driving habits – Traffic School Online

What Every New Driver Needs to Know

Suppose you’re a young driver about to enroll in an online driver’s ed course in California, excited about adding a driver’s license to your wallet and car keys to your keychain. In that case, this is probably one of the most amazing times in your life.

At OnlineDriversEd.com, a leading California online driving school, we know how exciting the prospect of freedom can be. So it’s a shame to spoil all that excitement with such a downer of an article.

While we’d love to pretend that getting your driver’s license and hitting the road for the first time will be a walk in the parkor a drive by the park since you’ll have your license we’re not going to do that. That first time out on the road with your license will be scary, even after you’ve taken a state-approved online driver education class.

As an online driver’s ed in California provider that takes safety ridiculously seriously, we feel it’s important to address a road safety issue that many new drivers enrolled in an online driving school class often overlook. The issue? Sharing the road with people other than operators of motor vehicles.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2007 there were 698 bicyclist deaths on our nation’s roads. While the good news is that the most recent numbers show a 14% drop from 10 years prior, the bad news is that there were still 698 unnecessary deaths involving bicycles in this country.

Bicycle injuries, while not as serious as deaths, are no laughing matter, either. In 2007, there were 43,000 reported bicycle injuries.

So what do all these numbers mean? Is it unsafe for cyclists to be out on California roads? Are California drivers not paying attention to the people they share the road with? Are they forgetting everything they’ve learned in an online drivers ed class? Are bicyclists to blame?

While nobody can say for sure, understanding how bicyclists and drivers of motor vehicles share the road can help everyone stay safe. Here’s a quick look at some of the rules bicyclists in California must adhere to:

Under California law, bicyclists are legally allowed to ride on certain sections of freeways.
Bicyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic. Riding against traffic is not permitted.
Bicyclists should not ride on the sidewalk. They must ride in a straight line as close as safely possible to the right curb or edge of the roadway.
When making a left or right turn, a bicyclist must use the appropriate turn lane.

If you thought bicyclists belonged on the sidewalk or weren’t aware of any of the other rules, don’t worry. You’re not alone. Thankfully, you’ll learn even more about how bicyclists must behave on the road when you sign up for an online drivers ed course.

Whether you share the road with a bicyclist, or whether you are a bicyclist, you need to know the rules of the road as it pertains to non-motor vehicles. OnlineDriversEd.com is pleased to help shed light on the matter.

Driving is an exciting experience, especially if you are a new driver. However, along with the freedom that you feel from driving, there are also several things that you must do to be a responsible driver. Taking your time and concentrating on what you are doing is the most important thing you can do when behind the wheel.

However, there are also several other things that you can do to improve your driving skills. With these driving tips, you will quickly become more comfortable behind the wheel. Make sure that these are something that you are taking the time to master.

Form Good Habits

Plenty of drivers out there have bad driving habits. To stay out of this group, it is best to start your driving career by developing some good habits. Start by making sure that you are always safe in your vehicle. Use seatbelts and check your mirrors before you begin driving. Also, work at obeying the traffic laws and driving safely consistently.

Know your Traffic Signs

Taking your eye off the road is very dangerous. However, this is something that you must do if you are to read traffic signs. One way to make this a safer thing is to fully understand what the traffic signs in your area mean. This will help you to prepare for the road ahead and will cut down on the distraction of the signs. Instead of focusing on the sign, you will simply be able to glance at it in passing and discover what information it is sharing.

Don’t Forget about your Blind Spots

When you are preparing to change lanes or make a turn, always remember that your vehicle has blind spots. In these areas, other cars may be located. You should always make sure to watch these areas carefully before you begin changing lanes. You should also make sure that you never drive your car in another driver’s blind spot. Instead, slow down to remain behind them so that they can see you or proceed to pass them safely.

Get to Know Your Car

Every car is different and it is easy to be distracted from driving by attempting to learn more about your car. Instead of taking this risk, spend some time in your car before you hit the road. Study the buttons and switches on your car so that you know where all the important features are located. A couple of the most important features to look for are the headlights and the windshield wipers. Knowing where these items are can help keep you safe driving.

Take a Drivers Class

To fully understand the ways that you should drive, it is always recommended that you take a class from a driving school. In today’s world, this is something that you can either take in person or online. This makes taking these classes extremely convenient. Drivers will find a great deal of benefit from these classes and will be able to learn more about the best ways to drive a vehicle.

The most important thing that you can do when you are driving your vehicle is to take the time to be safe. Always obey the rules of the road and keep other drivers in mind while you are driving. You should avoid following vehicles too closely and should use caution when passing or changing lanes. By following these tips, you will be well on your way to becoming a safe driver who can truly enjoy the freedom that is presented by being able to drive a vehicle.

Inevitable aspects of driving can be stressful, and aggressive driving behaviors like brake checking and tailgating only make things worse. Let’s break down what these actions are, why they’re dangerous, and how to handle them safely.

Brake Checking: A Recipe for Rear-End Collisions

Brake checking, also known as “brake testing,” happens when a driver deliberately slams on their brakes in front of another vehicle. This can have several motivations, ranging from retaliation for tailgating to road rage.

