Road trip driving tips for unconfident drivers

Summer is the best time of year for a road trip. Making plans with your friends, deciding what you want to see, what you want to do, what food you’re going to eat and where you’re going to stay – it’s all part of the great American adventure.

But if you’re a little anxious behind the wheel, the idea of driving long distances and on unfamiliar terrain might be enough to put you off from hitting the road. Sounds familiar? If you’re anxious about driving, don’t worry, read on for some road trip driving tips for unconfident drivers.

Get confident around trucks

Many drivers dread driving on highways due to the overwhelming presence of large trucks and 18-wheelers on the roads, and it’s easy to see why. Getting caught up in an accident with a truck at high speed will probably prove to be fatal or result in life-changing injuries – speak to these truck accident lawyers (Indianapolis) if you or a loved one has been in a crash involving a truck. By driving sensibly and following these simple rules you’ll be able to drive safely and confidently around trucks on the highway:
– Stay out of truck blind spots
– Pass safely, giving yourself enough time and the truck driver enough time to see you and act
accordingly
– Increase your distance. Don’t tailgate. The closer you are to the truck, the more the driver will
struggle to see you
– Give them plenty of room to turn. A truck may move over to one side to give itself enough room to swing in the other direction and make a turn.
– Be patient!

Always wear a seatbelt

Sticking to the rules of the road will give you more confidence as a driver. Wearing a seatbelt
increases your chances of survival in an accident, prevents you from being ejected from the vehicle and keeps you in position for airbag deployment.

Get to know your car

Do you know how to activate the wipers? Turn on the lights or release the hood of the vehicle?
Making yourself familiar with the vehicle you’re driving in will give you more confidence while
you’re behind the wheel. Take some time to familiarise yourself.

Stick to the speed limit

Don’t feel pressured by your passengers or other road users to increase your speed and break the limit. Drive at a speed that is legal and comfortable for you. Ultimately, speed limits are put in place to keep us safe, so stick to them!

Take plenty of breaks

Driving whilst you’re tired and fatigued is incredibly dangerous. Focusing intently on the road ahead can take its toll, so make sure you stop as often as you need to. You should also take turns in driving, to relieve some of the pressure on you.

Finally, let your passengers know

A problem shared is a problem halved, according to the old adage. So, if you’re a little nervous about driving, tell your passengers. They can give you words of encouragement, help you spot turn-offs in time, guide you into narrow parking spaces and try not to distract you whilst you’re concentrating.

This is a contributed article.