First-time drivers, eight factors to take into account so as not to fail with your new car

The dream of having your own vehicle and driving for the first time can be a great desire. Nevertheless, driving a car has its risksfirst-time drivers are more likely to suffer accidents due to lack of experience and ignorance of certain technical and mechanical aspects and key maneuvers.

“Beginning drivers should have with basic knowledge that can make the difference between life and death. There are fundamental aspects that are key to preventing this situation. Knowing the existence of the blind spot, respecting the proper distance between vehicle and vehicle, not driving in neutral, maintaining correct tire inflation, are among the most important,” explained Carlos Cruz, commercial manager of Hankook Tire.

Tips for novice drivers

• Eye with the blind spot: Generally, newbies 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: Due to the absence of a connection between the transmission and the wheels, the tires could lose adherence to the road in a very pronounced curve and compromise the stability of the vehicle.
• Driving with the wrong tire pressure: 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 tire blowout.

How do you know when it’s time to change your tires?

• 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.
• Pay attention if the vehicle pulls to one side when driving in a straight line: 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Keep a proper distance from other vehicles: This is essential to react in good time in case the vehicle in front brakes unexpectedly and to avoid accidents. (YO)