drives as safely as you do. Ready to improve your driving skills fast? Check out LIDT’s one-week driving crash course in London or our intensive driving course in London today!