How to Drive a Car? | The Complete Guide
Cars are usually considered the desired mode of commercial and private transportation in India, boosting last-mile connectivity. They provide a sense of Independence and are fun to drive as well. But to enjoy these privileges, you are required to first know how to drive. Bother not! Here are some tips to help you learn the diving basics of a car. You can always get driving lessons to learn with experts.
If you are driving for the first time, here are tips to keep you calm and confident:
- Adjust according to your comfort: Before you start driving, adjust your seat to ensure an optimum view angle. This can help you greatly in case of a problematic manoeuvre.
- Don’t overthink: Multitasking between clutch use, controls, and gear shifts may be overwhelming at times. However, try to keep your calm and focus.
- Get an experienced and trusted driver in the passenger seat: If you don’t feel confident driving alone, you can take a professional or experienced driver to help you navigate through the road safely. There are intensive driving courses available in the market too.
- Avoid Highways: Even though it is essential to get used to these types of roadways, it is important to master the art of driving before hitting the motorway or highway.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Drive a Car?
Driving a car may seem intimidating, especially if you are a learner driver. However, with the proper training and tips, you can learn how to drive confidently and safely. Here is a step-by-step guide to learning how to drive a car.
Step 1: Get familiar with the car that you will be driving before you start with the manoeuvre. Sit in the driver’s seat and don’t forget to adjust the seat, mirrors, and steering wheel as per your needs. Get comfortable controls and pedals, including the accelerator, clutch, and brake.
Step 2: Start the car by using the push start button or inserting the key to start the engine. Make sure that the gear is in a neutral position and that your feet are gliding on the brake.
Step 3: Now prepare to get moving. Before you start driving, make sure that the hand brake is off, and the gear is in first gear in case of a manual gearbox or in ‘drive’ mode in case of an automatic gearbox.
Step 4: Now press the accelerator and slowly release the clutch. This should push the vehicle forward.
Step 5: Steer and employ the clutch to move forward slowly. Use the steering wheel of your car to navigate your way. If you need to stop or slow down, employ the brake pedal using your right foot and the clutch using your left foot.
Step 6: When turning left or right, make sure to use the turn indicators. This will also inform other road users about the movements you are making on the road.
Step 7: Change gears. If your car has a manual gearbox, you need to shift gears when you accelerate. If you need to shift up, press down on the clutch pedal using your left foot and then move the gear to the next gear using your left hand. In case you need to shift down, follow the same manoeuvre but in reverse order.
Step 8: While driving, ensure you obey traffic rules, including stop signs, speed limits, and traffic lights.
Step 9: When reaching your destination, find a safe parking spot, slowly bring your car to the spot, and put the handbrake in ‘park’ mode in case of an automatic gearbox or engage it. Now, turn off the car engine and remove the key. Exit your vehicle.
Step 10: Lastly, don’t forget to maintain safety while you are on the road.
Safety Tips To Follow When Driving a Car as a Beginner
If you are driving a car for the first time, it is important to know the safety precautions as well. Here are some tips to follow:
- Always use in advance the turn signals to turn or make a lane change.
- Don’t forget to wear your seatbelt.
- Obey traffic rules to prevent road accidents.
- Give way for other vehicles and pedestrians.
- Never drive under the influence of mind-altering substances such as alcohol.
- Maintain a safe distance between you and the vehicle ahead.
- Use the horn only when needed. Don’t honk unnecessarily.
- Always opt for car insurance before you get on the road.
Key Takeaways
Before you start with driving training, make sure you are eligible to drive. Most people in the UK can start learning to drive from the age of 17. Next, get a provisional license. Once you secure a provisional license, the next is to start taking driving lessons. Prepare for your theory test and then book your driving test. Once you pass both the theory and practical tests, you can start driving without supervision. However, make sure to make an insurance policy.