Photo: Pixabay

Driving a car is a powerful activity. We often forget that a car is a weapon and how we choose to drive can either jeopardize our own lives or the lives of other people. Any type of issue on the roads can result in costly fines or even driving bans. So what makes a good driver and why do we get into bad driving habits as time goes on? Sticking to safety regulations and being a careful driver is certainly the main element but sometimes, things can change as we progress. We can become less aware of new regulations that are in place also. 

The longer we drive for, the more we develop our own habits and ways of doing things, a little how we do with anything in life. We may drive sloppily, faster on roads that seem safe and driving with one hand, texting whilst driving or even driving at night when we’re tired because it’s “convenient”. So what are the things that can go wrong with driving and how can we avoid getting the penalties that come along with it? 

1. Speeding – it is not uncommon to get a speeding ticket. This can jeopardize your license if it is a repetitive act. To be more aware of your speed, ensure you regularly check, look at local maps online to see what the local speeds are in the area before you drive. Be wary of speed cameras and speed bumps and ensure you are aware that there are any crossings and schools nearby, this can be more dangerous to speed in these zones. 
2. Check your car regularly – any type of issue with your car can cause problems on the road. If you run out of water or oil on route, you may break down or it may cause your driving to become more erratic if you are concerned about getting to your destination quickly. Checking your car regularly will really assist and improve your driving habits.
3. Use your eyes – keeping vigilant on roads you know can become easy to forget. You probably drive the same quiet roads daily and feel you know them inside out, but you never know when something or someone could obstruct your way. It’s important to keep your vision on the road. Don’t be distracted by your phone, that is rule number one. Wear glasses if you need to or if you feel that your vision is inhibited, ensure that you get an eye test and be sure to look after your eye health so you can see what’s on the road and be able to react in time. 

Another important tip is to ensure that your documents, license and insurance is always to hand and that you never run out of date with any of it. If you are pulled over, you can be fined for not having the appropriate documents and this could result in further penalties. Be careful and be safe; and you can enjoy many years of happy driving!