Education When you are a new driver or the parent of a new driver, getting things figured out can seem overwhelming and frightening. Getting behind the wheel of a car is a major responsibility, and being adequately prepared is absolutely necessary. You wouldn’t try to perform surgery without proper training, and driving a car can carry just as much risk. To minimize this risk, driving courses in herndon VA, can be a great option. In addition to driving classes, you can prepare to be a good driver by reading the necessary materials, practicing in a safe environment, and following some simple safety tips. Why Driving Lessons? First, it is recommended, and sometimes required, that new drivers take driving lessons. These lessons provide a learning environment that minimizes risk and danger. Information is presented in tried and tested ways that make it easier for new drivers to learn and absorb. Questions can be asked and answered, and experience can be gained, building a new driver’s confidence and skillset. Rather than being thrown into the fray, lessons allow you to slowly and safely learn how to be a safe and competent driver. There is no better way to prepare for the many years of driving that are ahead. Tips for New Drivers Drive defensively. You will hear this throughout your driving career, and for good reason: defensive driving saves lives. While it would be nice if you could count on the other drivers on the road to pay attention and drive responsibly, the reality of the matter is the only driver you can trust is yourself. When others make bad decisions, driving defensively will allow you to react with enough time to ensure your safety. Paying attention, anticipating the actions of others without making assumptions, watching for road obstructions or animals, and watching for aggressive drivers all make a huge difference. Follow basic rules. While it may seem like turn signals, seatbelts, and speed limits don’t matter, the consequences can range from monetary fines to death—yours or someone else’s. Adjust the car. Adjust seats, mirrors, and headrests to ensure that you are comfortable, allowing your focus to be on the road instead. Tips for Parents of New Drivers Keep the vehicle in good, safe condition, and encourage your new driver to be part of the process. An unsafe vehicle is a bad idea for any driver, but it can be especially stressful and dangerous for a new driver who doesn’t have the experience to handle things smoothly and calmly. While it can be easier to simply take care of things yourself, teaching your new driver the skills to be a successful driver will last them their whole life. Involve them with car maintenance, teach them the “why” behind each situation as it arises, and answer questions that come up. Don’t add to the stress of a situation. If your new driver makes a mistake—which is likely, considering that they are learning a new skill that carries a lot of risk—freaking out won’t do anyone any good. In fact, increasing the stress in a driving situation can actually be dangerous. Have your new driver pull over so you can calmly explain the actions that led to the mistake, the potential consequences of those actions, and options for a better solution. People learn better when they are not under that kind of pressure, so a calm reaction is better for everyone involved. Register your new driver for driving courses in herndon VA. This will give them the opportunity to learn necessary skills in a safe environment, preparing them for a lifetime of safe driving.