Are Your Driving Skills Going in Reverse?

Being a great driver carries a lot of weight.

First, you are not only protecting you but also the countless other drivers sharing the road with you.

Second, great driving skills often lead to lower auto insurance rates over time.

Last, your financial well-being is better served when you are responsible on the road. Not only decreased insurance costs, but also avoiding violations that lead to fines.

So, what do you do when your driving skills are actually going in reverse?

Be Focused on Being a Great Driver

In being the greatest driver possible, keep in mind the following keys:

Privilege – Make sure you grasp the fact that having a driver’s license is a privilege and not a right. That said it is important you do not steer away from that understanding. Too many people take driving for granted. They think they have a right to be out on the roads. Always be a responsible driver whether going only down the road from your home or many miles away.
Record – If you have any prior traffic infractions, make sure you’ve taken care of them. Piling up some citations is damaging on several fronts. First, you could end up with a warrant for your arrest. Second, the total fines could be more than you can afford to pay now. If unsure of your record, check out the California DMV (if you live there) or your state’s DMV headquarters. With a record printout, you know if you have any outstanding tickets that need attention. Like if you were or are running a home business, organization in your personal life is key. Knowing your driving background is important so you do not get pulled over and even sent to jail.
Vehicle – Last, do you have a vehicle that is more than average for the roads? If not, you could be placing you and others in danger. Make sure to give your vehicle regular inspections to make sure it is running on all cylinders. Spotting trouble with tires, brakes, lights not working etc. is your responsibility. If something is wrong with your car or truck and you are in an accident, you could face charges.

Passing Along Skills to Your Teen

If you have a teen or two in the home, there’s a good chance they are going to want to learn to driver before long.

With that being the case, it is important that you pass along good driving skills to them from day one.

For instance, when your teen or teens ride with you, are you the best driver you can be? Many teens tend to emulate their parents. As such, you don’t want to be driving in a reckless manner. Doing so could lead your teenager to believe that this is acceptable.

Last, also teach your teen how best to avoid accidents.

Among the ways to do this: