For new learners, driving lessons are both exciting and nerve-wracking. The thought of what you are going to learn excites you. At the same time, you are afraid of making errors. You could learn driving from any friend or family member. However, learning from a driving school is definitely better. They have expert trainers to help you. Their structured syllabus of teaching makes things easier. Affordable Driving School offers professional training and flexible time for your convenience.
10 Tips for Beginners in Driving Lessons
You don’t have to worry much. The skill of driving is not that difficult. However, knowing about your lessons will help you make preparations and help you get your license faster.
Learn from Professionals
Many people learn to drive without going to driving school. They learn it from friends and family members. However, it’s better to learn from experts. They can help you understand the basics of driving safety, traffic rules, and more.
Driving schools have enough facilities required for a new driver’s education. They provide you with a traffic-free area for driving practice. Besides, they are more aware of the driver’s license requirements. They follow a standard course outline so that you miss nothing. You won’t get such benefits from non-professional teachers.
Limit Your Expectation for Your First Lesson
The first day is not about making you a racer. You must not have such high expectations. This can create a negative image of the school in you, and you may lose interest. They will hardly teach you anything advanced in the very first lesson. Here are the things you can expect on your first day of lessons.
- Get your provisional learner’s permit. It is a temporary license that allows you to start learning to drive.
- Choose your driving instructor. You should do your research about the instructors beforehand.
- You may be introduced to the fundamentals of driving and cars on your first day.
Learn the Road Signs and Traffic Rules
Once you have learned about the functions of the car, it’s time to focus on the road. You will find many types of signs on the road. Each of them has a different meaning. These signs help you avoid dangers and accidents. Australian roads have many signals, including:
- Warning signs in yellow diamond shapes and black symbols or words. They hint you avoid possible dangers in front.
- You have to follow traffic laws strictly. Otherwise, you will be subjected to fines or, worse, lose your traffic license.
- Some signs give the necessary information. They tell you about the maximum permitted speed and more.
Focus on Parking Techniques
Parking lessons can be tricky for new drivers. But it’s a must. If you are not learning in a school, then practice in empty lots.You need to learn various parking techniques like parallel parking, angle parking, and perpendicular parking. You should always use mirrors and check blind spots when parking. Take your time and move slowly. Don’t forget to pay attention to lines and curbs.
Changing Gears
Changing gears is a key skill for new drivers. You need to familiarise yourself with the gear stick first. There are some differences between manual vs automatic transmission. You shall learn handling both types of cars. Here are some tips for shifting gears:
- Always press the clutch fully when changing gears for manual transmission. The automatic transmission selects the appropriate gear automatically based on engine speed.
- Start in first gear and shift up as the car gains speed.
- Avoid looking at the gear stick when driving. This can lead to accidents.
- Check blind spots before shifting and observe speed limits to match the correct gear.
Adjusting to Different Road Conditions
Different road conditions demand adjustment while driving. You will get used to them with practice. Start with guidance from your driving instructor. They will help you understand various scenarios. Practice driving on wet roads, icy roads, and gravel, as well as foggy or rainy weather. Each surface needs a different approach to avoid accidents. For example,
- You have to be gentle with brakes and steering on icy roads.
- Gravel roads need slower speeds to avoid skidding.
Include these practices in your driving test preparation. Your road test may cover different conditions.
Form Good Driving Habits
To avoid accidents and unwanted incidents, you need to form some good habits, such as:
- Always follow seatbelt regulations. Buckle up before starting the car.
- Use turning signals to indicate your moves and check mirrors for lane changing.
- Practice highway driving with a focus on speed and space management.
- You must always pay attention to road signs and signals. They guide you and ensure safety.
- Visit the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) website for up-to-date rules.
- Stay alert, avoid distractions, and keep both hands on the wheel.
- Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
Get Used to POM and MSM Routine
POM and MSM routines are basic beginner driving tips and are essential for safe driving. POM stands for prepare, observe, and move. You need to follow this routine to prepare your car before driving. You should adjust the mirrors, seats, and put on seatbelts. Observe your surroundings carefully. Make sure there is no car approaching you. This saves you from crashes and accidents.
MSM routine should be followed when changing lanes, turning, merging, or stopping. The routine is mirror, signal, and maneuver. Check your mirrors to ensure no car is too close, and give signals before the maneuver. These routines help you meet driver’s license requirements.
Learn to Handle Emergency Situations
It’s a crucial part of your learning. You may face hazards like brake failure, tyre blowout, engine failure, or skidding. Losing patience won’t help in such situations. Instead, you must stay calm and take necessary safety actions. For instance,
- Pump the brake pedal quickly and use the handbrake gently if needed during a brake failure. Shift to a lower gear to slow down for safety.
- If the engine fails, steer to the side of the road and turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- If your car skids, steer in the same direction the car is sliding. This will help you gain back control. If you are driving a front-wheel skid, then take your foot off the gas and wait for the wheels to regain traction.
Managing an Accident or Breakdown
According to SA1NT, Australia has a 4.54 road accident rate per 100,000. Therefore, you must also be prepared to handle accidents or breakdowns.
- Stay calm and take careful actions.
- Ensure your safety and turn on hazard lights. If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road.
- Call emergency services at 000 if there are injuries.
- For a breakdown, contact roadside assistance.
- Exchange details with other drivers involved, including names, addresses, and insurance information
Conclusion
It won’t be too difficult to learn driving if you pay attention to the basics. Follow the above tips, and they will help you become a good driver. It’s always safe to learn from professional institutions. If you are in Brisbane, contact Affordable Driving School. We have certified instructors with sufficient training experience. We have helped many new drivers in Brisbane pass their driving tests and get their licenses.