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Getting your driver’s license is a major milestone. We can all remember when we pulled out of our driveways and onto the open road by ourselves for the first time.
But with this newfound freedom comes the responsibility to commit to safe driving practices.
As personal injury lawyers in Tampa, we’ve seen the devastation car accidents can cause. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of five safe driving tips.
Five Safe Driving Tips for New Drivers in Tampa
- Know the basics
Being comfortable in your vehicle is one of the most critical components of safe driving. Before you start driving, adjust your mirrors and make sure your seat and steering wheel are in your preferred position.
- Avoid distractions
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving caused approximately 3,000 deaths and over 400,000 injuries nationwide.
In this day and age, distractions are everywhere, especially in the palm of our hands.
A quick glance at the phone can feel innocent, but it can quickly lead to an accident.
And, it’s against the law.
Florida Statute 316.305 made it illegal for motorists to type, enter characters, or read data on a wireless device while driving.
Put your phone on “Do Not Disturb.” Notifications can wait.
- Pay attention to speed, especially on wet roads.
You should always adhere to the speed limit, but it’s especially important during and after rain. As a Florida resident, you know rain showers can pop up out of nowhere.
When these downpours happen, check your speed. Hydroplaning can happen without warning. Slow down and pay close attention.
- Don’t tailgate.
No one likes traffic, but tailgating doesn’t speed things up. It can make things worse when it leads to rear-end accidents.
When you’re not in traffic, a good rule of thumb is the “three-second rule.” Pick a landmark and count the seconds between the car in front of you passing it and your car reaching it.
- Stay calm.
Whether it’s a motorist honking, tailgating, or speeding up around you, there will be moments that spike your blood pressure. Don’t let that pressure influence how you drive.
Remember, you can’t control what other drivers do, but you can control how you drive. Stay calm under pressure and follow the rules of the road.
We’re Here to Help.
At Cappy Law, we want to help keep the roads in Tampa safe. These tips are helpful to all motorists, not just new drivers.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident, contact us today for a free consultation.
