Guide For P 'probationary' Drivers

You have just passed your driving test and you feel great! Being mobile has a whole new meaning because now you do not have to rely on anyone or any public transport to get around. Bear this in mind though: an individual's biggest risk of having a bad accident is within the first 2 years of that person passing his or her driving test.

In 1987 when there were only 3,674,484 registered vehicles, some 76,882 vehicles were involved in accidents. Of the total ccident cases reported, some 3,320 people died and 18,479 injured. In 2001, those figures went up to 11,302,545 registered cars, with 265,175 vehicles involved in accidents. This resulted in 5,230 deaths and leaving 37,626 people seriously injured.

Statistics suggest that reckless driving, inexperience, panic and just not being prepared for a situation cause most accidents amongst new drivers, with numbers escalating during holiday seasons. There's no guarantee a person will drive for the rest of his or her life without being involved in a single accident, but there are certainly measures on how the risk of being involved in one can be significantly reduced.

Tips For "P" Drivers

		Driving alone for the first time will be strange. If you need to, take someone with you for support.
		Make sure that you display that "P" sticker to alert other drivers on the road that you are a new driver. The "P" sign is there to act as a safeguard- you would be in more trouble if you were involved in an accident without your sticker than if it were on.
		When you have to drive alone, begin on roads that you know well. Venture out further as your confidence builds and your driving skills (e.g. sight, reflexes, driver anticipation) improves.
		Obey all traffic rules and regulations. Not only will this habit keep you safe, it will also ensure the safety of your passengers and other drivers on the road.
		Your quick reactions won't always stop you having an accident. Spotting and responding to problems ahead in plenty of time will.
		Drive in a way that suits your ability and the traffic conditions. It will not impress anybody if you drive fast in the slow lanes and vice versa. Drive at a speed you are comfortable with (in the correct lane) and do not be pressured into playing chase with another car on the road.
		Do not fiddle around with your radio or cassette player while you are driving because this will distract you by taking your eyes off the road. Playing music too loudly is also inadvisable because you will not be able to hear and respond to things around you such as emergency sirens.
		Always remember that you are the driver and you are in control of the vehicle. Do not be pressured by your passengers into doing something you are not confident of or capable of handling.
		Keep your eyes forward, and stay alert of your surroundings without turning your head away from the road ahead. Being alert of what is happening around you will allow you to react faster in the event of the unexpected.
		You might want to consider taking up an advanced driving course to improve on the basics you have learnt. Learn how to control skids, apply the emergency brake or avoid an accident-threatening situation so you do not panic when such a situation arises on the road.
		Leave a lot of space for aggressive drivers. Let them through and don't get involved. Do not be sucked into a drag race or weaving in and out of traffic.
		If you're driving on a slippery or loose surface be very gentle on the foot pedals. The faster you drive, the higher the risk of an accident.
		Keep some tools, extra petrol and bottles of water in your car just in case of a breakdown.
		If you're driving alone, particularly if you're a woman you should : - Plan your journey properly and let somebody know your route. - Carry a pen, paper, maps, first aid kit, flashlight, small change, warm clothing/blanket and a fire extinguisher. - Carry a mobile phone. - Carry a personal attack alarm. - Be sure that your car is in good order and join a breakdown service organization.
		If your vehicle breaks down, don't panic. There are far more friendly people on the roads than those who would wish to harm you.
		Keep to the right lane at all times and indicate whenever turning. Give a tailgater an opportunity to pass you by changing lanes. Keep to your lane.
		Do not assume other drivers will follow traffic rules.
		Do not insist on your right-of-way if another driver is challenging you.
		Be alert to those who are putting on makeup, talking on car phones, reading, eating or otherwise not paying attention to driving.
		Give cars room to merge ahead of you or to join traffic. One or two cars ahead won't make that big of a difference.
		If you are going on a long journey, make sure you have plenty of rest to keep you alert.