Never stop learning
Most people think that learning to drive stops once you pass your driving test, and that couldn’t be further from the truth. The best bits of driving come once you pass your test. The freedom of being by yourself, behind the wheel of your favourite car, able to go anywhere in the world. There are so many variables that you have to be ready for anything.
It always amazes me that the UK, and the USA don’t teach young pupils skid pan lessons, like Finland do. You’ll be surprised at how good a driver you can become with a little bit of effort and passion.
Treat other cars like they’re being piloted by actual human beings
I know it might sound crazy to some, but the people behind the wheels of the random cars you see on the road around you are actual human beings. It’s easy to forget that when they cut you off joining the road you’re on, get in the way, and just generally make mistakes. The fastest way to not suck at driving, realise everyone is a real person.
We all do though. If you can hold on to the thought that the Fiat 500 thats just placed itself in your way at a roundabout is a real person, like you, then you might hesitate to brake check it a mile down the road, and everyone can have a much nicer day.
Never stop checking your cars condition
From your tyre condition, and pressures, any bits of trim that might be coming loose, and your oil, and fluids. Keeping a general eye all round your car, and at least a rough idea of how it’s looking can help in stopping big surprises.
You’ll be amazed at how many people are driving around with bald tyres, no oil, and paper thin brake pads. This can save your bank account in the long run (trust me), and keep you out of the hedge (or another cars bumper).
Learn how to “drive defensively”
Defensive driving is not blocking, road raging at every opportunity, and thinking you’re the new road police. It’s driving to the conditions, in your own protective bubble, and keeping your awareness around the car. You’re driving to keep yourself, and everyone safe, not shout at others for daring to break a rule, or using your car as a blockade for people merging in a slightly dodgy way.
Enjoy driving!
Driving in and of itself, is bloody good fun. Keeping yourself in the mindset of learning something new every day, enjoying the little things, and away from the pessimistic mindset can go a long way to keeping the roads a better place for everyone. I found my love of driving on the Go-Kart track at the age of 8, and have held on to that space of joy and silliness ever since. You can stay safe whilst still not taking life, and driving, too seriously.
Give learner drivers some space
There’s nothing worse to me than someone bullying a learner driver. Like, really? If you can remember how intimidating it was to drive on the roads for the first time, and then add an irate BMW driver 3mm from your rear bumper on top of that. Give people the courtesy of a bit of room whilst they figure out how a clutch works and have to avoid you at the same time.
Actually learn the basics of driving, performance driving, and defensive driving
Most people drive their whole lives, and never actually get into the nitty gritty of how to drive properly. Think how the police are taught to drive to an advanced level, I personally believe that the general public should be taught to that level too. Similar to how new drivers in Finland are taught how to control slides, have time on a skidpan, and end up coincidentally being some of the best drivers in the world.
Make your car a nice place to be
We’ve all had our moments when empty drinks cans are stacking up on the back seat, there’s a thick layer of grime on the windscreen, and you can barely see past the stack of air fresheners dangling off the rear view mirror.
It does really make a difference, though, to keep a clean car. It’s amazing how much it makes you appreciate your car more too, and make it feel like you’ve practically got a brand new one. You’re much more likely to keep your car in good condition, spot any potential problems, and just have a nicer time all round.
Learn to be smooth, but get out of the way too!
Learning how to brake smoothly, steer smoothly, and just generally drive in a way that’s pleasant for everyone in the car with you is a seriously important skill. Learning Limo Braking, smooth steering technique, and to be mechanically sympathetic towards your expensive vehicle will save you money, and make you more friends in the long run.
Being smooth is important, but knowing when to ditch the smooth, and rely on your instincts is just as important. If you’re travelling down the M25, and suddenly a big pile of bricks appears in your lane, then know when to use your brakes fully, or steer yourself to safety. Sometimes an emergency isn’t smooth, and that’s ok.
You can make your life, and the life of everyone on the road much easier, and it doesn’t have to make your life worse in any way. If everyone worked together even 10% more to make driving suck less, the world would be a much more pleasant place.