Why It’s Illegal and Dangerous

Brake checking is explicitly against the law in California. According to Vehicle Code Section 22109, you must signal before stopping or suddenly slowing down. Brake checking violates this rule and can lead to serious rear-end accidents.

What to Do if Someone Brake Checks You

Don’t Retaliate: The worst thing you can do is brake check back. It escalates the situation and increases the risk of a collision.
Increase Following Distance: Immediately create more space between your car and the one in front. This gives you more time to react.
Switch Lanes (If Possible): If it’s safe, move to another lane to put distance between you and the aggressive driver.
Report the Incident: If you can safely get the license plate number, report the brake checking to law enforcement.

Tailgating: The Three-Second Rule

Tailgating, or following too closely, is a widespread problem. It significantly reduces your reaction time if the car ahead stops suddenly.

The CA DMV’s Guidance

The California DMV recommends the “three-second rule” to maintain a safe following distance:

Choose a fixed object on the road ahead (a sign, tree, etc.).
When the vehicle ahead passes the object, start counting: “One-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, one-thousand-three.”
If you reach the object before you finish counting, you’re following too closely.

How to Handle a Tailgater

Don’t Brake Check: As tempting as it may be, brake checking only worsens the situation.
Maintain Your Speed: Don’t speed up to try to “lose” the tailgater.
Signal and Move Over: When it’s safe, change lanes to let the tailgater pass.
If Necessary, Slow Down Gradually: Reducing your speed can encourage the tailgater to go around you.

Sharing the Road Responsibly

Everyone has a role to play in keeping our roads safe. By avoiding aggressive behaviors like brake checking and tailgating, and responding to them in a calm and collected manner, we can all contribute to a less stressful driving environment.

Let’s be courteous, respectful, and focused on safety while behind the wheel.

Driving in the rain presents unique challenges, especially for new drivers. Here are 14 essential tips to help you navigate rainy conditions safely and confidently.

Before You Drive

1. Ensure Your Car is Rain-Ready: Regularly check your vehicle’s tires, brakes, and windshield wipers. Good condition of these components is crucial for wet weather driving.

2. Know Your Car: Familiarize yourself with how your vehicle handles in wet conditions. Practice in a safe, controlled environment if possible.

Visibility

3. Turn On Your Headlights: This increases both your visibility and your vehicle’s visibility to others, regardless of the time of day or the intensity of the rain.

4. Use Windshield Wipers and Defrosters: Ensure your windshield remains clear. Adjust the wiper speed as necessary and use your defroster to prevent the windows from fogging up.

On the Road

5. Reduce Speed: Wet roads and reduced visibility call for slower driving speeds. This gives you more time to react to road hazards.

6. Increase Following Distance: Extend the distance between you and the vehicle ahead. A longer following distance ensures more time to react and stop.

7. Avoid Heavy Vehicles: Large trucks and buses can splash water onto your windshield, reducing your visibility. Maintain a safe distance from them.

8. Drive-in Tire Tracks: Following the tire tracks of the vehicle ahead can reduce water between the road and your tires, improving traction.

9. Handle Hydroplaning Calmly: If you start to hydroplane, gently lift off the accelerator and steer straight until you regain control. Avoid sudden turns or braking.

Dealing with Puddles and Floods

10. Approach Puddles Cautiously: Puddles may be deeper than they appear. If possible, avoid them, or drive through slowly to prevent hydroplaning.

11. Never Drive Through Moving Water: Even shallow streams of moving water can carry away a vehicle. Always find an alternative route.

If Conditions Worsen

12. Pull Over If Necessary: If heavy rain severely reduces your visibility or you feel unsafe, pull over to a safe location and wait until conditions improve.

13. Stay Informed: Listen to weather updates and road conditions. If severe weather is forecasted, consider postponing your trip.

14. Ask for Help: If you’re unsure about driving in the rain, seek assistance from a more experienced driver.

General Advice

– Practice Patience: Allow extra time for your journeys. Rushing in the rain increases the risk of accidents.
– Stay Calm: Keeping a calm and focused mindset is crucial for reacting appropriately to the challenges of driving in the rain.

Driving in the rain can be intimidating, but with preparation and adherence to these safety tips, you can significantly reduce the risks. Remember, the key to safe driving under any conditions is patience, preparedness, and awareness.

The Power of the Seat Belt

Seat belts are more than just a piece of fabric; they are life-saving devices. In 2022, the national seat belt use rate was a commendable 91.6%, showing that most Americans understand their value. Astonishingly, seat belt use in passenger vehicles saved an estimated 14,955 lives in 2017. However, despite these encouraging numbers, there remains a significant portion of the population that still does not buckle up, leading to preventable fatalities and injuries.

A Stark Reality

In 2021, approximately 50% of the passenger vehicle occupants who were killed in crashes were not restrained. This statistic is a sobering reminder of the consequences of not wearing a seat belt. The truth is clear: wearing a seat belt can drastically reduce the risk of death and serious injury in the event of a crash. For example, buckling up in the front seat of a passenger car can reduce your risk of fatal injury by 45% and moderate to critical injury by 50%. In light trucks, these numbers increase to 60% for fatal injuries and 65% for moderate to critical injuries.

