Several international studies have shown that drivers with little experience have a greater risk of suffering a mishap while driving a vehicle, especially due to ignorance of important maneuvers or mechanical or technical aspects. Thinking about this reality, here are some tips for novice drivers.
Fundamental aspects to prevent accidents
Beginning drivers must have basic knowledge that can make the difference between life and death. For example, a study by Seguros de Automóviles (ESA) in Spain shows that the probability of causing an accident among young drivers is 27% higher than that of other drivers.
If, in addition, they are newbies, that probability is 125% higher. “There are fundamental aspects that are key to preventing this situation. Knowing the existence of a blind spot, respecting the proper distance between vehicle and vehicle, not driving in neutral, maintaining the correct inflation in the tires, are among the most important,” says Carlos Cruz, commercial manager of the car and truck line of Hankook Tire.
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More tips for new drivers
- Watch out for the blind spot: Newbies generally do not pay attention to the blind spot, that space that is difficult to see through the mirrors and that requires very careful checking that a vehicle is not in the next lane in order to change lanes.
- Avoid neutral to move the vehicle: This is usually one of the most common mistakes made by newbies, however, it is very dangerous, since, due to the lack of connection between the transmission and wheels, it could cause a loss of grip in a very pronounced curve and compromise the stability of the vehicle. vehicle. When the vehicle is off and moving in neutral it is also dangerous, as the responsiveness of the brakes decreases.
- Driving with the correct tire pressure: Tire air measurement is almost always neglected. However, the air level is important and if it does not have the correct level it can cause accidents. It is advisable to have the tires inflated to at least the recommended pressure. This is usually found on a plate on the side of the driver’s door, or on the gas cap, or in the car manual. A tire below the recommended air pressure will consume more gasoline, increase CO2 emissions, and cause premature tire wear. In addition, it reduces braking efficiency, causes irregular wear and can lead to a blowout.
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- Move the vehicle at least a few centimeters if it is going to be stopped for more than 15 days: The tires can become deformed if the vehicle remains parked for too long. For this reason, it is recommended to move it at least a few centimeters so that the contact surface varies and does not affect its properties. Keeping it that way can also cause the tires to develop flat spots that cause imbalance while driving.
- Pay attention if the vehicle pulls to one side when going straight: If this happens, it indicates that the vehicle needs urgent balancing and alignment, since losing alignment deteriorates the suspension, which wears the tires irregularly, and loss of grip and traction. On the other hand, the lack of balance and alignment of the wheels cause irregular wear of the same, demanding more power from the vehicle to move, which generates greater fuel consumption.
- Change the tires every 3 or 5 years depending on the use given to the vehicle: A first-time driver tends to activate the brake more frequently, which generates more wear. It is best to make a change according to the manufacturer’s recommendation and according to use. The materials of most tires have a useful life of 10 years, for this reason when making the change it is recommended to check the manufacturing date of the same.
- Check tire tread: This guarantees a better grip on the surface and distributes elements such as water, dirt and mud, preventing them from accumulating and causing accidents. The coin method can be used, inserting a penny coin into the slots, it should sink halfway, which will indicate that there is still no further wear or, in turn, if it does not sink, it means that it must be performed. changing tires.
- Keep a proper distance from other vehicles: This is essential to react with adequate timing in case the vehicle in front brakes unexpectedly.
Within the basic knowledge that a novice driver should have, keeping in mind the main ones related to tires is of vital importance, since a tire in poor condition represents a safety risk, since its main functions are: transmit acceleration power and/or braking of the vehicle to the ground, facilitate its steerability, be able to carry the weight of the vehicle and provide comfort by absorbing the irregularities of the terrain.
Carlos Cruz, commercial manager of the Hankook Tire car and truck line.
Source: Eluniverso
Paul is a talented author and journalist with a passion for entertainment and general news. He currently works as a writer at the 247 News Agency, where he has established herself as a respected voice in the industry.
