If there's one thing that every driver should strive to do, it's safety. No matter what country you drive in or what vehicle you choose, safety is the number one priority across the globe.

 

The usual driving test can only prepare us for so much, so keeping on top of this at all times is vital to being a sensible driver.

 

If you're interested in becoming a safer driver, check out our quick list of tips to improve UK roads and get back to feeling good behind the wheel.

 

 

Regular minor car maintenance

It is recommended that you carry out basic checks on your vehicle once a month to keep it running at its best. These basic checks include keeping the tires at the correct pressure, checking the oil level, keeping the windshield fluid topped up, and making sure the lights are in good working order. Performing these simple checks on a regular basis will help keep your car functioning properly and keep you safer on the road.

 

Stay calm

It's not uncommon to get frustrated by things like traffic jams, inconsiderate drivers, or tricky directions, but try not to let these things get to you. Getting angry while driving may cause you to speed up or lose focus. Instead, count to 10 and embrace Zen 2018. It will be better for you and those around you.

 

Obey the speed limit

Speed is a major factor in road collisions, so take your foot off the pedal and pay more attention to the rules of the road. Driving slower allows us to react faster because there is more time to assess the road conditions.

Adhering to speed limits not only improves your safety, it can also help improve fuel consumption by reducing the amount of highway driving you do each day.

 

Be more considerate

Sometimes driving can be competitive. Whether you're locking into the last parking spot in a crowded parking lot or betting on a traffic jam, it's a make-or-break world out there.

A simple "thank you" wave or letting another car out in traffic can really help someone have a good day. Maybe even yours! So please consider going out and becoming a more considerate driver in return for your kindness.

 

Enjoy the Drive

Driving can seem like more of a chore than something to enjoy during your daily commute or to school. Rediscover your sense of driving adventure and make the most of the sense of freedom it gives you. An easy way to embrace this is to make weekend afternoons free and get out for pure fun. Whether you're driving to the countryside or visiting the coast, you'll feel so much better when you return on Monday morning.

 

Ensure regular maintenance intervals

This tip is closely related to regular car maintenance, but there are some tasks that some drivers fail to accomplish when it comes to car repairs.

Small tasks like changing the oil may be doable, but changing the spark plugs and reinstalling the timing belt can be daunting tasks, of which can only be done by an experienced mechanic.

As a general rule, cars should be serviced every 6,000 miles depending on their age. If your car is relatively new, you may not need an annual service, but cars older than 10 years may need to be checked more frequently.

Not only will this help keep your car in tip-top shape, but it will also make it last much longer than you expect.

 

Avoid Distractions

Driving is full of distractions. Take the stress out of daily driving by avoiding as many distractions as possible during your commute.

Keep your cell phone out of sight in the glove compartment, and if you need to, turn the radio down a few decibels to keep you completely in tune with your vehicle. Not only will this make you more alert, but it could potentially prevent any serious accidents in the future.