No matter how many driving lessons you’ve had to get to the point of passing your test and having your own motor ready to hit the roads, it’s impossible to know everything there is to know when you first discover your independence and head out driving solo. In fact, many instructors only teach you the essentials you need for your driving test, leaving out tips and tricks that experienced drivers have spent years developing into a second instinct.
Here at Vantage Auto Services, our team has been providing a range of garage services for many years now and don’t think that anybody should be at a disadvantage when it comes to driving with a valid licence. For that reason, our experts have come together to create this helpful guide, full of tips to help new drivers find their footing on the road.
Avoid Playing Loud Music
Playing music too loudly could be dangerous as it might make it difficult for you and other drivers to hear approaching traffic or emergency vehicles. In fact, you could be fined for driving without due care and attention if the police suspect you were distracted by your music.
The same is true while using headphones. Wearing them while operating a motor vehicle is not prohibited, but doing so keeps you from hearing what is going on around you and could cause you to become distracted. Instead of taking any risks, make sure you keep your music at a reasonable volume when driving.
When To Use Full Beam Headlights
Full beam headlights provide the extra illumination you need when driving along the dark roads that lack streetlights frequently found in more rural areas, but because of their power, it’s important to use them correctly.
If you’re driving behind another car, dip your headlights before you get too close because full beam headlights that reflect in the wing or rearview mirrors can be hazardous and dazzling.
To avoid blinding an incoming car as soon as it enters your line of sight, make sure to turn your headlights down until it has passed. If you don’t, your full beam could cause them to lose their bearings and control of their vehicle.
Don’t Wait to Visit a Car Garage
The regular mode, also referred to as “day mode,” offers a clear and crisp picture, making it perfect for daytime driving. The “night mode” setting provides you a faint reflection that is perfect for contending with other automobiles’ bright lights at night.
How do you then change the mode? You only need to turn the switch on the bottom of the mirror in the majority of vehicles. In some, the mirror will adapt to the environment and automatically dim as needed.
Speaking of mirror glass, it’s also important to note that a MOT failure could be caused by a broken wing mirror or missing glass. Because of this, it’s crucial to routinely check your car mirrors to make sure nothing is obscuring your vision of the road.
Rear-View Mirror Modes
How do you then change the mode on your rear-view mirror? You only need to turn the switch on the bottom of the mirror in the majority of vehicles. In some, the mirror will adapt to the environment and automatically dim as needed.
The regular mode, also referred to as “day mode,” offers a clear and crisp picture, making it perfect for daytime driving. The “night mode” setting provides you a faint reflection that is perfect for contending with other automobiles’ bright lights at night. Speaking of mirror glass, it’s also important to note that a MOT failure could be caused by a broken wing mirror or missing glass. Because of this, it’s crucial to routinely check your car mirrors to make sure nothing is obscuring your vision of the road.
Properly De-Icing Your Windscreen
Even though it’s a common British winter occurrence to walk outdoors to find a frozen windscreen, the situation is nevertheless frustrating, especially if you’re running late. De-icing your windscreen fully can put you in a much better – and safer – position.
De-icing a windscreen requires persistence, and it can be alluring to only clear the driver’s side. However, in addition to decreasing your visibility in already risky circumstances, this might cost you £60 in fines and three driving points. For more information on owning a vehicle in winter, check out our blog on Winter Maintenance Tips for your Car now!
For more information, get in touch with Vantage Auto Services today!
If you would like more tips and advice for independent driving, please feel free to contact our team at Vantage Auto Services today! We have been offering a range of motor services for many years, including tyre services, MOT testing, vehicle repairs, and more – making us experts when it comes to vehicles!
Our team is standing by and ready to take your call, so don’t delay! For more expert tips, we have highlighted several rural driving hazards on our blog! Check it out now!