It is easy to think that passing your test means that you are done with your motoring education. But, drivers continue learning every day. Driving instructors Redcliffe who will instruct you about driving rules and other things that might be helpful to you.
Your instructor won’t teach you certain things, such as how to drive safely and courteously or how to avoid breaking the law.
This list includes essential things every driver should know.
- How to deal with “queue-jumpers”, when lanes merge
Drivers passing motorists on their right-hand lanes have caused some confusion and annoyed some motorists, who then zip-merge at the last minute.
These so-called “queue jumping” are legal. Zip-merging is more common than you might think, and it helps relieve congestion at the traffic pinch point.
Two lanes merging means motorists must use both lanes up to the point that the lane is closed. After that, they should merge into one lane like a zipper.
Merging too quickly can cause more problems for drivers who are driving before it is time.
- How to remove ice from your windscreen
You might be late, and have to de-ice your windscreen before you leave. Potholing is an option to save time.
This is not a good idea as you could be subject or three points for unsafe driving.
It is not enough to remove ice from the windshield of the driver. You can use the wipers for complete de-icing.
The law requires that drivers see both the road and the traffic ahead of them. It is therefore important to make sure your windscreen and mirrors are clear.
- Paying with your Smartphone at a drive-thru
Although it might not be the best option for your health, a drive-thru is a great way to grab a quick bite while waiting. However, you won’t be subject to a heavy penalty for doing this.
Technically, paying with your Smartphone at the cashier could be a violation of laws that govern the use and driving of handheld devices. Your phone shouldn’t be close to your engine when it is running. This applies even if your engine is stopped to conserve fuel (called “start-stop” technology).
4. How to use your Horn properly
Some countries have streets filled with constant honking, but the UK is much more cautious about its horn tones. It should not be used to notify other road users about your presence or other road hazards.
You should not use your horn in a hostile way. This can lead to other road users becoming agitated.
- Boiling water on your windshield
It might seem tempting to heat some water on a cold winter morning and then fill the kettle with hot water. It’s a mistake.
Extreme temperature fluctuations (from freezing to boiling) can cause cracks and shatter in the windscreen. You will have to replace your vehicle and make it unsafe to drive.
- How to use full beam headlights
Full beam headlights are a good option if you drive a lot at night on rural roads without street lighting. However, they are essential to your safety on the roads.
It is crucial to use dipped beams if you encounter another vehicle. This goes beyond being friendly. If they are blinded by full-beam headlights, they could lose control of the vehicle.
- You can adjust the mode of your rear-view mirror
Perhaps you’ve wondered about the switch at the bottom of your rear-view mirror. This simple feature switches your rearview mirror between “day” and “night” modes.
You may find it helpful to shift from day to night to be able to deal with driving at night. You can see more of what is behind you as the reflection dims.
- How to check your tire pressure
Many motorists forget about checking their tire pressure between each MOT. Remember that even though a tire might appear flat, it may still be too high.
This will result in a drop in vehicle performance as well as fuel consumption. You could even experience a blowout that could cause a collision.
When your tires are cold, check the pressure of your tires. Before you start your journey. This will ensure you get the best readings. You could get a false reading if you have freshly driven on tires.
- what rubbernecking is, and why it’s not something you should do
It can be distracting for those involved in a collision, and it can also lead to congestion behind the victim.
You could be fined up to $500 and your phone may even be seized.
- Bewildering pedestrians
If you are swept through puddles by a speeding vehicle, it will make you mad.