When we're new to driving, it's normal to feel nervous. But staying calm is the first step to driving safely. Let's remind ourselves that confidence grows with experience, and we don't need to know everything on day one.

We're not racing—we're learning.

Always buckle up

This might sound basic, but we can't stress it enough. Wearing a seatbelt properly is the simplest and most effective way to stay safe in a car. Before we start the engine, we should always check that everyone is buckled up, including passengers in the back seat. Many countries have laws requiring all passengers to wear seatbelts. Failing to comply can result in fines—usually around $50 to $200 depending on your region.

Adjust your seat and mirrors

Before we move, let's make sure our seat gives us a clear view of the road and easy access to the pedals. Then we adjust the side mirrors and rearview mirror to remove blind spots as much as possible. Good visibility gives us more time to react and stay aware. Don't forget to check the headrest too—it should be level with the top of your head to prevent whiplash in case of sudden stops.

Understand basic road signs

We don't need to memorize the whole driving manual, but knowing the key road signs—like stop, yield, no entry, school zone, and speed limit—is a must. These signs are there to guide us and keep traffic running safely. If you're unsure about a sign while on the road, pull over safely and look it up using a driving app or manual. Studying flashcards or using apps like DMV Genie can help prepare for written driving tests.

Stick to the speed limit

Speeding is one of the top causes of accidents. As beginners, we should drive at or slightly below the speed limit, especially in unfamiliar areas or poor weather. Driving too slowly can also be unsafe—so staying with the flow of traffic (within the limit) is the sweet spot. Speed limits in residential areas are typically around 25 mph (40 km/h), while highways often allow up to 65–75 mph (105–120 km/h)—but always watch for posted signs, especially near schools and construction zones.

Use signals every time

Using our turn signals is not just polite—it's essential. Whether we're turning, changing lanes, or merging into traffic, signaling helps other drivers know what we're doing. The more predictable we are on the road, the safer everyone is. Signal at least 100 feet (around 30 meters) before turning or changing lanes. Delayed signaling can confuse other drivers and lead to accidents.

Keep a safe distance

Tailgating is risky. Let's follow the "3-second rule": when the car in front passes a fixed object (like a tree or sign), we count "one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, one-thousand-three." If we reach the spot before finishing the count, we're too close. Increase that gap to 4–5 seconds in rainy or foggy weather to allow more time to brake safely.

Stay focused, not distracted

Phones, snacks, music, and even chatting with friends can pull our attention away. Safe driving means keeping both eyes on the road and both hands on the wheel. Let's make it a habit to set up GPS or playlists before we start driving. In many places, using a phone without a hands-free device while driving is illegal and can cost you points on your license and fines between $100–$300.

Practice smooth braking and turning

Jerky movements can startle passengers—and other drivers. We should practice slowing down gently and taking turns at a controlled speed. It keeps us safe and also makes our ride more comfortable. When approaching a stop sign or red light, start braking early rather than waiting until the last second. Smooth control is a sign of a confident driver.

Watch out for pedestrians and cyclists

In city areas, we should be extra alert at crosswalks and intersections. Pedestrians might appear suddenly, and cyclists often share the road with us. Let's scan both sides before making any move. In many regions, failing to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks can result in traffic citations or even legal liability in case of an accident.

Learn from mistakes and stay patient

Mistakes are part of learning. Maybe we miss a turn or park awkwardly—it happens! The key is to stay calm, correct ourselves, and learn from it. Getting angry or panicked only makes the situation worse. If you're feeling overwhelmed, pull over in a safe area, take a few deep breaths, and reset. It's better to stop and refocus than to push through stress and make errors.

Ready to drive with confidence?

Being a safe driver isn't about knowing every trick—it's about building good habits from the start. Lykkers, do you remember your first time behind the wheel? Or are you currently practicing? Let us know what tips helped you the most—we'd love to hear your stories!