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Your first solo drive!
Do you remember being told earlier in this course that after an accident many people can be heard to say, ‘It wasn’t my fault’, ‘The other car came from nowhere’ or ‘I didn’t seen him coming’?
This is especially the case in built-up areas, where the majority of accidents happen.
Now that you have passed your test there is no one sitting next to you to help out if another driver fails to see you or if another car comes from nowhere.
From now on you are on your own.
But it's good news! After all, this is what you’ve been waiting for and working towards and if you continue to follow the advice given in this course and by your instructor you should stay safe behind the wheel.
For many drivers, their first solo drive will be in town, but it’s important not to be over-ambitious the first time you go out driving alone. Choose a route that keeps within a 15-minute walk from your home or destination; that way, if you feel uncomfortable you can park the car and walk.
Don’t drive for more than about 20 minutes, especially if there is busy traffic about. It’s a good idea to choose a quiet time for your first drive alone – early on a Sunday morning is ideal. If you can’t wait that long, at least try to avoid the rush hour.
Be a driving detective!
Remember all you have learned about defensive driving. Earlier in this course there is an example of how you can be a driving detective. Here is another similar example, only this time, the hazard is in town.
A simple example of anticipation (or detective work) would be your reaction to road signs.For example, when you see a ‘school’ sign on a strange road, what do you expect?
If you have a keen sense of anticipation you will first look at your watch. What time do children travel to and from school?
You might also expect mothers with toddlers who are meeting children from school, so be careful passing parked cars. Is there a bus lane nearby – are there buses about? If so, there may be children crossing behind them.
These are examples of the hazards you might expect near schools.Can you think of any more? By being prepared for any eventuality, you will be less likely to be taken by surprise.
This is important advice for drivers anywhere, but especially in towns and city centres.
Drivers who don’t concentrate or who fail to maintain proper observation and anticipation will not even see the sign let alone consider the consequences. Remember, now that you have a solo detective’s licence it’s more important than ever that you keep looking for clues.
If you live in Northern Ireland, you must also remember to display R plates for twelve months and keep to the 45 mph speed limit for new drivers.
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