5 Driving Tips for New Drivers from Pros

Main Ideas

Earning a driver’s license is only the beginning. New drivers need experience on different roads and in different conditions, and should build confidence gradually rather than assume they already know everything. The video highlights five situations that call for particular care.

1. Driving in Bad Weather

Rain, fog, ice, and storms can reduce visibility and affect how a car responds.

• In rain: Turn on your headlights, even during the day, and reduce your speed.
• If the car hydroplanes: Ease off the accelerator, keep a firm grip on the steering wheel, and guide the car straight. Avoid slamming on the brakes or jerking the wheel. Wait for the tires to regain traction and control.
• In bright sun or glare: Wear sunglasses, use the sun visor, and slow down to allow more time to react. If glare temporarily prevents you from seeing clearly, pull safely to the side and wait until your vision returns.
• In fog: Use your headlights, stay alert, and leave extra distance between your car and the vehicle ahead. Low visibility can make it harder to respond to sudden stops.
• Consider defensive-driving training to gain experience with slippery conditions.

2. Driving at Night

Night driving can make familiar roads and surroundings harder to judge.

• Practice driving at night to adjust to reduced visibility.
• Dim your high beams for oncoming traffic and when following another car, so you do not blind other drivers.
• Drive at or below the speed limit, and watch for pedestrians, animals, and other hazards that may be difficult to see until they are close.

3. If the Car Runs Off the Road

Stay calm and avoid sudden movements.

• Take your foot off the accelerator.
• Steadily guide the car back toward the pavement.
• Do not jerk the steering wheel. The tires may suddenly regain grip when they reach the road.

4. Urban Driving

City driving can be challenging because of unpredictable situations and other road users.

• Remain attentive throughout the drive.
• Watch carefully for pedestrians, who may appear unexpectedly.
• Experience with traffic, signals, intersections, and one-way streets can help drivers understand their abilities and respond to other cars.

5. Interstate Driving

Interstate driving provides practice with faster-moving, heavier traffic.

• Learn how to merge, change lanes, and take exits.
• Before changing lanes, check your mirrors for approaching cars and motorcycles.
• Look over your shoulder to check your blind spot.
• Signal, then merge gradually and steadily.

Speakers and Sources Featured

• BRIGHT SIDE video narrator: The sole speaking source in the subtitles. No individual narrator or outside expert is named.