The Top 5 Things You Should Know About Buckling Up

1. Buckling up is the single most effective measure you can take to protect yourself in a crash. Seat belts keep you safe and secure inside your vehicle, significantly reducing the risk of being ejected during a collision.

2. Airbags are supplemental restraints designed to work with seat belts, not replace them. Without a seat belt, the force of an airbag could cause serious harm or even be fatal.

3. Proper buckling is key. Ensure the lap belt and shoulder belt are correctly positioned across the pelvis and rib cage, areas well-suited to withstand crash forces.

4. Fit matters. Always ensure your seat belt fits properly, and don’t hesitate to use seat belt adjusters or extenders if needed. This is especially important in older vehicles or for people with unique fit needs.

5. Special considerations for children and pregnant women. It’s crucial to know when a child is ready to transition from a booster seat to a seat belt and understand the correct way for pregnant women to wear a seat belt for maximum safety.

For Expectant Mothers: Seat Belt Safety

Pregnancy shouldn’t stop you from wearing a seat belt. On the contrary, it’s the most effective way to protect both you and your unborn child in the event of a crash. The key is to wear the seat belt correctly: the lap belt should be below your belly, snug across your hips and pelvic bone, while the shoulder belt should lie across your chest and away from your neck. Always maintain an upright position and adjust your seat to keep a safe distance from the steering wheel.

In Case of a Crash

If you’re involved in a crash, seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine. The adrenaline and shock can mask injuries, and it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Wearing a seat belt is a simple act that can have a profound impact on your safety and the safety of your passengers. By choosing to buckle up, you’re taking a significant step towards protecting your life and reducing the risk of injury in a crash. Remember, every trip, every time, buckle up. It’s not just the law; it’s your best defense against the unpredictable nature of the road. Let’s commit to making seatbelt use a universal practice. Together, we can save lives and prevent injuries on our roads.

As Millennials age into a powerful demographic of young adults, their older coworkers, managers, and neighbors have begun to discuss how this new generation is different from all others that came before. We’ve heard about how tech-savvy they are, how they prefer text communication to speaking, and how they expect more from their employers, but very little about what it’s like to live with them through normal daily tasks like commuting to and from work. The fact of the matter is that even the youngest millennials are now legal drivers and are joining the rest of the adult world out on the roads and their driving habits are now everyone’s concern.

Using Devices in the Car

The millennial affinity for technology and mobile communication doesn’t stop when they get behind the wheel. Young drivers are notorious for using navigation devices with ease but they also have a terrible reputation for the risky behaviors of talking and texting while driving. Many of them learned this behavior from their busy boomer parents. However, while boomers vary wildly in device adaptability, it’s a rare millennial who drives without a mounted phone or tablet handy.

Guilt Free Speeding

Speeding has long since been a problem with overconfident motorists of every generation. From mid-life crisis hot rods to little old ladies from Pasadena, Americans love to drive fast. So why is it that Millennials have such a bad reputation for racing down the highways or running red lights in comparison to previous generations? Older people, when pulled over or asked about their speeding, often display guilt and knowledge that what they did was wrong. Millennials, on the other hand, generally consider speeding to be a fact of life and are unabashed to admit that they speed without the usual signs of guilt.

Calling Roadside Assistance

Far fewer millennials than members of past generations are comfortable working on their own cars, even for minor maintenance tasks like refilling the windshield wiper fluid or changing a flat tire. This means that they are much more likely to call for roadside assistance and take their vehicles in for maintenance. Their attitudes on car repair most likely stem from busy boomer parents who didn’t have time to spend with them in the garage and the increased emphasis on college careers for their generation.

Constant Ride Sharing

The sharing economy and overall lower wages for millennials have resulted in a culture of ride-sharing, carpooling, and public transportation. A smaller percentage of millennials can afford their cars those that do will often get involved in one or more sharing networks like Uber, Lyft, or Grub Hub. In many cases, if you see a Millennial on the road with one or more passengers, there’s a good chance they’re earning a little extra money and trying to complete gig missions quickly. This could easily be another reason our youngest drivers are known for moving quickly.

Driving Hybrid Cars

Every generation becomes recognized for the kinds of cars they prefer and Millennials are no exception. While many people are jumping on the fuel-efficient bandwagon of hybrid cars, millennials have shown a strong preference for them. In 2012, a survey found that 60% of millennials would buy a hybrid rather than a regular car or truck.

Millennials are being considered one of the most dangerous generations currently behind the wheel due to their affinity for devices and their casual disregard for the official driving laws. Whether or not this is a fair characterization or simply a sign of the world they grew up in doesn’t seem to be up for debate. If you are a millennial in need of a crash course in driving safety and etiquette, it may be time to brush up on defensive driving best practices and how to respectfully follow both the legal and unspoken rules of the road.

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Tag: driving habits