If you haven’t driven for a while - perhaps for a week, a month or even a year - you might be
worried about getting behind the wheel again. Perhaps you have forgotten how your car works,
or maybe you don’t like a particular junction. Whatever your concern, a little planning ahead
should help you get the hang of it again in no time. In this video, we have 10 simple tips
to help you regain your confidence and ease yourself back into driving. Before we start,
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If it’s been a long time since you did any driving, then you should catch up on
any changes to the rules of the road. Get a copy of the current Highway Code - as there
are some rule changes every year, from new MOTs and smart motorways to clean air zones.
Make sure your knowledge is up to date before you head back out onto the roads,
as this will help you to avoid making a mistake that could put you in danger.
You must ensure your car is in good condition before you drive it,
especially if it has been unused for some time. This will not only give you more confidence
behind the wheel but also help keep you and other road users safe. Simple, but essential car checks
include charging the battery, and checking the condition and pressure of the tyres.
You could ask a local garage or friend to help you if you aren’t able to do this yourself.
Of course, you must arrange suitable insurance, and check the car is taxed and has a valid MOT.
Finally, take a look at your driving licence to verify it is up to date.
Before you take your first drive, think about how you could make everything as easy as possible.
Plan a nice easy route that should avoid any heavy traffic or difficult junctions - maybe a local
journey to the shops that you have driven before? If you don't feel ready for dual carriageways,
roundabouts or motorways yet, then choose a route that avoids them. If you need to take a
longer journey, then make sure you take regular breaks so you have time to rest. If possible,
set off fairly early to allow a little extra time to deal with any traffic jams. To start with,
avoid driving at night, in poor weather or at rush hour as these situations can be more challenging.
Go outside and sit in your car. Take the time to adjust your seating position until
you are comfortable, and then make sure all of the mirrors are set up correctly.
Double-check that you can turn on the car’s lights and wipers, just in case they are needed
on your drive. Start the car, and look out for any potential issues like warning lights or low fuel.
Finally, give the windows and mirrors a quick clean,
as good visibility is essential for any journey. Now you’re ready to drive!
The last thing you want if you lack confidence behind the wheel is to face a barrage of
distractions. Distractions can cause drivers to make mistakes and potentially lead to accidents.
So, turn off your mobile, avoid fiddling with the radio and give the road your full attention.
If a passenger is being loud, tell them it’s distracting and preventing you from concentrating.
Defensive driving is the name given to a series of simple driving techniques that
reduce your risk of being involved in an accident. To remain safe we must drive in
a way that will allow for other peoples mistakes or unseen hazards. Driving defensively can help
all drivers, including those feeling a little out of practice. We recommend;
* Keeping a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front,
giving you time to react in an emergency. * Reducing your speed in poor weather,
giving you better control of your car. * Looking ahead and anticipating
hazards further up the road, such as merging lanes or a broken-down car.
* Check your mirrors regularly to watch for vehicles approaching from behind.
If the prospect of parking in a busy car park or town centre makes you feel uncomfortable,
then why not spend some time brushing up your techniques? Just find a quiet place to practise,
where you can take as long as you like to perfect your bay or parallel parking. Then,
next time you need to park in the last space left you can feel more confident.
We should try to keep up with the ‘flow of traffic’, as this will reduce the chance of
following drivers getting frustrated. However, if another driver drives too closely behind you
try to ignore them and don’t be pressured into driving faster than you are happy with.
When crossing busy junctions, ignore other drivers that wave or flash as you to pull away.
Always check for yourself that it is safe to go, and if it’s busy then be patient whilst waiting,
there will always be a suitable gap in the end. Above all, be courteous and give people space,
as you’ll be calmer and less likely to make poor decisions.
To help you concentrate on your driving, it’s a good idea to try and clear your mind before
starting the engine. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (or DVSA), recommend taking deep
breaths and telling yourself that concentrating on your driving comes above everything else.
Once you start driving, focus on the road and other road users around you - as you might need to
react quickly if an emergency happens. If you let your mind wander your reactions will be slower,
which might put you in danger. Stay focussed!
If you’re not in the right frame of mind to drive, then consider an alternative, such as
walking or cycling. You can always try again when you’re feeling more relaxed. If you pace yourself,
prepare and practise, then you’re likely to get the hang of things again soon. Good luck!
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