Confidence behind the wheel is critical. Individuals who are confident are less likely to make driving mistakes. They are less likely to have moving violations. And, they are likely to be a safe driver, which keeps auto insurance costs down. But, what makes you a confident and safe driver?
#1: You Drive Without Fear
If you are afraid to drive a vehicle, you should not do so. Individuals who are fearful have physical reactions that heighten the senses and create anxiety. If this is you, you may find it hard to focus on what happens around you. Most people take comprehensive driver training. These classes help limit their anxiety about operating. Many of them never suffer an accident or negative reaction as a result.
#2: Know What the Rules Are
Confidence comes from knowledge. Knowing what the local driving rules in your area are can help you to be more confident behind the wheel. For example, know what the speed limit is in your area. You should also learn about state laws for speeding, driving under the influence, and distracted driving. When you know what the rules are, you may be less likely to break them. If you take driver's education, you'll likely have to take these steps to obtain a license anyway.
#3: Recognize Other Drivers Are Risky
Sometimes the biggest risks on the road with you are other drivers. You do not know what they are going to do. This puts you at a disadvantage. You cannot control the other driver. But, if you pay attention to where they are and what they are doing, you remain more in control behind the wheel. You know when to take precautions. Simply monitor who is driving around you. Pay attention to what they are doing.
#4: Focus on the Road
Distractions make it hard to drive with confidence. Do not be afraid to limit those in your car. Keep the number of people to a minimum. If your phone rings or you need to make a call, pull off into a parking lot to do so. Focus on the road not the radio, in-dash entertainment, or GPS unit.
#5: Gain Skill If You Need It
Many drivers benefit from extra education behind the wheel. For example, getting in a driver safety course can help you feel more confident. Defensive driving courses can also help. They teach you how to drive while preventing incidents with other drivers.
Your car insurance rates do not have to rise. With confidence behind the wheel, you are less likely to be in a moving violation.